FWC proposes new captive sloth rules after deaths at Orlando attraction

Florida wildlife officials are proposing new regulations for the care of sloths in captivity after the deaths of dozens of sloths at the Sloth World attraction in Orlando. During a hearing Wednesday, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission outlined plans to revise the state's captive wildlife regulations. The proposed changes include requiring applicants to demonstrate practical experience caring for sloths and mandating facility inspections and approval by FWC personnel before permits are issued. "I am happy to see that you guys are taking some pretty substantial things to help out, to make sure these animals are taken care of," one attendee said during the hearing. The proposed rules also specify what facilities must include in their permit applications. They would raise the minimum age for applicants from 16 to 18 and require a written disaster and critical-incident plan to address emergencies. Earlier this year, the Central Florida Zoo rescued 13 sloths from Sloth World. However, five of them—Mister Ginger, Dumpling, Habanero, Bandit, and Willow—have since died. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV