SALISBURY, Md. — The Salisbury Zoo says it is mourning the loss of Bayou, a 4-year-old Linne’s two-toed sloth who had become a favorite among staff, volunteers and visitors.
According to zoo officials, Bayou’s health began to decline quickly in recent weeks. Staff noticed she was losing weight, urinating more than usual and not eating. She was taken to the Ron Benton Animal Health Clinic, where tests showed she had end-stage renal disease.
The zoo said the condition was serious and could not be reversed. After speaking with veterinary specialists, the team decided to humanely euthanize Bayou to prevent further suffering.
Animal care staff said Bayou took part in her own medical care through positive reinforcement training. This allowed keepers to check her blood pressure, draw blood and give fluids in a calm and low-stress way. Staff also made sure she had access to extra fluids, a hand-fed diet and time outside in the sun.
“Bayou brought so much joy to our team and our guests,” Zoo Director Chuck Eicholz said in a statement. “She had a calm presence and a curious personality that made her truly special. This is a heartbreaking loss for all of us.”
Zoo records show Bayou arrived in Salisbury in 2022 from the Audubon Zoo in New Orleans. She was born in November 2020 to Buttercup and Raven, who had previously lived at the Salisbury Zoo before they were moved to Louisiana.
Staff say Bayou was known for resting in her hammock and exploring her habitat with slow, gentle movements.