Salisbury, MD — It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved Linne’s two-toed sloth, Bayou. At 4 years old, Bayou had been a cherished member of the Salisbury Zoo, whose gentle spirit and charm made her a favorite among staff, volunteers, and visitors.
Recently, the Zoo’s animal care team observed a rapid decline in Bayou’s health which included weight loss, polyuria, and inappetence. She was promptly evaluated at the Ron Benton Animal Health Clinic, where diagnostic testing revealed she was experiencing end-stage renal disease — a serious and irreversible condition affecting her kidneys and overall quality of life. Given the severity of her condition, and in consultation with veterinary specialists, the difficult but compassionate decision was made to humanely euthanize Bayou to prevent prolonged suffering.
Bayou was an active participant in her own veterinary care. She voluntarily engaged in positive reinforcement training sessions, which included blood pressure checks, blood draws, and administration of fluids – all accomplished in a low-stress and cooperative manner. In addition to her medical treatments, our Animal Care staff dedicated time to ensuring she had ample opportunity to receive diet directly, and to also provide supplemental fluids orally, ensuring Bayou received all the care & comfort she required. Every effort was made to maintain her well-being, dignity, and quality of life including receiving favorite enrichment, social time with Animal Care staff, and time outdoors in the sunlight.
“Bayou brought so much joy to our team and our guests,” said Zoo Director Chuck Eicholz. “She had a calm presence and a curious personality that made her truly special. This is a heartbreaking loss for all of us.”
Bayou was a Linne’s Two-Toed Sloth who arrived at the Salisbury Zoo in 2022 from the Audubon Zoo. She was born in November 2020, and her parents, Buttercup and Raven, were residents of the Salisbury Zoo until they were transferred to the Audubon Zoo in October 2020. Bayou quickly became one of its more recognizable and adored residents. Whether she was snoozing in her favorite hammock or exploring her habitat with slow, deliberate grace, Bayou captured the hearts of many.
While her time with us was far too short, Bayou’s impact was profound. She served as an ambassador for her species and helped inspire a love of wildlife and conservation in thousands of visitors.
“Please keep the Salisbury Zoo staff in your thoughts as we grieve this tremendous loss,” said Chuck Eicholz, Zoo Director.
