The beauty of Disneyโs Animal Kingdom is, wellโฆitโs full of animals.
But Animal Kingdom isnโt just a place where Disney showcases animals from all over the world. No, Disney also does a great deal with animal conservation and has a breeding program in place to help increase the numbers of species that are endangered. Well, a new baby animal has been born at Animal Kingdomโฆbut its story is even more special thanks to the Cast Member who inspired its name.
Meet Elijah. Elijah is an adorable baby Okapi who was born in October 2023 and recently made his debut on the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail. Elijah is the 14th Okapi born in Disney World and the first baby Okapi since 2012. When he was born, Elijah only weighed 46 pounds, but now he weighs in at 165 pounds.
Disney works with the Association of Zoos and Aquariumsโ Species Survival Plan to make births like Elijahโs possible. This program sees to responsible breeding of endangered species, like the Okapi, that currently face threats due to poaching and loss of habitat.
But the story here isnโt just about Elijah. Itโs also about how Elijah got his name. Elijah is named after a Cast Member who has worked at Disney World for 50 years! Cast Member Elijah started working in Magic Kingdom in 1973 and then transferred to the horticulture department of Animal Kingdom when it opened in 1998. He helps create and maintain the habitats for ALL the animals at Animal Kingdom. According to Disney, โHis passion and dedication to his role has made him a cherished cast member, and what better way to honor him than to name a rare okapi after him?โ
Isnโt that so sweet?
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Disney Just Dropped a MAJOR Hint About the Animal Kingdom โEncantoโ Expansion
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Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Whatโs your favorite animal to see at Animal Kingdom? Let us know in the comments!
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