Rare Baby Okapi Makes Debut Appearance at Disney's Animal Kingdom
Disney's Animal Kingdom has welcomed a new member to their family! Elijah, a baby okapi, has made his debut and has become an instant sensation. He is the first okapi to be born at the park since 2012 and is the 14th birth of this endangered species at Walt Disney World. Elijah was born in October, weighing 46 pounds with the cutest big ears, and now weighs an impressive 165 pounds. He has already joined his mom onstage on the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail.
The park has successfully bred this rare and endangered species thanks to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan. This program ensures that species facing threats like poaching and habitat loss are responsibly bred to ensure their survival.
Elijah's name is special because it honours a cast member who has worked tirelessly to maintain the beautiful habitats at Disney's Animal Kingdom. Cast member Elijah has been with Walt Disney World since 1973 and transferred to the horticulture department at Disney's Animal Kingdom when it opened in 1998. From rhinos to okapis and everything in between, he creates environments that ensure safety and promote enrichment for the animals at Walt Disney World.
