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Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Lodge receives AZA Accreditation

We’ve written frequently about the animal care team at Walt Disney World and how they’re rock stars doing important work preserving threatened and endangered species through the species survival plan, veterinary care, conservation and educating the public about the animals under its care and everyone’s place in the circle of life. 

We’re not the only ones who hold Disney’s animal care team in high regard, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) has reviewed Disney’s policies and procedures around animal care and has just renewed the accreditation of both Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge.

“AZA accreditation is the gold standard in animal care, and I’m incredibly proud of the entire Animals, Science and Environment Team for earning this stellar accomplishment,” said Dr. Mark Penning, Vice President, Animals, Science and Environment, Disney Parks.

It’s good to know that even though the parks and resorts are closed, Disney’s Animals, Science, and Environment (ASE) team continues to care for the animals meeting or exceeding the standards of the AZA.

One of our favorite tips to tell guests who might arrive a day earlier than they plan to go into the parks is to visit Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge for a meal and then spend some time exploring the savannas at both hotels. A member of the Animal Care Team staff is often on hand to answer questions. It’s one of our favorite ‘free’ things to do at Walt Disney World.

When the parks reopen, we recommend keeping your eyes open for an opportunity for the backstage animal care tour that is sometimes offered at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. It’s a wonderful way to see the ASE team at work and tour some of the animal care facilities that guests normally don’t get a chance to see.