A rare baby Okapi that was born at Walt Disney World last fall has made its debut at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and has been named after a cast member of 50 years.
The Details
Last October, a baby Okapi was born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, and this week, it was finally old enough to join the rest of the herd at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
And Disney says it has given the Okapi the name of Elijah to honor a long-time cast member.
Cast member Elijah first joined Disney at the Magic Kingdom in June 1973, and then transferred to the horticulture department at Disney’s Animal Kingdom when it opened in 1998.
He plays a critical role in maintaining the beautiful habitats at Disney’s Animal Kingdom – from rhinos to okapi and everything in between. He creates environments that help ensure safety and promote enrichment for the animals at Walt Disney World.
I think that’s a lovely way to honor the long-time cast member!
Where to Find the Okapi
Next time you’re at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, see if you can spot the okapi Elijah back along the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail.
Elijah’s birth, like many others in the park, is made possible with the help of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan. This program ensures the responsible breeding of this endangered species and other species that face threats like poaching and habitat loss.
