With Mother’s Day being on Sunday, Walt Disney World Resort is shining the spotlight on some of the babies that are found throughout Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This year has been an exciting one with the arrival of several baby animals this year.
These new arrivals include Tucker, the endangered Masai giraffe calf, who arrived on the savanna last month. Three new Asian small-clawed otter pups are delighting guests as they watch them explore and splash around the Otter Grotto. Below is a look at some of the other little friends who are being spotlighted by Dr. Mark Penning, Vice President, Animals, Science and Environment, Disney Parks.
Celebrate Mother’s Day with Baby Animals at Animal Kingdom
One of our most adored mothers is Sohni, the critically endangered Sumatran tiger. As she embarks on her adventure as a second-time mom, her cub Bakso has been delighting guests with his playful antics. Sohni’s nurturing spirit shines as she teaches Bakso to be an independent tiger, and their playful moments together on Maharajah Jungle Trek have become a favorite sight for our guests.
Early mornings are a special time to witness Sohni and Bakso’s bond, as they frolic and play in their lush habitat. Sohni can often be seen tenderly grooming Bakso, ensuring his fur stays clean, while Bakso playfully pounces at his mother in a game of chase.
Out on the savanna of Kilimanjaro Safaris, Mara, a proud mother Masai giraffe, continues to care for her third calf, the charming Tucker.
This tall giraffe calf is a quick learner, sticking close to his mom as she gently teaches him to forage, socialize and explore his surroundings. Around the savanna, Mara has been guiding Tucker with gentle nudges, teaching him the subtle giraffe language and how to get around.
Critically Endangered Baby Addax at Animal Kingdom Lodge
The sweetness of Mother’s Day extends even further with a heartwarming announcement from Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Juniper, a critically endangered addax, welcomed an adorable calf named Ginny last month.
Juniper’s journey into motherhood is a joyous occasion, as she nurses and nurtures Ginny backstage before they join the rest of the herd. Ginny and Juniper have been sharing tender moments as they bond alongside each other.
Another proud mother, Violet, also welcomed her calf, Henry, who is now exploring the Uzima Savanna along with other members of the addax family. These births are monumental, especially as the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists the addax as critically endangered.
Disney’s commitment to conserving endangered species, like addax, Sumatran tigers and the Masai giraffe are made possible in collaboration with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and the Species Survival Plan (SSP), underscoring the importance of every new life.
As we honor these remarkable animal mothers, we extend our gratitude to mothers everywhere for their boundless love and dedication.
For updates on many of these animals, and to see all the amazing work Disney’s talented team of cast members are doing for the more than 5,000 animals across Disney World, follow Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment on Facebook and Dr. Mark on Instagram.
