A big part of the magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom comes from the magic that is provided by Mother Nature. Throughout this beautiful park, many different types of animals can be seen, showcasing the magic of nature. These animals are taken care of by cast members at the park. They provide world-class attention to these animals to give them the best lives possible, whether guests are watching them or not!
Since Disney’s Animal Kingdom opened in 1998, it has been accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA). This is a reflection of the passion, teamwork, and high standards that cast members bring to their jobs every day. This Earth Month, Walt Disney World Resort shared a look at the care that these cast members provide on a daily basis. Below is a look at what they do to make this park magical for both guests and the inhabitants who live there.
Animal Care Guests Don’t Always See
Some of the most important animal care happens beyond what guests typically notice.
Every day, cast members create customized nutrition plans, design enriching experiences, and partner closely with veterinarians to support animals at every stage of life. From carefully prepared meals to enrichment that encourages natural behaviors like exploring and problem‑solving, our hands‑on care is grounded in research, observation, and experience.
A key part of this work happens at the Animal Nutrition Center, which prepares and delivers more than 10,000 pounds of food each day to animals at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, and The Seas with Nemo & Friendsat EPCOT.It’s a behind‑the‑scenes operation that reflects the dedication and attention to detail cast members bring to their work every single day.
When giraffe Tucker recently celebrated his first birthday, his keepers partnered with the Animal Nutrition Center to create a giraffe‑friendly birthday feast designed just for him, a small moment that highlights the care that guests only get a glimpse of.
Behind every animal you see is a team of experts putting science to work around the clock.
Animals are monitored overnight, supported through behind‑the‑scenes check‑ins, and cared for using detailed protocols that help ensure their well-being at all times. Animal care professionals, veterinarians, nutritionists, and scientists collaborate daily, whether it’s during a routine exam or planning long‑term care.
For animals like okapis – naturally reclusive and rarely visible even in the wild – much of that care happens quietly behind the scenes. Keepers like Mori build trust over time, training okapis to voluntarily participate in their own care, allowing teams to monitor health and conduct exams even when guests may never catch a glimpse.
Many of our cast will tell you that animal care is more than a job; it’s a calling.
Through certifications, mentorship, research, and collaboration with peers across the global zoological community, cast members continuously build expertise that supports animals both in our care and in the wild.
That same commitment also comes back home, shaping how cast members connect guests to conservation every day.
Just as importantly, cast members help inspire the next generation of conservationists. Experiences like Wilderness Explorers spark curiosity through discovery, inviting young adventurers to learn about animals, ecosystems, and the importance of protecting the natural world. By turning learning into hands-on exploration, these moments help plant the seeds for future conservation leaders.
The Disney Conservation Fund (DCF) helps carry this message forward. Celebrating more than 30 years of impact with $141 million invested to date, DCF supports conservation efforts globally, combining philanthropic grants and Disney expertise to protect wildlife, restore ecosystems, and inspire action for the planet
Celebrating the Teams Who Make It Possible
Disney’s Animal Kingdom was built on the belief that caring for animals comes with an extraordinary responsibility, and our cast members carry that responsibility with pride.
Mr. Daps is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Daps Magic, a premier Disney news community established in 2004. With over 20 years of experience as a journalist and media creator, he has become a trusted voice in the Disney fandom, appearing as an expert on KTLA, NPR, and the Orange County Register.
Known for his signature trilby and bow tie, Mr. Daps provides optimistic, informed coverage of the Disney Parks, Pixar, and Marvel. He is the weekly host of Geeks Corner and a proud Her Universe Brand Ambassador. Follow his adventures on Twitter, Instagram, and Threads, or join the conversation live on the Daps Magic YouTube channel. If you see him at Disneyland, be sure to say hi!
