Beni The Okapi Makes His Debut At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Savanna!

January 5, 2023

Beni The Okapi Makes His Debut At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Savanna!

Beni the Okapi that was born back in July is now making his first appearance at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge! He has grown to a height of four feet tall and weighs around 230 pounds now, and is still pretty close to his mom but is slowly becoming more independent and starting to show his endearing personality.

Okapis are endangered in their home country of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and they are very good at camouflaging themselves into the rainforest, so getting to see them roam the savanna at Walt Disney World is definitely extra special.

The animal care team hopes that seeing Beni on the savanna for the first time inspires guests to connect and care about animals they otherwise may never see.

Beni is the first calf of mom Olivia and dad Elombe, and his birth was part fo the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan which ensures the responsible breeding of threatened and endangered species in managed care. Programs like these make it possible for people to experience this majestic species first hand at accredited institutions across the country.

Disney also has a long history of supporting conservation organizations dedicated to protecting okapis and the forests they call home. Funds from the Disney Conservation Fund have helped monitor wild okapi populations, reduce deforestation, and support the well-being of local communities who share the forest with this iconic species.

So next time you visit Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, be sure to stop by Kidani Village and say hello to Beni and Olivia! They will love to see you.

Credit: Disney Parks

Beni The Okapi Makes His Debut At Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Savanna! 1

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Ana Leal

Former Walt Disney World Cast Member (Tomorrowland attractions and Guest Relations)
Disney is my biggest passion, i love fashion and photography so if are looking for the latest Disney Style trends im your girl!..Instagram: @ana_leal