Meet the Newest (and Cutest) Member of Disney’s Animal Kingdom

On this wildlife Wednesday, Dr. Mark Penning, the Vice President of Animals, Science and Environment at Disney Parks, announced the birth of a mandrill! The little one was born on Saturday, July 25th to mother Scarlett and father Linus.

Dr. Penning stated that the veterinary team has not been able to determine the infant’s gender because Scarlett “is keeping the infant so close to her belly”. This is a good sign that mother and child are bonding well! The family has already made brief appearances in their habitat on Kilimanjaro Safari. If you are visiting the parks soon, be on the lookout for the duo!

The update shared on Disney Parks Blog reminded readers that mandrills are “actually the largest species of monkey in the world”. They can be found in African rainforests along the equator. Unfortunately, their wild habitat “is disappearing because of deforestation and poaching”. Disney is working to combat the species’ disappearance by working with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums on Species Survival Plans to properly breed and maintain vulnerable species like mandrills.

Later this year, fans will have the opportunity to learn more about how Disney cares for animals in new documentary series entitled The Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The documentary promises to give fans “a peek behind-the-scenes as the stories of these animal care experts and the animals they care for come to life”. You won’t want to miss this series!

If you’d like to stay updated on the new mandrill, keep an eye on Dr. Penning’s Instagram page for announcements!