At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, alongside the iconic Dumbo, the arrival of a charming young African elephant has become a cause for celebration among staff. Recently introduced to the park, this endearing addition not only delights visitors but also symbolizes a beacon of optimism for the conservation efforts surrounding this endangered species.
You may have previously experienced Animal Kingdom as part of your visit to Disney World in Orlando; however, it stands not solely as a conventional theme park but as an esteemed AZA-accredited institution dedicated to the conservation and preservation of numerous vulnerable and endangered species, notably including herds of African elephants.
The recent addition of Corra, born in December to mother Nadirah and father Mac, marks a notable expansion in their elephant population. Despite her tender age, Corra is rapidly developing, measuring three feet in height and weighing 312 pounds.
According to an official press release from the park, Corra holds the distinction of being the inaugural second-generation elephant in the history of Animal Kingdom, as Nadirah, her mother, was also born within the park’s premises.
The African elephant is presently categorized as endangered and critically endangered according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Illegal poaching has inflicted significant harm on wild populations. Given their scarcity, each new birth is of paramount importance, serving as a poignant reminder of the vital conservation efforts underway.
Scott Terrell, D.V.M., Director of Animal & Science Operations for Disney Experiences, remarked, “Through each birth, including this one, we are diligently maintaining a robust elephant population to safeguard the species and educate millions of visitors worldwide about their plight.”
Corra’s arrival had been eagerly anticipated for an extended duration, as elephants boast the longest gestation period among mammals, with Nadirah’s pregnancy spanning 22 months. Throughout this period, the park’s caretakers diligently monitored her well-being, conducting regular ultrasounds and overseeing the progress of her calf’s development.
Two months subsequent to her eagerly anticipated arrival, Corra made her inaugural appearance at Animal Kingdom, undoubtedly eliciting joy among numerous Disney park attendees.
According to the park’s statement, Corra will be surrounded by numerous influential figures to learn from: aside from her mother Nadirah, her herd comprises her aunt Luna, grandmother Donna, and elder sister Stella, who, prior to Corra’s birth, held the title of the safari’s youngest elephant, born in 2016.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom actively engages in partnerships with the Association of Zoos & Aquariums’ Species Survival Plans, contributing to the conservation efforts of various species such as the African elephant, Sumatran tiger, western lowland gorilla, and okapi. The arrival of Corra signifies a significant milestone in their endeavors to preserve endangered species. Furthermore, Disney anticipates the birth of two additional baby elephants at Animal Kingdom in 2025, signaling further progress in their commitment to wildlife conservation.
