There’s something new and adorable to see at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, and if you’re staying at or visiting the resort soon, you’ll want to make time for it. A newborn zebra has made her first public appearance on the resort’s savanna, giving guests a chance to spot one of Walt Disney World’s newest residents up close.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge has always been one of the most unique resorts on property. Instead of a typical pool view or garden courtyard, many guests wake up to giraffes, zebras, and other African wildlife roaming just outside their balcony. It’s the kind of experience that makes the resort feel like a safari lodge rather than a hotel, and it’s a big reason so many guests come back year after year.
Now, the savanna has a tiny new star. The baby zebra was recently spotted exploring the grassy habitat alongside her mother, showing off her black-and-white stripes as she took in her new surroundings. Whether you’re staying at the resort or just stopping by for a meal or a visit, this is one sighting you’ll want to add to your itinerary. Here’s everything you need to know about the newborn zebra and how you might catch a glimpse of her.
Credit: Will Bostwick, Flickr
Meet the Newest Zebra at Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney previously announced that a zebra named Aziza gave birth to a healthy female foal at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Now, the little one has begun exploring the resort’s Arusha Savanna.
The foal was spotted wandering through the grassy savanna, her stripes on full display. Every so often, she lowered her head toward the grass as she checked out her new home.
She has stayed close to her mother, Aziza, frequently returning to her side as the pair moved through the habitat together. It’s a sweet sight for anyone lucky enough to spot them.
Credit: Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment
Does the Baby Zebra Have a Name?
Not yet. The foal hasn’t been publicly named, so fans will have to wait to find out what she’ll be called. In the meantime, guests can simply enjoy watching her grow and explore alongside her mom.
Where to See the Zebra Foal
The newborn zebra has been spotted on the Arusha Savanna, which is located on the grounds of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. The savanna sits next to the resort’s central Jambo House and its attached guest wings.
Guests can watch the animals from:
Designated savanna viewing areas around the resort
Select guest room balconies with savanna views
If you’re staying in a room overlooking the Arusha Savanna, you might even be able to spot the foal without leaving your balcony.
Why Animal Kingdom Lodge Is So Special
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is designed to bring the feeling of an African safari to Walt Disney World. Its horseshoe-shaped design was inspired by a traditional African kraal, giving guests sweeping views of four lush savannas.
Those savannas are home to more than 200 hoofed animals and birds. In total, guests can discover more than 30 species of African wildlife at the resort, including:
Zebras
Giraffes
Gazelles
Kudu
Flamingos
Beyond the animals, the resort also features one of the largest collections of African art in the United States.
Credit: Will Bostwick, Flickr
More to Enjoy at the Resort
If you’re visiting to see the baby zebra, there’s plenty more to explore at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge:
Pool with waterslide: An 11,000-square-foot pool with a waterslide and a gently sloping, zero-depth entry, similar to a natural watering hole
Award-winning dining: Restaurants serving African-inspired dishes alongside American classics
Animal programs: Activities that help guests learn more about the resort’s wildlife
Room options: Everything from standard rooms and suites, some with Concierge service, to villa-style accommodations
Other New Arrivals at Walt Disney World
The zebra foal is one of several recent animal arrivals across Walt Disney World. Other additions include:
Four critically endangered Jamaican iguanas that hatched at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Three nyala calves born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney has also shared that Alika, a colobus monkey at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, is expecting her first baby.
Tips for Spotting the Baby Zebra
If you’d like to see the foal during your visit, here are a few tips:
Head to the Arusha Savanna. It’s next to Jambo House.
Be patient. Animals move around the savanna, so it may take a little time to spot her.
Look for Aziza. The foal tends to stay close to her mother.
Bring binoculars. They can help you get a closer look from viewing areas.
Check your balcony. If your room faces the Arusha Savanna, keep an eye out.
Make Time for the Savanna
With so much to do at Walt Disney World, it’s easy to rush past the resort savannas. But seeing a newborn zebra exploring her new home is a special moment that’s worth slowing down for.
If you’re staying at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge or planning a visit, be sure to factor in some time at the Arusha Savanna. You might just catch Aziza and her new foal wandering by.
Will you be looking for the baby zebra on your next visit?
Erica Lauren is a theme park writer and content creator based in Orlando, Florida, where she enjoys the magic of Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort. With frequent visits to the parks, she provides an insider's perspective on the attractions. As a dedicated runDisney participant, Erica combines her love for running with her passion for theme parks. When not writing or running through the parks, she’s busy planning her next trip to discover new amusement parks. A thrill ride enthusiast, she believes the best seat is always in the front row of the fastest coaster and has plenty of… More »
