Zebra Foal Named Phoenix Born at Disney's Animal Kingdom amid Park's Closure

This is the second Hartmann’s foal born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge this year.

Phoenix was born as part of the Species Survival Plan program, overseen by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The program ensures responsible breeding and genetic diversity for thousands of animal species. Walt Disney World has welcomed 13 zebra foals to their Animal Kingdom park since it started participating in the breeding program.

Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida has been closed since mid-March due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Despite cases surging in the state, the theme park, Animal Kingdom included, is planning to reopen on July 11.

Last week, a Disney World employee created a petition called "Protect Our Magic Makers," which proposes postponing the reopening.

As of Tuesday afternoon, the petition has more than 17,000 signatures. It urges Disney and government officials to delay the park's reopening amid the rise in cases, saying it isn't worth the risk for parkgoers and castmembers.

However, Fl. Gov. Ron DeSantis has said that he has no plans to block Disney World's reopening.

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