A New Furry Friend Arrives in Disney World

This may be the happiest news you'll hear all day. Now you can visit a new furry friend in Disney World!

Disney Welcomes a New Animal

Walt Disney World is always in a state of becoming. And perhaps this rings truest in Disney's Animal Kingdom.

It is true that a brand-new land is being built for the park. But Animal Kingdom's transformation reaches beyond the attractions. It is a park that continually takes place in the great circle of life!

While some days find us stopping to grieve the passing of a beloved animal resident, others allow us to celebrate the magic of newborn wildlife! And sometimes a new resident arrives as part of the Species Survival Plan.

A New African Painted Dog

Disney has introduced a new African painted dog to the pack! This particular African painted dog is a male named Prospect.

African painted dogs, also known as African wild dogs, get their name from their gorgeous coats. Scientists believe the beautiful patterns help them to recognize one another.

Unfortunately, African painted dogs are on the endangered species list and are one of Africa's most endangered carnivores. Only an estimated 6600 remain in the wild.

Where to Meet Prospect

You might be able to spot Prospect the next time you are on Kilimanjaro Safaris. The African Painted dogs are typically hanging out in or around their den, which will be to your left just after you enter the Savannah.

You can see Prospect on Kilimanjaro Safaris if you are lucky.

While you are on the safari, you might also be able to spot other recent new arrivals and popular animal residents such as Ivy the baby giraffe or Cora the young elephant.

Will you try to spot Prospect next time you visit Disney's Animal Kingdom? Feel free to share comments. And be sure to share the news with family and friends who are visiting Disney so they know to look out for him.