Disney’s Animal Kingdom Welcomes Sohni the Sumatran Tiger

Get ready for some exciting news from Disney’s Animal Kingdom! A beautiful Sumatran tiger named Sohni has joined the park, and her arrival represents a significant leap forward in conservation efforts. With only around 400 Sumatran tigers remaining in the wild, Sohni is part of the park’s dedication to preserving endangered species through the Species Survival Plan (SSP).

Sumatran tigers are the smallest of all tiger subspecies, known for their distinctive deep orange fur and closely spaced stripes. They are agile hunters, perfectly adapted to their dense jungle habitats. Unfortunately, the survival of these majestic animals is threatened by poaching and habitat loss, making conservation initiatives like the SSP crucial.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom has welcomed Sohni to her new home on the Maharajah Jungle Trek, an immersive walking trail designed to replicate the natural environment of these incredible big cats. The Jungle Trek allows visitors to encounter exotic animals up close, offering a unique opportunity to learn about the challenges facing endangered species and what’s being done to help protect them.

According to Scott Terrell, Director of Animal & Science Operations at Disney, Sohni has been getting acclimated to her new surroundings, and guests visiting Animal Kingdom now have the chance to see this critically endangered tiger up close as she explores her new habitat.

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Disney’s ongoing commitment to conservation can also be seen in the work of the Disney Conservation Fund, which focuses on protecting wildlife and inspiring communities to care about the natural world. The addition of Sohni is another effort by Disney to connect guests with the importance of wildlife conservation and habitat protection.

If you’re planning a trip to Animal Kingdom, make sure to visit the Maharajah Jungle Trek and welcome Sohni to her new home. It’s a great chance to witness firsthand the beauty and grace of a Sumatran tiger while learning about the efforts being made to save them.


Did You Know?

  • Sumatran Tigers are critically endangered, with their population reduced to only about 400 individuals. They are the smallest tiger subspecies, which helps them navigate their dense rainforest habitat. Unfortunately, deforestation and illegal hunting have significantly contributed to their declining numbers. Source: WWF
  • The Maharajah Jungle Trek at Animal Kingdom is more than just a beautiful walking trail; it’s designed to educate guests about the real-life environments of the animals that live there. Disney worked with conservation experts to recreate the natural habitats of species like the Sumatran tiger, providing an immersive and educational experience. Source: National Geographic
  • The Species Survival Plan (SSP) is a collaborative effort across zoos and aquariums worldwide, aimed at breeding endangered animals and maintaining genetic diversity. Disney’s participation in the SSP highlights its ongoing efforts to contribute to global conservation goals. Source: AZA

This article was originally published on Disney Parks Blog (Published: October 15, 2024).

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