Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is celebrating a special addition to its savanna herd. A new Ankole cattle calf has been born at Walt Disney World Resort – the first calf of this breed born at the resort in more than 20 years.
The update was shared by Dr. Mark Penning, who oversees animal care programs across Disney’s parks and resorts. The calf’s mother, Winnie, is part of the Ankole cattle herd that lives on the savannas surrounding the lodge. Both mother and calf are doing well following the birth.
For now, the pair are spending time together behind the scenes, allowing the calf to bond with Winnie and grow stronger under the watchful care of Disney’s animal care team.
Ankole cattle are among the most recognizable animals guests can see across Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge savannas. The breed is known for its enormous horns, which can stretch up to six feet from tip to tip. Their large horns also serve an important biological function. Their honeycomb-like internal structure allows blood to circulate through the horns, helping release heat and regulate their body temperature in warm climates.
Ankole originate from East Africa, including Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi. Traditionally used for milk and cultural status, they are known as the “cattle of kings”, as they’ve been valued for survival in climates with extreme heat, high-fat milk, and as symbols of wealth.
Guests visiting Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge can often observe Ankole cattle grazing alongside other African species on the resort’s savannas. The birth of this calf marks an important milestone for the herd and reflects Disney’s ongoing commitment to animal care, conservation, and education.
As the calf continues to grow, it will eventually join the rest of the herd on the savanna, giving guests a chance to spot one of the newest residents roaming the landscape.
