Animal Kingdom’s Newest Baby Zebra Gets A Name
You might recall that I brought you the news recently about the arrival of a brand new baby zebra at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park. The Hartmann’s mountain zebra foal (along with her mom Heidi) have made their grand debut onto the Kilimanjaro Safaris savanna. Today I’m happy to share that Disney Cast Members have given the baby zebra her new name.
Because we can’t just keep calling her “baby zebra” right? Well, I’m happy to reveal to you that she has been bestowed the beautiful name of Asha. This is a fitting name for the baby zebra as it means “hope” in Sanskrit, and “life” in Swahili. Walt Disney World Cast Members had a chance to vote on potential names and I think they did a wonderful job. During these uncertain times, we definitely need more “hope” in our lives.
Usually the honor of naming new babies is given to animal care team Cast Members. But Disney saw this as an opportunity for all the Cast to be part of a beautiful moment in this challenging time in the world.
Here is a look at Asha’s first venture out onto the Animal Kingdom’s savannah…
Zoological Manager Meaghan McCarthy oversaw the savanna transition and says that Asha was very excited to stretch her long legs, run, and play along with other members of the Hartmann’s herd.
Meaghan also says that Asha is brave and very inquisitive. The baby foal has had lots of firsts on her adventure too. She saw the towering giraffes, listened to hyenas laughing, and of course got her fair share of tasty grass.
Hartmann’s mountain zebras are found in sub-Saharan Africa and are a vulnerable species due to habitat loss and hunting. To learn more about zebras and other species we are working to protect, visit DisneyAnimals.com and follow along on Instagram: @DrMarkAtDisney.
Source Credit: Disney Parks Blog
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