Animal Kingdom Rhino Fitted with Unique Fitness Tracking Device
Hello MickeyBlog followers and Disney fans. We have a fun story for you- and something many of us can relate to! Staying fit and being active.
Meet Helen! Helen is a 30-year-old white rhino who resides at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Most recently Helen has made the news for being fitted with a unique fitness tracking device.
Photo: AP Photo/John Raoux
On Monday, May 16th, guests observed Helen exploring the Savana of Disney’s Animal Kingdom with a fitness device on her leg.
Similar to a Fitbit, this exciting device is tracking information that will benefit rhinos around the world.
Important Data and Info
Photo: AP Photo/John Raoux
The data provides and shares important info about Helen with multiple institutions and animal researchers. Part of a large-scale research project, the observations include: Helen’s daily step count, whether she is walking, running or napping, and her favorite locations.
This exciting info helps determine the best possible care for rhinos.
Photo: AP Photo/John Raoux
Scott Terrell, the director of Animal & Science Operations with Walt Disney Parks & Resorts recently shared with Mike Schneider (Associated Press), “By doing this research and using this technology, we can really focus in on the physical fitness of the rhinos as a component of their health and well being.”
Information the team of researchers are excited to gather and learn about.
The Fitness Tracker
Photo: AP Photo/John Raoux
The actual device is fitted to Helen’s front right ankle and is approximately 1 ft in diameter. She began wearing the device for small periods of time to grow acclimated to it and is doing well.
The electronic device includes an accelerometer and a GPS tracker that fits within a small pouch. If Helen successfully wears the device with no issues, the program will expand to include additional White Rhinos at Animal Kingdom.
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Feature Photo: AP Photo/John Raoux
