Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Welcomes First Ankole Calf in More Than Two Decades

Mar 10, 2026 in "Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge"

Winnie and Her Newborn Calf at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge
Posted: Tuesday March 10, 2026 7:50am ET by WDWMAGIC Staff

Walt Disney World has a new addition to its animal family. An Ankole cattle calf has been born at the resort - the first in over 20 years.

Dr. Mark Penning, Vice President of Disney's Animals, Science and Environment, shared the news. The calf's mother is Winnie, one of the Ankole cattle in Disney's care. Both mother and calf are in good health.

The pair are spending time bonding behind the scenes before heading out onto the savanna at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge.

Ankole cattle are well known to guests at both Disney's Animal Kingdom theme park and Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, where the herd roams the resort's savannas. The breed is recognizable for its horns, which can span up to 6 feet tip to tip - and serve a practical purpose. The horns are composed of a honeycomb structure that allows blood to circulate and cool, acting as a natural temperature regulation system.

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RhinocerousMar 11, 2026

Disney is basically the Grandparent. We can congratulate them too.

CompedMar 10, 2026

The animals did all the work! Disney just spoils them!

Disstevefan1Mar 10, 2026

Keeping the Animal in Animal Kingdom. GOOD SHOW DISNEY! 👍 All due credit to the animals too 😉

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