Disney Channel stars Ava Kolker and Christian J Simon from “Sydney to the Max” teamed up with the Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment team and National Geographic to learn about the animals that live at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park.* Ava and Christian had the unique opportunity to get up close to some of the most incredible animals on the planet and learn how the animal care experts take care of them. These previously recorded pieces showcase Sumatran tigers, zebra longwing butterflies, giant swallowtail butterflies and prehensile-tailed porcupines. 

Ava and Christian worked with Dawn, an animal keeper, to prepare some food-based enrichment items for the Sumatran tigers and then delivered these to the Sumatran tigers at the Maharajah Jungle Trek. Check out the video below to find out what happens: 

Ava and Christian got up close to a prehensile-tailed porcupine while learning from Conservation Manager Dr. Zak and Maria, an animal keeper, about what makes these animals unique. They even met a baby porcupine, called a porcupette! 

Dr. Zak shared with Ava and Christian why butterflies are so important and provided the chance for them to interact with zebra longwing butterflies and giant swallowtail butterflies in the Pollination Garden near Conservation Station at Rafiki’s Planet Watch. 

Together we can make a positive impact by protecting the places these and other animals call home. To check out more of Ava and Christian’s animal adventures, click here to visit the Disney Magic Moments collection in the DisneyNOW app. 

DisneyNOW is a kids-safe app with the newest episodes and current seasons of your favorite Disney Channel shows, DCOMs and dozens of games. 

*Some images do not represent current operational guidelines or health and safety measures such as face covering and physical distancing requirements.  Visit disneyworld.com for important details to know before you visit.