Disney’s Animal Kingdom, located in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, is home to over 2,000 animals representing 300 different species. All of these animals require specialized care and attention to thrive in their environment. For certain bird species, such as the northern carmine bee-eaters, this care includes the use of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) bands. These tiny bands, the size of a grain of rice, are used to monitor the birds’ breeding behaviors and diets.
By tracking the birds’ eating habits, animal care teams can ensure that they are receiving the proper balance of bugs from their dietitians and from the wild. RFID technology provides valuable insight into the birds’ activity, location, behavior, and responses to training cues. This research helps scientists at Disney’s Animal Kingdom better understand the breeding behaviors of these unique birds.
Andrew, a research programs specialist on the Animals, Science and Environment team at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, expressed his excitement about implementing cutting-edge technology to improve the care of the birds. The park closely monitors the breeding and feeding habits of over 100 birds, including the largest population of carmine bee-eaters in any Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited institution.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom remains committed to enhancing their understanding of various species and ensuring that all animals receive the specialized care they need. By utilizing RFID technology and conducting ongoing research