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Disney World President Jeff Vahle Meets Bakso, Animal Kingdom’s Adorable Sumatran Tiger Cub
Walt Disney World President Jeff Vahle recently took some time out of his busy schedule to meet one of Animal Kingdom’s youngest and most beloved new residents—Bakso, the Sumatran tiger cub! Joined by Dr. Mark Penning, Vice President of Animals, Science, and Environment for Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products, and other dedicated Cast Members, Vahle paid a visit to Bakso, who made his debut on the Maharajah Jungle Trek in January 2025.
Related: Disney’s Animal Kingdom will host Extended Evening Hours on May 5th
Since his arrival, Bakso has been captivating guests with his playful personality and majestic presence, quickly becoming a guest favorite at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. In a recent Instagram post, Jeff Vahle reflected on the visit, stating:
“It’s been a month since our Sumatran tiger cub, Bakso, debuted on Maharajah Jungle Trek at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. We went out to meet some of the incredible Cast who care for Bakso and share his story with our Guests. I’m so proud of our Animals, Science and Environment team for their hard work!”
But Bakso’s story goes beyond just being an adorable addition to the park—he represents a vital conservation effort. With fewer than 600 Sumatran tigers remaining in the wild and in managed care, his birth in September 2024 was a monumental achievement for the Species Survival Plan (SSP) and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Disney’s ongoing commitment to wildlife conservation ensures that endangered species like Bakso receive the care, protection, and awareness they need to thrive.
Bakso’s presence at Disney’s Animal Kingdom serves as a beacon of hope for the future of his species. Guests who visit him on the Maharajah Jungle Trek not only get a chance to see this incredible animal up close but also learn about the importance of conservation efforts to protect Sumatran tigers in the wild.
Related: Disney World Refurbishment and Closures for March 2025
As Disney continues its mission to inspire, educate, and protect, Bakso stands as a powerful reminder of the incredible impact that conservation partnerships can have in preserving our planet’s most vulnerable species. If you haven’t yet had the chance to see this little tiger in action, be sure to visit him on your next trip to Disney’s Animal Kingdom! 🐯✨
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