Tracking Carnivorous Birds with RFID Bands in Disney’s Animal Kingdom: A Closer Look at Specialized Animal Care

Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, is home to approximately 2,000 animals representing 300 different species. These animals require specialized care and attention, and for certain species such as northern carmine bee-eaters, this includes the use of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) bands.

These RFID bands are the size of a grain of rice and help scientists monitor the breeding behaviors and diets of the birds. By tracking their eating habits, animal care teams can ensure that they are receiving the proper balance of bugs from their dietitians and from the wild. This technology provides valuable insight into the birds’ activity, location, behavior, and responses to training cues.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is committed to enhancing their understanding of various species and ensuring that all animals receive the specialized care they need. Andrew, a research programs specialist on the Animals, Science and Environment team expressed 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.

By utilizing RFID technology and conducting ongoing research, Disney’s Animal Kingdom is able to provide the best possible care for their diverse animal population.