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Wildlife Wednesday: Cast Members Share Beauty of Animals in Photo Contest

Scott Terrell

by , DVM, DACVP, Director of Animal & Science Operations, Walt Disney Parks & Resorts

Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment cast members are known for the exceptional care they provide to animals around the world and the wonderful ways they help our guests connect with nature here at Walt Disney World Resort and in the wild. Our team pays close attention to details and draws inspiration from wildlife – traits that translate well into photography.

Many of our animal care team members enjoy taking photos as a hobby and recently, four of them were honored for images they submitted to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ annual photo contest. These photos share the beauty and charm of animals and habitats at Disney locations such as Disney’s Animal Kingdom and along the shoreline of Disney’s Vero Beach Resort.

Below are the honored photographs taken by Disney cast members.

Jay Ballard, Wild Africa Trek Excursion Guide – Mandrill

Jay Ballard, Wild Africa Trek Excursion Guide – Mandrill

Meg Pahel, Wild Africa Trek Excursion Guide – Okapi

Meg Pahel, Wild Africa Trek Excursion Guide – Okapi

Eileen Cicotello, Zoological Manager – Loggerhead turtle at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort

Eileen Cicotello, Zoological Manager – Loggerhead turtle at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort

Katelynne Veaudry, Trails Operations – Lions

Katelynne Veaudry, Trails Operations – Lions

As all of the photos illustrate, when our ASE cast members photograph the animals they care for each day, their love and dedication is clearly in focus.