Bear Sighting at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Prompts Rides and Attractions Closure
BAY LAKE, Fla. — A bear sighting at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Park on Monday led to the closure of several rides and attractions, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conversation Commission.
The incident occurred when an adult female black bear was spotted in a tree at Magic Kingdom on Monday morning, as confirmed by the FWC. In response to the sighting, the FWC, along with the Bear Management Program and law enforcement officers, safely captured the bear.
Typically, bears are given space and allowed to move along on their own. However, considering the situation, the FWC decided to relocate the captured bear out of the park to an area in or around the Ocala National Forest.
The FWC indicated that bears are more active during the fall, as they search for food to build up fat reserves for the winter. The spokeswoman for the FWC stated that the bear was likely moving through the area in search of food.
Approximately more than a dozen rides and attractions were closed during the bear sighting, as reported by Disney’s app. However, a spokesperson for the company stated that the park has since fully reopened.
“We are working with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and have made the decision to reopen Frontierland, Liberty Square, and Adventureland at Magic Kingdom Park,” the spokesman added.
In case you encounter a bear in the wild, it is important to give it space and avoid approaching or feeding it, as advised by the FWC. If you come across a bear that appears to be threatening, sick, or injured, you can call the FWC at 888-404-3922.
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