Have you ever wondered how Disney’s Animal Kingdom monitors the feeding habits and breeding behaviors of more than 100 birds? Believe it or not, the answer fits in something as small as a grain of rice.
At the heart of the Disney Animal Kingdom RFID project is a tiny tracking device used to observe Northern carmine bee-eaters, vibrant birds known for their fast movements and unique dietary needs. Using RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) bands, animal care teams gain valuable insights into where these birds go, how they behave, and what they choose to eat.
What’s So Special About the Carmine Bee-Eater?
Carmine bee-eaters thrive on a diet of carefully curated insects that provide the right balance of nutrients. However, like any opportunistic snacker, these birds can be tempted by wild bugs—less nutritious options akin to human fast food. To make sure they stay healthy, the team tracks how often they visit feeding zones and what they eat.
That’s where the RFID bands come in. Every time a bird enters one of their feeding areas (nicknamed “dining rooms”), a signal is sent. The team can then analyze how often the birds eat, which diets they’re choosing, and how that affects their overall health. This helps avoid full bellies with minimal nutrition—essentially the bird version of too many fries and not enough veggies.
Why RFID Is a Game-Changer
Disney’s animal care team uses this innovative technology to understand more than just feeding habits. RFID data provides a window into behavior, responses to training, and daily movement. It’s a seamless way to gather critical health insights without interrupting the birds’ routines.
“We get to implement cutting-edge technology to take the best possible care of our birds,” said Andrew, a Research Programs Specialist with the Animals, Science and Environment team. “This project has been really exciting to work on.”
With the largest population of carmine bee-eaters in any AZA-accredited facility, Disney’s Animal Kingdom continues to lead the way in wildlife care and innovation.
What’s Next for Disney Animal Kingdom RFID Research?
The team hopes to expand RFID tracking to include more bird species across the park. Each step brings them closer to better understanding the needs of every bird in their care. And the more they know, the better they can tailor care plans for each animal’s health and well-being.
This program is just one part of Disney Planet Possible. A commitment to creating a better world for people and wildlife. Whether it’s preserving habitats, supporting research, or caring for animals with the help of technology, Disney continues to make a positive impact.
To learn more about the carmine bee-eaters and other species, visit DisneyAnimals.com.
