A black bear was found in Magic Kingdom, leading to a partial park closure for hours this morning. The closure is still ongoing as of 12:15pm. According to officials with the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, biologists with its Bear Management Program are on the scene in Magic Kingdom to remove the bear. Here is the statement released to BlogMickey.com:
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is aware of a black bear reported in a tree on Walt Disney World property at the Magic Kingdom. Biologists with the FWC’s Bear Management Program, as well as FWC Law Enforcement officers, are on scene. In most cases, it is best for bears to be given space and to move along on their own, but given this situation, staff are working on capturing and relocating the bear.
During the fall, bears are more active as they search for food to pack on fat reserves for the winter. This particular bear was likely moving through the area searching for food.
The FWC reminds people that if you see a bear, to give it space and never approach or feed it. To learn more about bears and how to avoid conflicts with them, visit MyFWC.com/Bear or BearWise.org.
The west side of Magic Kingdom was closed at park opening, and Cast Members blamed the closure on “technical difficulties”. Rumors began circulating quickly that there was a bear in the cordoned-off area, but Disney World remained silent. The following attractions were closed as part of the partial park closure:
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
- Country Bear Jamboree
- The Hall of Presidents
- Haunted Mansion
- Jungle Cruise
- Liberty Square Riverboat
- The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
- Pirates of the Caribbean
- Swiss Family Treehouse
- Tom Sawyer Island
- Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room
- Walt Disney World Railroad
As always, keep checking back with us here at BlogMickey.com as we continue to bring you the latest news, photos, and info from around the Disney Parks!