AK during hurricanes-is this true?

[Simba's Mom]

A CM in AK told me that the animals at AK are only let out at their set morning time and only let in at their set time for supper. So she said that when a hurricane is coming, if there's any doubt, the animals aren't let out in the morning (never let out, then brought back in at some point during the day). This is supposedly all part of the animals' training/reward system (or whatever you call it, that they get fed every time they come in). And if they can't be let out in the morning (either weather or park's not ready), they won't be let out at any time during the day. If there's a sudden, unexpected rain storm, she showed me protected areas where they can go. So she said that AK is often the first to close, and the last to open in a hurricane. Does anyone know from experience if this might be true?

 

[Johnfish]

I know in 2004 the day before and the day after hurricane charlie AK was closed. We took the Backstage safari tour last year and we heard many of the same things you mentioned. All of the animals are extensively trained and each species has its individulal call to get them to return to their buildings. We were shown a short film on the training. They are even trained to present parts of their bodies when they need injections or blood drawn. If you want to know more I highly recomend the Backstage Safari tour. It was around 60 dollars and worth every penny!

John

 

[ImprovGal]

Another reason AK is the last park to reopen after a hurricane is that it usually ends up with the biggest cleanup job. More trees in the landscaping means more downed tree limbs and branches that need to be cleaned up.

 

[lsutigger2]

I also asked after one of the hurricane's about what they do with the animals and was told similar information as the OP. I also remember them saying that some animals stay out because bringing them in would actually be more frightening to the animals. WDW is far enough inland that most storms have decreased by the time it gets to Orlando.

It was reassuring to me to know how well cared for the animals are. And I also recommend the Backstage Safari Tour. Very good. the Wild by Design one is also very good.