Looking at the Disney guide map of the Animal Kingdom, it looks like there might be a path that goes behind the Tree of Life, starting at "c" on the map, and ending at "d." The map also keys it as an "animal viewing" location. (The path might be a quicker way to move from one part of the park to another, making it unnecessary to walk around the tree.)
"c" is "Beastly Bazaar" candies, etc.
"d" is "Creature Comforts" gifts & toys.
Enjoy.