PHOTOS: Porcupette Born at Disney's Animal Kingdom Named in Honor of Cast Member

Approximately two months ago, a prehensile-tailed porcupette was born to mom, Peri at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Today, Disney announced the porcupette’s name – Shelley. 

The Animals, Science and Environment team named the baby in honor of Veterinary Operations Manager Shelley, who played an important role in the baby’s birth. Thanks to Shelley’s dedication to training, the baby’s mom, Peri, was able participate in ultrasounds essential for prenatal care. Some of these ultrasound sessions with Disney veterinarian Dr. Natalie are featured in One Day at Disney, a documentary currently streaming on Disney+. 

Shelley has a special bond with Peri, and now baby Shelley, who is growing quickly and starting to look just like her mother. She weighs over two pounds (more than triple her birth weight).

It’s through the work of dedicated Cast Members, like Shelley, that Disney's animal care team is able to make tremendous strides every day providing excellent care for all creatures large and small.

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