🎧 Listen to this article:
If you have been wanting to pet the goats and other animals at Affection Section in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, time is running out. Disney has confirmed that the current animals will be rehomed following the petting zoo’s final day of operations on February 22, 2026.
The news comes as part of Disney’s preparations for the upcoming Bluey experience at Rafiki’s Planet Watch. When Affection Section reopens this summer, it will feature a completely new lineup of Australian animals — tying into Bluey’s home country.
What’s Changing at Affection Section
Disney updated the Affection Section calendar on the Walt Disney World website to reflect the temporary closure beginning February 23. The current farm animals — including the beloved goats and sheep that have been a staple of the petting zoo for years — will find new homes after the attraction’s last day.
According to Disney, when Affection Section returns as part of the Bluey experience, guests will have the chance to interact with animals native to Australia. While specific species have not been announced, possibilities could include animals like wallabies, kangaroos, or other Australian wildlife that would fit the family-friendly, hands-on nature of the experience.
Related Closures
The transformation affects the entire Rafiki’s Planet Watch area:
- Wildlife Express Train — Temporarily closing February 23
- Conservation Station — Temporarily closing February 23
- Affection Section — Final day February 22, reopening with Australian animals
The train is the only way to reach Rafiki’s Planet Watch, so all attractions in that area will be inaccessible during the transformation.
Bluey Coming This Summer
When the area reopens in Summer 2026, guests will be able to play and dance with Bluey and Bingo in interactive experiences, meet the characters for photos, and enjoy games inspired by the hit Disney+ show. The addition of Australian animals at Affection Section will help create an immersive environment that matches Bluey’s Brisbane setting.
This marks the first time Bluey and Bingo will appear at any Disney theme park, following their successful debut on Disney Cruise Line earlier this year.
Source: Walt Disney World
Related Articles
- First Look at D23’s Disney Experiences Showcase
- Horror Unleashed Merch Preview Released Ahead of Opening
- Ranking Every Coaster at Universal Orlando Resort
Discover more from Theme Park Shark
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
