Welcome to planDisney, Hannah! This is a great question. The spotted hyenas at
Disney's Animal Kingdom used to rotate with the African painted dogs on
Kilimanjaro Safaris from time to time, but I haven't seen them in quite a while. They're also no longer listed among the
current animals for the park, which is usually a solid clue about what guests can expect to encounter. So while they were once part of the lineup, it's safe to say hyenas aren't at Animal Kingdom at this time.
I have a quick bit of behind-the-scenes context for you! Animal Kingdom doesn't keep its animal collection static forever. The park
actively collaborates with other members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and participates in many Species Survival Plans, and sometimes that means moving animals around for their benefit. These programs help manage animal populations, especially endangered species, by coordinating transfers that maintain a healthy gene pool, support breeding, and sometimes transition animals to other facilities that are the best fit for their life stage, like older animals "retiring" to a quiet AZA-accredited haven. It's all done to put animal welfare and long-term conservation first, even if it means a fan-favorite species moves away for a while.
There are still dozens of animal species for you to encounter and learn about when you're at Animal Kingdom next month! You'll still find African painted dogs out on the savanna, lions basking on the rocks, giraffes and zebras roaming the plains, and lots of smaller surprises the Safari guides love to point out. On the walking trails,
Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail and
Maharajah Jungle Trek, think gorillas, hippos, tigers, and more. The best part of the trails is talking to the Cast Members near the habitats! They know so much about the animals individually and as a species, and I always learn something new when I chat with them.
I hope this answers your question, Hannah, and please let us know if there's anything else we can do to help you plan your magical vacation!
Jessica