Every year the internet is abuzz with stories from our National Parks detailing the activities of the “tourons” (a combination of tourists and morons) and the stupid things they do while near the animals in the parks. When you go to Disney World, don’t be touron!

With approximately 1/3 of its 43 square miles permanently devoted to nature conservation Disney World is home to a variety of wild animals of all types from birds, to small mammals, snakes, and lizards and even large animals such as alligators, white tailed deer, bobcats, coyotes, and even the occasional black bear.

However, always remember that these animals are wild and while it is fine and even encouraged to admire them from a distance you should always keep your distance. All wild animals, no matter how docile they may seem are unpredictable and often carry diseases. Do not pose for pictures with them, do not allow your children to pet them, and whatever you do, do not feed them. Their digestive systems are not meant to consume human food, particularly the highly processed foods served at Disney World’s dining establishments and feeding them can make them sick and dependent on hand outs from people. Finally, feeding the wild animals at Disney World is against the rules and can get you into trouble as Disney specifically states, “Feeding, petting, touching, harassing, or harming any wildlife, including birds, is prohibited.”  In other words, respect wildlife and don’t be a “touron”!