At 145' tall, The Tree of Life is the iconic symbol of Animal Kingdom. tall, and the trunk is 50 feet wide. Ten artists and three Imagineers worked full-time for 18 months to create the 325 animal carvings on The Tree of Life. Sculptors had between 6 and 10 hours to create the finished image before the plaster hardened.
Some of the large branches actually have joints that allow the branches to sway in stiff breezes.
The Tree of Life sculpture is the heart of Animal Kingdom, both figuratively and literally.
While the tree is very imposing when viewed from any angle, it becomes even more impressive when viewed close-up so you can see the intricate detail carved into the bark.
The intertwining of the figures is quite a symbolic achievement representing that all living things are interdependent on each other.
It is rumored that those who study the tree long enough, just might see a famous mouse, whether that is true or not has not been documented.
There is a little known path that will give the lucky few who find it, a close-up view of The Tree of Life, but you'll have to look hard for it.
As you are leaving Harambe Village, keep on the look out for a small path right after the Tree of Life, but before the bridge. The path is filled with a lot of vegetation so you might have to look hard.
Follow the path for a close look at the Tree of Life and for some great photo spots.
Surrounded by Discovery River, the island is the central hub of Animal Kingdom and from this central location, all of the other major areas can be accessed.
The island is the parks central shopping area and where visitors will find several counter food options. Food items range from corn dogs to barbecue ribs, pizza, chicken, salads and various sandwiches.
The base of The Tree of Life houses the theater where the 8-minute 3D movie "It's Tough to be a Bug" is shown. Everyone gets to put on their own "bug eyes" for the show.
This special film was developed from the folks at Pixar and includes some of the characters from the feature length film A Bug's Life.
Lines can be long and the show is one of the major draws so go early or later in the day to avoid the rush.
CAUTION: things may drop out of nowhere and scare the daylights of some. Be forewarned, things can get squeamish.