The dark history behind the creepy deserted Zoological Park in Disney World

Walt Disney World is known for its magic, meticulous maintenance, and the illusion that nothing is ever really out of place.

But hidden in sight, across the water from Magic Kingdom, is part of Disney that seems to be forgotten.

Discovery Island, once a bustling zoological park, is now deserted and forbidden, the rotting remains are slowly overtaken by nature.

With a dark history, creepy silence and strict non-transport rules, the 11.5 hectare island has become a rare look in the side of Disney that most guests never see.

Originally opened in 1974 as Treasure Island, the location was designed as a quiet nature reserve, the home of exotic birds, turtles, makis and more.

The theme was based on the pirate film of the same name from 1950, with a fake destroyed ship placed in the middle of the island.

In 1977 it was renamed Discovery Island to better display its focus on preserving and observation of animals.

Guests could walk along winding paths, explore habitats with theme such as Flamingo Lagoon and Tortoise Beach and learn about rare and endangered species in a serene, natural environment.

Discovery Island in Disney World, once a vibrant zoological park, is now deserted and forbidden, the rotting remains are slowly overtaken by nature.

With a dark history, creepy silence and strict non-transport rules, the 11.5-hectare island has become a rare look in the side of Disney who never see most guests

The island is hidden in sight, across the side of the water of Magic Kingdom

In 1989, however, reports of horrible violence started to circulate ‘abuse’.

Researchers said that employees on Discovery Island reportedly fired a gun on Hawks, vultures with a stick and the nests and eggs of egrets and ibises, per UPI.

The park was accused of 16 counts of animal abuse, but the charges were later withdrawn, according to The ledger.

As Disney continued to expand and create more seductive journeys, the ticket numbers decreased to the Wildlife Island.

When, in April 1998, Animal Kingdom Park was opened and people were fueled in the direction of the new attractions, leaving Discovery Island.

The island was closed in 1999 and all animals were moved to an animal kingdom or other zoos in the United States, per The journey.

For the past 26 years, Discovery Island has been completely abandoned and tightly secured.

Disney has made clear: no guests are allowed.

Originally opened in 1974 as Treasure Island, the location was designed as a quiet nature reserve, the home of exotic birds, turtles, makis and more

After the opening of Animal Kingdom Park and a whole series of charges for animal abuse, which were later dropped, the island was eliminated and has been untouched for more than 25 years

Drawing around the surrounding waters warn water sports enthusiasts and potential explorers to stay away.

Anyone who dares to step on the island can experience serious consequences, including arrested for the penetration and exilation of all Disney properties for life.

In 2020, called a man Richard McGuire was arrested after illegal camping on the island During several days during the pandemic.

Later he told the police that he thought it was a ‘tropical paradise’ and did not know he, per TIME.