Duffy the Disney Bear arrives in Epcot.

Walt Disney World has a new bear character – and related merchandise – in the form of Duffy the Disney Bear, who made his grand entrance with Mickey Mouse at Epcot on Thursday afternoon. Duffy will be stationed at a meet-and-greet there daily.

First impression: He's a hugger.

If you don't know Duffy, here's his backstory. He was hand-sewn byMinnie Mouse as a gift to Mickey. Duffy, dressed like a sailor, was designed to be Mickey's companion during his travels. The character has been popular with guests at Tokyo DisneySea theme park.

Duffy's travel experience makes him a good fit for Epcot and the World Showcase, which is "all about discovery," said Epcot vice president Dan Cockerell before Duffy arrived on the scene Thursday. (Epcot is the only WDW location for Duffy, although he will be making appearances at Disney's California Adventure theme park in Anaheim.)

To go to Duffy's autograph area at Epcot, turn left after World Showcase, as if going to the Mexico pavilion. Duffy's pavilion is the left, and a store stocked with Duffy merchandise is across the plaza. The items there are very bear-driven, of course. Key chains with small Duffys are $8; a large Duffy was priced at $60. There are changes of wardrobe for Duffy available.

Duffy may not have a movie, album, dark ride, VinylMation or sidekick, but apparently he has a fan base. Within 10 minutes, about 100 Epcot guests were lined up to meet and greet Duffy. Only a handful of them were children – that could increase on the weekend. In the meantime, let's just note that big kids are drawn to Duffy, too.

Report by the Olando Sentinel Film from Attractions Magazine!