On May 28, 2010, the Dallas Zoo introduced Giants of the Savanna, the biggest new exhibit to open at the Zoo in 20 years! The 11-acre Giants of the Savanna will take Zoo guests on safari as they experience and learn about giraffes, elephants, lions, cheetahs, and many other African species. As part of its education and conservation mission, the Zoo is partnering with some of the leading elephant researchers in Africa to work on the conservation of endangered elephants and other African wildlife species.

Development of the Giants of the Savanna exhibit combined the knowledge and resources of some of the top zoological architects, horticulturists, animal specialists, and wildlife researchers in the world.  The new exhibit features a large savanna with grasses, trees, and multiple water holes, mud pits, and sand piles.  The expansive area is planted with a special soil mixture that will keep the habitat lush, soft, and green year-round.  The Zoo’s elephants, giraffes, impalas, zebras, and ostriches will be featured in the savanna areas.  In addition, there is a separate predator area, which will be home to the Zoo’s five new lions and three cheetahs.

Since 2008, the Dallas Zoo has welcomed more than 1.5 million guests through its gates. In today’s economy, the Zoo continues to be one of the most affordable family attractions in the region. It is one of the largest cultural resources in the area, providing educational opportunities to more than 200,000 children annually.

The Dallas Zoo is a cornerstone for current and future development in the southern sector of Dallas. In addition to providing exceptional experiences for both guests and wildlife, the new Giants of the Savanna will generate much-needed jobs and at the same time, enhance the Zoo’s multi-million dollar economic impact to the City of Dallas.