New exhibits and new arrivals at Taronga Western Plains Zoo these school holidays!

Taronga Western Plains Zoo has welcomed the arrival of a female Asian elephant calf born on 14 June to mother, Porntip. The yet to be named calf has already made its public debut and can be seen on exhibit with mother, Porntip, Aunty Thong Dee and cousin Sabai from 10am – 2pm daily.
“The calf is doing really well, she is very strong and growing in confidence every day,” said Zoo Director, Steve Hinks.

Another new addition to the Zoo this year is the Lion Pride Lands precinct which offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
Lion Pride Lands is home to the Zoo’s pride of eight majestic African Lions. The vast 3.8 hectare precinct consists of two exhibits, with a visitor area replicating an African Maasai village offering incredible views from shelters out to the Lions in their savannah habitat.
“The new Lion Pride Lands exhibit is a real highlight of the experience . Visitors are enjoying the free daily keeper talks as well as the immersive tours on offer,” said Steve.

The Zoo’s new Wild Herds precinct will also be open in time for the school holidays, showcasing the Takhi (or Przewalski’s Horse) – the last wild horse species native to the steppes of central Asia.
Visitors will be able to wander through the Wild Herds precinct, which consists of a replica Mongolian village setting with views across to the Zoo’s breeding herd of Takhi. An impressive walkthrough also offers the opportunity for visitors to enjoy close encounters with a friendly herd of Fallow Deer.
“The Wild Herds precinct will be the newest addition to the Zoo opening on the 3 July 2018 which follows the opening of Lion Pride Lands in late March this year.”
“The Wild Herds precinct tells the story of the Takhi, which was once extinct  in the wild. Thanks to the efforts of world zoos including Taronga Western Plains which released zoo bred Takhi back to Mongolia in the 1990s, the wild population has been brought back from the brink and is now critically endangered.”

“Taronga Western Plains Zoo has played a critical role in the breeding program for the Takhi. Early this year we welcomed a female Takhi foal named Dash and in late May a male Takhi named Khan joined the herd, further strengthening the Zoo’s breeding success for this important species,” said Steve.

During the school holidays behind the scenes tours including a guided Morning Walk and the Savannah Safari will operate regularly. Animal Encounters with Meerkats, Giraffe and Tigers offer up close and personal experiences (bookings essential).

Tickets to the Zoo are valid for two consecutive days, giving visitors ample time to explore. Discounted tickets are available online from zoofari.com.au. Taronga Western Plains Zoo is located in Dubbo in Central Western NSW, and is open every day of the school holidays, from 8.30am – 4pm.