Columbus Zoo Preparing For 43 Acre Safari Africa Exhibit

Jungle Jack Hanna joined the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium as well as Franklin County officials to symbolize the start of an expansive exhibit.

Safari Africa will be a 43-acre expansion which will give guests a taste of the sights and sounds of the African Savanna.

"There is so many special animals and special opportunities to educate and inspire our guests about Africa," Columbus Zoo and Aquarium interim CEO and president Tom Stalf said.

The exhibit will feature giraffes, zebras, cheetahs and other animals common to Africa.

"You'll be able to see these animals on a grassland plane, unobstructed views, and have an opportunity to get up close and personal with the animals and a trainer talking about their natural behavior," Stalf said.

The exhibit is scheduled to open May 2014.

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