Dallas Zoo in Texas, US, is to open its new US$30m (£18.8m, 20.9m euro) “Giants of the Savanna” exhibit in the spring.

The 11-acre site will feature a large savannah with grasses, trees, and multiple swimming holes. The savannah will be planted with a special soil mixture that will keep the habitat soft and green year-round.

It will feature giraffes, elephants, lions, cheetah, and many other African species.

The habitat is funded by 2006 voter-approved bonds and private donations. Giants of the Savanna is the largest Dallas Zoo project since the opening of the Wilds of Africa nearly 20 years ago.

Dallas Zoo has been managed by the Dallas Zoological Society since last summer following the City Council’s decision to privatise the attraction.