Keepers at Taronga Western Plains Zoo are delighted by the arrival of yet another litter of Meerkat pups that were born on 12 February 2012.The three Meerkat pups have recently started to emerge from the den under the watchful eye of mother, Umi, and father, Brock.“The three pups are doing really well. They are very bold, having started to venture out from their den much earlier than the other litters,” said Keeper Karen Ellis.“The older ones are acting as good role models for the new-born pups helping them to develop and care for them.”“Umi has now had three litters since arriving in November 2010 and is an experienced mother showing good maternal behaviours with positive nurturing from father, Brock, and the rest of the troop,” said Karen.In 2012, Taronga Western Plains Zoo will also be developing a new Meerkat exhibit near the Midway Kiosk that will provide new types of visitor experiences and also another opportunity for visitors to see these popular animals.The project will see $500,000 spent from the Zoo’s investment program which is funded through the Taronga Foundation.“This coming year will be an exciting one for Taronga Western Plains Zoo with the development of a new overnight camping experience and this new Meerkat exhibit,” said General Manager, Matthew Fuller.“The new Meerkat exhibit will add another dimension to the midway point of the circuit, providing visitors with a great place to stop and enjoy the antics of our Meerkat troop whilst having lunch,” said Matt.Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s now has 12 Meerkats on exhibit.