Staff at Taronga Western Plains Zoo have completed the enormous task of moving one of the Zoo's Hippopotamus' from the main Hippo exhibit to the African Savannah exhibit. Mana, a 13 year old male Hippo had to undergo months of conditioning for the move to take place to ensure all went to plan on the day. "Logistically this is a large job as the animal needs to be conditioned to feel comfortable in the crate and also the large machinery and staff need to be coordinated in order for the move to run smoothly," said keeper Anthony Dorrian. "The move involved Mana being secured in a transport crate and being transferred to the other exhibit by truck before being craned off and let out into his new exhibit." "Overall the move went according to plan and Mana thriving in his new home.  Mana is especially enjoying the ample amount of lush green grass at his new home as well as his very own lake," said Anthony. Mana now shares the African Savannah exhibit with a variety of African animals including Giraffe, Zebra, Eland and Forest Buffalo which can be seen from the African Savannah Viewing Tower at the Zoo. Mana is now a highlight for visitors on the Wild Africa Encounter who drive out onto the African Savannah as part of their tour.   Taronga Western Plains Zoo has five Hippos in total which are part of the regional breeding program. Taronga Western Plains Zoo is located at Dubbo in Central Western NSW.  The Zoo is open everyday from 9am - 4pm.  For more information contact 02 6881 1400 or visit www.taronga.org.au.