The center's primary focus will be breeding programs, something the Pittsburgh Zoo has renowned success in, thanks in part to its elephant bull named Jackson.

Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium President Dr. Barbara Baker said "Jackson has eight babies on the ground and two more are due to be born shortly."

The electric fencing is in place and the finishing touches are being made on a new barn. There will be three elephants in place this fall. But a lot of local people are asking if the animals can survive our winter weather?

Dr. Baker said "African elephants love snow. They actually enjoy snowballs. They roll around in it. It's the ice we need to be mindful of because they can get hurt, if they slip and fall."

You won't be able to see the elephants from the road, but the zoo does plan to open the Conservation Center to the public, once or twice a year.