It's been a main part of the Mill Mountain Zoo's master plan for several years: adding a collection of animals native to the state. But first, to fit in the "Virginia Wild" exhibit, the zoo wants access to the 3 acres to its south.

Dave Orndorff, the zoo's executive director, pitched that expansion to the Mill Mountain Advisory Committee on Thursday afternoon, seeking the support of the mountain's stewards.

Orndorff stressed that the proposed exhibit would blend with the mountain and remove few trees, having minimal impact on the landscape.

After a round of questioning from the committee, he agreed to offer a "definitive plan" at a future meeting. A specific deadline was not set Thursday.

Expansion on the mountain also requires the approval of the Roanoke City Council. The nonprofit zoo leases its 8-acre property from the city. It has developed 4.5 acres.

"Virginia Wild" would add a herd of animals that live in the state, or once did, Orndorff said, including bobcats and beavers, bison and bears.

--Pete Dybdahl