I really enjoyed this section of the aquarium during my 2012 visit, especially with the mixture of reptiles, amphibians, fish and birds in one area. There is a bit too much concrete for my liking, but I like the presentation of the ecosystem as one large, vibrant environment.
I agree, the Wetlands Trail is the highlight of the facility for me. You were wise to include this facility in your book 'America's Top 100 Zoos & Aquariums'! In fact reading that entry in the book lit a fire under me to finally organize and edit and post my photos of it from last summer! Your own photo of this exhibit in the book is very good.
I don't remember this from my visit in mid 1990's, but that could either be because it was too long ago to remember or because it is a newer addition. Either way I have fond memories of the aquarium (what little I remember) and this does look quite nice.
