Pelusios subniger
This really is an exceptional exhibit. Most zoo tropical houses feel like just that - an artificial attempt at tropical planting. Masaola feels entirely natural - and very much like a real rainforest. There is rainforest-looking leaf litter and understorey - exactly what is missing from a normal tropical house. The animal stocking levels are perfect - you see plenty of birds (in particularly fodies), but not so many that it feels like an aviary rather than a forest. You also see a few reptiles and the occasional mammal. The theming is more-or-less spot on throughout (feeling very like the 'honeypot' (ie tourist-proofed!) rainforest reserves I have visited. Absolutely outstanding!
