One thing about Singapore Zoo is that one never really seems to know where an exhibit begins and ends. The lush vegetation is so prominent and some enclosures look like pure jungle and nothing else. But I'm guessing that if one were to hack back some of the undergrowth, then the exhibits are not nearly as large as they first appear.
You are definitely correct. Few exhibits are on a small side and quite outdated (Babirusa, Otters, Anoa, Pigmy Hippo). And, yes the vegetation plays integral part of the whole zoo appearance and hide flows. On the other side, I am 99% sure that Singapore's Primate Kingdom inhabitants feel better and much closer to home than Primates at San Diego's Lost Forest.
African zone is interesting mix between mock-rock teamed The Great Riff Valley of Ethiopia and "Natural" Wild Africa exhibits. The later ones almost using the "standard" Singapore landscape, but they would be much appreciated in Western Europe or North America.
The big question: Where Singapore sits in the big scheme of the World Zoos is not easy to answer. Mostly because the whole Mandai Complex is unique and it is not easy to be rated separately. It is a full experience.
What, if Pairi Daiza's different worlds had different entrances ?
What, if Singapore zoo was only one entity ?
Probably the World's best Panda indoor complex, Tasmanian Devil nocturnal exhibit and Night Civets Walkthogh exhibit will be part of it ?
Then, you not see Philippine Eagle or touch Shoebill everyday. And you can easily see Wild Colugos and Macaques.
The combined price for the 4 parks is cheaper than the price for San Diego Zoo and SDZSP.
We have seen some excellent zoos and are, of course more critical. For regular visitor, who been at 10-20 zoos in his lifetime, Singapore zoo can easily be the World's best zoo experience.
Looking forward for the two parts of the Rainforest Wild to be finished and hopefully to come back
