Great strides have been made toward transforming this place into a friendlier and less repressive environment for the animals. But note that it's on the steep side of Cave Hill and getting around the zoo involves a strenuous uphill walk for even the most energetic (not ideal for anyone with mobility problems)—a stroller would be advisable for small children. The newest exhibit, Rainforest House, a walk-through exhibition with dense tropical landscaping, opened in 2008. Look in and you may see Jasmine, the two-toed sloth, or perhaps a Rodriguez bat or some exotic birds not normally spotted on the Belfast hills. The zoo is also noted for its children's farm and underwater views of the resident penguins and sea lions. It's near Belfast Castle—just hop on a pink Metrobus (Numbers 1A, 1B, 1C, or 1D) at Donegall Square West, by City Hall.
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