BRANFORD, Conn. — The Honolulu Zoo has been honored as one of "America's Best Zoos 2008" by The Intrepid Traveler, a travel publisher located in Branford, Conn.

The zoo was cited for its diverse animal collection, special programs for visitors, knowledgeable and committed staff, and excellent exhibits, according to a news release from the publishing house. Among the must-sees: African Savanna, which takes visitors through a twelve-acre re-creation of four different African environments, including a riverine and a grassland, and Kipuka Nene Sanctuary, where animal lovers can view nearly a dozen nene geese, Hawai'i's state birds.

The Honolulu Zoo was selected for the award by Allen W. Nyhuis and Jon Wassner, co-authors of America's Best Zoos: A Travel Guide for Fans and Families (2008, The Intrepid Traveler, $15.95). Nyhuis, a statistician and father of four who has visited over 200 zoos worldwide, and Wassner, a former zookeeper, note that the zoo's many attractions also include its large collection of pretty tropical birds in exhibits such as Toucan Trail, Birds of the World, and Paradise Row, according to the news release.