The zoo is home to 800 animals, including such rare species as the koala, the white tiger and the Komodo dragon. It's encircled by a monorail that has four hop-on/hop-off stops along its 2.5-mi/4-km route. Exhibits include Wings of Asia, the largest open-air Asian aviary in the Western Hemisphere, featuring 300 exotic, rare and endangered birds from 70 species. Tram tours are also offered. Three food courts and a petting zoo are on the grounds. Wildlife and Theater of Ecology shows are held several times a day. The zoo is open daily 9:30 am-5:30 pm, with last admission at 4 pm. US$13.95 adults, US$9.95 children ages 3-12, free for children 2 and younger. Buy tickets online for a small discount. 12400 S.W. 152nd St. (southwest of Coral Gables), Miami. Phone 305-251-0400. http://www.miamimetrozoo.com.
