The Honolulu Zoo has reopened its renovated African penguin and hippo homes, good news for families and for the zoo's standing among American zoos.

• Eight African penguins and two hippos, Mara and Louise, moved into the upgraded exhibits.
• The project took two years and cost just under a million dollars.
• New water filtration and an ozone system keep the pools clean and protect the animals' skin.
• Visitors get new glass viewing areas, a walkway, and shaded spots where keepers feed and train the animals.
• The zoo earned national accreditation this year, something only 10% of US zoos hold, which makes it easier to bring in animals from other zoos and countries.

Outlook: The zoo plans to keep upgrading homes for its 900-plus animals.