FAQS: Exhibits Unit
How did you get the animals for the Life Sciences Gallery dioramas?
Whenever possible, the RSM took advantage of specimens that were found dead, such as the beaver kits which were discovered in a lodge, dead from disease. Some of the animals were brought in by conservation officers. For instance, the elk used in the Cypress Hills diorama was seized from poachers. If direct collection of an animal was required, staff were careful to use the most humane methods possible. Some animals, such as the Baird’s Sparrow and Bald Eagle chick, are rare and were purposefully not collected. Instead, replicas were created by hand, either carved from wood or sculpted with other materials.
For further information contact the Exhibits Unit