The American Museum of Natural History in New York City is one of the most popular attractions in the city. The museum is home to many exhibits that showcase various aspects of natural history, from fossils and minerals to animals and plants.
One of the most intriguing exhibits at the museum is the animal exhibit. Visitors often wonder if the animals on display are real or just replicas. In this article, we will explore that question.
What Is The Animal Exhibit?
The animal exhibit at the Museum of Natural History features a vast collection of preserved animals from all over the world. There are over 5000 specimens in this exhibit, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish. The exhibit showcases animals from different habitats such as deserts, forests, oceans, and more.
Are The Animals Real?
Yes! All the animals in the exhibit are real.
However, they are not alive but preserved through a process called taxidermy. Taxidermy is an art form that involves preserving an animal’s body and mounting it for display.
How Are The Animals Preserved?
The process of preserving an animal involves several steps. Firstly, the specimen’s skin is removed carefully without damaging it.
Then it is treated with chemicals to prevent decay or rotting. The next step involves creating a mannequin that mimics the animal’s shape using materials like wood wool or foam rubber.
Once the mannequin is ready, it is covered with the preserved skin and sewn back into place meticulously. Finally, glass eyes are inserted into sockets to give it a lifelike appearance.
Why Are These Animals Preserved?
Preserving animals allows scientists and researchers to study them closely without causing harm or altering their natural habitats. These specimens provide valuable information about their anatomy, behavior patterns, diet habits as well as their distribution across different regions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the animals in the Museum of Natural History exhibit are real, but they are not alive. They have been preserved through a process called taxidermy, which involves removing their skin, treating it chemically, and then mounting it on a mannequin. These preserved specimens provide valuable information to scientists and researchers and allow visitors to get an up-close look at some of the world’s most fascinating creatures.