What is the Naturalist Center?
Nature Research Center, 2nd Floor
The Naturalist Center provides visitors access to an extensive collection of specimens for individual research, student exploration, or for general interest. Collections include birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fishes, insects, plants, fossils, rocks, minerals and more. Learn more about some specimens using two interactive computer field guides.
Staff can provide assistance with self-directed exploration in the Naturalist Center.
Have a question about nature? Ask a Naturalist
Public Hours
Ages: All ages are welcome, however, main collection areas are restricted to children 8 years or older. There is an activity area for younger children or groups with mixed ages.
Room capacity: 35
Naturalist Center specimens are prepared, cataloged, and managed according to the standards detailed in the Naturalist Center Collections Management Policy.
Search the Naturalist Center Collection
Volunteering
Volunteers greet and assist Naturalist Center visitors as they interact with specimens and resources.
Time commitment: At least 6–8 hours per month (preferred)
Training: On-the-job training; Knowledge of native plants and animals is helpful, but not required.
More Information about Volunteering
Staff
- Coordinator:Cindy Lincoln, PhD | cynthia.lincoln@joe-yan.net
- Curator:Greg Skupien | Gregory.Skupien@joe-yan.net