Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Museum of Natural History Located?
The Museum of Natural History at Vancouver Island University is located at the north side of Building 370 Environmental Sciences.
Where do we get our animals from?
All specimens for the Museum of Natural History are:
a)either found dead and donated for bones, mounts or skins or
b)problem animals donated by local conservation officers
What do we use the specimens for?
The specimens are mostly used for teaching purposes. Classes that use these include those on wildlife identification, comparative biology, and skeletal reconstruction. Specimens are also used for public displays, community outreach programs and recruiting displays that would assist in demonstrating the specimen's use in a specific program.
Who uses the museum?
The museum meets the needs of a variety of users. Many Students & faculty in the RMOT, Biology and Education programs use the museum on a regular basis.
International education & the Malaspina High School use the museum as an ESL tool throughout their sessions.
Research scientists inquire if we have specific specimens that would assist in his/her research.
Enquiries are welcomed from the general public for personal interest and non-profit organizations have used specimens to help teach volunteers skills.
If I would like to visit the museum, what are the hours it is open?
The museum will be open January to April during the following times:
Mondays 12:30 to 1:30
Tuesdays 11:30 to 12:30
Fridays 12:30 to 1:30
The museum will be closed on statuatory holidays.
For large groups and tours, please contact Larissa Nelson for an appointment.