Wild Weekends

Looking at Animals Weekend

Saturday and Sunday, March 13 and 14, 11 am – 4:30 pm

Komodo Dragon by Harry Horenstein Komodo Dragon by Harry Horenstein

Learn how Academy scientists use imaging to study the world around us and how it can bridge the gap between science and art. See the photography exhibit Looking at Animals and make your own light-inspired craft to take home.

On Saturday at 1 pm, Doug Wechsler, bird photographer, children’s book author, and the director of VIREO (Visual Resources for Ornithology) presents “Weird Birds,” an illustrated talk about his experiences photographing the odd wonders of the avian world and explain how these were fodder for his book, Bizarre Birds. The talk will be followed by a book signing.

(photo credit: top, copyright Henry Horenstein; bottom, Doug Wechsler/VIREO)

Earth Day Festival Weekend

Saturday and Sunday, April 17 and 18, 11 am – 4:30 pm

Earth from the Apollo 17 spacecraft

Meet scientists from the Patrick Center for Environmental Research and learn how they monitor environmental quality, use sediment cores to look into the past, and test for toxic chemicals.

Animal Moms Weekend

Saturday and Sunday, May 8 and 9, 11 am – 4:30 pm

mother sparrow at her nest

Celebrate mom’s of every species as the Academy shows off some of the more nurturing residents of its Live Animal Center, home to some 100 animals that are injured and cannot survive in the wild. Live animal shows at 11 am and 2:30 pm. Make a Mother’s Day card for your favorite mom.

Catfish Weekend

Saturday and Sunday, May 19 and 20, 11 am – 4:30 pm

mother sparrow at her nest

Bring your dad on a fishing trip that explores the natural history of one of the most successful species of fish on the planet: the weird, wonderful, and highly adaptable catfish! Join us for interactive presentations from our world renowned Ichthyology Department, catfish games and puzzles, and some fishy arts and crafts that dad is sure to love.

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