Easing off plastics in our day-to-day lives is simple and impactful.
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Latest Posts
Spring Garden Guide
Whether you live in the city, suburbs or out in the woods, you can help local biodiversity flourish with a few of these simple spring garden tips.
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Meet Suzanne Biemiller, New Chair of the Academy’s Board of Trustees
On March 5, the Academy of Natural Sciences’ Board of Trustees elected a new chair, Suzanne Biemiller. Suzanne steps into[…]
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Rediscovering the Hidden Beauty of the Invertebrate Paleontology Collection
With rare and captivating specimens, the world-class collection is the oldest of its kind in the United States, headed by Curator and Prof Jocelyn Sessa, PhD.
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10 Hikes to Explore Our Watershed
Get up close and personal with our watershed on these recommended walks.
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From Fin to Limb to Art: A Love for Paleo Illustration Brings Tiktaalik to Life
The natural world of fishes and salamanders inspires an Academy artist’s scientific creativity.
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Restoring a Local Boy’s Legacy, One Fish at a Time
Academy icthyologist works with South American scientists to discover why only a percentage of Fowler’s taxonomic names remain in use today
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Reuse, Rewear, Repair
Some simple tips for small lifestyle changes that can make a difference in our environment
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Important Thai Ethnobotany Collection Revived by ANS and Penn Museum Partnership
The Ban Chiang Collection enhances our understanding of global plant diversity and cultural practices, upholding the standard for responsible and equitable curation.
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Science Shop: Co-creating Climate Resilience in Philadelphia
Community members, local organizations and Academy scientists are working together to find just solutions to environmental issues.
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Even After Rain and Snow: What a Drought Watch Means for the Northeastern Region’s Ecosystems
A single dry autumn might seem like simply a nuisance or an ongoing news headline, but it can have rippling effects for many local species far into the future.
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New Exhibit Examines the Interconnected Ecology of the Fashion Industry
The Academy enters the world of fashion in collaboration with the Robert and Penny Fox Historic Costume Collection of Drexel’s Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts & Design
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A Blueprint to Reparative Practices in the Archives
Consciously editing catalog records of certain archival records to include or redress the absence of Indigenous knowledge
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Open to Collaborate
The Academy of Natural Sciences Botany Herbarium is opening its collection of more than 1 million dried and pressed plant specimens to collaboration with Indigenous scientists living on the tribal lands where many of the plants were originally collected.
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Recent Acquisitions to the Academy’s Archives
New pieces in our Archives shed light on our mission to preserve and represent diverse voices in the field of natural history
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New Role at the Academy is Activating the Vast Network of WINS Alumnae
New WINS alumnae manager, Ninette Bennett, has big plans to embrace, share and build success with WINS students and alumnae across the globe.
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Celebrating Latin and Hispanic Heritage in the Sciences at the Academy
In English, Spanish and Portuguese, Academy scientists open up about their careers, cultures and creating diverse opportunities for excellence in research.
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“Our Voices Need to be Heard”: Latin & Hispanic Drexel Co-ops Helping to Enrich Representation in the Sciences
Three Drexel students discuss their cultural identities and scientific aspirations
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For the Oranges of Sargodha District: Pakistan, Podcasts and Environmental Policy Work with Living on Earth
Born into an agricultural tribe in rural Punjab, Drexel co-op Shanzay Asif nutures the art of storytelling to environmentally advocate for her home
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Groundtruthing: Using Scientific Data to Support Local Communities Across Philadelphia
To accurately and equitably determine environmental justice neighborhoods, Academy scientists create a digital tool
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Telling Our Stories: Gender Minorities in the Sciences at the Academy
Five phenomenal figures with diverse scientific backgrounds each spoke of their experiences growing up and entering the STEM field.
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A Great Shell Milestone: Malacology Dept reaches 500K cataloged specimens
The collection officially crossed the phenomenal half-million mark. How did we get here?
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Cataloging a Shared Love of Natural History and Books
Fashion student Ellie Sear from Drexel’s Westphal College discusses her love of books, nature and a very exciting project to make L&A works more accessible
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Learn About Urban Birding: A Q&A with Christian Cooper
On June 1, the Academy will host Black Excellence in Birding: An Evening with Christian Cooper, the 3rd annual black-tie gala and fledgling sneaker ball in support of Black Birders Week with special guest Christian Cooper, renowned New York Times best-selling author and National Geographic host.
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Five Ways You Can Celebrate Earth Day – All Year Long
Celebrate Earth Day all year long with these tips.
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Are Solar Panels Right for You?
April is Earth Month, a time when many are considering how they can make changes to their homes and their lives to be more sustainable. Could solar panels be the answer?
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Washed Away: “Freedom Hill” Explores Flooding Caused by Environmental Racism
In her film “Freedom Hill,” Resita Cox is sharing the story of Princeville, and in doing so, she is sharing the story of all of the towns that were built in flood-prone areas.
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Studying Quality of Life with Aquatic Macroinvertebrates
Brenda Vong, a recent BEES student, gets outside and learns about the importance of water and our local macroinvertebrates
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Illustrating the Importance of Women in Science
In the Academy’s Library and Archives, there are many examples of the important contributions of women.
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A Case of Mistaken Identity in the World of Crane Flies
Curator Jon Gelhaus and BEES student Bryan Eichen set out to clarify who was really who among the spotted wing species in the genus Dicranomyia.
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Q+A: Lights, Camera…Ants!
Sean O’ Donnell, PhD, a professor of Biodiversity, Earth and Environmental Science in Drexel University’s College of Arts and Sciences, believes putting insects on camera can help society see the integral role they play in the preservation of our natural world – and ultimately humankind.
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Empowering the Future with Plastic-free Philly Champions
Ale Gonzales, a BEES student, has a real drive to make environmental science truly accessible for students in Philly.
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Take a Look Under the Canopy
A new exhibition showcases immersive animal habitat displays with live animals, including a two-toed sloth, along with life-size, climbable animal sculptures and other interactive and dynamic features designed for all ages.
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Simple Ways to Support Spring Bird Migration
Plants, feeders, birdhouses and even a few small alterations in our daily habits can go a long way in supporting the livelihood and diversity of avian species.
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Updated USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map Spotlights Changing City
In the coming years, Philadelphia gardeners may try out some new plants and retire old favorites after an updated government map was released this fall.
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Evolution is the Story of All of Us
But what exactly does it mean? Research Associate Jason Downs, PhD, explains.
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New Exhibit Gets Up Close and Personal with the Real Tiktaalik
Life Onto Land: The Devonian centers around the Academy’s internationally celebrated paleontological research and the incredible discovery of Tiktaalik roseae.
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What Exactly Are the Archives and Why Are They Important?
The Academy celebrates Archives Month by delving in the wondrous world of accessible history
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Finding Latin American Inspirations in the Library & Archives
Drexel student and co-op Nathan Nazario details his research into the scientific fascinations of Latin America
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Studying Geology and Water Chemistry in the Delaware River Basin
Recent BEES grad Kayla Aughenbaugh discusses her research into local geology and human impacts
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Malacology Collection Supports Scientific Discoveries in Unexpected Places
A new book will be a major mollusk resource for biologists and conservationists studying the 45th state
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Create Your Own Pressed Botanical Specimen
An easy step-by-step guide on pressing and preserving your plants and flowers
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Science Is for Everyone: Grant Support Helps Share a Love of Birds
BEES PhD student Emily Griffith has been awarded over $10,000 in grant funding this year alone to further her ornithological research.
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The Unexpected Diversity of Philadelphia’s Bees
Academy co-op and BEES student Liz Otruba surveyed the bee population at John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum to see how many species were really there
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Through the Sands of Time: Giant Clams as Paleoclimate Timekeepers
Measuring stable isotopes in giant clam fossils can be one of the most accurate proxies for reconstructing past ocean conditions and in turn, reveal the changes caused by anthropogenic climate change
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Studying New Hawk Communities Through Genetics and Collections
Therese Catanach, PhD, a postdoctoral researcher in Ornithology who primarily studies hawks and their parasitic lice tells us about using genetics to understand birds of prey
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Exploring Skin’s Fascinating Roles for Organisms
Our newest exhibit opens at the Academy and delves into the wild, strange and complex functions of skin, hair, feathers, fur, scales and more
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One Tiny Mollusk, One Big Discovery
Tobias Tagliaferro, a recent Drexel co-op in the Academy’s Malacology Department, discusses a very small bivalve, freshly discovered and scientifically named, that has a monumental impact
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New Tumbler Leaves Bird Specimens Hide and Dry
Engineering students from Middle Bucks Institute of Technology have successfully designed and developed a foldable hide tumbler in partnership with Academy scientists
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From Coastal Ecosystems to Cultural Exchanges, a Fulbright in Fiji this Fall
Curatorial Assistant Daouda Njie, a recent graduate of Drexel’s Department of Biodiversity, Earth and Environmental Science was awarded a Fulbright study research grant to Fiji
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Highlighting Biodiversity: Freshwater Fishes in Equatorial Guinea
As the Academy celebrates biodiversity — the remarkable, beautiful tapestry of life on Earth — this year, we are delving into some of the fascinating locations our scientists have visited in the region and across the globe to study and help protect our planet’s phenomenally diverse and incredible species.
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Summer Garden Guide
Whether you live in the city, suburbs or out in the woods, you can help local biodiversity flourish with a few of these simple summer garden tips.
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New Exhibit Looks Into Drawing as a Way of Knowing Birds
Illuminating Birds welcomes visitors to celebrate and feel inspired by ornithological illustrations
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Testing Soil for Lead in West Philly Vacant Lots
The Academy joined forces with local organization and university to create a clearer picture of potential contaminants in our city’s empty spaces
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Honoring the Silvermans: Creating a Passionate Community For the Love of All Living Things
Arthur and Carol Silverman have not only been long-time friends and supporters of the Academy, but also absolutely integral to our mission to inspire everyone to care about the natural world.
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Mary Gibson Henry’s Extraordinary Botanical Collection Digitized
A volunteer BEES alum sheds some light on an innovative botanist and the importance of making her work available to everyone digitally.
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Highlighting Biodiversity: Searching for Snails in the Delaware River
As the Academy celebrates biodiversity — the remarkable, beautiful tapestry of life on Earth — this year, we are delving into some of the fascinating locations our scientists have visited in the region and across the globe to study and help protect our planet’s phenomenally diverse and incredible species.
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Get Involved with iNaturalist!
Learn how you can join an amazing network of nature lovers who explore and share observations that contribute to biodiversity science.
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Academy Guide to Local Bird-watching Spots
Discover new and fascinating local bird populations or spot astounding migrators that fly through the tri-state regions, simply by visiting one of these amazing nearby parks, preserves, refuges or gardens.
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Phenomenal Migration and Transformation of American Eels
Spring is that time of year when freshwater creeks and streams all along the Philadelphia region are swarming with native, migratory eels — and it’s just one stage of their wildly complex life story.
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Spotting Spring On Philly’s Nature Scene
Spring is here and as the days lengthen, more and more characters will take their place on nature’s stage all around the city.
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Academy Scientists Make Important Discoveries
Knowing our biodiversity is the first step to conservation
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Highlighting Biodiversity: Familiar Flora in Newfoundland and Labrador
As the Academy celebrates biodiversity — the remarkable, beautiful tapestry of life on Earth — this year, we are delving into some of the fascinating locations our scientists have visited in the region and across the globe to study and help protect our planet’s phenomenally diverse and incredible species.
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Crafting Scientific Leaders and Community this Summer Through DESLA
A weeklong outdoors summer adventure for high school students that gets everyone out in the field doing real environmental research, right alongside our very own Academy scientists and BEES professors.
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Results Show Lights Out Philly Works
Get ready for the bird migration starting April 1.
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Black Excellence in Local Birding Communities Is Creating Change at the Academy
New ANS partnerships and events with local Black Birders who are creating communities around the city and region to support equity and getting outdoors
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Conversations With Birds, They’re Everywhere
New exhibit anticipates spring migration season in Philly region
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There Is a Fungus Among Us! Killer Fungi in the Flesh at the Academy
Specimens of a certain parasitic fungi found in our collections with those otherworldly growth traits that have long been the inspiration for science fiction
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The Art of Tidying Up in the Entomology Collections
Drexel BEES student talks about the real scientific power (and fun!) of an orderly insect collection
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Embrace Winter and Explore Philly’s Nature
Bundle up, there’s still a lot to take in outside. Here are some ideas to get you started.
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The Big Dig this Summer at Bighorn Basin
A joint field study between the Academy and Elevation Science Institute promises to be an amazing experience for all naturalists and nature lovers, and you can join in, too.
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Highlighting Biodiversity: Finding Frogs in the New Jersey Pine Barrens
As the Academy celebrates biodiversity — the remarkable, beautiful tapestry of life on Earth — this year, we are delving into some of the fascinating locations our scientists have visited in the region and across the globe to study and help protect our planet’s phenomenally diverse and incredible species.
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Now That’s Funky! Recent Fossil Discovery Honors Academy Scientist
Once-in-a-lifetime fossil finding at the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona honors the mentorship of Academy’s beloved scientist, Ned Gilmore
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Four Ways to Get Involved in Science!
Discover environmental communities who are making a difference in our natural world and learn how you can join, too!
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Celebrating 10 Years of BEES With Department Head David Velinsky, PhD
Q&A about the history of the BEES Department, how it has grown over the last 10 years and its many success stories
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Highlighting Biodiversity: Spectacular Birds and the Amazon River
As the Academy celebrates biodiversity — the remarkable, beautiful tapestry of life on Earth — this year, we are delving into some of the fascinating locations our scientists have visited in the region and across the globe to study and help protect our planet’s phenomenally diverse and incredible species.
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Alternatives to Road Salt
Road salt impacts our waterways, aquatic wildlife and infrastructure. This winter, think sustainably and make a change.
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Academy Gift Guide for 2022 Holidays
Happy Holidays! Great gift ideas for those special bookworms, young environmentalists and nature-loving enthusiasts
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Mural Brings Watershed Daydreams to Life
New public artwork illustrates U.N. Sustainability Goal for clean water, sanitation
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Get Outdoors with Philly’s Nature!
Salamanders, lichens, raccoons, birds — autumn is the perfect time to join many of our non-human neighbors in enjoying the outdoors.
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A Day in the Life at the Academy’s Ornithology Department
BEES co-op takes us through their interesting work cataloging historic eggs, stuffing birds and even catching louse.
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New Exhibition Presents Insects Like You’ve Never Seen Them
Microsculpture: The Insect Portraits of Levon Biss opens Nov. 19
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Leave the Leaves for Understory Habitats
Leaving those fallen autumn leaves in your yard is one part of a complex system that supports and sustains biodiversity
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Drexel Students Host the Nation’s First Local Conference of Youth
The Academy hosted the opening event Sept. 23
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Confronting the Effects of Coastal Climate Change
Students apply hands-on research with Academy scientist
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What Has the Clean Water Act Done for You?
Rowing, fishing, birding, and providing basic drinking water — fifty years later, the Clean Water Act still impacts us all
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In Search of the Hidden Cooper River
An historic expedition of the Cooper River, from its mouth at the Delaware River to its source at Gibbsboro, to uncover its hidden story
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Winterize Your Home (the Green Way)
Helpful and simple indoor tips on staying warm and environmentally conscious this winter.
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An Expedition Flag Conserved
A piece of exploration history associated with Matthew Henson and Robert Peary
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Otteo Sound Project, Music to the Ears
As told by a Drexel co-op
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Cheers! To 40 Years of WINS Success
An exceptional weekend celebration to honor our award-winning Women In Natural Sciences program.
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Orchids: The Royal Family of Plants
The Library and Archives delves into some fantastic works to peek at the history of this well-loved plant.
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Academy and Drexel Host America’s First Local Conference of Youth
In preparation for U.N. Climate Change Conference
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Bird Migrations: Timeless and Threatened
New York Times bestselling author Scott Weidensaul talks about the wonders of bird migration, Lights Out Philly and what we can do to help
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The Seeds of Belonging
Three successful women talk WINS, sisterhood and the power of science to change your life.
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Community Science to the Rescue, One Flipped Horseshoe Crab at a Time
Horseshoe crabs and shorebirds benefit from the amazing work of BEES instructor and volunteers in the Delaware Bay
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Award-Winning Women In Natural Sciences Marks 40 Years
Free museum Sept. 17-18 gets the party started
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Winterizing the Garden
As autumn arrives, preparing your garden for cold weather is easy, helping support your wallet and native wildlife.
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How to Save the World, Part 2
Ideas for coping with a changing planet
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New Exhibition Shows How We All Affect the Ocean
Ocean Bound this summer!
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How to Save the World, Part 1
Ideas for coping with a changing planet
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Capturing the Crane Fly
Drexel BEES student works to document and describe the amazing biodiversity of this truly interesting insect
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Birds and Biodiversity at Lacawac Sanctuary
Reflections by two students on their impactful DESLA experiences in nature
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Returning Home
WINS alumnae and new project assistant reminisces about the beauty of deep connections forged at the Academy
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Clean-Up on Aisle One
Surprising discovery from mussel surveys in Delaware River Basin
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On the Wings of Research
BEES alum and first author on a recently published Nature paper talks butterflies, data and student experiences
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City Residents Help the Academy Map Urban Hotspots
Community scientists collect data on heat and air quality for NOAA study
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Engaging Mindfully with Nature
Finding small and simple ways to reflect on the environment has numerous benefits
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WINS Founder Donates Treasure Trove of History
The gift comes as WINS celebrates its 40th year in September
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The Heat of the Moment
As the temperature rises, Academy scientist confirms that climate change is causing dire problems for people everywhere, including Philly.
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Changing Water, Changing Climate
With greater knowledge of the ocean’s abyss, we can better understand the scope of human influence.
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Trapping Lanternflies with Innovation
A BEES student investigates a cutting-edge trapping method for the spotted lanternfly, while adding her own scientific touch.
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Effecting Change with a Fulbright Fellowship
Akilah Chatman, BEES graduate, aims to create green spaces in Cambodia with prestigious award.
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Multi-Part Art Exhibition, Watershed Experience Opens This Summer
Watershed Moment focuses on the importance and vibrancy of the watershed
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The Story of A Lifetime
Senior fellow at the Academy is elected into prestigious society for his life’s work in understanding nature.
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Awardees of The Environmental Collaboratory’s Inaugural Research Grant
From the Vice Provost and Executive Director of The Environmental Collaboratory
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Coyote and Fox Populations on the Rise?
The Academy asks BEES professor and urban wildlife ecologist Dane Ward for the answers
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Being in Nature: Good for Mind, Body and Nutrition
Drexel researchers find getting outdoors promotes a healthy diet
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Fast Facts About Plastics Pollution
Bottled water is not regulated by EPA
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Plastic-free Philly, Philly’s Solution to Plastic Pollution
New initiative aims to put a lid on single-use water bottles
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Meet Our New Executive Director, Library and Archives
The Academy welcomes our new executive director of library and archives to help manage one of the finest natural history libraries in North America
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Protect Our Water
Protecting and conserving our water are critical to the health of our planet and ourselves. Fortunately, there are many simple ways to keep it clean.
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Floodplains and Redlines
Drexel BEES students research Philly flood hazard zones that overlap with marginalized communities
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New Sound Installation Gives Voice to the Schuylkill
The River Feeds Back reveals a new way to experience water
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The Future Ghost Forests of New Jersey
Careful research of loblolly pines can help prevent tree death in NJ marshes
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Birding in the Great Outdoors
Perspectives from Black Birder Anwar Abdul-Qawi, lead keeper at the Academy, on getting outdoors
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Let’s Talk about Climate Anxiety
Introducing the topic of climate change to young minds
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New Species of Ancient Fish Discovered Along PA Roadside
Important discovery of great scientific interest
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Academy leads effort to map Philly’s heat and air quality
NOAA-funded project involves dozens of community scientists
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Helping a Still Life Come Alive
For Earth Day, Academy experts illuminate famous PMA painting
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Join the Philadelphia City Nature Challenge
From April 29 to May 2 participate in friendly global competition
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Extreme Deep: Mission to the Abyss
An exhibit review by a 12-year-old visitor
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The Royal Connection
About those unusual illustrations in the Extreme Deep exhibit
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Drinking Water and Disease: The strange partners that shaped Philadelphia
Part 1: Fairmount Water Works, the right answer for the wrong problem
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Getting Creative in the Field
A BEES student finds a fun way to engage the community in science with stickers
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Meet Our New VP of Community Learning
He’s got big plans for women in science and Black birders
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Golden Eagle Artwork Finds a Home
Scratchboard artist Jim Lish gives his life’s work to the Academy
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Create a Water-Wise Garden
Preserve water and keep the environment beautiful by simply creating a water-wise garden
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Explore the Mysteries of the Deepest Oceans
Extreme Deep: Mission to the Abyss Opens April 2
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The Fish With the Fishy Name
“Great fish do not swim in shallow waters”-Matshona Dhliwayo
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Lights Out Kicks Off for Spring 2022
Save the migrating birds
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Q & A: Mathy Vathanaraj Stanislaus
Executive Director of The Environmental Collaboratory
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Little Organism, Big Impact
Some of Earth’s smallest creatures, such as diatoms, can actually have some of the biggest impacts on our planet
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Museum Innovation Fund Announces Spring 2022 Grantees
Establishing an open innovation culture
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Science, Leadership and Adventure: Firsthand DESLA Experiences
DESLA is one part outdoor adventure, one part leadership training and two parts field experience
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Environmental Science PhD Student Publishes Children’s Book on Climate Change
Her community outreach work at the Academy inspired her
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Drexel’s Environmental Collaboratory Will Solve Environmental Problems With a Community-Driven and Justice-Centered Approach
Among first projects: lead poisoning in West Philly
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Say Freeze! Capturing the Microcosm
Snow crystals exhibit such a bewildering diversity and beauty
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New Species Named and Described
Academy scientists add five to world’s species inventory
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A Life of its Own: The Pine Barrens Project
Q&A with David Scott Kessler, Curator and Filmmaker
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Create Bird-Friendly Habitats
Make your own environment a biodiverse, bird-friendly habitat by following some of these nine tips.
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Climate Year Wrap-Up
End-of-Year Report
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Academy Kids Club Offers Water Year Challenge Badges
Teaming Up with Young United Nations Global Alliance
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Remembering Thomas Dolan IV (1923-2021)
Academy friend and champion of the natural world
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New Exhibitions For 2022
Mark your calendar.
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Tips to Use Less Water
Easy steps to take in your own home
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Thomas E. Lovejoy, III (1941-2021)
Remembering a champion of conservation and long-time Academy associate
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Reuse it!
If you find you’re spending more time at home than usual, it’s a great opportunity to consider reevaluating that stuff[…]
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Renewed call to protect Philly’s waterways
History tells us we cannot ignore any part of the water system
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Holiday Gift Guide
The holiday season has arrived, and this year you might be looking for unique gifts that are guaranteed to be as “in[…]
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Get Our Best Deal of the Year on Membership
Offer ends Nov. 29 at 11:59 p.m.
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Help Us Restore the Drama of the Diorama
Which diorama will we renovate next?
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Invisible World of Water Opens Nov. 13
Combines the marvel and insight of scientific and artistic inquiry
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How to Start Composting
Composting nourishes your yard, reduces waste in landfills, strengthens local farming and food production, improves climate resilience in communities and helps create green jobs. Let’s get started.
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Remembering the Great Auk
You can see the mounted specimen at the Academy
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A Decade of Drexel and the Academy
The first 10 years of the historic affiliation between Drexel University and the Academy of Natural Sciences spawned new programs, partnerships and monumental growth.
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Women Voices on Climate Change, Part 2
Immense potential, hope, ideas for a sustainable future
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Women Voices on Climate Change
Where they see possibilities, Part 1
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Members’ Night 2021
Our members are a force for nature
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Reduce Home Energy Use
When seasons change, so do indoor temperatures. Whether we’re turning down the AC to cool off, or turning up the[…]
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History Co-ops Dive Deep into Academy Archives
A history of science at the Academy
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Uncovering the Real James Bond
Author met him in the 1970s while working at the Academy
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Don’t Fall for the Spotted Lanternfly
Fall is the time to combat the destructive beauty
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Museum Innovation Fund
An opportunity to rethink the future of museums with the Academy of Natural Sciences
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Bike to Work!
Even as we transition into new ways of living and working, bicycling has maintained its appeal: it’s an affordable, healthy[…]
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Bird Safe Philly Kicks Off Fall Migration
Seasonal Lights Out Philly runs Aug. 15-Nov. 15
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Teaming Up with United By Blue for Cobbs Creek
Join the community cleanup Aug. 21!
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Eat Sustainably
Six tips to sustainable eating
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Building a More Resilient, Just City
Extreme storms will cause more flooding issues
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Viruses Explained Wins Award
See this pop-up exhibit through August
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Preparing for a Warmer Wetter Philadelphia
Beat the Heat Hunting Park helps mitigate extreme heat
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Climate Change and Me
NBC10’s Glenn “Hurricane” Schwartz on a Warmer Wetter Philadelphia
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Refreshed Outside In Reopens
Inspiring all to appreciate nature in our communities
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Connecting Collections to Field Notes
Living testament to Academy research and collections
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Drexel Helps Set Climate Resilience Research Agenda for Philadelphia
Academy scientists helping plan and deliver on goals
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Eyeballs and Glass, Cleaned and Polished
Three iconic dioramas get the treatment
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Easy Tips to Ease off Plastic
Start now in Plastic Free July
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Fire in the Pine Barrens
Flames bring the future
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Biodiversity is Essential in Battling Climate Effects
Join the next Academy Town Square June 24
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Specimen Preparation: A Preservation of Time
Ornithology co-op Jenna Souto explains the specimen preparation process.
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Five Tips and 100 Places to Inspire You to Get Outside
Getting outdoors is good for you! We’ve got 5 easy tips and 100 locations to inspire you.
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How to celebrate 17-year cicadas – eat one!
Try our Cicada and Grits recipe
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Free Admission Days for Hospital Workers
Hospital heroes honored in May
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Seven Steps to Sustainable Gardening
Planning, planting and caring for an earth-friendly garden
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Personal Stories, Our Stories
Academy president reflects on the stories told in Drowning World exhibit
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Join the City Nature Challenge!
Mark your calendar April 30-May 3
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Gideon Mendel: Drowning World Opens May 1
Unique photographic exploration of flooding around the world
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Is Philly Being Snubbed Again?
By cicadas?
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Brood X Cicadas, Pt 2
Our entomologist describes what to expect
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Brood X Cicadas, Pt 1
Everything you need to know and more
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Data Entry: It’s Not Just Typing
Tracing global warming patterns through specimens
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Drexel Added to University Climate Change Coalition
Jump-starting a year focused on climate action
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New Already-Endangered Screech Owls Found
Academy scientists are among team that discovered two new species in the Brazilian rainforest
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Scientists Discover New Species
Academy scientists surface from 2020 with 37 new species
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Plant a Pollinator Garden
Supporting biodiversity starts with protecting and providing green space for our pollinators
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Celebrating Women’s History Month
Meet some of our scientists
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Insect Collection Valuable to Society
Feds used our bumblebees to study decline of the species
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Spotted Lanternflies Are Here
And they’ll be worse than last year
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Mystery in the Library for Women’s History Month
Many women appear in photos but are unnamed
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WINS Internships Connect to Active Research
Each student walks away with a unique experience
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Philadelphia Joins National Lights Out
Program to Save Migrating Birds
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Window Strikes in Ornithology
A resource for scientists, students, community
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Meet Our WINS Alumnae
ZOOM with us March 11 for Life After WINS
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Call for Community Scientists
Parasite tracking needs you
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Celebrating WINS Successes
Meet two leaders who make the program possible
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How to Use Less Water
Do you know how much water you use each day?
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Welcome to the MOOSEUM
Award-winning whimsical wayfinding
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Visualize Diverse Scientists
What’s your perception of a scientist?
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Backyard Habitats
Building for the Birds, the Bees and the Bats
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Reading the Leaves
For a clue to climate change
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Recycling 2021
Tips for recycling, updated for 2021.
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Six Cultural Institutions Jointly Announce Reopening
Continued health and safety measures in place
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Permian Monsters: Life Before the Dinosaurs
Opens Jan. 8
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River of the People, Part 2
The fascinating life of fishes
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Four Gifts That Give Back
Out-of-the-box gift ideas for everyone.
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“Lost” Portrait by John James Audubon
He’s not who they thought he was
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River of People, Part 1
The Delaware is sacred to the Lenni Lenape
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BEES Students Show Off Their Research Mussels
Mussels provide valuable ecosystem services
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Reduce and Reuse STUFF
Our small actions can lead to big changes
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5 Parkway Museums Close for 6 Weeks
A joint statement
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Museum Closes Temporarily
Will reopen in the new year
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Composting: A Guide
Turn your organic waste into a resource
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Philly can save thousands of birds
Tall lighted buildings cause bird deaths
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DEEP DIVE for the Delaware
New media project to engage using science+arts
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Shaker of Science to Feature Invert Paleo
Have a cocktail and learn about fossils
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Support Environmental Justice
Your small actions can lead to big changes
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Navigating the Drexel Co-Op Experience Remotely
How a global disruption impacted my experience at the Academy
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The Name’s Bondi, Synodus bondi
Fish named for bird scientist
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Sole Native Pa. Plant Now Extinct
Illustrates the utility, importance of natural history collections
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A Fish Detective Story
DNA from 158-year-old trout clarifies origin, but muddles name
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Register and Vote!
Check the deadlines, exercise your fundamental right to vote
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Data and the Delaware
Communicating data to the general public is critical
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Wildlife Photographer of the Year Opens
Breathtaking animal diversity, behavior opens Sept. 5
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4th Philadelphia Environmental Film Festival
Bringing wonders of the planet to your home virtually for first time
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Shell Feast for the Eyes
From the Academy’s Google Arts and Culture
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In Search of Sir John Franklin’s Lost Expedition
Academy expedition member contributed to the collections
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Musings on Survival
What makes a species fit to survive?
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Changes Come to Library & Archives
New exhibit gallery to open
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Reduce Your Household Energy Use
40 Easy tips to save money and the planet
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Summer Butterfly Guide
Learn which butterflies to look for in our region this summer.
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Scenes from the Reopening
The museum opens to the general public July 31
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My Not-So-Typical Job
Answers from the institutions’ first-ever Chief Learning and Engagement Officer
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Diatom Beauties
Highlights of the Academy’s Google Arts and Culture exhibit
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Volunteer Supports Scientific Discovery
Additions to diatom collection shed light on changing climate
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How Do You Manage A River?
First in series on the Delaware River
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Treasures from Rare and Historical Books
Scientific illustrations from Academy’s Google Arts and Culture exhibit
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Academy Reopens July 31
Health and safety of visitors, staff are top priority
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It’s Plastic Free July
40 Ways to reduce plastic
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How to Discover a New Fish
Digital storybook on Google Arts & Culture
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Outdoors: Benefits, Precautions
Get outdoors and be prepared
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They’re Baaaack!
Spotted lanternflies are now prevalent in SE PA
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Science and Literacy for Success
Academy team early-childhood education
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Flirtatious Feathers
An Academy exhibit from Google Arts and Culture
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Wildlife Photographer of the Kids Club
And the winners are…
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Get Outside Without Leaving Home
6 Tips to enjoy nature
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Late Spring Butterfly Guide
Learn which butterflies to spot in our region as spring moves into summer.
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I Am the Walrus
Fossilized jaw packs evidence of changing climate
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Coastal Change, Climate Change
Climate change is affecting coastal habitats like wetlands
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Is COVID-19 Affecting Our Water?
Academy scientists launch study
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Pteropods and Climate Change
PteropoTalkin’ shells and ocean acidification
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Animal House
How our animals and handlers are sheltering in place
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Documenting the Moment
Future historians will want to know how we coped
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May’s Migrants
May is a great month to see migrating birds moving through our region.
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Staff Offers Cleanup Tips
Academy staff participated in a spring DIY cleanup
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Six Tips for Eating Local
Fresh new food options await
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Home Laboratory Set-ups
With fieldwork on hold, there’s plenty of research to do at home
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Earth Day 1970 Changed My Life
Personal reflection by our watershed policy expert
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Earth Day: Lens on Pandemic
Shifting Relationship of Science and Society
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Birds Are Blooming
With spring’s arrival comes the arrival of more bird songs and brighter colors.
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For WINS, Earth Day is Every Day
Learning to be better stewards for our planet
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Earth Day in COVID-19 Times
It’s about our relationship with Earth’s natural systems
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Color a Garden Bed
Kids of all ages can use this activity sheet to exercise their creativity
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Spring Butterfly Guide
Look for these eight early spring butterflies in the Philadelphia region.
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Science Never Stops
Watershed field work in a pandemic
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Wildlife Surprises
Unexpected sightings bring solice in trying times
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Giving to Health Care Workers
Scientists scoured their labs to donate
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Seven Steps to Sustainable Gardening
Planning, planting and caring for an earth-friendly garden
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WFH Tips from Our Scientist
You don’t need a microscope to do them
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Planting for the Environment
A reading and planting activity for families
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Down to Bond’s Bird in the Collection
The Bahama nuthatch is critically endangered
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Coming Soon to a Tree Near You
Birds you can expect to see in the area over the next few weeks.
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Academy Closes Temporarily
Joint statement from the Parkway museums
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In Equatorial Guinea, Drexel Leaders Deepen Longstanding Research Partnership
Offering scientific perspective on extraordinary natural resources
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Using Less Water: A How-to Guide
Take these steps to reduce your everyday water consumption and virtual water footprint
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From Reading Room to Exhibit Gallery
A room with a history gets new life as public space
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Talking Climate Change With Peers
A guide for college students
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Fast Facts, Slow Animals
See Lulu the sloth chow down on her favorite food
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Survival of the Slowest Opens Feb. 15
Take your time meeting our animals
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Talking About Climate Change
From little kids to adults who disagree
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Five Easy Tips to Make your Super Bowl Party More Sustainable
A few easy tips to make your party better for the environment.
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The Real James Bond, Author
Author of the new J.B. book speaks at Academy March 3
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New Discoveries Flow From Museum Collections
Beyond the Academy’s dioramas and dinosaurs lie its vast scientific collections. Rows of gleaming metal cabinets hold millions of shells,[…]
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Year of Unearthing New Species
Academy scientists helped enter dozens of new species into the record in 2019
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Chuck Cruit: Solving Riddles in Ornithology
Volunteering is a highlight of Chuck Cruit’s retirement
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Recycling 101
What does it mean to have clean recycling?
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Inspiring Care for Environment
New initiative shows everyday choices affect the environment
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2019 Gift Guide
Unique gifts for science and sloth lovers
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Why Support the Academy?
Meet scientists researching how ecosystems respond to our changing environment
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Gecko Collection: A Vital Resource
Climate change may have allowed geckos to spread north
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Kids Activity: Water!
Make your own ocean, observe the water cycle in action and explore how water sticks together
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Teaming Up With United By Blue for the Delaware River
New partnership aims to remove 25,000 pounds of trash
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Protecting America’s Food Supply
Shell collection is a vital resource for federal government
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Why Give on Giving Tuesday?
Meet scientists researching how ecosystems respond to our changing environment
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Cyber Monday Deal
Heads up for a great membership offer
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Minds in the Wild
How children learn
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Field Journals: Past and Present
Documents created by scientists in the field fill the Academy Archive
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Looking Out for Pets and Kids
His game won the Silverman Award
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Algae Crew in the Field
Why does algae sampling (and the timing of it) matter?
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Reeling in Frankenfish
On the trail of the invasive northern snakehead
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Members’ Night 2019
Our favorite photos from the most exciting night of the year
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Mystery of Missing Artwork Leads to Russia
On the trail of William Bartram’s paintings in St. Petersburg
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Dinosaurs and Climate Change
Q&A with paleontologist Ted Daeschler
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Mussel Survey
Scientists searched for mussels in the Schuylkill River, upstream from Boathouse Row
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Best of the BEES
New exhibit explores field work through photography
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Academy Joins Climate March
We showed Science Matters
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Special Screening Sept. 25: Anthropocene
Documentary coincides with U.N. climate summit
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A Real Shocking Discovery
Academy scientist involved in new electric eel species
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Fossils Arrive in Philly
Five tons of Jurassic fossils will be prepared at the Academy this year
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Four Ways to Cut Your Carbon
Does not involve a transatlantic sailboat
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Reading List: Taking Care of the Environment
Must-reads for green living
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How Does a Rainforest Catch Fire?
Scientists break down Brazil’s fires
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Brazil Fires Impact Philadelphia and the World
Opinion, For the Inquirer
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Stewards of a Stream
Assessing water quality and stream health
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Are We Really Protecting Rivers, Streams From Pollution?
Hard to say, and that’s a problem
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Lifetime Achievement Award
Long-time partnership with Lacawac Sanctuary celebrated
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A Relic of Botany History
A new acquisition for our Library
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Time Outdoors: It’s Healthy
Easy tips for fun in nature
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A Fish by Another Name
New discoveries lead to new name
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Bugs of Bug Fest
Just who will you meet at Bug Fest?
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Exploring the World of Bugs
A bug adventure with your family
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Move Over Spider-Man
The Academy has the real thing
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Patriotic Employer Award
Award is for supporting employee participation in America’s National Guard and Reserve Force
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Keeping Tabs on the Environment
Hot field season in full swing
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Once Upon a Commute
Spinosaurus’ epic journey to the Academy
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The Great Unveiling
Amazonian Birds Added to Academy Collection
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Academy hosts Phila Environmental Film Fest
Celebrating new partnership
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Peter Austen Closes Term as ANS Chair
Accomplishments include hiring of Scott Cooper, strategic plan
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Make Way: Moving Dinosaurs
Dinosaurs Around the World opens June 30.
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New Shipworm Eats Stone
Academy scientist among discoverers of the species.
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June’s Door 19: What You Missed
See pictures and highlights from the event
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Where Does Your Drinking Water Come From?
Know our watershed.
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Totally Turtles
What will happen when you come out of your shell?
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Whelks at the Shore
Search for whelk shells and egg cases at the shore this summer.
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Door 19: Traditional Medicinals (Sneak Peek)
A legal look at the interplay of plants and people.
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Access to Science
A sensory-friendly event
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Challenge From New Board Chair
David E. Griffith seeks for us to be a force for nature.
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Spring Bird Migration – Find Five Colorful Birds Arriving in Philadelphia Now
A look at five colorful birds arriving in Philadelphia this spring.
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A Parent’s Review of Mythic Creatures
She recounts her experience with her daughter.
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Truth or Legend?
The myths behind the real Academy specimens
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What are five things you can do to help the environment in under 10 minutes?
Reduce plastics, recycle correctly and more
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Protecting Bioko’s Biodiversity, Part 2
Researchers want to know what’s happening to water quality.
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Staging a Comeback: Using Mussels to Improve Local Conservation Efforts
Academy scientists and their partners set out to better understand freshwater mussels and their hidden lifecycles, then find a way to propagate and reintroduce them back into the wild.
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Searching for South America in the Academy’s Archives and Fossil Collections
One Drexel student’s investigation into an older collection helps shed some light on scientific specimens from South America.
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What is eDNA and Why is it Important?
Environmental DNA analysis is a novel key tool that enables critical insights into aquatic biodiversity.
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