Hello all --

My museum is currently installing new exhibits, which include small
dioramas.  The question of using taxidermied animals has come up.  We have
access to mounted specimens from a defunct museum -- probably of recent
vintage, but without documentation.  Some (which we will NOT use) have
traces of insect damage; based on this and their presumed young age, it is
possible that pesticides have not been applied.

The taxidermied specimens would not be enclosed, though kept out of easy
reach of visitors.  All artifactual materials in the exihibits (other than
modern replicas) will be in sealed cases.

I am concerned about having food in this area (albeit exclusively during
occasional receptions); our museum is not large, and I am afraid of a) the
possibility of infestation in the displays and b) the spread of such an
infestation (e.g. carpet beetles) to nearby (though not immediately
adjacent) Collections storage areas.  Clearly, the specimens cannot be
integral to the display, so that they can be removed and quarantined if
necessary.

Decisions regarding the specimens have not been finalized, so your
feedback/personal experiences will be much appreciated.  Many thanks in
advance!

-- Pam



P.S.   We understand the need for protecting the public in the event that
pesticides are present and are considering that as well.


Pamela E. Endzweig
Director of Collections
Museum of Natural History
1224 University of Oregon
Eugene, OR 97403-1224
Ph 541-346-5120   Fax 541-346-5334
email: [log in to unmask]

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