Adults
Programs for Adults
Learning can be a life-long adventure. Join Virginia Living Museum staff biologists, naturalists and scientists to explore the natural world in special adult-oriented programs. Each activity-oriented program is presented in a relaxed, hands-on format and includes classroom instruction combined with opportunities to examine specimens from the Museum’s extensive collections and up close encounters with live animals. Come and share a journey of discovery with others who have an enthusiastic desire to continue to learn about the natural world of Virginia and beyond.
Advance registration is required for many programs. For more information or to make a reservation, call the Reservations office at 757-534-7410, Monday-Friday, 9 am-4:30 pm.
Naturally Speaking Series
The Virginia Living Museum’s Naturally Speaking Series is a regular virtual and in-person event.
Please note: Upon joining the meeting, virtual attendees will receive any extra links to presentation materials required for that program. |
March 2024
Conserving Amphibians on the Virginia Peninsula
March 21st
Global amphibian populations are declining rapidly. To address this, researchers study amphibian ecology on the Virginia Peninsula. One study focuses on two toad species’ movements during their non-breeding period to understand their habitat needs. Another investigates factors influencing the number of salamanders in creeks by examining water quality, stream conditions, and surrounding land cover. This research aims to provide crucial insights to slow down amphibian losses.
Before the main event, student researchers will showcase their local herpetology research through engaging poster presentations. Take this opportunity to mingle with the presenters, learn about their findings, and gain insights into the importance of protecting amphibian species.
Dr. Matthias Leu has been a faculty member in the Biology Department at William & Mary since 2009.
April 2024
Gardening like an Ecologist
April 18th
Incorporating native plants into your garden has numerous ecological benefits. But what do you plant and where? Plants are living, responding, dynamic organisms, and understanding their biology can help you select plants and make gardening decisions. In this presentation, you will learn about how plants are adapted to specific environments, what’s going on belowground, and how plants interact with herbivores and pollinators. By thinking like an ecologist, you can build a garden landscape that supports native biodiversity and ecosystem functions.
Janet Steven received an undergraduate degree in biology from Davidson College and a PhD in Botany from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
May 2024
Virginia Tells the History of Life on Earth: From Ancient Seas to Hairy Elephants
May 16th
Earth has hosted complex life for 600 million years, evident in Virginia’s diverse fossil record. Ranging from ancient reefs in the Appalachian Mountains to dinosaur-era rocks in valleys and coastal fossils spanning 60 million years, Virginia offers a unique glimpse into Earth’s extensive prehistory. The state’s fossil record includes evidence from the Ice Ages and giant fossil mammals, like the Hart-Fiscella Mastodon at the Virginia Living Museum. This presentation uses specific fossils to showcase the vast timeline and diversity of life’s history.
Dr. Adam Pritchard received a B.A. in Biology from McDaniel College (Westminster, MD) and a Ph.D. in Anatomical Sciences from Stony Brook University (Stony Brook, NY).
June 2024
The Great Dismal Swamp: A refuge for people, Underground Railroad site for freedom seekers and Spiritual energy for reflection, healing and hope for future generations
June 20th
The Moses Grandy slave narrative entitled “The Life of Moses Grandy; Late a Slave in the United States of America” was published in 1843 by the British & Foreign Anti-Slavery Society in London, England. I uncovered this document during my family genealogy research in 2001. It is an honor for me to be a descendant of the Grandy family from Camden, North Carolina and it is also the birthplace of my ancestor Moses Grandy. The presentation will take you on the journey through the Moses Grandy slave narrative that leads into the historical significance for people at the Great Dismal Swamp, which opened the doors of strategic partnership between the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and the historic Barotse Kingdom in Western Province, Zambia.
Eric earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Technical Management from the University of Maryland, University College and holds Associate in Arts Degree from Catonsville Community College and Associate in Applied Science Degree from the Community College of the Air Force.
Visit this page for links to our previous Naturally Speaking programs.