VLM Non-Live Collections

The VLM Non-Live Collections serve as a teaching resource designed to support exhibits and educational programs both onsite and offsite. This extensive collection holds a variety of specimens and biofacts that highlight the biodiversity, history, and conservation efforts surrounding Virginia and beyond.

Collection Overview

Scope and Scale

• Accessioned Biofacts/Specimens: Over 23,000
• Total Biofacts: Exceeding 25,000, including non-accessioned specimens
• Representing mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, invertebrates, plants, fossils, and geological specimens

Types of Specimens

• Preserved Forms:
  • Taxidermied mounts
  • Plastinated specimens
  • Pinned insect specimens
  • Dried aquatic specimens
  • Bioplastic mounts (resin-preserved)
  • “Wet” specimens (fluid-preserved)
• Additional Biofacts:
  • Pelts, furs, and skins
  • Feathers, shells, skulls, and other bones
  • Eggs (over 1,400, from various species)

Historical Highlights

• Many egg specimens date back to the Victorian era (1837–1901) and the early 20th century.
• Unique items include:
  • An egg from the extinct Passenger Pigeon (extinct in 1914)
  • Preserved insects over 100 years old
  • Over 3,000 bivalve and mollusk shells from both native and non-native species

Conservation and Ethical Insights

• Threatened/Endangered Species Biofacts:
  • Big cat fur clothing
  • Reptile skin and sea turtle shell accessories
  • Large mammal tusks, horns, and pelts
• Many items were seized by governmental authorities and are used to discuss conservation, environmental regulations, and the importance of wildlife protection.

Fossils and Geologic Specimens

Fossil Collection

• Over 3,300 real fossils and replicas spanning all major taxonomic groups.
• A highlight is the Hart-Fiscella Mastodon:
  • Discovered in 2017, two miles west of Yorktown
  • Remarkably complete (approximately 15%)
  • Includes two complete tusks, a humerus, and various smaller elements such as vertebrae, teeth, and ribs.

Educational Impact

The VLM Non-Live Collections play a crucial role in teaching about:

• Virginia’s Natural History: Many specimens represent species historically or currently found in/around Virginia.
• Conservation Awareness: Exhibits highlight the importance of protecting endangered species and adhering to environmental regulations.
• Biodiversity Studies: A wide variety of preserved specimens showcase the richness of life across different ecosystems and time periods.

Explore the incredible depth of the VLM Non-Live Collections, where history, science, and conservation intersect to inspire learning and action.

Mastodon

Did you know the Virginia Living Museum is home to an incredible Mastodon that is currently being preserved and prepared for future exhibit? Now is your chance to learn all about this fascinating Ice Age giant and its ecosystem.

Engage with Our Mastodon Preparator

Join us for an exclusive opportunity to meet our Mastodon Preparator and gain insights into the preservation process. During these interactive talks, you’ll:

• Discover how fossils, replicas, and artifacts related to the American Mastodon are prepared for display.
• Learn about the difference between Mastodons and Mammoths – two giants of the Ice Age.
• Explore the ancient ecosystem Mastodons called home and uncover the secrets of the plants and animals that lived alongside them.

Talks happen Monday-Friday from 1:30-3:00pm in the back right corner of the Wason Education Center.