How Nature Works

The Lee & George W. Lester, II How Nature Works gallery is divided into two distinct sections; How Nature Works: Rocks and How Nature Works: Life. The former demonstrates how the energy deep within the planet have shaped the Earth as we know it today, while the latter features a striking variety of taxidermy animal mounts highlighting the vastly different species that call our planet home.

How Nature Works: Rocks
The How Nature Works: Rocks exhibit includes dramatic landscape models that reveal how the world is shaped by geological forces that are themselves powered by the enormous energy deep within the planet.

Each display represents both a moment in Virginia's past and a corresponding process that is happening somewhere else on Earth today. Together, these models communicate the connections between geological energy, the movement of continents, and the way the landscape looks today, in a clear and memorable fashion.

How Nature Works: Life
The Lee & George W. Lester, II How Nature Works gallery also features a striking display of taxidermy animal mounts highlighting not only the fauna of Virginia, but throughout the world. A spectacular lion display serves as the centerpiece, while a large variety of animals ranging from black bears to possums to leopards complete the exhibit.