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Home / Exhibits / Permanent Exhibits / African Wildlife
Evelyn and Herbert Frensley Hall of African Wildlife
Graham Family Presentation of Ecology and Conservation Biomes
The Evelyn and Herbert Frensley African Hall has been a permanent exhibit at HMNS since 1969, giving Houstonians an opportunity to visit a part of the world that many would never otherwise experience. In 2003-2004 the hall underwent a complete renovation. Unlike the traditional “menagerie” approach, this hall focuses on well-integrated themes of African wildlife ecology and conservation. Additionally, state-of-the-art interactives and video films enhance the visitors’ exhibition experience.
Whereas the old hall focused on the Serengeti Ecosystem, the new Hall of African Wildlife allows visitors to explore the entire continent. The exhibit features seven biomes, each of which highlights a different theme relating to African Wildlife Ecology. The Congo Basin focuses on exploring uncharted wilderness in search of new species. The West African Tropical Forest and Ethiopian Realm examine how primates and antelope co-exist. The Serengeti Grassland is about the intricate dynamics between predators and prey at many levels. The Lowveld region describes the concept of an ecosystem and food chain, using the full complement of predators, prey and scavengers. The Saharan Desert highlights the exhausting migrations performed by birds, and Okavango Delta focuses on the importance of water for organisms to survive.
Viewers of the hall will experience the excitement and diversity of African wildlife. Over 120 specimens representing more than 70 species will be on display, including 42 species of birds and 28 species of mammals. Many rare and endangered species will be showcased, including Okapi, Lowland Gorilla, Mandrill and Scimitar-horned Oryx. Additionally, many species rarely seen in museums will be displayed, including Gerenuk, Giant Forest Hog, Guenons and other forest primates, and a variety of birds. The natural panoramas containing family groups of Aoudad sheep, Scimitar-horned Oryx, Greater Kudu, Rock Hyrax, Spotted Hyaena, Egyptian Goose and Great Blue Turaco are a special treat for visitors of all ages.
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