Dinosaur Drawing Studios, Permian Monsters and the Sexy Side of Nature
Calendar of Events, January–March 2021
PHILADELPHIA,
January 19, 2021
Paleo Playdates for the little ones, workshops for budding scientists, dinosaur drawing classes for adults, and a walk on the wild side with the sexy side of nature are all brought to you this winter by the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University.
Most of the programing through March will take place via Zoom, but there’s plenty to enjoy in the museum during opening hours, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with 10-11 a.m. reserved for members. Face covering requirements and social distancing are in place for the health, safety and peace of mind of visitors, and staff and timed tickets purchased online in advance of a visit are strongly recommended.
Permian Monsters: Life Before the Dinosaurs, the newest exhibit to open, features bizarre-looking creatures that dominated life on land and sea 290 million years ago, before the dinosaurs evolved. The other special exhibit, Wildlife Photographer of the Year, has been extended through March 14 and features 100 winning nature photographs from around the world.
Here’s what’s on the calendar. For the latest information and new programs, visit ansp.org.
Wildlife Photographer of the Year
Wildlife Photographer of the Year harnesses the power of photography to promote the discovery, understanding and responsible enjoyment of the natural world. Organized and produced by the Natural History Museum in London, it is one of the longest running and most prestigious photography competitions in the world. The exhibit of 100 winning images features the world’s best nature photography and wildlife photojournalism. These stunning photographs tell thought-provoking stories about our planet that prompt us to think differently about the natural world and the future we want to create.
Permian Monsters: Life Before the Dinosaurs
Through Monday, Jan. 17, 2022
Step back 290 million years to when bizarre-looking creatures dominated life on land and sea, and dinosaurs had not yet evolved. Permian Monsters blends vivid artwork, amazing fossils and scientifically accurate models of moving beasts to recreate this relatively unknown period when the greatest mass extinction wiped out creatures that will never be discovered. Explore odd-looking sharks, strange reptiles with mammal-like characteristics, and the vicious predator the giant saber-toothed gorgonopsid. Play paleontologist and dig for fossil casts, enjoy interactive games and more.
A Shaker of Science: Steinbeck, Algae and Clams
Friday, Jan. 22, 5:30–6:30 p.m.
What do John Steinbeck, the New Jersey Pine Barrens and giant clams have in common? Turns out the answer is seaweed, algae and this month’s virtual live happy hour, A Shaker of Science: Steinbeck, Algae and Clams. Take a “cruise” through the Sea of Cortez in the wake of Steinbeck and some astounding seaweed collections. Reach back 10,000 years in time through the Pine Barrens to discover beautiful algal spores that paint a picture of a long past environment. Then dive down to tropical coral reefs where giant clams team up with microscopic plants to survive. Pour a drink and enjoy as Academy scientists Rick McCourt, PhD, Toko Mori and Lincoln Rehm show there is a whole lot more to plants than the trees and shrubs outside your door and as we toast to the oft forgotten world of seaweed and algae! Pay-what-you-wish. To register, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-shaker-of-science-steinbeck-algae-and-clams-tickets-133890198187
Junior Scientist Virtual Workshop: Who is my Great-Great-Grandfish?
Morning Session: 10–11:30 a.m.
Afternoon Session: 1–2:30 p.m.
Most of the ancient creatures who once walked on the planet or swam in the seas are extinct, so how do we know about them? The story behind the great diversity of life on Earth is told with fossils! In this Junior Scientist Virtual Workshop via Zoom, Academy Curator Ted Daeschler, PhD, will explore the rock-solid evidence that helps scientists understand how new groups of backboned animals arose during the long history of life. Find out who your ancient aquatic ancestors were and discover how scientists use transitional fossils to piece together the past. Experiment along with the Academy to test the winning (and losing!) designs we see in the fossil record to find out how nature’s ways set us up for the most success. Recommended for ages 8-11. Register for one workshop or for all in the series. For fee and registration, visit https://ansp.org/programs-and- events/events/Details/?eid=31842&iid=84921
The Sexy Side of Nature: Virgin Births
Thursday, Jan. 28, 8:30–9:30 p.m.
Curious about the more strange, unique and sometimes risqué aspects of natural science? Let’s talk about sex! Or rather, lack of sex. Academy Nightcap is a new monthly late evening Zoom program that tells the more risqué stories of nature. This month we’ll take a closer look into how single parents don’t do it in the animal kingdom through virgin birth. It’s time for the sharks and the bees talk, so unwind, sip a drink and join us as we explore parthenogenesis. Complex enough to feed your soul yet seductive enough to thrill your senses, Academy Nightcap offers a drama of sex and reproduction (virgin births in nature), a note of the grotesque (weird things in jars) and so much more. Sip slowly and enjoy a casual conversation with scientists and educators who are eager to impart their knowledge over an aperitif. Share your knowledge, take polls and experience a multimedia presentation as we savor the most alluring science topics. For fee and registration, visit https://ansp.org/programs-and-events/adult-programs/academy-nightcap/
Naturally Awesome Days: Cold-Blooded Creatures
Saturday, Jan. 30, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Investigate the cold-blooded creatures that inhabit the Academy’s dioramas and learn what adaptations help them survive the winter. Pick up an activity mini-guide upon entry, then explore the museum at your own pace. Take home a craft kit to make your own cozy turtle shell backpack. Geared to ages 7-11. Free with admission.
Studio Drafts: Drawing Dinosaurs
Tuesday, Feb. 2 Tyrannosaurus rex
Whether you are a beginning artist, experienced sketcher or just a lover of suds and ‘saurs, you’re invited to join the Academy for a series of four Zoom dinosaur drawing sessions led by renowned local paleo-artist Jason C. Poole. All you need is a piece of paper, pencil and a beer. Jason will demonstrate the basics of fleshing out the world’s most iconic dinosaurs while sharing real facts behind their discovery and eventual return as birds. Register for one class or all four in the series. For fee and registration details, visit https://ansp.org/programs-and-events/adult-programs/studio-drafts/
Wednesday, Feb. 3, 10–10:45 a.m.
First of six sessions; also Feb. 10, 17, 24 and March 3, 10
Have fun with Academy experts and other young natural history fans at Paleo Playdate, a special science story time geared to preschoolers and their families. Each week features new stories, new hands-on activities to try at home and room to move and explore. Everyone can chat, play and show off their knowledge, and you’ll meet a new guest each week. Whether you’d like to learn more about dinosaurs or dioramas, or if you just dream of becoming a scientist, Academy experts are ready to answer your questions and have some fun. Paleo Playdate was developed for preschoolers and their families to enjoy together. For more information, fees and to register for this Zoom session or any and all of the six sessions, visit https://ansp.org/programs-and-events/family-programs/paleo-playdate/
Ask the Scientists: Welcoming Wildlife
Saturday, Feb. 6, 10 a.m.
In partnership with John Heinz Wildlife Refuge
What’s so wild about Philadelphia? More than you think! We share a habitat with birds, mammals, bugs, reptiles and amphibians — and even fish. These creatures are all around, and you might see them if you know where to look. Join Academy scientists and John Heinz Wildlife Refuge rangers via Zoom for a fun conversation to learn how animals journey through our neighborhoods. Ask the experts what you need to do to build a better backyard to support local species and get the scoop on all the best places in the city to stop and watch the wildlife go by. Free; to register, visit https://ansp.org/programs-and-events/family-programs/ask-the-scientists/
Studio Drafts: Drawing Dinosaurs
Tuesday, Feb. 9 Stegosaurus
Whether you are a beginning artist, experienced sketcher or just a lover of suds and ‘saurs, you’re invited to join the Academy for a series of four Zoom dinosaur drawing sessions led by renowned local paleo-artist Jason C. Poole. All you need is a piece of paper, pencil and a beer. Jason will demonstrate the basics of fleshing out the world’s most iconic dinosaurs while sharing real facts behind their discovery and eventual return as birds. Register for one class or all four in the series. For fee and registration details, visit https://ansp.org/programs-and-events/adult-programs/studio-drafts/
Wednesday, Feb. 10, 10–10:45 a.m.
Have fun with Academy experts and other young natural history fans at Paleo Playdate, a special science story time geared to preschoolers and their families. Each week features new stories, new hands-on activities to try at home and room to move and explore. Everyone can chat, play and show off their knowledge, and you’ll meet a new guest each week. Whether you’d like to learn more about dinosaurs or dioramas, or if you just dream of becoming a scientist, Academy experts are ready to answer your questions and have some fun. Paleo Playdate was developed for preschoolers and their families to enjoy together. For more information, fees and to register for this Zoom session or any and all upcoming sessions, visit https://ansp.org/programs-and-events/family-programs/paleo-playdate/
Junior Scientist Virtual Workshop: What Do Plants Have to Say?
Morning Session: 10–11:30 a.m.
Afternoon Session: 1–2:30 p.m.
We know plants can’t talk, but how do they make their needs known? Although they may be quiet, plants still have plenty to say. In this Junior Scientist Workshop via Zoom, participants will learn to interpret the unique signals that plants send, from “Stay Away!” to “Help me move!” Explore plant chemical defenses, as well as plant and animal interactions. Examine Valentine’s Day flowers and fruits, and enjoy a guided taste test of chocolate, peppers and other botanicals. Academy Botany Associate Curator Tatyana Livshultz, PhD, will guide our guide. Recommended for ages 8-11. Register for one workshop or for all in the series. For fee and registration, visit https://ansp.org/programs-and-events/events/Details/?eid=31842&iid=84921
Studio Drafts: Drawing Dinosaurs
Tuesday, Feb. 16 Triceratops
Whether you are a beginning artist, experienced sketcher or just a lover of suds and ‘saurs, you’re invited to join the Academy for a series of four Zoom dinosaur drawing sessions led by renowned local paleo-artist Jason C. Poole. All you need is a piece of paper, pencil and a beer. Jason will demonstrate the basics of fleshing out the world’s most iconic dinosaurs while sharing real facts behind their discovery and eventual return as birds. Register for one class or all four in the series. For fee and registration details, visit https://ansp.org/programs-and-events/adult-programs/studio-drafts/
Wednesday, Feb. 17, 10–10:45 a.m.
Have fun with Academy experts and other young natural history fans at Paleo Playdate, a special science story time geared to preschoolers and their families. Each week features new stories, new hands-on activities to try at home and room to move and explore. Everyone can chat, play and show off their knowledge, and you’ll meet a new guest each week. Whether you’d like to learn more about dinosaurs or dioramas, or if you just dream of becoming a scientist, Academy experts are ready to answer your questions and have some fun. Paleo Playdate was developed for preschoolers and their families to enjoy together. For more information, fees and to register for this Zoom session or any and all upcoming sessions, visit https://ansp.org/programs-and-events/family-programs/paleo-playdate/
Naturally Awesome Days: Animal Families
Explore the animal families depicted in our dioramas and learn how they stick together in their early lives. Pick up an activity mini-guide upon entry, then explore the museum at your own pace. Take home a craft kit to make your own family photo frame. Geared to ages 7-11. Free with admission.
Naturally Awesome Days: Animal Families
Explore the animal families depicted in our dioramas and learn how they stick together in their early lives. Pick up an activity mini-guide upon entry, then explore the museum at your own pace. Take home a craft kit to make your own family photo frame. Geared to ages 7-11. Free with admission.
Studio Drafts: Drawing Dinosaurs
Tuesday, Feb. 23 Artists’ Choice
Whether you are a beginning artist, experienced sketcher or just a lover of suds and ‘saurs, you’re invited to join the Academy for a series of four Zoom dinosaur drawing sessions led by renowned local paleo-artist Jason C. Poole. All you need is a piece of paper, pencil and a beer. Jason will demonstrate the basics of fleshing out the world’s most iconic dinosaurs while sharing real facts behind their discovery and eventual return as birds. Register for one class or all four in the series. For fee and registration details, visit https://ansp.org/programs-and-events/adult-programs/studio-drafts/
Wednesday, Feb. 24, 10–10:45 a.m.
Have fun with Academy experts and other young natural history fans at Paleo Playdate, a special science story time geared to preschoolers and their families. Each week features new stories, new hands-on activities to try at home and room to move and explore. Everyone can chat, play and show off their knowledge, and you’ll meet a new guest each week. Whether you’d like to learn more about dinosaurs or dioramas, or if you just dream of becoming a scientist, Academy experts are ready to answer your questions and have some fun. Paleo Playdate was developed for preschoolers and their families to enjoy together. For more information, fees and to register for this Zoom session or any and all upcoming sessions, visit https://ansp.org/programs-and-events/family-programs/paleo-playdate/
Permian Monsters Virtual Flashlight Tour
Friday, Feb. 26, 7–7:30 p.m.
Pop some popcorn, grab a front-row seat from home, and journey through the dark with Eddie the T. Rex, the Academy’s mascot. Eddie will travel to the distant past to learn more about our not-so-distant future in the exhibit, Permian Monsters: Life Before the Dinosaurs. Learn how climate change is not necessarily a new problem with lessons we can learn from the past. Get a special look at the animals that ruled the land and sea before the dinosaurs. Explore what it took to survive Earth's greatest extinction event and consider how we can apply it to our own survival. Learn what drives survival successes and failures through an up-close look at these diverse and unique creatures. For fee and to register, visit ansp.org.
Saturday, Feb. 27, 9–11 a.m.
Visitors on the autism spectrum and their families are invited to experience the Academy of Natural Sciences during these special early hours. To ensure a calm, positive experience for all guests, preregistration is required. Contact Visitor Services at 215-299-1060 or AccessToScience@ansp.org.
Wednesday, March 3, 10–10:45 a.m.
Have fun with Academy experts and other young natural history fans at Paleo Playdate, a special science story time geared to preschoolers and their families. Each week features new stories, new hands-on activities to try at home and room to move and explore. Everyone can chat, play and show off their knowledge, and you’ll meet a new guest each week. Whether you’d like to learn more about dinosaurs or dioramas, or if you just dream of becoming a scientist, Academy experts are ready to answer your questions and have some fun. Paleo Playdate was developed for preschoolers and their families to enjoy together. For more information, fees and to register for this Zoom session or any and all upcoming sessions, visit https://ansp.org/programs-and-events/family-programs/paleo-playdate/
Sunday, March 7, 9–11 a.m.
Visitors on the autism spectrum and their families are invited to experience the Academy of Natural Sciences during these special early hours. To ensure a calm, positive experience for all guests, preregistration is required. Contact Visitor Services at 215-299-1060 or AccessToScience@ansp.org.
Wednesday, March 10, 10–10:45 a.m.
Have fun with Academy experts and other young natural history fans at Paleo Playdate, a special science story time geared to preschoolers and their families. Each week features new stories, new hands-on activities to try at home and room to move and explore. Everyone can chat, play and show off their knowledge, and you’ll meet a new guest each week. Whether you’d like to learn more about dinosaurs or dioramas, or if you just dream of becoming a scientist, Academy experts are ready to answer your questions and have some fun. Paleo Playdate was developed for preschoolers and their families to enjoy together. For more information, fees and to register for this Zoom session or any and all upcoming sessions, visit https://ansp.org/programs-and-events/family-programs/paleo-playdate/
Junior Scientist Workshop: Have you been living under a rock?
Morning Session: 10–11:30 a.m.
Afternoon Session: 1–2:30 p.m.
How do we know if an ecosystem is healthy? The answer can be found in the water, floating on the surface or hanging out under the rocks. Learn about the invertebrates and plants that indicate if a stream is healthy and how their unique adaptations give them a chance to survive in their watery habitat. Academy watershed scientists will help you discover the ways in which these living things are connected and how everything in nature connects back to people. Make a splash with some hands-on water activities, right from home. Practice taking a look at the smallest species for the biggest clues and explore real solutions to keep our waterways clean and safe. Register for one workshop or for all in the series. For fee and registration, visit https://ansp.org/programs-and-events/events/Details/?eid=31842&iid=84921
Naturally Awesome Days: Wild Waters
Explore the wild world of water and learn how water affects the animals in the museum. Pick up an activity mini-guide upon entry, then explore the museum at your own pace. Take home a craft kit to make your own water art and have a splashing good time with your whole family. Geared to ages 7-11. Free with admission.