Celebrating the Father of Evolution
February 12th marks the birthday anniversary of Charles Darwin; and a celebration of science and humanity.
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| Charles Darwin (Feb 12 1809 - April 19 1882) |
In celebration of the discoveries and life of Darwin, the MSU Museum hosted the spectacular event of Darwin Discovery Day this last Sunday. This event was quite the success with over 590 visitors and 120 curators/volunteers! All of the MSU Fisheries and Wildlife Club members volunteering did an excellent job at being ambassadors for MSU and the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife.
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| "Team Darwin" 2013 (Photo courtesy of MSU Museum) |
With our "Conservation Biology" themed booth, we had the awesome opportunity to display many items that were confiscated at the Detroit Metro Airport to help educated others about the stresses put on endangered and threatened species with illegal take.
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| Ryan R., Katie M., Becca B., and Kelsey S. at the MSU FW Club Booth |
We had many different items from endangered species at our table including:
- Hawksbill sea turtles preserved for display
- Musical instrument made out of a Hawksbill shell
- Pelt from a leopard
- Ivory (jewlery and decorative pieces) from Elephants/Rhinos
- Bear Gall Bladder (in a dehydrated form)
- Handbags made from Caiman leather
- Boots made from sea turtle leather
- Endangered Birdwing butterflies pinned in a collection
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| Becca B. talking about Hawksbill sea turtles |
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| Visitors of the event interacting and exploring items |
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| Ryan M. displaying a Hawksbill sea turtle |
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| Ryan M. and Lydia K. showing an instrument made from a Hawksbill sea turtle shell |
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| Katie M., Becca B., and Ryan F. talking about endangered butterfly species |
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| Chris L., Katie M., and Becca B. explaining the importance of conservation biology |
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| Becca B. and Kelsey S. showing items from the table |
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| Katie M. showing a handbag made of Caiman leather |
(Photos courtesy of Liz Brajevich unless otherwise noted in caption)
Written by Becca Blundell (blundel2@msu.edu)
