The Box: Mammoth

 This is an ongoing exhibition

We only had a quick look round this gallery, as we were done by this point, there is only so much our brains can absorb.  Although it's an area I am hugely interested in, I also have a pretty good background in it.  This means this introduction is of less interest to me.  It's obviously well produced and visually interesting.  I think it's really important that people get to see these things and learn about the world around them.  I think it is especially important for children.  These types of exhibition absolutely fed in to my early interest in science and environment.  On our first visit, it was absolutely full of families, so it obviously does this well!

As you go in you are greeted by Mildred.  Mildred is a lifesize mammoth reproduction and she is just lovely to see.  Apparently she wears seasonal hats and is looking forward to her Easter bonnet.

Amongst the geological displays, I was really pleased to see information on uranium in the rocks of Cornwall and Devon.  I would love to have seen a mention of Radon as well!

I must say, I am also beginning to really struggle with the volume of specimens collectors took and then donated to museums.  I would rather see these animals living, or footage of them.  Collectors must have decimated the populations of some of these animals.  I think it's important not to hide them away though.  Nothing can be gained from that.  It's great for children to see these things too.  I just find I don't enjoy these displays so much.

Mildred is amazing!

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