The Texas Science and Natural History Museum recently hosted Pollinator Day, a spring event aimed at promoting education and awareness of pollinators in the Texas ecosystem. During the museum’s renovations, they collaborated with The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center and UT landscaping services to create pollinator gardens outside the main entrance. These gardens attracted bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, inspiring the creation of the event.
Museum associate director Pamela Owen emphasized the importance of connecting young learners with specific examples of pollinators like butterflies and bees. The event featured interactive activities, including a “What Did I Learn?” board where participants could reflect on their knowledge gain. Education intern Kira Reyna noted that feedback from attendees helps the museum team determine effective teaching methods.
Events like Pollinator Day attract new visitors who may not have been aware of the museum before. According to Reyna, these events expose people to unique experiences like Pollinator Day, encouraging them to explore other exhibits and potentially return in the future. As Austin’s spring temperatures continue to rise, events like this are critical for raising awareness about environmental sustainability issues.
History sophomore Meredith Perry highlighted the need to understand and address sustainability and environmental issues by attending events like Pollinator Day. By doing so, participants are encouraged to learn more about pressing concerns such as conservation and take action to combat them. The museum offers free admission to all UT students, faculty, and staff, making it accessible to the university community.
The museum’s regular hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, and from 1 p.m
