Discussion

Agents of deterioration

At the Hefner Museum of Natural History, specimens were stored inside high quality cabinets that regulated temperature, moisture, and humidity levels, limiting degradation of these effects. Specimens stored within cabinets were adequately protected from pest exposure and vandalism often associated with guest interactions such as introduction of outside food/drink or touching of specimens.

In addition, to limit damage from physical force, the following strategies were implemented:

• Polyethylene foam and Cornell unit trays were integrated into cabinet tray arrangement to reduce specimen sliding with drawer movement.

• Generous space allotment to protect specimens from damage by other specimens, drawers, or removal from cabinet.

• Protective folding techniques were utilized to reduce crease damage of folded skins.

Only select specimens were held in display cabinets with the goal of decreasing the amount of light exposure. This considered compromise would decrease guest visibility of specimens while the cabinets are closed; however, it was decided that the goal of preservation outweighed that of visitor engagement.