Science Forum | U-M LSA University of Michigan Museum of Natural History

Join our educators in the Science Forum for 15-20 minute interactive science demonstrations that will help you see the world in a whole new way.

Discovery Demos

Demonstrations are free and appropriate for visitors ages 5 and above. Schedule subject to change.

How to Become a Fossil

Saturdays and Sundays in February and March 1, 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.

How do we know so much about creatures that roamed the Earth so long ago? Find out as we dig into the world of fossils! How do fossils form? And, why are fossilized bones so common? Learn the different types of fossils, and what they can tell us about ancient animals’ behaviors, diet, and even their poop! Hold and examine real fossils dating back 300 million years ago. What will they tell you?

All About Owls

Saturdays and Sundays in March, 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. beginning March 7
No demo on Sunday, March 15

Explore the unseen lives of owls in this hands-on demonstration. Together, we will use museum specimens to learn about some of owls’ unique adaptations, like big eyes, specialized ears, quiet wings, and sharp claws. What do these adaptations tell us about how owls eat? How are these modern raptors related to dinosaurs? Find out what an owl pellet is (Hint: it's not poop!) and dissect a real owl pellet to learn about owls’ diets. Come and discover the role of these birds of prey in the food chain!

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