Starting Friday, Nov. 29, the Field Museum of Natural History will unveil a captivating exhibit dedicated to all things feline—from playful pets to fierce predators.
The “Cats: Predators to Pets” exhibit delves into the world of cats, showcasing their unique physiology and their impact on history and culture. With engaging videos and a range of open-air taxidermy specimens, the exhibit highlights the 38 species of wild cats and their past, present, and uncertain future.
Created by the Museum national d’Histoire naturelle in Paris, the exhibit is a collaboration that includes items from the Field Museum’s permanent collection, as well as contributions from the Paris museum and partner institutions.
“It’s a unique way to present the museum’s cats, taking them out of their usual displays and placing them in a new context,” said project manager Lauren Boegen. “Visitors will have the chance to explore these cats through a fresh narrative, allowing them to see the taxidermy from a different perspective.”
The exhibit also traces the history of human interactions with cats, starting with the domestication of the species in southwest Asia and northeast Africa.
Curator Bill Parkinson commented, “The most fascinating aspect of this section is how we explore the deep connection between humans and felines. Visitors will not only learn about the biology of cats but also discover how they became such an integral part of our lives.”
Conservation issues are also addressed, with information on the threats facing wild cat populations and how people can contribute to their preservation.
For cat lovers, there’s an added bonus: each month, cat owners can submit themed photos of their pets. Ten finalists will be featured on the exhibition wall, and the winner will receive four All-Access Passes to the exhibit.
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