Taxidermy is a critical tool for natural history museums as well as for science. The preparation of deceased animals provides insight into the theories of systematic classification, evolution, and ecology. Museum habitat dioramas using taxidermy recreate the plant, bird, and animal life of different regions. These dioramas of animals in lifelike positions are visually interesting and engaging, allowing visitors to appreciate animals not as separate species but as part of a complex system of life.

Eugene Cardiff, curator emeritus of biology at the San Bernardino County Museum, will demonstrate avian taxidermy at the Victor Valley Museum in Apple Valley on Saturday, April 13 from 1:30 p.m. until 4 p.m. This presentation is included with paid museum admission.

Cardiff, an ornithologist, is largely responsible for the world-renowned exhibits of birds in the San Bernardino County Museum’s land bird and water bird galleries. His taxidermy work is also featured at the Victor Valley Museum. If you have ever been curious about how a museum-quality display of birds is put together, or how a hunting trophy is preserved, you will be able to see for yourself and ask questions about the process.

The Victor Valley Museum is a branch of the San Bernardino County Museum located at 11873 Apple Valley Road in Apple Valley. The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $5 (adult), $4 (senior or military), and $2.50 (student). Children under 5 and San Bernardino County Museum Association members are free. Parking is free. For more information, visit www.co.san-bernardino.ca.us/museum/.

The museum is accessible to persons with disabilities. If assistive listening devices or other auxiliary aids are needed in order to participate in museum exhibits or programs, requests should be made through Museum Visitor Services at least three business days prior to your visit. Visitor Services’ telephone number is 909-307-2669 ext. 229 or (TDD) 909-792-1462.