Fri 10/16 @ 6:30-8PM
The Cleveland Museum of Natural History’s Science After Hours evenings offer the chance to learn more about the work being done at CMNH, to dive into the stories behind the exhibits and hear from the museum’s experts what they’re working on.
On Friday October 16, Science After Hours will revolve around the topic of “What Islands Teach Us About Birds and Evolution.” CMNH’s new Curator of Ornithology Dr. Ethan Gyllenhaal will talk how the unusual birds found on some islands reveal information about evolution,
“Studying how life on Earth evolved is challenging because it often requires understanding processes that occurred thousands or millions of years ago from our modern viewpoint,” says the museum. “Islands can make this easier. They serve as ‘natural laboratories’ where evolutionary biologists can study the repeated patterns of evolution in species that live in far-flung archipelagos.”
Dr. Gyllenhaal’s research on ocean-crossing, island-dwelling birds is central to this work. The evening will focus on what some of these species are, what makes some more vulnerable to extinction, and how geography impacts evolution. “We will discuss why islands are not as isolated as they seem—and why this matters for conservation,” they promise.
Doors open at 6; the program starts at 6:30 in the Rare Book Room. Afterwards guests can tour the galleries, and conclude the evening with a reception in the Visitor Hall. Go HERE for tickets.
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