The Flora, Fauna & Flight exhibit at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History is one of our favorites! . This special exhibit, which is on view through June 23, 2024, explores the fascinating world of flight in nature . Here are some highlights and interesting facts you should explore and learn about at Flora, Fauna & Flight.
- Birds and Evolution: Birds, known for their flying abilities, evolved from theropod dinosaurs. Over time, their scales transformed into feathers, enabling them to glide and eventually fly.
- Flying Squirrels: Despite their name, flying squirrels don’t actually fly but glide using a membrane called a patagium. This adaptation allows them to move quickly and escape predators.
- Bats: Bats are unique as the only mammals that have evolved true powered flight, supported by elongated hand bones and a patagium.
- Butterfly Wings: Butterfly wings are covered in tiny scales that create diverse patterns. Despite their seemingly clumsy flight, their wings are highly technical..
Enjoy the vibrant sculptures of various flying and gliding creatures and learn about the physics of flight, including lift, thrust, and drag, in a beautiful outdoor setting designed by nature in Wildoods at the Fernbank Museum,. This is a great opportunity to learn about the incredible adaptations which enable plants and animals to take to the skies.
