A Wildlife and Natural History Experience in Provo, Utah
The Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum is one of Utah’s most unique educational attractions, offering visitors an up-close look at wildlife from around the world. Located on the campus of Brigham Young University (BYU) in Provo, the museum combines science education with impressive wildlife displays, making it a popular destination for families, students, and nature enthusiasts.
From towering African mammals to delicate insects and bird species, the museum showcases the incredible diversity of life on Earth while also supporting scientific research and conservation efforts.
History of the Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum
The museum was founded in 1978 through the generosity of Monte Lafayette Bean, a Utah businessman, philanthropist, and passionate wildlife conservationist. Bean spent decades collecting wildlife specimens during expeditions around the world and wanted his collection to be used for education and scientific study.
Rather than keeping the specimens private, Bean donated his collection and funding to Brigham Young University, leading to the creation of the museum that bears his name.
Monte L. Bean’s Vision
Monte Bean believed that education and conservation should go hand in hand. His vision was to create a place where visitors could:
- Learn about the diversity of wildlife species
- Understand the importance of habitat conservation
- Inspire curiosity and respect for the natural world
Over time, the museum expanded beyond Bean’s original collection, incorporating thousands of additional specimens used for research and teaching.
What You’ll See at the Museum
The Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum features more than 2 million specimens in its research collection, with hundreds of mounted animals displayed in exhibits open to the public.
Wildlife Exhibits
The most striking feature of the museum is its extensive taxidermy collection, which includes animals from multiple continents.
Visitors can see:
- African big game animals such as lions, zebras, and antelope
- North American wildlife including bears, deer, wolves, and mountain lions
- Exotic birds from tropical regions
- Large mammals like moose and elk
The displays are designed to resemble natural habitats, helping visitors understand how these animals live in the wild.
Bird Collection
The museum holds an especially strong collection of bird specimens. These exhibits showcase:
- Birds of prey
- Waterfowl
- Songbirds
- International species
Interactive displays help visitors learn about bird behavior, migration patterns, and environmental threats.
Insect and Invertebrate Displays
Smaller but equally fascinating exhibits highlight insects and other invertebrates. These displays reveal the diversity of arthropods and their essential role in ecosystems.
Visitors can see:
- Beetles and butterflies
- Rare insect specimens
- Educational displays about pollinators and biodiversity
Educational Programs and Events
Education is a central mission of the Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum. Throughout the year, the museum hosts a variety of educational activities for children, families, and school groups.
Family-Friendly Activities
The museum regularly offers programs designed to make science fun and engaging for young visitors.
Popular activities include:
- Live animal demonstrations
- Science-themed story times
- Interactive learning stations
- Educational games and crafts
These programs help children develop an early appreciation for wildlife and conservation.
Public Lectures and Workshops
The museum frequently hosts guest speakers, workshops, and science presentations. Topics often include:
- Wildlife conservation
- Environmental science
- Biology research
- Ecology and biodiversity
These events attract both university students and members of the local community.
Research and Scientific Contributions
Beyond its public exhibits, the Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum is also an important scientific research facility.
The museum’s research collections include:
- Mammals
- Birds
- Reptiles and amphibians
- Fish
- Insects and other invertebrates
Researchers use these specimens to study topics such as species evolution, climate change impacts, habitat loss, and biodiversity trends.
Because some specimens date back decades, they provide valuable historical data that helps scientists track environmental changes over time.
Visiting the Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum
The museum is located on the Brigham Young University campus in Provo, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors exploring Utah County.
Location
Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum
645 East 1430 North
Provo, Utah
Admission
One of the biggest draws of the museum is that admission is free, thanks to university support and donor contributions. Donations are welcome to help support educational programs and research.
Hours
Museum hours may vary depending on university schedules and holidays, so visitors are encouraged to check the museum’s official website before planning their trip.
Tips for Visitors
To get the most out of your visit, consider the following tips:
Allow 1–2 hours for exploration. While the museum is not enormous, the detailed exhibits can easily fill a couple of hours.
Bring children. The museum is especially engaging for kids interested in animals and science.
Look for live animal demonstrations. These presentations often feature reptiles, birds, or other small animals and are a highlight for many visitors.
Combine with other BYU attractions. Nearby destinations include the BYU Museum of Art, campus gardens, and scenic views of the Wasatch Mountains.
Why the Museum Is Worth Visiting
The Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum offers a rare chance to see wildlife from around the world without leaving Utah. Its combination of educational exhibits, scientific research, and family-friendly programming makes it an excellent stop for visitors interested in biology, ecology, and natural history.
Whether you’re a student, a parent looking for a fun educational outing, or a traveler exploring Provo, the museum provides an engaging and informative experience that highlights the beauty and diversity of life on Earth.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.