A LUSH GREEN SUMMER IN FREEDOM PARK
As shown in the images above, the new Charlotte Museum of Nature is steadily coming to life, mirroring the vision captured in our architectural renderings. The main entrance from the plaza, the apiary, and the atrium are all taking shape. With the main structures in place, construction has moved into Phase 2: transforming the surrounding green space.
Partnering with conservationists and native plant experts, we are creating a vibrant habitat in Freedom Park for museum guests, park visitors, and local pollinators and wildlife. Transforming the green spaces of the museum, our team is working with arborists to protect and preserve the trees in the surrounding forest and plant more than 500 additional trees.
OTTER-LY PREPARED FOR NEW ANIMAL CARE
Preparations for the Charlotte Museum of Nature go far beyond construction. Discovery Place’s Living Collections team — responsible for the care of all animal residents at both the Charlotte Museum of Nature and Discovery Place Science — has been working closely with nonprofit zoos and aquariums to prepare for the daily care of our new animal ambassadors. With support from organizations like Riverbanks Zoo & Garden and the North Carolina Aquarium, our team has been shadowing experienced Otter Keepers and participating in specialized workshops. Thanks to these efforts, you’ll soon have the chance to meet some incredible animals, nurtured and cared for to the highest standards set by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
Animals already in our care that will call Charlotte Museum of Nature home, are cozy and cared for behind the scenes at Discovery Place Science. Longtime residents, such as Texas Pete (pictured here), are happy to meet and greet museum guests in “Nose to Nose” encounters, and those busy Discovery Place Honeybees are gearing up for another honey harvest later this summer.
