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Staying Alive: Animal Defenses

Presenting Sponsor

Step into the wild world of animal survival and discover the fascinating ways nature fights back! Staying Alive: Animal Defenses brings the untamed animal kingdom to life, showcasing creatures from around the world. Featuring live animals, larger-than-life sculptures and interactive programs, this exhibition sparks curiosity in visitors of all ages. From venomous snakes to armored armadillos, uncover the incredible survival strategies animals use in the wild.

Through claws, camouflage, venom and more, every species has a story to tell about survival. With one-of-a-kind presentations by animal experts, this is an unforgettable adventure into the world of animal defenses.

WHAT YOU’LL EXPERIENCE

  • Meet the Animals: Get face-to-face with 17 fascinating creatures like hedgehogs, geckos, snakes and even a sloth!
  • Daily Live Presentations: Learn how these animals outsmart predators in engaging, up-close presentations by expert educators.
  • Larger-Than-Life Sculptures: Marvel at giant animal sculptures that showcase their defenses in a big way.
  • Hands-On Encounters: Feel the texture of a snake’s scales or the softness of a hedgehog’s belly during guided expert presentations, creating an unforgettable connection to nature.

Live Animal Demonstrations

SaturdaySundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFriday
Noon11:30 a.m. (Members only)11:30 a.m.11:30 a.m.11:30 a.m.11:30 a.m.11:30 a.m.
2:30 p.m.1:30 p.m.2:30 p.m.3:30 p.m.2:30 p.m.2:30 p.m.2:30 p.m.
3:30 p.m.4:30 p.m.
Live animal demonstrations are included with the purchase of tickets to Staying Alive: Animal Defenses. Locations of demonstrations subject to change due to animal availability and inclement weather.

Exclusive Encounters: Exploring Animal Defenses

Get even closer to these incredible animals! Book an exclusive live animal demonstration led by an Animal Expert. 

Experience: A 45-minute interactive session with a live animal and an expert educator.

When: Available daily at 4 p.m. (except Sundays & Tuesdays).

Cost: $10 per person, plus General Admission & the $6 Staying Alive special exhibition fee.

Group Size: Up to 15 guests per session.

Reserve your spot for an Exclusive Encounter online when you purchase admission to Staying Alive: Animal Defenses, or buy it all in person at the Walker Admissions Desk.

Times and locations of the exclusive encounters are subject to change due to inclement weather and animal availability.

Exclusive Encounters: Exploring Animal Defenses

Coming soon! Daily opportunities to meet a live animal and learn from an expert educator, in exclusive, interactive sessions. 

More information will be posted March 28th.

Whether it’s spiny spikes, venomous bites or sneaky mimicry, Staying Alive reveals how animals outwit predators in the wild. Perfect for families, school groups and animal enthusiasts, this bilingual exhibition (offered in both English and Spanish) is a must-see for visitors of all ages. Todo el contenido se presenta en inglés y en español.

Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to explore the wild wonders of animal survival. Visit the Witte Museum today!

Special Exhibition Ticket Required: General Admission plus $6

More Witte. More Wonder. Get unlimited access to special exhibitions like Staying Alive as an Individual Plus, Family Plus, Explorer or Voyager member. Join today!

An exhibition by Little Ray’s Exhibitions.

Special Thanks

Staying Alive at the Witte Museum is presented by PNC Bank and is generously supported by Mary West and Richard Traylor and the Mary Pat and Michael Bolner Exhibition Endowment Fund. An exhibition by Little Ray’s Exhibitions.

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