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Gallery of California
Natural Sciences

Discover the Golden State like never before in the Gallery of California Natural Sciences. The Gallery features seven places throughout California: Oakland, Sutter Buttes, Shasta, Yosemite, the Tehachapis, Coachella Valley, and Cordell Bank. These places highlight the state’s diversity of climate, geology, ecosystems, and wildlife, while the exhibits explore current research, issues of land use, environmental conflict, and conservation projects. Offering a thoughtful and comprehensive representation of the interaction between humans and the natural world, the Gallery features immersive habitat installations, world-class dioramas, and emerging technologies. Hear the story of California’s natural world through the voices of local community members and scientists, and discover how you can make a difference.

Highlights

OMCA Kids: Nature Playspace

Little learners can unleash their curiosity and imagination in the newly created OMCA Kids: Nature Playspace. The playspace is focused on the unique needs of children ages 2 to 5, along with their families and caregivers.

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You Are Here: California Stories on the Map

We all use maps in our everyday lives—to navigate public transportation, find places to eat, and visualize big data like weather patterns or political opinions. But have you ever considered the deeper stories maps tell us?

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Urban Nature Lab

Even in a human-dominated landscape like Oakland, nature can thrive. Discover the incredible diversity of species that exist in our own city neighborhoods and use microscopes to meet some of your tiniest neighbors.

Bird Lab

California’s location on the Pacific Flyway, a migratory pathway from Alaska to Patagonia, brings many bird species through the state every spring and fall. More than 600 bird species have been spotted in the state, including California’s year-round residents. Explore this incredible bird diversity, from varied eggs to unique behaviors.

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Natural Sciences Scavenger Hunt
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Nest In Place Games
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Gallery of Natural Sciences: Student Guide
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