MOAS Blog

East Meets West: European and Chinese Decorative Fans in the Collection

Currently on view in the Bouchelle Changing Gallery is an exhibition of decorative hand fans from the MOAS collection that was inspired by last year’s exhibition of fans owned by local collector Judy Bush. A special thanks to Judy and her network of fan experts for their help in researching this rare collection.

All About the Bats and the Birds…

It is not uncommon to mistake a bat for a bird. Bats fly through the air and most of the time you will see them in the evening when it is harder to distinguish the two creatures. People used to believe bats were birds, they just didn’t have feathers.

National Wildlife Day - Three, Pretty Neat, but Endangered Species in Florida You Should Know

National Wildlife Day was created by Colleen Paige, a philanthropist and animal behavior specialist, to bring awareness to endangered species. It was also created to promote the education, preservation, and conservation done by zoos and animal sanctuaries.

Lizards of Florida

Lizards, geckos, and skinks can be found all over Florida. Florida is home to 15 native lizard species and 34 exotic species. The native lizards can be found in upland habitats, like hot, dry scrubs or pine flatwoods. Nonnative lizards can be found throughout the state and are outcompeting several native lizard species.

Latest Blog Posts

We Persevere

A new scientist is about to start exploring the solar system. While it doesn’t have any life signs of its own, it will be searching for the faintest hints of once-living material in our next door neighbor planet Mars. The Mars 2020 Rover, now officially named Perseverance, will venture away from Earth on a seven-month journey across space.

Comets: Natures Cosmic Quandaries

When you stare at the sky on any given night, many are hopeful to spot something spectacular, or strange, or even surprising. If you consult any astronomer or avid stargazer, they will tell you the sky always has an abundance of celestial wonders to discover no matter the date.

Florida's Allure for the 19th Century Florida Landscape Artist

After the end of the American Civil War, industry and trade flourished creating vast fortunes. The era from 1865 to 1900 became known as the Gilded Age, and Florida became a winter destination for wealthy travelers and adventurers. For most, the journey ended in northeast Florida, and St. Augustine was one of the most popular destinations. The city possessed a unique charm owed to the fact it was a frontier fishing village and a remnant of the old Spanish empire.

Keep an Eye on the Sky for Meteor Watch Day

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