Bird Study Skins...

The WFVZ houses more than 53,000 study skin specimens representing over 100 countries, with the largest numbers of specimens from the United States (>12,900), Mexico (>12,600), Malaysia (>4,400), Costa Rica (>4,000), and Ecuador (>3,800). The skin collection is at least the 16th largest among North American collections.

Rose-bellied Buntings (Passerina rositae)

The primary sources for specimens currently are wildlife rehabilitation organizations; the Foundation’s own field research projects; wildlife research agencies; and birds killed by cats, window strikes, and car impacts. Materials are consistently acquired by the Western Foundation and used by researchers, educators, scientific artists, and other museums. In addition, materials are used in educational tours and presentations for the general public, both at the Foundation and at outside events.

Resplendent Quetzals (Pharomachrus mocinno)