The birds and the bees

You can smell the age. It isn’t a foul smell, but it’s peculiar. Almost like shuffling through an old book. Except the book is 16 meters long and has been gutted in the name of science (mostly, I think).

It’s the only preserved blue whale in the world and it’s been around since 1865. But the Malm whale isn’t all Naturhistoriska has to offer. It’s a place dedicated to the natural sciences. There are displays on the human body, geology, local ecosystems, and a space for newer exhibits too. 

But the real charm of the museum comes from its impressive taxidermy collection. Thousands of specimens from all around the world are separated and loosely categorized by halls.

Some, like the massive aviary display, are ornate and capture the imagination. Birds come in all colors. Birds of the same color come in different sizes. Birds of the same color and size are a different species. 

Others, like the whole of the entomology hall, make you itchy. Bugs come in all colors. Bugs of the same color come in different sizes. Bugs of the same color and size are a different species. 

You see the variety. It’s too much, that’s probably a good thing.