Academy of Natural Sciences

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The Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia was founded in 1812 to expand knowledge of the natural world. In its early days it organized expeditions to explore the western part of the country, led by Stephen Long and Ferdinand Hayden. The Academy employed some of the leading zoologists of the day, including Thomas Say and Thomas Nuttall.

The Academy has continued to play a leading role in American zooology in the 20th and 21st centuries, especially in the field of ornithology. Ornithologists affiliated with the Academy during this time include Witmer Stone, James Bond, who was the namesake for the pop culture icon, Frank Gill, and Robert Ridgely.

The Academy opened its doors to the public in 1828. It is currently located on the Ben Franklin Parkway next to Logan Square. The scientific collections of the Academy have since expanded to over 25 million specimens. It performs the triple role of supporting research, education, and providing a museum.

The Academy is home to many dinosaur bones. Visitors are greeted by a large Giganotosaurus, the largest predator ever to have existed on earth. There are three diorama halls, African, Asian, and North American.

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