The Ward Museum Presents “Lessons Not Yet Learned” and “Conservation Decoys”
What do passenger pigeons, golden toads and Caribbean monk seals have in common? They’re all extinct as a direct result of human activity.
Two exhibitions opening at the Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art, Salisbury University, this spring showcase art that brings attention to endangered and extinct species. “Lessons Not Yet Learned,” on display in the LaMay Gallery from April 11-July 6, features the whimsical work of late animal carver Dr. Edward Kaufman.
Through its interpretation, the exhibition also presents the concept of “keystone species,” those often small and unassuming creatures, like the starfish, that receive little public attention but often play a bigger role in their respective ecosystems. Environmental journalist Juniper Russowrote, “If an ecological problem destroyed or greatly reduced the starfish population, an explosion of shellfish could cause the destruction of the entire aquatic ecosystem. Yet a starfish, no matter how endangered, is more likely to end up as a home decoration than as an icon for a conservation group.”
“Many of the planet’s most endangered animals, both charismatic and keystone species, are also its most remarkable, opening the door to a world of fascinating social behavior, specialized senses, and complex ecosystems,” said Dr. Cynthia Byrd, Ward Museum curator and folklorist. “Far from encountering only gloom and doom, guests will also learn the many ways people are working to save endangered and threatened creatures through captive breeding programs, legal protection, creating reserves and conserving natural resources.”
“Birds of a Feather: Conservation Decoys,” on display in the museum’s Welcome Gallery from March 28-June 8, explores the use of these artificial birds (and sometimes even nests and eggs) to assist in these efforts. Most decoys are used to attract birds within gunshot range for the purposes of hunting; however, decoys can have an altogether different purpose for conservationists.
As hunters have observed for centuries, many species exhibit social behavior, preferring to nest, rest or feed in groups. Conservationists seeking to attract birds to certain areas may do so by broadcasting calls, using mirrors or placing decoys. As habitat areas are cleared of predators, restored or opened up to replace old habitats lost to human development, decoys simulate the presence of birds and make returning birds feel more at home. This exhibit highlights these special decoys and the artists who devote their skills to making them.
A free opening reception with refreshmentsand a guest lecture and book signing by Dr. Teena Gorrow of Salisbury University’s Teacher Education Department is 5-7 p.m. Friday, May 23. Gorrow’s recent book, Inside a Bald Eagle’s Nest: A Photographic Journey through the American Bald Eagle Nesting Season, features 160 unique photographs, presenting a rare glimpse into the nesting behaviors of the Chesapeake Bay Bald Eagle. It illustrates how eagles select their nest sites, construct and gather nest materials, forage for prey, ward off intruders and care for their young.
For more information call the Ward Museum at 410-742-4988 or visit the museum’s website at www.wardmuseum.org.
