NCMNS: Special Exhibition “Staying Alive” Opens

March 14 – August 23, 2026

“About the Exhibition

In the ultimate battle for survival, every animal has a plan.

Explore the striking ways nature fights back in “Staying Alive,” featuring 17 live animals from around the world with unbelievable self-defense strategies. Come face to face with venomous snakes, trippy toads, armored armadillos, a two-toed sloth and more.

Discover how these defenders deploy an amazing arsenal of high-fashion camouflage and mimicry, specialized armor and advanced chemical warfare – like stink bombs, caboose cannons and smoke screens – to hide in plain sight, stand their ground or even drop a limb and make a run for it. Enjoy live animal encounters, larger-than-life sculptures, hands-on displays and interactive programs. Perfect for families and animal lovers of all ages.

Perfect for families and animal lovers of all ages. Offered in English & Spanish.”