Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary

06/18/2026

When you take your opossum on live TV and she just wants to love on you the entire segment… 🥰

06/17/2026

Opossum fun fact!

The Virginia opossum's lower body temperature makes it less likely to contract rabies than many other mammals. Pretty cool for one of nature's most misunderstood animals.

Just one more reason to appreciate North America's only native marsupial!

06/16/2026

Say hello to Kimmy! 🩶

This non-releasable Virginia opossum is one of the Heard's animal ambassadors. Through her daily adventures, she helps us teach visitors about opossum behavior, wildlife rehabilitation, and why these often misunderstood animals deserve a little love.

06/16/2026

No need to rush… Herman prefers to take the scenic route. 🐢🌿

Herman is our resident Sulcata Tortoise, and one of his favorite forms of enrichment is going on walks with the Heard's animal care staff. On nice days, that means exploring the trails. On colder or rainy days, he can often be spotted taking laps around the museum and visiting other exhibits.

Sulcata tortoises are the third-largest tortoise species in the world and can live for decades with proper care. Herman came to the Heard in 2012 after being surrendered from a school where he wasn't receiving the specialized care he needed. Today, he enjoys daily walks, plenty of attention from his keepers, and moving at exactly the speed he chooses. 💚

06/12/2026

06/10/2026

Our snakes are settling into their newly remodeled habitats, and we are so excited for our visitors to see their updated spaces. 🐍

What makes this project even more special? It was made possible through the generosity of a single donor who believed in our mission and wanted to make a lasting impact.

Want to help bring future projects to life? Your donation makes a difference. Every gift helps us continue connecting people with nature. 💚

https://www.heardmuseum.org/donate/

06/08/2026

McKinney, this one's for you! 🫶

On Saturday, June 13, we're saying thank you to the community we've called home since 1967. We're inviting McKinney residents to enjoy a special day at the Heard during regular hours for just $5 admission with proof of residency.

Spend the day exploring our nature trails, exhibits, and 289-acre wildlife sanctuary. Plus, stop by to visit North Texas Reptile Rescue in the Ladybug Amphitheater and grab a refreshing treat from Big Island Ice, featuring lemonade, popcorn, shaved ice, and soda available for purchase.

Whether you're a longtime supporter or have never visited before, we'd love to welcome our McKinney neighbors for a day of nature, discovery, and community.

06/05/2026

Looking for things to add to your summer bucket list? 🦋🌿

The Native Texas Butterfly House & Garden at the Heard reopens tomorrow, June 6! Walk among free-flying native butterflies, explore vibrant pollinator gardens, and experience one of the most magical parts of summer in North Texas.

Whether you’re planning a family outing, looking for a peaceful nature walk, or hoping to capture the perfect summer photo, the Butterfly House is a must-visit seasonal experience.

Plan your visit: https://www.heardmuseum.org/native-texas-butterfly-house-garden/