Welcome to JMDC’s Critter Corner!  An eclectic collection of reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates from the world’s many ecosystems.  On weekdays, our collection of critters helps us to tell the story of life on planet earth during our School Learning Expeditions.  On weekends they get to act as Ambassadors for their species with visiting families eager to learn about some of the critters of the world.   

We have several weekday Life Science School Learning Expeditions and Add-ons that involve our critters.  Our Guides discuss ecosystems, biodiversity, genetics, adaptations, and other characteristics of the critters while Student Explorers get to make many discoveries.  During the School Learning Expeditions, Student Explorers will have the chance to interact with many of the critters involved in the expedition.  Sometimes it will be a close personal view of the critter, and other times there may be the option to touch the critter.  Pictures are always encouraged.   

During a weekend visit, families can expect to see our critters in their mini-ecosystems and enclosures.  Our knowledgeable and friendly staff will answer all your questions.  Many of the critters do spend time out with our Guides and interact with interested guests.  If you’d rather admire the critters from afar, that’s great.  We just want to introduce you to these fascinating critters from around the world.  Be sure to take plenty of pictures of your interaction with our critters.  When you share your picture, be sure to use #JMDCCritterCorner to enter our monthly drawing contest.   

Weekends are a time for birthdays and private family events.  Reserve one of our unique venues for your event during our regular hours, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm and make it a wild one with some of our critters joining you.  Check our Birthday page under Rentals for details and party packages for a one-of-a-kind party.  You get an hour for setup, three hours for your event including the Family Fun Expedition of your choice, and then an hour for clean-up.  Extra hours can be added.  Make memories to last a lifetime.   

Our Guides and Critters are here for your visit to make it memorable.  We look forward to your visit soon.