Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ

Why do you need so many specimens of each species?

Natural history museum collections aim to document both the Earth’s past and present biodiversity. To achieve this, collections must continue to grow and include both newly collected and historical material.

For research and education, it is often important to study several specimens of the same species from different places and time periods. Scientists may also need specimens that represent different ages, life stages, sexes, and natural variation in size, color, or shape. Together, these collections make it possible to study how species change over time and across regions—for example, shifts in distribution, genetic diversity, or physical appearance.

Scientific methods and research questions are constantly evolving. By preserving multiple specimens of each species today, museums help ensure that their collections remain valuable and relevant for future research that we cannot yet anticipate.

Is the Swedish Museum of Natural History interested in receiving individual specimens or collections of insects, arachnids, mollusks, etc.?

Yes. Our collections are largely built through donations from the public, and we receive both large and small donations every year.

We are especially interested in specimens that come with clear information about where and when they were collected. Specimens that expand the taxonomic diversity or geographic coverage of our collections are particularly valuable. Both individual specimens and larger collections may therefore be of interest.

For more information, please see Enrich our collections.

Is the Swedish Museum of Natural History interested in receiving dead mammals/birds?

Yes. The Swedish Museum of Natural History accepts all animals classified as state-owned wildlife (Swedish: statens vilt), with the exception of wolves, bears, lynxes, and wolverines. These species should instead be sent to the Swedish Veterinary Agency External link..

In addition to state-owned wildlife, specimens of other species may also be of interest for our collections.

For more information, please see Enrich our collections.

Does the Swedish Museum of Natural History accept mounted animals, animal souvenirs (e.g., shoes, bags, wallets made from animal skins), furs, fur coats, etc.?

The Swedish Museum of Natural History is primarily interested in items with known provenance—that is, where and when the item was obtained, and what species it comes from.

Items that belong to, or at the time of collection belonged to, state-owned wildlife (Swedish: statens vilt) must be submitted to us. If you are unsure whether an item falls into this category, please contact us for advice.

Please note that some animal products may be subject to international trade restrictions under CITES External link. (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora).

For information or questions about CITES regulations, we refer you to the Swedish Board of Agriculture External link..

Are mounted birds and mammals toxic?

Mounted animals prepared from the late 19th century onward may have been treated with arsenic to protect them from insect damage. Arsenic is toxic if inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through skin contact, and it can accumulate in the dust that settles on mounted specimens.

Mounted (or “stuffed”) animals should therefore be stored in well-ventilated areas. They should be dusted regularly using a duster—ideally outdoors—and while wearing gloves and a dust-filter mask (P3). Eyes, beaks, and other areas without fur or feathers can be gently cleaned using a cotton swab lightly moistened with alcohol.

You can read more about arsenic in mounted animals in the Vårda väl information leaflets published by the Swedish National Heritage Board External link..