Herpetology is also represented in the historical murals © NHM Wien, Wilhelm Bauer-Thell
The permanent exhibition displays around 1,000 species, some of which are rare, including historical treasures such as the
jewel chameleon, which was collected in Madagascar in 1859 by the world traveler Ida Pfeiffer.
The objects on display in the permanent exhibition are only a small part of the herpetological collection of the NHM Vienna, which has been under scientific care since 1806 and comprises more than 200.000 specimens of amphibians and reptiles.
The objects on display in the permanent exhibition are only a small part of the herpetological collection of the NHM Vienna, which has been under scientific care since 1806 and comprises more than 200.000 specimens of amphibians and reptiles.
The exhibition:
- Presentation of basic biological information as well as many special features, such as the unusual reproductive strategy of Darwin's frogs
- Dioramas display prepared specimens and lifelike models, such as native European moor frogs, in recreated habitats
- Exciting topics such as causes of endangerment, communication, camouflage, warning behavior, and limblessness are illustrated with numerous examples
- Exhibition of Austria's 21 amphibian and 15 reptile species
- Sea turtles, snake skeletons, and a giant tiger python on the walls
