Evolution takes flight at February Sunday with a Scientist

Released on 02/12/2016, at 2:00 AM
Office of University Communications
University of Nebraska–Lincoln

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 21, 2016

WHERE: University of Nebraska State Museum, Morrill Hall, south of 14th and Vine streets

Lincoln, Neb., February 12th, 2016 —
(From left) Katherine O'Brien and Omera Matoo, postdoctoral researchers in biology at UNL; and Kristi Montooth, associate professor of biology at UNL, will lead visitors in activities to explore evolution during Sunday with a Scientist Feb. 21 at Morrill Hall.
(From left) Katherine O'Brien and Omera Matoo, postdoctoral researchers in biology at UNL; and Kristi Montooth, associate professor of biology at UNL, will lead visitors in activities to explore evolution during Sunday with a Scientist Feb. 21 at Morrill Hall.

The University of Nebraska State Museum's February Sunday with a Scientist program for children and families will investigate the diversity of evolution through exploration of species with wings. The event will be from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Feb. 21 at Morrill Hall, south of 14th and Vine streets.

Activities will focus on the diverse functions of wings in pigeons, flies, butterflies and more. Kristi Montooth, associate professor of biology at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln; Katherine O'Brien and Omera Matoo, postdoctoral researchers in biology at UNL; and graduate and undergraduate students will lead visitors in activities to explore evolution. Hands-on discovery will center on "evolution of the wing" and take a close look at wings of various species and the functions they serve. Children and families can play "Pigeonetics," an interactive pigeon-breeding game; mix and match blocks to create their own pigeons; dress up like a bird and make their own bird mask; and participate in a coloring project to learn about the diversity of patterns in butterflies.

Sunday with a Scientist is a series of presentations that highlight the work of scientists, while educating children and families on a variety of topics related to science and natural history. Presenters share scientific information in a fun, informal way through demonstrations, activities or by conducting science on site. Sunday with a Scientist typically takes place from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. on the third Sunday of each month.

For more information on the program, including upcoming topics, go to http://www.museum.unl.edu.

Established in 1871, the University of Nebraska State Museum is the state's premier museum of natural history. The museum is focused on promoting discovery in natural science, fostering scientific understanding and interpretation of the Earth's past, present and future, and enhancing stewardship of the natural and cultural heritage of Nebraska through world-class exhibits, collections and special events.