More than 100 wildlife specimens have emerged from hibernation after finding a new home at the Jasper-Yellowhead Museum and Archives.
The Jasper-Yellowhead Historical Society acquired the collection several years ago and kept the animals in storage as they worked to determine where they could be displayed. Following the wildfire, space was made within the museum so guests could at last check out the specimens.
“They should be out for all to see,” said Heather Legacy, general manager of the museum. “Lots of people come to Jasper and never get a chance to see these kinds of animals in the wild, so they can come to the museum and get to see them up close and personal.”
The specimens originally made up the Wildlife Museum, also known as the Den. Founded by local family Eleonore and Joe Schuurmans, it had been housed in the basement of Whistlers Inn, but because the hotel needed space for guests to store their skis, the wildlife collection required a new home.
The specimens can now be found peppered throughout the museum, with a large concentration of them in an alcove adjacent to the front desk. Legacy noted such a large collection was a rarity.
This month, the Jasper-Yellowhead Historical Society has launched an Adopt an Animal campaign to support the museum and archives post-wildfire.
“One thing Jasper has going for it is its reputation as a cherished and valued destination that has experienced quite the calamity,” said Herb Robinson, vice president of the historical society, in an email. “We know there has been national and even international interest in our experience, and our society would like to tap into the inclination of many who might like to offer some support but may not be sure how.”
Donors can pay to “adopt” one or more of the specimens, which means having naming rights as well as an adoption certificate, a picture of the animal, one free visit per month and a tax receipt.
The specimens themselves must remain at the museum, and a plaque bearing the name will be put below each one. Legacy noted some of the names already assigned included Midnight the Raven and Otto the Otter.
Pricing ranges from $100 for a muskrat to $4,000 for a moose.
Historical society members were given the first chance to adopt the animals before expanding to Jasper residents and then Albertans. Canadians will be able to adopt starting Wednesday (Dec. 18) followed by international supporters on Friday (Dec. 20).
More information will be released about closing dates and the Adoption Celebration.
Those interested in adopting can call the museum general manager at 780-852-3013 or email [email protected].
