Natural History Museum

New reporting from researchers, including work covered by the Natural History Museum and Phys.org, suggests shifting climate conditions could change the risks humans face from deadly rodent-borne diseases. Changes in temperature and rainfall may alter rodent habitats and populations, potentially bringing infected animals into closer contact with people and expanding where diseases like hantavirus and Lassa fever pose a threat.

The Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia has closed its doors, with a dispute underway over efforts to reopen the institution. The closure ends a long run for one of the oldest natural history museums in the United States, and questions remain over whether it can be revived. Details about the parties involved in the fight to reopen and the museum's future have not been confirmed.

The Academy of Natural Sciences, a landmark natural history museum in Philadelphia, has closed its doors to the public. Reports note the closure may not be permanent, with indications the institution could reopen in some form in the future. The closure marks the end of a long run for one of the oldest natural science institutions in the United States.

Supporters of Philadelphia's Academy of Natural Sciences staged a final campaign to save the institution, with demonstrators wearing dinosaur costumes and carrying signs outside the museum. The Academy has faced threats to its operations, and advocates are using the public push to draw attention and pressure decision-makers before an expected turning point for the landmark natural history museum.