The Natural History Division was established in 1879 as one of the original divisions
of the
Institute of Jamaica, and serves as the storehouse of our natural heritage.
We aim to:
- Encourage the study and dissemination of scientific knowledge of Jamaican flora
and fauna.
- Promote the conservation of the Jamaican natural environment.
- Maintain collections of Jamaican flora, fauna and reference books
Our facilities include:
- A natural history library of approximately 10,000 volumes.
- Education Department
- A herbarium which stores over 130,000 international and local plant specimens.
- A zoological collection including representations from all faunal classes found
in Jamaica, especially strong in insects.
- A natural history gallery with displays on Jamaican plants and animals and interactive
exhibits for children.
- Two field stations: Mason River in Clarendon and Green Hills near Hardwar Gap in
Portland.
- The Discovery Room for children.
- The Institute of Jamaica Gift Shop.
- Photograph and slide collections.
We conduct lectures, slide presentations and tours.