The Mason Wildlife Exhibit, located at the S.J. and Jessie E. Quinney Natural Resources Library, features fascinating displays about North America’s indigenous wildlife. From the mighty black bear to the timid chukar, the exhibit is an outstanding place to learn more about these creatures that are so integral a part of the natural environment.
“The lack of power to take joy in outdoor nature is as real a misfortune as the lack of power to take joy in books.” Theodore Roosevelt
The exhibit is dedicated to increasing knowledge of and appreciation for the diverse wildlife of Utah and surrounding areas, as well as explaining the role of wildlife management in conservation. Founded in 2017, the exhibit has close to 60 kinds of fish, mammals, and birds from all over North America. All the species found at the exhibit were donated by Jerry Mason.
Jerry was an avid hunter, angler, and outdoorsman. He hunted and fished extensively throughout North America, and gathered a significant collection of big and small game animals that is will remain on permanent display. He measured countless trophies of fellow hunters for the big game record books. He loved exploring the outdoors and enjoyed sharing his passion by organizing trips and expeditions with family, friends, and local scouting groups. Over the past two decades he worked to maintain a section of the High Line trail system in the Uintah Mountains of Utah, bringing many different friends and family members into the wilderness as part of annual maintenance excursions.
Jerry also served as a volunteer for a number of local and state groups, including positions on the board of the Utah Wildlife Federation, the Division of Wildlife’s Big Game Board, and local economic development committees. In addition he committed himself broadly to conservation efforts involving wetland preservation and protection of wildlife habitat.
Your visit is an excellent opportunity to see animals up close and gain a better understanding of their size and adaptive characteristics. The museum has many touchable specimens on display. All exhibits are indoors and the facility is wheelchair accessible and air-conditioned.
