Opening of the Exhibition "Darrell's Journey to Russia"

On December 12, the museum opened the exhibition "Darrell's Journey to Russia" in honor of the 100th anniversary of the renowned naturalist and writer Gerald Durrell. The exhibition tells the story of some key points along the famous naturalist's route and the animals that left a lasting impression on him. The main goal of Durrell's journey to the USSR was the filming of the documentary television series "Durrell in Russia."

The exhibition's curator, Natalia Nosova, expressed her gratitude for the support and consultations from the Moscow Zoo, a partner in the exhibit. The scientific library of the Moscow Zoo provided valuable exhibits, including newspapers from the Jersey Zoo featuring reports on Durrell's travels through the USSR's reserves, as well as brochures from the Jersey Zoo and the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, which was established by the famous writer.

Natalia Romanovna Rubinstein, an employee of the zoo, contributed a book with a delightful illustrated autograph by Gerald Durrell. The museum's chief curator, Igor Fadeev, enhanced the exhibition with photographs and an autograph from Durrell, sharing his memories of meeting him at the Oka Nature Reserve. Pavel Smirnov, an ornithology staff member from the Zoological Museum of Moscow State University, recounted the story of publishing "Durrell in Russia" in Russian.

The exhibition's opening concluded with a friendly tea ceremony featuring a beautifully painted samovar, fostering a warm atmosphere for all attendees.