Contributing to the collections

Zoology Unit staff regularly contribute specimens to the collections, for example through their research and through targeted collecting initiatives such as Bush Blitz.  However, developing a more comprehensive collection of Tasmania’s extremely diverse fauna is largely dependent on the generosity and foresight of others beyond the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG).

In this context, external researchers and others with significant collections of Tasmanian animal species – or who are likely to embark on projects that will give rise to significant collections – are invited to consider depositing their collections with the museum.  Universities and state and federal institutions engaged in publicly funded research on Tasmanian fauna are encouraged to factor-in processes, up-front, for depositing scientific collections at TMAG in a condition fit for long-term archiving. To that end, researchers are asked to contact the Zoology Unit as early as possible in the project planning process.

Those with expertise in the taxonomy of particular animal groups are also encouraged to contact the museum if they are interested in assisting to maintain and upgrade specific parts of the collections.  There is also a valuable role for volunteers in the day-to-day work of curating and reorganising the collections.

TMAG maintains policies for adding new items to the collections.  In accepting new accessions, the museum also abides by relevant legislation covering issues such as threatened species and animal ethics.