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National Geographic: 50 Greatest Wildlife Photographs

November 6, 2021 - April 24, 2022
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Museum visitors will witness some of the most surprising animal behavior in the new National Geographic exhibition, National Geographic: 50 Greatest Wildlife Photographs. The very best wildlife pictures from the pages of National Geographic magazine have been chosen to be displayed in this exhibition. Curated by renowned nature picture editor, Kathy Moran, this exhibition is a celebratory look at wildlife with images taken by National Geographic’s most iconic photographers such as, Michael “Nick” Nichols, Steve Winter, Paul Nicklen, Beverly Joubert, David Doubilet and more. Showcasing the evolution of photography, the images convey how innovations such as camera traps, remote imaging, and underwater technology have granted photographers access to wildlife in their natural habitat. National Geographic: 50 Greatest Wildlife Photographs will remain open at the National Museum of Wildlife Art until April 24, 2022.

For 130 years National Geographic has utilized its storytelling expertise to connect its readers to the great outdoors. The organization has pioneered the art of wildlife photography ever since the first image to appear in National Geographic magazine of a reindeer in 1903. The start of the exhibition displays such humble beginnings of wildlife photography and details how these photographers paved the way for future generations of visual storytellers.

A distinctive element of the exhibition is that each photograph on display was taken in a natural environment. None of the images were taken in permanent captivity or through the use of baiting techniques. After viewing these spectacular photographs, visitors will be compelled to take action to protect these animals and join National Geographic in its endeavor to achieve a planet in balance

About the National Geographic Society

The National Geographic Society is a global nonprofit organization that uses the power of science, exploration, education and storytelling to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world. Since 1888, National Geographic has pushed the boundaries of exploration, investing in bold people and transformative ideas, providing more than 14,000 grants for work across all seven continents, reaching 3 million students each year through education offerings, and engaging audiences around the globe through signature experiences, stories and content.

BRIAN SKERRY. Spinner Dolphins (Stenella longirostris) in the waters off Oahu, Hawaii. These dolphins forage at night in the deep water offshore, then come into shallow bays in the early morning to socialize and rest. This species of dolphin is known for their spinning behavior, where they leap out of the water, spinning and turning. Although researchers are not certain why they do this, a leading theory is to dislodge remoras and for communication.
CHRISTIAN ZIEGLER. A cassowary peers through foliage in northeast Queensland, Australia.
PAUL NICKLEN. A Kermode bear eats a fish in a moss-draped rain forest.
RANDY OLSON. These are the grassland birds of the great plains. Migrate from Siberia to Northern Mexico but have their main migratory path north-south over the high plains aquifer, constrained by the Rocky Mountains in the same way as the aquifer. Sand Hill Cranes on Crane Trust property and on farmland in the area. 500,000 come through there and the migration is kind of like an hourglass. The migration fans out and then hits the choke point of the hourglass at Kearney on the Platte River and then the migration fans out again when they leave.
JOEL SARTORE. Aerial of gray wolves (Canis lupus) of the Malberg Pack near Malberg Lake in th e Wilderness area near Ely, Minnesota.
CHRIS JOHNS. A giraffe walking in a misty forest in the Ndumu Game Reserve.
Other Exhibits
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Bison-tennial: From Colonization to Rematriation

Through August 23, 2026

Bison-tennial explores the profound influence of bison on the history, cultures, and landscapes of the North American West, especially within the United States. The exhibition traces their story from pre-colonial times through westward expansion, the near-destruction of the herds, and today’s growing restoration and rematriation efforts.

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He Xi Chasing Fish
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From Sea to Shining Sea: Wildlife Above & Below the Waves

Through August 23, 2026

Displayed in the King Gallery, From Sea to Shining Sea: Wildlife Above & Below the Waves celebrates the rich diversity of aquatic life across the continent—from freshwater rivers and wetlands to coastal shores and open seas.

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What People Are Saying
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"I have been to Europe multiple times—studied art in so many places—never saw anything so fantastic as this! Stunning and jaw-dropping, thank you!"
— Maggie A.
"Thank you for this glorious dedication to our "wild" life and human connection. Moving, emotional, and informative, with beauty within it all. "
— Lynne R.
"Architecturally stunning, thoughtful, interesting, educational, superb art and exhibits. A memorable experience. Thank you!"
— Susan B.
"I've never seen anything like this and I'm grateful to have stopped by. The extinct bird display nearly made me cry with the bird calls. Beautiful!!! "
— Marley S.
"This museum was so intimate and inspiring. As a former art teacher, the children's center made me want to have a classroom again!"
— Ellan M.
"Thank you for making this stop fun for my five kids. It kept them engaged, which allowed me to enjoy looking too!"
— Katie V.
"Super cool experience, I enjoyed the paintings and the thick paint textures! It made me feel like I was immersed in the natural environment!"
— Carmel G.
"BEST Museum I've ever been to! The hands on and special spaces for children were amazing and drew young people of all ages! Great job!"
— Judy G.