Exhibition spotlights endangered wildlife species

An exhibition spotlighting China’s endangered wildlife has opened at the Shenzhen Science & Technology Museum in Guangming District, quickly emerging as a new attraction in town.

Jointly organized by the National Zoological Museum of China and the Shenzhen Science & Technology Museum, the showcase features more than 200 rare animal specimens. Blending cutting-edge technology with interactive design, the exhibition creates an immersive experience tailored to families seeking both leisure and educational activities.

The exhibition is part of the museum’s first anniversary celebrations and represents an effort to integrate science popularization with cultural tourism. 

Wang Yuheng speaks during the roundtable session. Photos courtesy of the organizers

Leading figures from the scientific and creative communities attended the opening ceremony, including Zhang Jinshuo, curator of the National Zoological Museum of China; Zheng Yongchun, director of the Shenzhen Science & Technology Museum; and designer and influencer Wang Yuheng.

Zheng emphasized that the exhibition aims to raise awareness of ecological conservation. “Animals are friends of humanity, and we share the same planet,” he said, calling for a mindset of equality among all living beings. 

A roundtable discussion.

To engage visitors, the exhibition incorporates interactive features such as sound-based installations, species identification challenges, and simulated natural habitats. These elements bring static specimens to life and help visitors to better understand biodiversity and the environmental challenges many species face due to human activity.

Centered on the theme “Allies of the Panda,” the exhibition brings together iconic species that share habitats with the giant panda. This marks the first time such species have been displayed collectively, forming what Zhang Jinshuo described as a “group debut of national treasures.” Zhang noted that the exhibition is not only pleasing to look at but also showcases China’s unique biodiversity, with species found nowhere else in the world.

Wang Yuheng stressed that modern science education should go beyond showcasing individual species, but encourage the public to understand broader ecosystems and develop a curiosity about life. “The purpose of science education and exhibitions is to help children retain their curiosity and care about the seemingly insignificant things around them,” he said.

A roundtable discussion was also held, focusing on combining science education with cultural tourism. Speakers highlighted the growing popularity of immersive science exhibitions, which energize the holiday economy.

The exhibition will run through Nov. 1.