Our Collections
The NHMJ is home to thousands of specimens that document the biodiversity of Jamaica. Our collections include:
Plants and Herbarium
The Natural History Museum of Jamaica houses the largest botanical
collection in the English-speaking Caribbean, with over 130,000 specimens, including diverse
plants like ferns, mosses, and algae. The herbarium also features seeds, woods, and fruits,
documenting Jamaica's unique plant biodiversity.
Animals
A vast array of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects, documenting the
richness of Jamaican wildlife. The Zoology collection holds specimens of three extinct species:
the Jamaican Petrel, Jamaican Giant Galliwasp, and Jamaican Sunset Moth. These species, lost to
habitat destruction and other threats, serve as powerful symbols of the island’s extinct wildlife
and emphasize the importance of ongoing conservation efforts.
Fossils and Geology:
Geological specimens, including fossil records that give insight into
Jamaica’s ancient environments. These include a variety of rock types, minerals, and fossils,
which help tell the story of Jamaica’s geological history and the development of its unique
landscapes.
Science Library:
Our specialized Science Library houses a comprehensive collection of rare
books, scientific journals, illustrations, maps and other historical documents that provide
valuable insights into Jamaica’s natural history. With resources spanning botany, zoology, and
geology, the library serves as a critical research hub for scholars, students, and nature
enthusiasts alike.
plants like ferns, mosses, and algae. The herbarium also features seeds, woods, and fruits,
documenting Jamaica’s unique plant biodiversity.
Mason River and Green Hills Properties
Mason River
The Mason River Protected Area is a diverse ecological site featuring wetlands, grasslands, and a unique mix of flora and fauna, some of which are endemic to Jamaica. This area supports vital
conservation research and educational programs. The NHMJ actively engages the public here during events like World Wetlands Day, offering guided tours and displays to raise awareness of wetland ecosystems and their importance to biodiversity.
Green Hills
Green Hills, situated in the Blue and John Crow Mountains, is renowned for its rich biodiversity and lush montane forest. This area serves as a living laboratory for researchers and a vital sanctuary for numerous plant and animal species, including rare and endangered species. The
NHMJ oversees conservation initiatives and works to protect this habitat from threats such as deforestation and climate change, ensuring the preservation of Jamaica's natural heritage for future generations.
Why It Matters
Jamaica’s ecosystems are some of the most diverse in the Caribbean, housing species that are found
nowhere else on Earth. By safeguarding these treasures, we contribute to global biodiversity conservation efforts and protect the island’s environmental health. Our work supports national conservation strategies and helps raise awareness of the critical issues surrounding climate change, deforestation, and biodiversity loss.
Plan Your Visit
The Natural History Museum of Jamaica is open to the public year-round. Whether you’ re a researcher, student, or nature enthusiast, our museum offers something for everyone. Come explore Jamaica’s incredible natural history and discover how we can all play a part in conserving our planet’s biodiversity.