Staff

Jenn Moore believes EUREKA! is an intersection of math, science, and art—bringing students and the community together for exhibitions, hands-on activities, and classroom learning. Moore hopes to make EUREKA! a magnet for creativity, critical thinking, and lifelong learning. She hopes to redefine the way people think about, learn about, and interact with science and technology by making science fun for everyone.

Moore comes to EUREKA! from the Timberline Field Institute at Colorado Mountain College in Leadville where she taught courses in Natural Resource Management. Having always had a passion for science and teaching, she developed new programs, wrote grants for student driven research, and managed an internship program for students to have hands-on work experience. Previous to her work at the college she was a research hydrologist for the US Geological Survey in Grand Junction. Her educational background is in Biological Systems Engineering from Virginia Tech and Environmental Engineering from Colorado State University.

In her free time Moore enjoys mountain biking, gardening, reading books, and traveling the world with her husband Jesse and their children.

Christina joined EUREKA! in 2018. She is originally from the Philadelphia area, and earned a bachelor’s degree in Geology from Bryn Mawr College. After graduating, she moved to New York City and earned a MAT and teaching certification in Earth Science from The American Museum of Natural History.

Following graduate school, Christina taught middle and high school science in New York City. In the summer of 2017, she journeyed across the Atlantic to work at The American School of Tangier in Morocco, where she taught middle school science and coached elementary science. In 2023, Christina completed her M.Ed in Teaching and Leadership from Colorado Mesa University.

Christina enjoys living in Grand Junction and being a part of the EUREKA! team, where she hopes to continue growing the educational programs. In her free time she likes hiking, reading, running, cooking, and traveling with her husband, Kishan.

Deanna grew up in Mesa, Colorado and has spent most of her life on the Western Slope. She earned BA in Sociology with a minor in Gender Studies from Colorado Mesa University, and holds a certificate in Early Childhood Education. Deanna is currently working on her Masters of Science in Organizational Leadership through Mercyhurst University. She served three years in administrative roles at Colorado Mesa University, interning in the Admissions Office and as the Engagement for Coordinator with TRIO Student Support Services. After a year serving as the Youth Programs Manager for EUREKA!, Deanna moved into the Operations Director role in Summer 2023.

In her spare time, you can find her mountain biking, hiking, fishing, camping, reading or doing yoga. She is so thrilled to be part of the EUREKA! team, and instill a love of science and education in the local community.

Briana (aka “B”) joined the EUREKA! team in 2018. She is motivated by EUREKA!'s mission to inspire a passion and respect for math and science in our communities. B considers it an honor to be involved in EUREKA!'s programs from leading Pre-K family programs to travelling with active adults over 55 and working with volunteers to maintain exhibits.

Prior to joining EUREKA!, Briana taught outdoor education in Montana and at Colorado National Monument. She also taught 9th and 10th grade science at Juniper Ridge Community School in Grand Junction.

B loves to spend time outside, exploring with her husband, Paul and kids, Wren and Fisher.

My name is Vonnie Davis and I have graduated in 2011 from CMU with a degree in sociology. I have many years of experience working with kids and enjoy the different experiences each child brings. In my down time I love reading, going to the movies, traveling, and spending time with my family and friends. I am happy to be a part of the EUREKA! staff and getting the chance to meet new people.

Shannon is excited to join the EUREKA! team in May of 2020! She completed her BA in Liberal Arts with an Elementary Education License from Colorado Mesa University. Prior to her work with Eureka!, Shannon taught kindergarten and first grade for 5 years in District 51. She is excited to continue cultivating curiosity and expanding the minds of children through the education programs at Eureka! She is originally from Denver, but has fallen in love with the Western Slope. In her free time, Shannon enjoys hiking, backpacking, running, and exploring our beautiful state with her husband, Drew, and her sons, Charlie, and Brooks.

Erika is thrilled to be part of the stellar team at EUREKA! She believes strongly in the power of outdoor education, hands-on learning, and the natural sciences — and the Environmental Institute at EUREKA! is the intersection of all three! Erika approaches nature as an observer and with a sense of curiosity, she is excited to introduce students to this way of exploring. She is especially passionate about ecology, biodiversity, and symbiotic relationships in nature. 

In her free time you can find Erika exploring the quieter nooks & crannies of our state with her husband and dog; mountain biking, backcountry skiing, rock climbing, or backpacking. For Erika, the joy of outdoor pursuits lies in their ability to take you to new spaces. In recent years, Erika’s favorite way of exploring has been bikepacking; she has ridden some obscure routes as well as some more well-known routes such as the Kokopelli Trail, the Colorado Trail, and the White Rim. If you run into Erika on local trails, she’d love to stop and chat.

Kristen was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona but has called Grand Junction home since 2018. She studied Biology with a concentration in Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology. Kristen loves being a part of EUREKA’s Environmental Institute because it combines her love for the outdoors with her passion for science. She believes there is nothing more empowering than teaching students how to recreate responsibly, while simultaneously showing them they can accomplish things they never thought possible and instilling a sense of curiosity for the environment around them. As an avid cyclist who has been a coach for Grand Valley Youth Cycling for several years, Kristen especially loves bringing her experience to EUREKA’s mountain bike programming. In her free time she enjoys biking, running, climbing, and most other forms of recreating outdoors. When at home she prefers to read a good book and snuggle up with her cat Momo.

Kelsey is overjoyed to be part of the Eureka! team, engaging in science education in the outdoors! She is a recent arrival to Grand Junction from Salt Lake City, where she was using her masters degree in bilingual education to teach dual immersion first grade. She has spent many years teaching all age groups in a variety of beautiful places including Oregon, Utah, Chile, Peru, Bolivia, and the Dominican Republic. The Environmental Institute combines her passion for sparking children's natural curiosity with her love of the mountains and the desert.  She spends her free time skiing, biking, painting, and exploring with an ever-increasing community of wonderful people and dogs.

Trigg Skoe supports the Environmental Institution at EUREKA! as a part-time instructor. Trigg grew up in Montrose, Colorado and graduated from Colorado State University with a bachelor's degree in Geology Education. For the past 4 years he has been a science teacher in the Grand Valley and Montrose area. He is an experienced outdoor enthusiast that enjoys mountain biking, fly fishing, whitewater rafting/kayaking, and anything else outside. He can be found in the desert much of the year traveling in his campervan with his wife and two dogs. Trigg is a great supporter of stewardship and STEAM education in the outdoors.

Kelsey is excited to join the EUREKA! team and brings with her 20 years of professional experience working with culturally diverse children, families and educators in education and mental health settings, in a variety of roles: teacher, counselor, coach, and director.  She is passionate about cultivating a lifelong love of learning in our youngest citizens and honoring and appreciating the adults that care for and guide them!

She holds a bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Studies and a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology, with specialized training and certifications in Early Childhood Education. When she is not reading early childhood and leadership literature, she’s enjoying nature, camping, hiking, and riding bikes with her husband and daughter or hanging out with her “indoor-sy” rescue dog.

Gilberto G. Ramírez Macías joined EUREKA! in 2021 as the AmiGOs Coordinator. He is originally from Aguascalientes, México. 

Gilberto earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish Literature and Language with a Minor in Mass Communication from Colorado Mesa University. After graduating he started working for School District 51/Migrant Education Program as Outreach specialist. Gilberto has been working for Suehiro Japanese Restaurant since August 2005-now. 

He worked as bilingual teller/personal banker for Wells Fargo Clifton branch from March 2018-May 2021.

He participated as board member of the Western Colorado Latino Chamber of Commerce from January 2020 - September 2021.

He was certified as VIA trainer from John Hanley’s Transformational coaching academy in Los Ángeles, CA on 2016.

He was certified as transformational coach from the ATC Academia de Transformación Contemporánea in México July 2019.

He is the founder- director of Via Vitae LLC, Transformational coaching academy established on February 2020 and that serves the Latino community on the Western Colorado.

Hello! My name is Joely Anysz, and I am originally from Upstate New York and Northern Colorado. I graduated from Colorado Mesa University in 2021 with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science with an emphasis in ecosystem management. While at CMU I grew fascinated with local sagebrush ecosystems and the Gunnison sage grouse. I enjoy learning about the soil beneath our feet and the many different aspects that join to create the ecosystem that surrounds us every day! I am so excited to be able to introduce so many students to the wonderful interdisciplinary world of STEAM! In my free time I can be found cycling, painting, and hanging out with my two one-eyed tuxedo cats, Captain and Chewie. 

Born in Albuquerque, NM and raised in Grand Junction, Pete is a child of the west. His love of the outdoors and especially the waters that flow through the valleys of Colorado’s Western Slope started at an early age and has only grown over the years. As a professional fly fishing guide, his approach is “safety first, then fun, then fish” and his 25 years in the aquatic safety industry are a testament to those priorities. A conservationist and nature lover, he is fiercely committed to the protection of natural resources and the finned, feathered, and furry creatures that inhabit them. Pete is also a sous chef and loves to feed people as well as teach them to feed themselves. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in English Literature from Mesa State College (CMU).

My name is Elise Barnes. I am a senior at CMU getting my degree in Nursing and a minor in Business Administration. I am also an active member in one of the sororities on campus, Alpha Sigma Alpha. When I am not at Eureka it is usually because there is a birthday party happening!!!! When I'm not busy with school or work, I love to bake, cook, paint, watch movies or hangout with my cat, Willow!

Bella holds a bachelors in elementary education from UNC Greeley. She is the Site Supervisor at Mesa View Elementary, and also tutors 3rd-5th grade math.

My name is David Hamaker, and I am from Denver, Colorado. I have a Bachelor of Music education from the University of Northern Colorado and taught music in public schools for 8 years. Now I am in my senior year of a Bachelor’s in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Colorado through the CMU partnership program. I am so excited to be an instructor at EUREKA! In my free time, I love cooking, coding, crafting, gaming, hiking, paddle boarding and making music with my family.

Hi! My name is Adam Henry and I am majoring in K-12 Art Education with an emphasis on Secondary Education at CMU. I love art and  how it helps to stay creative, invent,  and look at the world from other's perspectives. I have always enjoyed teaching and I'm excited to be at EUREKA! In my free time, I enjoy creating art, playing guitar, board sports, reading and hockey. I look forward to sharing my passion for art and learning to students!

Nichole is excited to join the EUREKA! team in 2023.  She has a passion for science, hands-on learning, going outdoors, and never misses an opportunity to give a science lesson.  She graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a degree in Earth Science and Secondary Education.  She taught high school science in the Detroit area for six years and taught every type of science class – Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Earth Science, Astronomy, and GED Math & Science Prep.  In 2014, Nichole and her family moved to the Denver area to live a more adventurous life in the mountains.  In 2023, she and her husband moved to Grand Junction to live a simpler life, ride bikes, and explore the Western Slope.  In her free time, she is riding or racing her bike, hiking, or trying out a new recipe.  She also has two cats –  her "mitten kitten" Jasmine (who is polydactyl) and Izzy.

Tori was born and raised in Superior, Wisconsin and has spent the last six years learning hands on how to farm! She became passionate about all things food including growing methods and overall access to healthy produce while working at a non-profit farm in Texas. Tori volunteered with AmeriCorps for two years in the Grand Valley and is now working to expand Eureka's Dig In! program. Tori is passionate about getting kids outside and connecting people to their food and where it comes from.

Callie grew up in Grand Junction, and was always interested in music and the sciences. They went on to attain a Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry from Oakland University before returning to give back to their home. Now, they love to inspire students about science, and spend their free time writing, painting, and developing community!

Hello my name is Michelle McAnany and I am the Supplies Manager.  I have a degree in Fashion Merchandising and believe it or not that helps with this job.  I love to be outdoors doing biking, skiing, walking the dog and gardening with my friends or family.  I am excited to work with so many fun people and help support the teachers and students learn new things.

My name is Hanna Mueller and I am so excited to be a part of the EUREKA! team! I have spent the past 2 school years serving as a literacy tutor through AmeriCorps. Last December I received my Technical Teachers Certificate through CMU. My passion has always been working with children and I love that I get to follow that passion. In my spare time I enjoy reading, paddleboarding, camping, and spending time with my husband, our 3 dogs and 2 horses.

Coming Soon!

Hi! My name is Demi and I am a Colorado Mesa University Graduate. I graduated with a degree in Liberal Arts: Education. I have been volunteering and working with kids since I was 14. I am passionate about teaching children about the Colorado environment and the importance of STEAM (although they will often teach me new things too!). When I am not working you can find me on the monument, book shopping, or singing in my car. My Eureka! journey has been beautiful and I can't wait to see where it takes me.

Lizards, and geckos, and snakes, oh my! Austin is a fan of anything scaly, and loves to spend time with all sorts of reptiles and amphibians. Austin currently helps care for the live exhibits here at the museum in addition to a collection of his own at home including a corn snake, tiger salamander, sonoran desert toad, ball python, boa imperator, russian tortoise, two kenyan sand boas, and a small fish tank! He also likes to cruise around the valley on his motorcycle, spend time outside hiking and slacklining, and enjoy the company of friends for some board games. Austin is currently expanding on his B.S. in Biological Sciences by going to CMU for a certificate in Data Science.

I'm a student with Colorado Mountain College getting an Associate of Arts! I was born in California but have grown up here in Grand Junction Colorado. I'm a firm believer that knowledge is power and am passionate about education. I love being outdoors rafting, hiking, camping. Being outside fuels my creativity! I love all forms of art and creative expression. 

Natalie supports the Environmental Institute at EUREKA! as an Instructor. She holds a Bachelors of Science in Outdoor Recreational Studies. Natalie primary focus is working with the Environmental Institute outdoor programs, but will be seen occasionally in STEAM camps and tutoring in District 51. Some of Natalie's favorites moments are spent outdoors hiking, biking, skiing, and climbing in the Grand Valley!

Hello!  My name is Christine Wright, and I am so excited to join the Eureka! McConnell Science Museum staff in 2023 as a Steam Instructor, Math tutor, and after-school site supervisor.  I come from the sunny state of Florida, where I graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education.  I also completed post-baccalaureate classes in Visual Arts from the University of South Florida and Eckerd College, focusing on Ceramics and Drawing.  I worked in the Hillsborough County school system as a Middle School Art teacher and for the non-profit organization Prodigy Cultural Arts Program, teaching students 7-17 self-esteem and empowerment skills through Visual Arts, Performing Arts, and educational tutoring.  Before becoming an education major and Art teacher, I was a microbiology major, so I love science!  Whenever I created Art lessons, I would discuss the scientific, engineering, or mathematical processes occurring in creating art.  I am happy that here at Eureka, I can combine my loves of science, art, and educating children!  In my free time, I love to draw and make pottery on my wheel at home.  I also love to go hiking and biking in the glorious mountains around Grand Junction with my husband, Rob, and my son, Max.

My name is Joy Davis and I am thrilled to be celebrating my 20th year as a Pre-K teacher! I am a Grand Junction native and I am very close to my family. My mother, Kathy, and my father, Don, love to be Grandma Kathy and Grandpa Don in the classroom. I hope you meet them this year! My older brother, Craig, lives in Hawaii and I love to go visit him whenever I can! I own a home with my best friend, Tom, and we have two babies - our dogs, Olaf and Ditch. When I am not in the classroom, I love to play with my dogs, ride my bike, go camping, watch movies, and read lots of books! I feel extremely privileged to be a part of your child's entry into the education journey! I believe that as Pre-K teachers, we have a very unique opportunity to make a lasting impression in the lives of our students. We are blessed with the chance to foster not only a love of learning, but also a love of living, with our children! We are so pleased that you have decided to become a part of our Nest family! Welcome to our classroom and to our year of educational adventure!

My name is Quinn and I am originally from Aurora, Colorado but have lived in Grand Junction for the last 5 years with my husband and my pets. I enjoy cooking, playing video games, caring for my plants, and collecting antiques! I am finishing up my degree in Early Childhood Education at CMU Tech and currently hold other certifications in the field.  

I am very excited to get to know your kiddo and share a love for learning and working together. I believe that building a strong foundation for education and a positive self image will follow young children into all areas of their lives, and help them to make the world a better place in the future!

My name is Rosa. I’m a native Californian but I love Colorado.  My husband and I have lived in Grand Junction for over 30 years and I couldn’t think of a better place to raise my twin boys. Recently I retired from my teacher position at School District #51.  I love crafting, sewing and hanging out with my family.

Alida supports the Amigos Mobile Spanish Preschool and Nest Preschool! She is an excellent bilingual educator and cares about student safety and engagement.

Mayra joined EUREKA! In 2024 as a bilingual educator, she was born in Jalisco, Mexico but grew up in the beautiful Rocky Mountains.

Mayra received her BA in Social and Behavioral Sciences from Colorado Mesa University. After graduating, Mayra pursued a career as a legal assistant at a respected law firm in Grand Junction. She truly enjoyed working with clients and helping them with their legal needs. However, after the birth of her first child, Mayra made the decision to become a stay-at-home mother to focus on raising her family.

During her time at home, Mayra discovered a passion for event planning and co-founded Sip Nics, a luxury pop-up picnic business focused on creating beautiful setups and memorable experiences.

Mayra also serves as Vice-President for Blissful Hearts, a local non-profit organization that helps children in need with school supplies, clothing, food and toys.

Mayra’s desire to work with children stems from her belief that every child has the right to grow up in a world where they feel secure, valued, and inspired to aim high.

In her free time Mayra enjoys spending time with her family, reading and crafting

Hello! My name is Kathryn and I am really happy to be a part of the Eureka! team. I was born in Florida, but I have lived in many parts of the United States. I also have spent the past few years working and living in southern Spain. I earned my Associates of Arts with a concentration in Spanish at Front Range Community College, and I am currently an Elementary Education Major with a concentration in Social Sciences at CMU. I assisted classes that were part of the Erasmus+ Green School program in Europe, and I am an advocate for environmental science and sustainability. In my spare time I love painting, writing and spending time outdoors.

Hi! My name is Gabi Azar and I am a Colorado native, current CMU student! I am an Elementary Education Major with an emphasis in Math, as well as a Minor in Spanish. I hope to continue working towards being bilingual so that I can get to know more people and cultures. I have always found such joy and importance in learning, and I hope to continually find ways to make STEAM-based learning fun and enjoyable for kids so that our upcoming generation has a budding curiosity! When I'm not in class or working I love to spend time with my friends doing something outdoors in the sunshine, on campus participating in different club events, or even just having a group movie night!

My name is Nadine and I moved to Grand Junction in 2022 because I love the desert and mountain biking! I have a degree in Philosophy and Women Studies from Loyola University and I am a former Elementary and Middle School Math teacher. Being a math tutor combines my love of math and working with young humans. I am passionate about building understanding in those who are challenged by learning math. I hope to impart its usefulness as well as a clarity of its purpose. Math ROCKS! When I am not tutoring you can find me on my bike with my family or coaching for The Cycle Effect, or maybe baking, creating Art or reading.

Hello! My name is Kennedy and I am from Broomfield, Colorado. I am a junior at CMU studying elementary education with an emphasis in English. In my free time, I love to be outside, doing things like rock climbing, hiking, paddle boarding, and running! I love teaching and helping kids develop a passion for learning, so I am very excited to be here at Eureka!

Parker is studying psychology at Colorado Mesa University, and helps with STEAM Camps, After School programming, birthday parties, and co-leads the supply team at EUREKA!

Coming Soon!

Hi! My name is Reagan Foss and I am a student at Colorado Mesa University! I am an Elementary Education major with an emphasis in Math. I am originally from Rome, Georgia but I moved to Colorado in high school and have loved being here since! I have always had a passion for learning and think it is so important that kids can pursue their passions and learn through exploration! When I'm not at school or work I love to read, go on walks, and hang out with my friends for movie/TV nights!

My name is Aimee Groth and one of my passions is spreading excitement for learning. Originally from Denver, I moved to the Western Slope in 2018. I am a CU Denver Graduate with a Fine Arts degree. Since I moved to the Western Slope, I have been working in academics with students of all ages. I enjoy being part of the learning process - watching students overcome challenges and build on their knowledge is rewarding. With EUREKA! I have the opportunity to be part of a unique learning environment and look forward to working with many more young people.

Roberto is a part-time math tutor, from Mexico City. Transferred CMU to pursue a bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering through the CU Boulder partnership program. He has past experience from a bachelors physics program and enjoys spreading curiosity and fun in both mathematics and science for children. He is excited to be able to provide help in EUREEKA's hands-on projects and exhibits. Outside of the classroom, you can find him at the Community Hospital Unity Field playing soccer for the CMU Mavericks.

Hello! My name is Bryan Hillman, I’m a freshman at CMU majoring in Secondary Education: History. I’m a huge fan of history, and history interconnects with science in so many ways. In my free time, I enjoy playing video games, writing, and playing tabletop board/card games. I’m excited to help out, and learn skills through EUREKA!

Coming Soon!

Hello! My name is Andrew Jordan and I am one of the critter care specialists at EUREKA! I am currently pursuing a biology degree at CMU. I hope to work with animals as my future career which is why I love my job. I get to continually learn how to care for different types of animals which I can use in the future. In my spare time I can be found watching/playing sports, practicing guitar, or hanging out with my friends and family.

Coming Soon!

Lauren is a recent high school graduate, studying Environmental Sciences at Colorado Mesa University. Lauren helps with After School programs, math tutoring, and STEAM Camps.

My name is Brittani Peters and I am very excited to work with Eureka! I am a born and raised native of the Grand Valley. I graduated from Palisade High School in 2015. Since then I have studied K-12 Music Education at CMU and have worked various tutoring jobs in D51. My dream job would be to be an elementary music teacher, but I am happy to work with kids in any capacity. It is my main goal in life to become a positive, trusting adult with any kiddo I work with.  In my spare time, I enjoy playing flute, reading, cross-stitching, and playing video games. My husband and I do have some wonderful fur babies. We have Zeus and Loki who are cats, and we recently adopted a blue heeler/border collie puppy who we call Bjorn. 

Hi! My name is Katie Ray and I am currently a student at Colorado Mesa University. I am studying elementary education with an emphasis in English! I have always loved teaching and I have a strong passion to inspire a love for learning in kids, and I believe STEAM education is super beneficial for everyone. When I'm not at school or work, you'll find me hiking, camping, skiing, or reading a book. I am so excited to begin my adventure at EUREKA!

Jenny is a rare Grand Junction native who has spent some brief time living in other cities and countries. Eventually moving back home to settle in and start her family. She graduated from CMU with a BS in Biology, minoring in Mathematics. Jenny returned several years later to earn her Secondary Education Degree. She taught middle school math and science for several years before taking the time off to stay at home to raise her 4 daughters.

Jenny is excited to be part of the Eureka! Tutoring team and work with kiddos to grow their academic knowledge.

When there’s free time, Jenny can be found on a golf course, playing with her basset hounds, or watching her youngest daughter cheer at games and competitions. 

Anja grew up on the Front Range but came out to Grand Junction for college, where she's stayed ever since. She has two Bachelor's degrees in geology and a minor in GIS. She loves animals, rocks, the outdoors, and taking care of too many plants to count! In her free time, she likes to play board games, slackline, paddleboard, and spend time with friends. 

Make sure to say hi if you see her taking care of critters around Eureka!

Emilie transferred from Colorado Springs to CMU to pursue a degree in computer engineering. She has worked in child education since 2019 and enjoys sharing her enthusiasm for math and science with the kids she works with. When not in the classroom she enjoys mountain biking,

hiking, and rock climbing.

Coming Soon!

Born and raised near Tulsa Oklahoma, Logan moved to Grand Junction to attend CMU, earn a bachelor's degree in Visual Design, swim on the varsity team, and explore the western desert canyons. 

As a lifelong birder, Logan has accrued various methods of outdoor modes of transport in order to find birds and their most pristine habitats. Of these are backcountry skiing, canyoneering, backpacking, kayaking, and mountain biking; optimally in a logistically complicated combination of more than one in a single trip. 

He looks forward to sharing a closer look at our natural world and all of its subtle complexity with the Environmental Institute students.

Hello! My name is Monty, and I am EUREKA!'s oldest museum resident, living at the museum for more than 12 years. Ball Pythons like me are naturally from Sub Saharan Africa, but are commonly kept as pets around the world due to our hardy nature, moderate size, and easy going temperament. As a member of the Pythonidae family, I don't have venom or even fangs! Instead I just have a row of small, sharp teeth on either side of my mouth. My favorite places to hang out are inside my flower pot where it's dark and humid, or on top of my basking rock where I can soak up the rays.

Hi, I'm Rosie, and I've lived at the museum for about 10 years now. Based on my species name below, can you guess where I'm from? That's right, Chile! There are lots of different species of tarantulas that can be found all over the world, but we all have one thing in common: we aren't true spiders. That is, we belong to the Theraphosidae family as opposed to the Araneae family of true spiders. Tarantulas are much larger and have more hair than true spiders in addition to parallel, downward facing fangs. I do have venom, but it's not very effective on humans so I only use it on crickets. As a defense mechanism I can flick the special urticating hairs off my abdomen to irritate predators. Since I live a comfy life at the museum, I haven't had to do that in years. Instead I spend my time exploring the forest floor of my enclosure or hiding underneath my favorite coconut.

Greetings from the ocean! I'm Herman, and I am from the coastal waters of the southeastern United States. I have lived at the museum for 6 years now. Since I am a saltwater species of hermit crab, I'll live my life entirely underwater instead of coming out on land like my freshwater hermit crab cousins. As an arthropod, I have a hard exoskeleton, meaning my skeleton is on the outside of my body instead of the inside. That means in order to grow bigger I have to do what's called molting where I will shed my exoskeleton every three months or so and a new one will harden in its place. My favorite food is shrimp, so I like to use my strong claws to dig through the sand and find shrimp to eat!

Nessie here, your favorite bearded dragon friend! I am native to the hot deserts of Central Australia, but I've lived here at the museum for the past 5 years. I get my name from my "beard" which is actually a spine covered pouch underneath my chin that I use to communicate. If I puff up my beard and it turns a dark black color, it means I'm irritated and want to be left alone. Typically though, my beard looks normal and lays flat against my chin. Even though I'm from the desert I like to take a warm bath every single day to stay clean and healthy. My favorite food is a hearty salad filled with flowers and veggies, but I also like to snack on the occasional cricket or cockroach. I love laying underneath my heat lamp to soak up the sun, but if I'm lucky I get to run around the museum!

Hi, I'm BoBo! Boreal Toads like me are really cool because we're actually native to right here in Western Colorado! Although you likely won't see us in your backyard since we like to be higher up in the mountains where it's a little cooler. Boreal Toads are actually an endangered species due to the chytrid fungus which inhibits our ability to breathe and absorb water through our skin. Don't worry though, I've been tested and I'm fungus free! Before I came to the museum, I was part of a conservation team here in Grand Junction trying to release healthy individuals into the wild. I didn't go out into the wild with the rest of my mates because I have a small spinal deformity affecting the way I hop around. It's okay though because I get to be here educating you all about my species! Plus I have a very comfy enclosure that has everything I need in it. Even though I can't aim very well, worms are my favorite treats when I can catch them!

I'm Yoshi, EUREKA!'s newest addition to the animal family, living here since July. I'm barely 1 year old right now, so I'm still growing! I'm a specific kind of lizard called a Panther Chameleon, and we come from the island of Madagascar. I have an impressive tongue that I use to catch insects from afar. There's actually a bone inside of my tongue called the hyoid bone that I squeeze really hard to launch my tongue up to two feet away! I also have zygodactylous feet, meaning my first two toes are fused and point forwards while my other three toes are fused and point backwards. Having toes like that helps me climb branches which is where I love to be! I even fall asleep every night while holding on to a branch! It's safer up there than it is on the ground. It's pretty hard to sneak up on me because my eyes move independently of each other and I can look in two different directions at once, spanning almost 360 degrees! I do change color, but I usually change color to express my mood instead of to blend in to my surroundings. Look for me climbing around in the tree branches when you come to the museum!