The Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary in McKinney, Texas, is excited to announce extended summer hours from June 1 to August 5, 2024. This initiative aims to provide visitors with more opportunities to explore the sanctuary during the cooler parts of the day, enhancing their experience and connection with nature. The new hours will allow early morning and late evening visits, creating a perfect setting for observing wildlife and enjoying the serene environment.
During these dates, our regular hours of operation will be as follows (see schedule exceptions):
- Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-4 p.m.*
- Saturdays 7:30 a.m.-8 p.m.*
- Sundays 1 p.m.-5 p.m.*
These cooler periods also coincide with peak activity times for many animals, offering a unique chance for visitors to witness wildlife that might otherwise be hidden during the heat of the day. Early risers might catch a glimpse of activities such as deer grazing and the symphony of birds during their morning routines, or even see nocturnal animals like owls returning to their nests. Evening visitors may experience the enchanting transition of day to night, with creatures like raccoons, armadillos, bats and more becoming active as the sun sets. Fireflies might light up the path intermittently, adding a magical touch to the nocturnal landscape.
The extended hours also mean more time to explore the sanctuary’s diverse habitats, which are home to a variety of species, including from mammals to an impressive array of birds. This makes it a fantastic spot for both avid nature enthusiasts and families looking to spend quality time outdoors. A list of bird species previously spotted at the Heard in June is available here: https://ebird.org/hotspot/L207868?yr=all&m=6.
Overall, the extended summer hours at the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary offer a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature in a more comfortable and immersive way. Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, these additional hours ensure that everyone can experience the sanctuary’s wildlife and natural beauty.
*Please note entry will not be granted less than an hour before closing time.
About Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary
Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary is a private 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing nature and people together to discover, enjoy, experience, restore and preserve our priceless environment. The Heard was founded in 1967 by Bessie Heard at the age of 80. In a time when the rate of expansion of the Metroplex was slower than today, she foresaw the need to preserve a place where future generations could experience nature. Today, the Heard’s mission of bringing nature and people together is carried out through education, which emphasizes an appreciation of nature and its conservation. For more information, visit HeardMuseum.org.