The Sternberg Museum is dedicated to educating the public about earth and life sciences. Through the use of our collections, we advance and cultivate an understanding of the earth and the natural forces that affect it. Not only does the Museum maintain and house a diverse collection, ranging from geology, paleontology, botany, and zoology; but provide a hands-on learning experience for Fort Hays State University students, accommodate researchers so they can advance the sciences, and offer unique opportunities to the community that wouldnt be here otherwise.

In January 2022, we received word that there was a large boa that needed a new home or face extermination because of its size. We accepted her happily, knowing she would be well cared for and a great addition to our animal family. She is a red-tailed boa that we named Athena. With such short notice of her needing a home, Athena is currently in a large temporary cage while we work on building her a larger cage where she can be seen by visitors. She is about 8 ft. long and 26 lbs. and very friendly. We want to give her the best enclosure we can. She will need lots of fake plants to mimic her natural habitat, plenty of branches to climb on, and a large water bowl she can soak in. Since these snakes are originally from hot and humid environments, she will need special lighting and substrate. Once on display, she will act as an amazing ambassador for her wild relatives and be fascinating for visitors to see.

Please Note: A processing fee will be deducted from your gift when using a credit/debit card. If considering a gift of $1,000 or more, please contact Ricardo Zamora at the FHSU Foundation to determine the best way to give at r_zamora@fhsu.edu or 785.628.5070.