The largest part of the invertebrate collection is mollusc shells. It also includes corals, sponges, crustaceans and echinoderms. These are mostly dried, with some preserved in fluid.

Includes:

  • Land and freshwater shells, mostly British with a strong regional focus
  • Marine shells, more international in origin with specimens from many of the world’s seas and oceans
  • British land and freshwater molluscs collection, with many valuable records of historical snail distribution.

Please be aware that objects from our collections are not always on public display. 
If you are hoping to view a specific object or collection, please check the ‘Highlights' or 'What to See’ pages on our venue websites for current display information for that venue. Alternatively, feel free to contact us before your visit.