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A historic zoology collection at the University of Reading

Discover the Animal Kingdom

Explore over a century of specimens revealing the evolution, diversity and wonder of animal life.

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Founded in 1906 by Professor Francis Cole, the Cole Museum of Zoology is owned and managed by the University of Reading. Our thousands of specimens – from skeletons and taxidermy to fossils and historic models – offer a unique snapshot of early 20th-century animal diversity.

About the Museum

Free entry

Health and Life Sciences building, Whiteknights Campus, Reading RG6 6EX
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Opening hours

Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm
Closed weekends, Bank Holidays, and University closure days.
Full opening hours

Cole Museum Highlights

Introducing some of our flagship specimens who you must meet when you come to visit us!

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Virtual Museum

We are building a virtual Cole Museum to give you an advance look at our displays before your visit. Explore the diversity of animal life from home!

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Collections

Explore a unique collection of animal specimens, including skeletons, taxidermy, fossils and detailed anatomical models.

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Self-guided Tours

Enhance your visit with our self-guided activity sheets – designed for adults leading small groups of children. Download and print before you come, and remember to bring stationery.

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Latest from the Blog

Published Date
May 7, 2024

New species discoveries in the School of Biological Sciences

Our planet is facing a biodiversity crisis, making the work we do in the University of Reading to combat habitat…

Published Date
August 19, 2022

World Photography Day – August 19th

August 19th is World Photography Day, so what better time to feature some beautifully manipulated images of some of our…

Published Date
January 31, 2022

How do you move a museum?

With 3000+ specimens including taxidermy, skeletons, fossils, and models, not to mention the extensive fluid collection with preserving agents which…

Published Date
July 6, 2021

What is wrong with our Echidnas?

Published Date
June 22, 2021

We brought our electric ray specimens into the lab… what happened next will shock you!

By Claire Smith, Project Officer at the Cole Museum of Zoology If you’ve been following the Cole Museum of Zoology…

Published Date
November 4, 2020

The Joy Of Jars – Make your own!

Watch our video on how to make your own fluid specimen – suitable for children and adults alike! The documentation…

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