Collections Access

Current Operating Status

Due to a lapse in federal government funding, NMNH has implemented a temporary shipping moratorium on the return of all loaned specimens. The moratorium will be in place until further notice, please do not return/ship any specimens. We will notify loan recipients when the shipping moratorium has ended and provide further instructions at that time. 

Access to the Paleobiology collections, through loans or in-person visits, is available on a case-by-case basis. Please note that due to limited staff availability and a high volume of requests, we may not be able to accommodate your request, or it may be postponed to a later date. Our Collections Management team will review and work with you directly about specific details and expected timeline. We appreciate your patience and flexibility as we navigate this transitionary period. 

We are sincerely grateful for your interest in the Paleobiology collections. Please continue to check our site for updates to provided collections services. If you have any questions, please email Paleodept@si.edu. 

Vertebrate Paleontology Collections Status Updates 

Access requests or inquiries regarding the vertebrate fossil collections are assessed on a case-by-case basis. Due to significant staff shortages and a high volume of requests, we may not be able to accommodate your request in its entirety or there may be substantial delays in responding to your request. Review of any visit request may take 3-4 weeks, so please submit all requests at least 60 days prior to visiting. We will review your visit request as soon as we are able and determine if your dates are feasible given staff availability. 

Additionally, processing times for requests including but not limited to general data inquiries, digital media (2D or 3D), cataloging/catalog numbers, or loans may take several months depending on the scope and complexity of your request. 

The vertebrate paleontology collections team will review and work with you directly on specific details and expected timelines for your request. We appreciate your patience and flexibility as we balance the volume of requests and collections work amongst our staff.  

Last Updated: August 2025