Meet the Team: Living Exhibits

What Does the Horticulture Group Do?

Our horticulture team is responsible for the lush greenery and vibrant plant life that transform our space into an oasis. The horticulture specialists cultivate and care for a diverse range of flora. They care for the Pollinator Path, gardens around our Courtyard ponds, create scouting guides for the Tropical Butterfly House, and more! 

They monitor soil health, light conditions, and watering schedules, ensuring that each plant thrives in its environment. This careful stewardship not only enhances the look of our exhibits but also creates a welcoming habitat for our animal residents. 

What Does the Animal Care Group Do? 

In addition to plant care, the team also manages the daily care and welfare of our animals.  

What animals do they care for at PacSci? That is a great question! This team cares for our butterflies, fruit flies, Salt Water Tide Pool tank, and other behind the scenes animals.  

The team members are dedicated to providing the best possible care for our diverse animal collection. They are often seen feeding and maintaining habitats to monitor health and behavior. Their expertise ensures that these creatures live in environments that closely mimic their natural habitats.  

Rachel N. (she/her), Animal Care Supervisor

Rachel has always been fascinated by animals, starting with her childhood visits to see Komodo dragons. She loves working with various species, including two snakes and her favorite, Crab-agail, a helmet crab in the Tide Pool.  

Rachel is currently working on projects like introducing high-powered microscopes to study butterfly wings and tracking sea anemones’ life cycles. She enjoys exploring Seattle’s green spaces, painting, and thrifting. Rachel finds joy in caring for the animals and educating the public about their needs and conservation. 

Hannah H. (she/her), Horticulture Manager

Hannah has a lifelong passion for plants and the outdoors. She manages PacSci’s plant life, including her favorite, the rare Japanese Umbrella Pine.  

Hannah has worked to optimize the growing environment of the Tropical Butterfly House by installing two industrial fans for air flow, helping to implement a mist system for adequate humidity and sourcing a new irrigation system for efficient watering. 

Hannah enjoys the ever-changing nature of horticulture and learning about butterflies and animals. In her free time, she loves camping, cooking, reading, and hiking. She finds working with plants creative and exciting!

Mackenna J. (she/her), Living Exhibits Technician

Mackenna works as a Living Exhibits Technician, focusing on both animals and horticulture. She has a background in marine biology and loves the Grecian Shoemaker butterfly.  

Mackenna is passionate about the two ponds in the butterfly house, creating environments for fish, butterflies, and guests. She enjoys learning about plants and animals with her hands-on work. In her spare time, she cares for her plants and cat, reads, and takes ballet classes. She values the collaborative and open-minded environment at PacSci. 

Abby B. (she/her), Living Exhibits Technician

Abby focuses on animal care and has a deep interest in promoting curiosity and conservation. She grew up exploring tide pools in Southern Spain and loves her work at PacSci.  

Her favorite animal is also Crab-agail, since they share a similar name! Abby is involved in setting up the new accessible touch tank and educating the public about the animals’ conservation. She enjoys spending time outdoors, climbing, and playing music. Abby finds her work rewarding and appreciates the opportunity to always learn something new.

Education and Conservation

Beyond their daily duties, the Living Exhibits team plays a vital role in our educational and conservation efforts. They collaborate with educators to develop programs and guides that teach visitors about plant and animal life, and conservation practices. 

Through these initiatives, the team helps foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural world, inspiring visitors to become stewards of the environment. 

About the Author

Emily Jeung is a passionate marketing and communications professional based in Seattle, working at Pacific Science Center. Specializing in engaging content creation and strategic outreach, Emily is dedicated to enhancing the center’s mission of delivering impactful science education and fostering community connections. When she isn’t working, she enjoys exploring the outdoors, crafting, and cooking.

Email Emily for insights and collaboration opportunities.