When the sun goes down, another world comes to life. While humans lie down to rest, many animals only develop their special abilities under the cover of darkness. The special exhibition Animals of the Night at the House of Nature in the Museum of Lower Austria invites you on a fascinating journey into this mysterious sphere until February 8, 2026.

The focus is on the astonishing adaptation strategies of creatures that not only survive in the dark, but also achieve true masterpieces. Bats that use fine ultrasound for orientation, nocturnal insects that use even the smallest light sources or plants that only open their flowers at night - all these stories are brought to life in the exhibition. Visitors can expect a modern, interactive exhibition that works with the latest scientific findings as well as hands-on stations that sharpen the senses.
Curated by Ronald Lintner and Michael Stocker, the exhibition conveys not only knowledge but also options for action. One focus is on bat conservation, one of the central topics in local species protection. "Many animals and plants have adapted perfectly to the dark. We want to show how sensitive this balance is - and what we can all do to help preserve it," emphasizes Ronald Lintner, Scientific Director of the Haus für Natur.

Lesser mouse-eared bat (Myotis blythii) in glove © Katharina Bürger

The accompanying program deepens the content: In the Experiencing Nature series, experts report on their research and provide insights into ecological relationships. Citizen science projects such as the City Nature Challenge invite visitors to collect their own data and contribute to research.
However, the focus is not only on the nocturnal animals, the museum itself is also setting an example: certified as a Green Event for years, it operates its entire energy supply CO₂-neutrally, from 100% renewable sources. In this way, the museum shows that sustainable cultural education is not just a topic for exhibitions, but a living practice.
With Animals of the Night, the Museum Niederösterreich has created a show that combines science, sensory experience and responsibility for nature and the environment - an experience for the whole family that inspires wonder, knowledge and action in equal measure.
March 22, 2025 to February 8, 2026
www.museumnoe.at