Why might we believe witches rode broomsticks?
In this episode of The 'Perfect' Specimen, curator Beulah Garner explores the Natural History Museum's collection through the lens of the word 'seductive'. Discover the science behind lethal pesticides and the surprising stories hidden within eighty million museum objects.
Joined by hosts Josh and Natalie, Beulah Garner examines three specific specimens that relate to the concept of being seductive. The discussion delves into diverse natural phenomena, ranging from how an insect might collect a lethal pesticide to the physical anatomy of a flatworm.
The episode also contemplates the nature of museum curation, questioning whether a 'perfect' specimen can truly exist—whether defined by being the most noxious, the squishiest, or the most exuberant. It offers a behind-the-scenes look at the Natural History Museum in London, which houses over 80 million items, including dinosaur bones, meteorites, and a giant squid.
Source: Did witches ride broomsticks? Our guest explains why we might think so | The 'Perfect' Specimen Ep20
