Quarry Hill Nature Center offers visitors a place to observe many live animals, birds, and fish, plus a taxidermy collection. It's home to 35 species of live animals native to Minnesota, plus exotic species, a huge aquarium with seven varieties of fish, and two raptors. Keen eyesight, highly sensitive hearing, speed, silent flight, and crushing talons distinguish these birds.

For at least 20 years, the Nature Center's indoor hive has offered visitors a close up view of the internal goings-on of a honeybee colony. The Bird Study Room features Minnesota-native birds - either mounted or living just outside the windows. The Nature Center is free and open all but four days of the year.

701 Silver Creek Road NE, Rochester, MN 55906, Phone: 507-328-3950

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