Pest Creatures!? at the Natural History Museum in the Ottoneum: Natural History Between Prejudice and Insight


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When Animals Become Distorted Images: The Special Exhibition Pest Creatures!? in Kassel
At the Natural History Museum in the Ottoneum, an exhibition opens on August 4, 2026, that plays with prejudices while simultaneously providing scientifically precise information. Pest Creatures!? focuses on animals that evoke fear, disgust, or annoyance in daily life – from mosquitoes to raccoons to great white sharks. According to the city of Kassel, the exhibition is expected to run until September 2026 and combines nature observation, ecological education, and a vivid exploration of the relationships between humans and animals. ([kassel.de](https://www.kassel.de/einrichtungen/naturkundemuseum/ausstellungen/nutzungsrechte.php?utm_source=openai))
Between Horror and Insight
The exhibition not only questions why certain species are labeled as pest creatures but also explores their role in the ecological framework. This is where its appeal lies: from a seemingly casual topic arises a reflective artistic experience of natural history that makes biological diversity, habitats, and material cycles understandable. Those who embrace this perspective will experience an exhibition that does not merely confirm prejudices but productively questions them. ([kassel.de](https://www.kassel.de/einrichtungen/naturkundemuseum/ausstellungen/sonderausstellung.php?sp%3Aout=easy&utm_source=openai))
The Natural History Museum in the Ottoneum as a Learning Place
The Natural History Museum in the Ottoneum belongs to the city of Kassel and is located at Steinweg 2 in 34117 Kassel. It offers barrier-free access, restrooms, and a changing table, as well as clear visitor information regarding opening hours, public transport connections, and admission prices. During special exhibitions, the regular admission fee for adults is 5 euros, and reduced price is 3 euros; children under 6 years have free entry. ([kassel.de](https://www.kassel.de/einrichtungen/naturkundemuseum/besuch/index.php?utm_source=openai))
The exhibition can be read as part of a museum interpretation that presents natural history in an atmospheric and vivid manner rather than in a dry way. This creates an aesthetic experience for families, school groups, and nature-interested adults that combines wonder, amusement, and insight. The city of Kassel also refers to guided tours and educational offerings related to the special exhibition. ([kassel.de](https://www.kassel.de/einrichtungen/naturkundemuseum/vermittlung/inhaltsseiten/kalender.php?action=submit&sp%3Apage%5BeventSearch-1.form%5D%5B0%5D=2&utm_source=openai))
Guided Tours, Education, and Visitor Experience
Accompanying the special exhibition are guided tours; the city’s event notices include a cocktail tour related to Pest Creatures!? with a cost of 8 euros including prior registration. Additionally, the museum also mentions barrier-free access and family-friendly offerings, making the visit attractive for both individual guests and groups. ([kassel.de](https://www.kassel.de/einrichtungen/naturkundemuseum/vermittlung/inhaltsseiten/kalender.php?action=submit&sp%3Apage%5BeventSearch-1.form%5D%5B0%5D=2&utm_source=openai))
Anyone interested in nature, ecology, and popular animal imagery will find an exhibition with high informative value here. Pest Creatures!? demonstrates how closely fear images and species knowledge are interconnected and opens a dialogical view on the coexistence of humans and animals. A visit is worthwhile for all who want to not only look at natural history but truly understand it. ([kassel.de](https://www.kassel.de/einrichtungen/naturkundemuseum/ausstellungen/sonderausstellung.php?sp%3Aout=easy&utm_source=openai))
Official Channels of the Natural History Museum in the Ottoneum:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturkundemuseum_kassel
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NaturkundemuseumKassel
- YouTube: No official profile found
- Website: https://naturkundemuseum.kassel.de/
Sources:
- City of Kassel - Natural History Museum in the Ottoneum: Visit, Opening Hours, Admission, Accessibility
- City of Kassel - Special Exhibitions at the Natural History Museum
- City of Kassel - Usage Rights and Duration of the Special Exhibition Pest Creatures!?
- City of Kassel - Event Calendar Natural History Museum: Guided Tours for Pest Creatures!?
- Kassel News - Pest Creatures!? at the Natural History Museum Kassel 2026
- visitKassel - Family Tour: Pest Creatures!?
- Initiative Cultural Integration - Museum Tour for ALL: Special Exhibition Pest Creatures!?









