Skull of Phorusrhacos longissimus) At two and a half metres tall, Phorusrhacos longissimus is an example of a 'terror bird', top predators that lived in South America about 50 million years ago.

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Explorer backpacks

Explorer backpacks are a great way for the under-sevens to get the most out of their Museum visit.

Each backpack comes with an explorer hat and binoculars and is filled with drawing materials and activities, covering a wealth of topics to fascinate young children, from birds and primates to oceans and monsters.

  • Backpacks are free of charge, but you need to supply a refundable credit card deposit of £25.
  • Backpacks are available between 10.00 and 17.00.
  • For more information, please ask at an information desk when you arrive or call +44(0)20 7942 5555.
Print version
Cartoon image of a hatchet fish on a museum pass

In World War II the Museum was used as a secret base to develop new gadgets for allied spies, including an exploding rat!