Throughout the year, the technical staff of the natural science department conduct regular surveys to assess the existing situation of the specimens in the galleries before implementing a pest management regime. Once the assessment is completed, pest management activities must be designed and implemented in order to minimize the risks posed to specimens and cabinet structures by pests. The most notorious pest in our galleries is mould. Mould can never be completely eliminated or ‘destroyed’. Generally, it is managed through climate control, spore reduction, careful monitoring, and ongoing maintenance.
Currently, the department is undergoing its annual galleries maintenance towards cleaning mould spores on specimens and cabinet structures. This approach to pest control, often called "integrated pest management" involves preventive measures; monitoring of galleries areas; treatment of specimens; treatment of infestations; and review and assessment of procedures.