Residual Pesticides
Source: American Museum of Natural History
Before the invention of environmentally controlled museum spaces and integrated pest management techniques, museums commonly relied on pesticides to prevent pest infestation and damage. Natural history museums often contain extensive organic collections (e.g. taxidermy and entomology specimens, and study skins) and are especially vulnerable to pest activity. Pesticides have been used by museum staff since the late 18th century and some may still be in use.
