Bringing nature and people together to discover, enjoy, experience, restore and preserve our priceless environment.

Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, in McKinney, Texas, is the result of Bessie Heard’s vision for the future and her commitment to North Texas. Founded in 1967, The Heard consists of a 289 acre wildlife sanctuary and natural science museum for the primary purpose of educating children about nature. Our mission is to bring nature and people to discover, enjoy, experience, restore, and preserve our priceless environment. In keeping with Miss Heard’s vision, The Heard’s purpose is threefold: education, conservation, and preservation. Through education, particularly for young people, The Heard emphasizes an appreciation of nature and its conservation.