The Bell Museum of Natural History has introduced a new species into its environment: party creatures.

With the music of Brute Heart echoing through the museum, the Bell Social event attracted people who are interested in science beyond their years in school.

It was a casual way to explore the museum's celebrated dioramas.

"Science is life -- it's hard to explain everything," attendee Jenna McCullough said.

Many agreed that their exposure to the museum was eye-opening.

"I didn't realize that a woodchuck is a groundhog," said Jesse Mattila, who was making his first visit. "This is the most I've learned about the world around me since middle school."

Luckily, with this kind of continuing education, they don't grade on a curve.

Sara Glassman • 612-673-7177