Many of us often default to go, go, go — but a new exhibit at the Science Museum of Virginia suggests that sometimes, the smartest way to survive is to slow down.

The touring exhibition, “Survival of the Slowest,” highlights animals that don’t just survive, but thrive, despite traits often seen as disadvantages in a fast-moving world.

Rather than celebrating speed, size, or strength, the exhibit focuses on species that have adopted innovative survival strategies.

Richmonders will encounter live animals demonstrating what “slow” could traditionally look like in nature, including:

A two-toed sloth
A lesser hedgehog tenrec
A variety of reptiles

But from sloths’ tactics to avoid predators, to iguanas’ energy conservation efforts, and snakes going long stretches without eating, attendees see how these animals adapt in ways that aren’t always obvious at first glance.

The takeaway is simple: survival comes down to trade-offs. Being slow, small, or energy-efficient can matter just as much as being fast or powerful, because there isn’t just one way to survive.

Pro tip: Animal-keeper presentations offer several chances each day to learn more about these behaviors.

Beyond the exhibit, the Science Museum is extending the theme with special activities throughout the season, including:

Make-your-own animal plushies in “The Forge”
A look at animal migrations in “Science on a Sphere®”
Rotating activities in the Art Lab and throughout the building
Guided programming for older adults through Senior Science

The museum will also host an adults-only “Science on Tap” evening on July 23 focused on the stranger side of science, along with extended Friday hours until Labor Day.

"Survival of the Slowest" admission is available as a $5 add-on ticket and can be added to your Science Museum visit online or at Guest Services. Discounts are available for teachers, military personnel, and EBT cardholders. Science Museum members receive free unlimited access.