The Western Foundation of Vertebrate Zoology (WFVZ) is an amazing natural history museum in Camarillo. With a mission to contribute to the conservation of the world's wild bird species through sharing our collections with researchers, educators, students, and the public, and through bird education programs, research projects, and publications, the WFVZ was founded in 1956 by Ed Harrison, a businessman and natural history collector, as a repository for egg and nest collections that could be used in bird conservation and public education.

Provide education about the natural environment to people of all ages and to protect and enhance the Arboretum as a haven and as a sanctuary for native plants and animals.

To prepare students for exciting careers helping people improve their quality of life by serving their community in nonprofit, government, and commercial recreation services.

The WNC Nature Center connects people with the animals and plants of the Southern Appalachian Mountain region by inspiring appreciation, nurturing understanding, and advancing conservation.