ABSTRACT
The representation of natural history within popular culture emphasises the presence and use of this heritage within contemporary society. Through theme parks, heritage sites, television, film and language, the role and function of natural heritage can be assessed as locales of witnessing, where society comes to assess itself and others and testify to the significance of these perceptions. These tangible and intangible forms of heritage are significant as they represent an engagement with natural history away from the confines of state museums or national parks. Within each of these locales, individuals, groups and communities interact with the representation of the past to form a sense of identity, place and politics. This process is fundamental to the understanding of our world as it defines how we relate ourselves to the past, the present and potentially the future.
