Museum unleashes ancient animal mummies

From cats to crocodiles, the ancient Egyptians worshiped many animals as gods.

Now, thousands of years after they were made, an exhibition will reveal what is inside the mummies of these animals.

“The Gifts for the Gods” exhibition will open later this year at Manchester Museum and explain the background to the unusual religious practice.

A museum research associate said ancient Egyptians mummified just about any animal they could ― from cats, dogs and crocodiles, to rodents, birds and baboons. It is believed the animals were a symbolic offering to the gods.

The exhibit will feature about 60 mummies, including many on display for the first time.