From balconies to backwoods, a cross-country nature challenge is calling on people to document the species they encounter and help scientists monitor biodiversity across the country.
The Big Backyard BioBlitz, hosted by the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC), returns for its fifth year from July 28 to August 4.
Open to everyone, the Big Backyard BioBlitz is a week-long community science event that empowers people to identify and record wildlife and plant species wherever they are whether in a backyard, city park or along hiking trails.
In the 2024 event, people submitted more than 3,260 photos of various plant and animal species located in Alberta.
This year’s extended format is designed to give participants greater flexibility, including families enjoying the long weekend.
It’s an invitation to be part of something big; to pause and explore the natural beauty around.
“Whether you’re a nature newbie, a budding naturalist or a seasoned observer, your contributions matter,” says Nicole Aronitz with the Nature Conservancy of Canada, Alberta Region.
“Through this crowd-sourced effort, each observation helps researchers and conservationists better understand local biodiversity, detect invasive species and track changes over time, especially in the face of climate change.”
Since the event began, over 193,000 observations have been submitted by participants, documenting more than 8,600 species, including many that are rare, at-risk or endangered.
Scientists can’t be everywhere, and the data collected contributes to conservation planning, species protection and ecosystem monitoring.
These discoveries provide a snapshot of what is happening in communities and on the ground.
It gives NCC valuable information on the range and migration of species as they support adequate habitats and resilient landscapes.
The Big Backyard BioBlitz is for all ages, and using a smartphone, tablet or digital camera, participants can snap photos or make audio recordings and upload their findings to contribute to a growing database of biodiversity.
Participants can also download learning activities for younger naturalists from the website’s Kids’ Corner, such as scavenger hunt bingo, word searches, colouring pages and other activities for kids.
To learn more and register, visit backyardbioblitz.ca.
Sign up to get the latest local news headlines delivered directly to your inbox every afternoon.
Send your news tips, story ideas, pictures, and videos to news@centralalbertaonline.com.
CentralAlbertaOnline encourages you to get your news directly from your trusted source by bookmarking this page and downloading the CentralAlbertaOnline app.