The Nature Conservancy of Canada Backyard BioBlitz is on now, as they invite all Canadians to participate in capturing the various plant and animal species found across the country.
Kayla Balderson, Engagement Manager with Nature Conservancy of Canada, says this is the fifth year they’ve held the BioBlitz, and Saskatchewan residents have made a notable contribution, with 300 participating last year.
“In the past five years it's ranged from having between 200 and 400 people throughout the province participate and anywhere from 1300 to 2200 species observations which is quite significant and really adds up over time.”
Balderson explains that the event is open to participants of any age or lifestyle, saying that even those living in a city apartment can submit any birds or bugs they see outside their window.
“Look up at the trees, the birds, look down at weeds, flowers, butterflies. You can go to a wetland in a green park close to you, ducks, turtles, amphibians, if you're lucky enough, anything and everything counts.”
The event operates through the iNaturalist app, made up of a community of scientists who analyze the media uploaded to verify their species. Balderson explains this is what allows the event to be open to everyone.
“There's no pressure, this is just to have fun. Whatever you're taking pictures of might be something that's common today but in 10 years it might not be common. So, land managers and biologists will be able to look back at the species trend data and point out where and when some of these populations may have decreased or maybe even increased and figure out what they have to do from there.”
It also aids in providing information about invasive species, including their location and where they might be spreading. This allows land managers to determine how they can control and prepare for any invasive species moving into an area.
Similarly, any rare species observed, like monarch butterflies, can be preserved through ensuring habitat space in the places they are found.
“Types of insects are really important to know about. There are some researchers at the University of Regina who would be interested in that information. Anything and everything really is important.”
The Backyard BioBlitz began yesterday and will continue until August 4th. Register for the event and find more information, including resources, activities, themes, and challenges on the Backyard BioBlitz website.