The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) invites you to take part in the second annual Big Backyard BioBlitz, a nation-wide virtual science event, running from July 29th through August 2nd.
What is it?
It is a nature walk, a trip to the beach or a trip to your own backyard. You choose where but bring your phone, a tablet or camera as you are going to be needing it. Everyone is asked collectively to share what they observe in nature over the August long weekend. Take pictures of flowers, mushrooms, insects and wildlife. The options are endless!
“This is a great way to connect with nature and fellow nature lovers, while contributing to our collective knowledge on Canada’s wildlife,” said Kayla Burak, the events manager for the NCC’s Saskatchewan Region.
'Citizen science' is about the community getting together to collect and share wildlife data. Everyone is invited to participate by snapping and uploading their August long weekend nature photos to build on the knowledge of local wildlife, which in turn, could help bring attention to undiscovered conservation issues or discoveries of unexpected species.
"Part of the BioBlitz is also about recognizing that nature is right outside our window. We're part of it and it's part of us. By documenting all the species we can find around our homes and our communities, we start to realize just how close and impactful that relationship can be," commented Jensen Edwards, national media relations manager.
You can register online any time during the BioBlitz week at: www.natureconservancy.ca/2021bioblitz
Once you’ve registered, you will receive a participant package and the information on how to submit your photos. Activity sheets for the kids, fact sheets and resources will also be available to help you learn more about species identification.
You can then upload as many photos from July 29th to August 2nd as you like.
“It’s a great opportunity for participants of all ages to explore and appreciate nature. The data you collect will be valuable to science and conservation managers for years to come,” said Burak.
Last year’s BioBlitz produced 1,140 species observations from Saskatchewan and over 22,000 observations made across Canada. Imagine the impact one image can make? This is a great way to get the family out observing native species of plants, animals, insects and fungi. Help gather even more information this year. Who knows what you will discover!
