Massive community science event returns this August long weekend

Organizers say observations can help scientists take stock of local biodiversity, track rare species and fight invasive ones. NCC says scientists want as much information as possible about the plants and animals across Canada, and people can help. NCC says it will compile all of the information that is gathered about species populations and locations. It will then be made available for scientists and conservation planners, who can use the findings to inform future protection and restoration efforts and strategies, officials point out.

To join in the 2023 NCC BioBlitz, all people need is their smartphone, tablet or digital camera to take pictures and/or record the sounds of birds or other wildlife. Whether participants live in a house, apartment or condo, in a city, suburb or rural area, or simply want to go out into the forest, this event is for everyone, young and young at heart. According to NCC, Bioblitzers don’t have to be in the wilderness to immerse themselves in nature; when we slow down and focus on the small details, even walking to the mailbox or having tea on the balcony can be an opportunity to lose ourselves in the sights and sounds of the natural world around you.

“This is a great way to be a part of something big,” says Kristie Wegener, director of conservation. “You can participate while sitting on your deck, strolling through your neighbourhood, while out paddling or on a weekend hike. By documenting the wild species that you see, including plants, birds, insects, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, lichen and fungi, you’re contributing to the protection of nature by helping conservation experts take stock of local biodiversity, track rare species and tackle invasive ones.”

Register for the NCC BioBlitz at backyardbioblitz.ca. Once registered, participants will receive a step-by-step guide on how to participate, along with photography tips and information about species identification. Participants can also share their observations on social media using #NCCBioBlitz to be entered to win an NCC prize pack.

NCC officials say the results of the Big Backyard BioBlitz are important, and so is community science in contributing to the collective knowledge about Canada’s nature. Theorganization says biologists, foresters and other science professionals simply can’t be everywhere. And every contribution counts. During last year’s event, 9,100 participants logged over 53,000 wildlife and plant observations across the country. Officials say more than 5,300 different species were documented, with the most frequent being monarch butterflies, which are classified as endangered globally.

According to the NCC, the most common invasive species was wild carrot. Also known as Queen Anne’s lace, it is described as a non-native wildflower that grows along roadsides and outcompetes native plants for water, sunlight and space.

Officials say participants with children can enhance their BioBlitz experience by downloading activity sheets, including word searches, bingo cards, matching games and colouring pages.

by rdnewsNOW staff

Massive community science event returns this August long weekend

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