The inaugural 2024 CWF Great Canadian Bioblitz wrapped up, and the results are nothing short of remarkable!
Over the course of a single weekend, nature enthusiasts, community scientists and biodiversity lovers across the country came together to record a staggering 42,135 observations and document 4,778 species! These impressive numbers are a reflection of Canadians’ growing commitment to understanding and protecting the rich natural world that surrounds us.
It’s hard to believe that just a few years ago, when the Canadian Wildlife Federation first took stewardship of the iNaturalist.ca platform, we were tracking about 35,000 observations in a year. To see more than 42,000 observations in one weekend speaks volumes about the dedication of our participants and the importance of bioblitz events in raising awareness and gathering critical data for conservation efforts.
But the numbers alone don’t tell the full story. The CWF Great Canadian Bioblitz is about more than just observing nature— it’s about fostering a deeper connection with the environment, contributing to scientific research and taking an active role in safeguarding species at risk. From bustling urban centers to remote wilderness areas, participants helped paint a vibrant picture of Canada’s biodiversity. This offered a snapshot of the species that inhabit our lands and waters, and the vital ecosystems they depend on.
This year’s bioblitz wasn’t just a nationwide effort, but a celebration of the small wonders and grand spectacles of nature. Every observation contributed to a larger story — one that connects us to nature and to each other.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout moments from this year’s CWF Great Canadian Bioblitz.
Species at Risk
Participants recorded nearly 1,000 observations of species at risk. Topping the list was the Northern Leopard Frog, which is listed as at-risk from British Columbia to Manitoba. It’s still relatively common in Ontario, Quebec and the Maritimes, making it the most frequently observed at-risk species this year. Following closely behind were iconic species such as the Monarch Butterfly, Painted Turtle and Northern Map Turtle.
One of the most remarkable finds was the Golden-eye Lichen — a species classified as Endangered and found only in Manitoba and Ontario. With just 200 recorded observations of this species on iNaturalist.ca, it was incredible to see two new records emerge from this bioblitz.
Rare Reptile Finds
Our participants also helped document some of Canada’s rare reptiles. The bioblitz saw four observations of the Massasauga Rattlesnake, along with rare sightings of the Prairie Rattlesnake (two of Canada’s three venomous snakes) and Eastern Foxsnake. These sightings are crucial for ongoing conservation work.
Top Observed Species
This year’s top five most-observed species showed a different pattern compared to other major events like the City Nature Challenge. Leading the way was the Northern Leopard Frog, followed by pollinator species like the Common Eastern Bumble Bee and the Western Honey Bee. Rounding out the top five were the Mallard and the Canada Goose— two familiar faces in Canadian landscapes.
Mammals
A number of elusive mammals also made appearances in this year’s bioblitz. Observers were lucky enough to spot Moose, Grizzly Bear, Elk, wolves and even a Canada Lynx. In a surprising twist, sightings of marine mammals like Beluga and Minke Whales added to the excitement.
Birds on the Move
In total, 239 bird species were recorded, many of them early in their migration journeys. This underscores the importance of bioblitz events in tracking seasonal movements and identifying critical habitats for species during these key periods.
Looking Ahead
The success of this year’s CWF Great Canadian Bioblitz reflects the power of community science to inform conservation efforts. Whether you contributed one observation or a hundred, your data is part of a much larger puzzle that helps scientists monitor species distribution and trends over time.
Learn more about the Canadian Wildlife Federation’s work with iNaturalist.ca
Tobi McIntyre
Tobi is the Interactive Content Manager for the Canadian Wildlife Federation. With training in biogeography, paleoanthropology and journalism, Tobi is happiest being outside feeling the sun, wind and soil on her skin. She has a deep respect for wildlife and enjoys sharing this awareness with her son and anyone else who'll listen.
