As the vibrant hues of summer begin to fade into the rich golds and reds of fall, nature enters a period of transition.
For many species, this is a time of migration or preparation for hibernation. What better time to immerse yourself in nature and contribute to the CWF Great Canadian Bioblitz?
Join the Great Canadian Bioblitz on iNaturalist!
From September 13 to 16, 2024, the Canadian Wildlife Federation (CWF) invites you to participate in the Great Canadian Bioblitz. This event is a perfect opportunity to explore your local environment, document the diverse species you encounter, and contribute valuable data to conservation efforts across Canada. But first, make sure you’ve joined the CWF Great Canadian Bioblitz project on iNaturalist—only observations made by project members will count!
For more information and resources on how to take part, head to GreatCanadianBioblitz.org.
Why Fall is the Perfect Time for a Bioblitz
Fall is a season of movement and change in the natural world. As temperatures drop and days shorten, many species begin their migration to warmer climates, while others prepare for the long winter ahead. This makes fall an exciting time to observe wildlife in action. Birds are on the move, heading south in flocks that can be seen in the sky or heard in the early morning hours. Mammals are busy gathering food, fattening up for hibernation, or seeking out cozy winter dens.
While trees may not yet be losing their leaves or turning colour during the Bioblitz, you’ll still be able to observe the subtle changes in your environment as plants and animals prepare for the coming season. By participating in the CWF Great Canadian Bioblitz, you’ll have the chance to observe and document these seasonal behaviours, contributing to a greater understanding of how Canadian species respond to the changing environment.
How to Get Involved
- Join the Project: Visit the CWF Great Canadian Bioblitz project page on iNaturalist and click “Join” to be part of the Bioblitz.
- Sign Up for the Species Challenge Contest: When you sign up for the Bioblitz, you’ll gain access to additional resources that can help make it easier for you to record nature observations. Add your iNaturalist username, and you’ll be instantly entered into the CWF Great Canadian Bioblitz Species Challenge Contest. Record a minimum of 50 different species, and you’ll qualify for a chance to win great prizes, including CWF magazine subscriptions, backpacks, solar chargers, hiking headlamps, beverage holders, and more!
- Explore and Record Observations: From September 13 to 16, head outdoors—whether it’s your backyard, a local park, or a nearby nature reserve—and start making observations. Use the iNaturalist app to snap photos of the plants, animals, and fungi you encounter. You can also use a digital camera and upload photos by signing into your account at iNaturalist.ca. Since you’ve already joined the Bioblitz project, your observations will automatically count toward the event.
- Identify Observations: After four days of exploration, it’s time to identify what was found. From September 17 to 22, help identify the species recorded during the Bioblitz. Whether you’re a species expert or simply knowledgeable about certain species, every ID helps confirm what species people actually observed.
Contribute to Conservation
By taking part in the CWF Great Canadian Bioblitz, you’re not only enjoying the beauty of the changing seasons—you’re also playing a crucial role in conservation. The data collected during the Bioblitz helps scientists monitor species populations, understand migration patterns, and identify areas that may need protection.
So, grab your camera and step into the crisp autumn air. Every observation you make during the CWF Great Canadian Bioblitz helps paint a picture of Canada’s biodiversity. Happy exploring!
Acacia Frempong-Manso
Acacia Frempong-Manso works at the Canadian Wildlife Federation as the iNaturalist Engagement Coordinator. Originally from Brampton, ON, she spent the last six years in Ottawa, ON completing both a master’s and PhD in Biology at Carleton University. Biodiversity, conservation and shoreline erosion are some of her passions.
