Take part in BioBlitz wildlife surveys

You will need

• to follow @NHM_CitSci on Twitter to hear about upcoming BioBlitzes

• a camera or phone to take photos of what you find

• a recording form or access to iNaturalist

How this can help

• The data you collect during BioBlitzes will support experts to gain a better understanding our natural world and changes to biodiversity in an area. Through recording the names and locations of species, these events can generate biological records which can be passed on to Local Records Centres, national recording schemes and the National Biodiversity Network Gateway.

• These records can tell us what actions we need to take to protect nature. They can be used to help scientific research and government policy, as well as informing conservation practice, local planning and land management.

• BioBlitzes are a great way to learn about the nature that lives just beyond your doorstep. From common mammals and birds, to lichens that indicate low levels of pollution, rare orchids and tiny beetles, you may find there is more living in your local area than you ever realised.

• You may also have the opportunity to learn new skills through activities led by experts, such as pond dipping and field surveys. Organisers will also typically provide kit to support the discovery and identification of species, such as magnifying glasses, plastic trays, bug nets and field guides.