A wonderful idea born last summer during pandemic restrictions is back for a second year. The Big Backyard BioBlitz returns from July 29 - August 2. The Big Backyard BioBlitz is a virtual event, hosted by the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC), encouraging people to observe nature and learn more about habitats and species in their backyards, neighbourhoods, and wherever they find nature. It’s part of the non-profit organization’s mandate to connect Canadians with nature.

The idea is to register for the long weekend event at natureconservancy.ca/2021bioblitz, and then head out to the back yard out into nature to take photos. By doing so, Canadians can make a meaningful contribution to conservation and understanding of wild species and natural habitats. Data collected from backyards and greenspaces across the country helps to build knowledge about wildlife and can even help inform conservation actions.

“Anyone can participate. It’s a great way for people of all ages to look at nature more closely and learn about the plant and animal species close to home,” said Kayla Burak, Events Manager for NCC’s Saskatchewan Region. “Spending time outdoors is also beneficial for our physical and mental well-being. This is a great way to connect with nature and fellow nature lovers, while contributing to our collective knowledge on Canada’s wildlife.” 

People can register anytime during the BioBlitz week. They will then receive access to a participant package with instructions on how to submit their photos, as well as activity sheets for kids, fact sheets and resources to learn more about species identification. They can then head outside and observe plants, animals and insects, snap photos and upload the images, which will be reviewed by a global network of scientists.  

The BioBlitz also connects individuals to a remarkable app, iNaturalist, which furthers the connections watchers can make, according to Andrew Holland, national media relations director for the NCC.

“You can use iNaturalist on your tablet or on your phone to upload pictures on that app,” explains Holland. “What happens is the app will geolocate where you are, in Humboldt or surrounding areas, and the app will also suggest certain species. If you don’t know what kind of tree it is, the app has some artificial intelligence in it that will help suggest what kind of plant or species it could be.”

Last year the Big Backyard BioBlitz resulted in over 20,000 observations. In Saskatchewan alone, over one thousand observations were logged, from Moose Jaw to La Ronge. Insects, mammals, amphibians, plants and fungi were just some of the species logged in the province.

Some of those observations can help environmental agencies and naturalists identify invasive species that could be of concern in a region.

The Nature Conservancy once again invites area residents to get out a snap away for this year’s edition of the Big Backyard BioBlitz.