Nature is everywhere—from city sidewalks to mountain trails—and it’s time to discover it! Join the NC BioBlitz, part of the City Nature Challenge, happening April 25–28 during the NC Science Festival. This fun, statewide event invites everyone—scientists, students, families, and curious explorers—to document wildlife using the free iNaturalist app.
A BioBlitz is a community-powered effort to record as many species as possible in a short time. By photographing or recording what you see (plants, animals, insects, fungi, etc.), you help scientists understand North Carolina’s biodiversity—and you get to know the nature in your own backyard! Not sure what you’re looking at? No problem. iNaturalist will help you identify it, and experts on the app can assist too.
How to Participate
1.) Visit a park, trail, or natural area (even your backyard!) between April 25–28.
2.) Snap photos of wild species using the iNaturalist app (available on Android & Apple) or your camera.
3.) Upload your observations to iNaturalist by May 4 to be included in the NC BioBlitz!
Earn a Badge!
Make 20 observations (or 10 observations + 15 identifications), and you can claim a custom NC BioBlitz embroidered badge. Kids ages 5–13 can also get involved through ecoEXPLORE, and educators can access great classroom resources.
Whether you’re an individual, family, or school group, there’s a way to join in. Want to connect with others? Check out the NC BioBlitz event page to find local programs and virtual events.
Let’s explore North Carolina—together!
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New to iNaturalist? Check out our Quick Guides to iNaturalist for Android and Apple phones! They will walk you through how to use the smartphone apps and website to submit your observations to iNaturalist. Or watch this short video from 2023 to learn how to use the app!
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EDUCATOR RESOURCES HERE
*Are you a formal educator who would like to get your students involved in the NC Bioblitz? Check out the City Nature Challenge educator resources for ideas for how to use the event in your classroom!
*If your students participate in the NC Bioblitz, you can claim printable certificates for all your students and a single badge to display in your classroom by completing this form.
*EcoExplore Mentor Chris Goforth talks about the NC Bioblitz for Kids 5-12
Watch Video Here
*Associated Coloring Pages for Kids