THE Great Southern BioBlitz (GSB) is in full swing, starting at midnight on Friday 24 October and going through until Monday night, 27 October.
The GSB calls the community and scientists to work together to discover and record as many species as possible.
The goal is simple: to find and photograph any wild plant, animal, or fungus, and enter their details in the free smartphone app, iNaturalist.
BioBlitz coordinator for the Coffs Coast Nick Lambert, said.participation is incredibly easy and requires no prior knowledge – just a curious spirit.
“Our region has a history of outstanding performance in this global event.
“In previous years, we have finished in the top three for the most species found, a remarkable achievement considering we were outnumbered 10-to-1 by participants in major metropolitan areas like Greater Melbourne.”
Analysis shows that these local observers are among the most effective in the world, recording nearly five to 10 times more species, per person, than participants in larger cities.
“We consistently punch above our weight because our community is so passionate, and our environment is so incredibly rich in biodiversity.
“Every photo, whether it’s a bug on your window or a rare orchid in the forest, helps build a snapshot of our local ecosystem.”
To get involved, download the free iNaturalist app on your smartphone and create an account.
“Over the four-day event… explore your surroundings and take clear photos of any living thing you find; insects, plants, birds, fungi, seaweed on the beach, or even evidence like shells, feathers, tracks and recordings of birdsong.”
The app’s AI technology will suggest identifications, and a global community of experts will help confirm your sightings.
Any observation made within the Coffs, Bellingen, or Nambucca shires will automatically be added to our region’s total.
“This is our chance to showcase the incredible biodiversity of our region to the world, contribute valuable data for researchers, and maybe even take the top spot.”
To see the region’s past discoveries, visit the project page inaturalist.org/projects and search for Coffs Harbour or go to facebook.com/coffsbioblitz.
By Andrea FERRARI
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
