SASKATCHEWAN — From balconies to backwoods, a cross-country nature challenge is calling on people to document the species they encounter and help scientists monitor biodiversity across the country.
The Big Backyard BioBlitz, hosted by the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC), returns for its fifth year from July 28 to Aug. 4.
Open to everyone, the Big Backyard BioBlitz is a week-long community science event that empowers people to identify and record wildlife and plant species wherever they are – whether in a backyard, city park, along hiking trails or at one of NCC’s nature reserves. Using a smartphone, tablet or digital camera, participants can snap photos or make audio recordings and upload their findings to contribute to a growing database of biodiversity.
The Big Backyard BioBlitz is for all ages. To learn more and register, people can visit backyardbioblitz.ca. Participants can also download learning activities for younger naturalists from the website’s Kids’ Corner, such as scavenger hunt bingo, word searches, colouring pages and other activities for kids.
In the 2024 event, over 1,830 photos of plants and animal species were submitted in Saskatchewan.
This year’s extended format is designed to give participants greater flexibility, including families enjoying the long weekend and workplaces looking to connect with nature as a team. It’s an invitation to be part of something big, to pause, and explore the natural beauty around us – something we often overlook in the rush of daily life.
“Whether you’re a nature newbie, a budding naturalist, or a seasoned observer, your contributions matter, says Kayla Burak, engagement program manager with Nature Conservancy of Canada. “Through this crowd-sourced effort, each observation helps researchers and conservationists better understand local biodiversity, detect invasive species, and track changes over time, especially in the face of climate change.”
Since the event began, over 193,000 observations have been submitted by participants, documenting more than 8,600 species, including many that are rare, at-risk, or endangered. Scientists can’t be everywhere, and the data collected contributes to conservation planning, species protection, and ecosystem monitoring. These discoveries provide a snapshot of what is happening in communities and on the ground. It gives NCC valuable information on the range and migration of species as we support adequate habitats and resilient landscapes.
“It is inspiring to see people of all ages generously volunteer their time, and rediscover the wonders of the natural world, often right outside their door,” says Burak. “By taking part in the BioBlitz, you’re not only having fun and learning something new, but you’re actively contributing to a national effort to better understand and protect biodiversity.”
Participants are encouraged to share their sightings on social media, using the hashtag #NCCBioBlitz.
