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Residents are invited to step outside and celebrate local biodiversity during the Great Canadian BioBlitz, running Sunday, September 21 to Sunday, September 28.
A bio-blitz is a hands-on way to record observations of plants, animals, and fungi, helping scientists track population sizes and biodiversity trends. People of all ages are encouraged to explore Peterborough’s parks and natural spaces and contribute to citizen science.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for people to connect with the outdoors and explore the natural beauty of our city,” said City Councillors Joy Lachica and Kevin Duguay, council appointees to the Peterborough Environmental Advisory Committee. “Whether you’re spotting birds, identifying trees, or just enjoying the fall colours, nature is something we all benefit from in Peterborough.”
Participants can take part in self-guided bio-blitzes using the iNaturalist app. A full list of City parks is available at peterborough.ca/parks.
The Peterborough Field Naturalists will also lead three guided walks to help residents learn more about local species:
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Tree Identification Forest Walk: Tuesday, September 23, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., Ecology Park, 1899 Ashburnham Dr. (meet at the shelter in the middle of the park)
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Mushroom Identification Walks: Sunday, September 21 and Sunday, September 28, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park, 846 Highway 7. Registration at peterboroughnature.org/events
These free, family-friendly walks are open to all experience levels.
To learn how to use iNaturalist and upload sightings, visit the Peterborough Public Library Learning Portal or the Great Canadian BioBlitz project page: iNaturalist link.
