Get outside and make a difference for local plant and animal species by participating in the upcoming 2021 City Nature Challenge for the Baltimore Area! The challenge is an opportunity to connect with other cities across the nation – and the globe – while documenting the species found in your own backyard. Nature is all around us, even in urban areas, and if you look a little harder, you may be surprised by what you find—from the smallest bug in your basement to a red-tailed hawk soaring high above your home. Learn more, take the pledge to participate, and see the list of in-person events at www.aqua.org/baltimore-cnc
All observations uploaded to iNaturalist from April 30 through May 3 that are made in Baltimore City and the following counties will count toward Baltimore’s species tally: Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Harford, Howard and Queen Anne’s.
Observations you make during the challenge will automatically be added to Baltimore’s project page. See all the observations being made across the Baltimore area by visiting the project page. Be sure to use #CityNatureChallenge if you are sharing your efforts on social media!
Not familiar with iNaturalist or could use a refresher lesson? The National Aquarium is offering a free iNaturalist training program this Friday, April 14. Details and registration link below.
Learn How to Document Wildlife with iNaturalist
Friday, April 16 1 – 2:30pm
The National Aquarium is hosting an online iNaturalist training in advance of the City Nature Challenge. iNaturalist, one of the world’s most popular nature apps, helps you identify the plants and animals around you. Get connected with a community of over a million scientists and naturalists who can help you learn more about nature! This one-hour training (plus 30 optional minutes for extra one-on-one help) is designed for beginner and intermediate iNaturalist users. We will demonstrate how to use the app and website to make wildlife observations and identify the species that you saw during the City Nature Challenge and beyond. Register here to receive the zoom meeting details: https://aqua.formstack.com/forms/cncinat2021
