Squam Lakes Natural Science Center’s month-long BioBlitz documented an impressive 1,305 observations representing 518 species across the Science Center’s 200-acre campus during August.
Throughout August, the Science Center invited visitors, staff, volunteers, and community members to document the incredible diversity of life found across its 200-acre campus. Participants used the iNaturalist platform to photograph and record the plants, animals, fungi, and other organisms they encountered.
The effort brought together 43 observers and 268 identifiers, whose collective contributions helped create a record of the biodiversity found throughout the Science Center’s campus. At the time results were compiled, 423 observations had reached Research Grade, with that number expected to grow as iNaturalist users and experts continue to review observations and add identifications.
Insects led the way, with 433 observations representing 197 species. Plants followed closely with 425 observations representing 184 species. Fungi contributed 208 observations representing 52 species, while birds, amphibians, mammals, arachnids and mollusks added hundreds more observations and dozens of additional species.
The BioBlitz also provided opportunities to learn from experts through the bi-weekly Walks with an Expert series, featuring specialists in butterflies, invasive plants, moths, trees, amphibians, birds, plants, and fungi.
“Watching grandparents and grandchildren, experts and novices, visitors, staff, and volunteers all come together in this community science effort was a heartwarming experience,” said Heidi Emmons, one of the coordinators of the BioBlitz. “Not only did we all learn from one another and from the natural world around us, but we are already putting that knowledge to use as we think about how best to protect and utilize this beautiful piece of property moving forward.”
The Science Center extends its sincere thanks to the experts, volunteers, and visitors who contributed observations, identifications, and knowledge throughout the BioBlitz.
