I have heard this term a lot since joining the UF/IFAS Extension Team last year. However, I had never heard of a bioblitz despite being in the environmental and conservation space the past 10 years. So, I wanted to take some time and share what I learned a bioblitz is, what you can expect from participating in a bioblitz, and why they are important.
Defining Bioblitz
To start, a bioblitz is defined by iNaturalist as a “communal effort to record as many species within a designated location and time period as possible” This means participants are collecting information about all the plants and animals in a given space- often with the use of photos and platforms like iNaturalist.
What should be expected of me as a participant?
As a participant you will be expected to contribute to the data collection effort. This is normally done through a photo collection effort. Be sure that any photos you are taking end up in the right location. When using iNaturalist, the organizer of the event will have created a project that you can join to ensure that your identifications end up in the right spot. If you are unsure whether or not you are contributing appropriately, don’t be afraid to ask! The organizer of the event would prefer you take the time to ask, then for your hard work not to be recognized.
You do not need to have any prior knowledge of plants or animals. Although prior knowledge is helpful, tools like iNaturalist allows nature-enthusiast who are looking to learn more about their surroundings thrive in these events! As long as you can withstand the outdoor elements, bioblitz are the perfect citizen science event for you! Through this hopefully you learn something new! This could be figuring out how to use iNaturalist for the first time (speaking from personal experience) to learning a new plant or insect. These are also a great opportunity to connect with others. You will likely encounter seasoned and knowledgeable naturalists as well as those who are interested in learning more about the ecosystem. These events are a welcoming opportunity for all and a great introduction to citizen science!
The most important part of a bioblitz is…. Having fun! These events are meant to be engaging while also contributing to important management efforts. Be sure to enjoy the great outdoors or meet some new hiking buddies!
What do I need if I am participating in a bioblitz?
There are few items that you should automatically think about packing anytime you go out in the field:
- Water
- Sunscreen/Hat
- Personal Cellphone
- Snacks- This is always a must for me on any field outing
- Bug Spray
- Appropriate Clothing- I always lean for long-sleeves and long pants to help protect me from the sun and bugs
- Portable Charger, if you have one- I learned this trick from a seasoned bioblitzer
Feel free to add your own items to this list, like a neck gaiter or a phone microscope attachment. Should you need any extra materials that will not be provided the organizer of the event should let you know. For example, if it’s an all-day event the organizer may suggest bringing a headlamp or flashlight.
How long does a bioblitz last?
A bioblitz often runs for at least a few hours a day but can be an all-day event. Be sure to double check the length of the event to make sure that you have enough supplies.
Why is a bioblitz important?
A bioblitz is valuable for a number of reasons. To start, they allow researchers or land managers, an opportunity to establish the diversity of an area. This information can then be used to identify management needs and priorities. Additionally, managers can use it to track the potential introduction and spread of invasive species over the area. Hosting a bioblitz annually allows for a large dataset that can be used to compare the geographic area over time.
Interested in participating?
Hopefully, I have now convinced you to give a bioblitz a chance and are itching to give it a try. If you’re in St. Lucie County, I have good news! On April 29th at 9AM, the UF/IFAS Extension office will be hosting its Spring 2026 bioblitz. If you would like to participate, you can sign up at this link on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/st-lucie-county-ufifas-extension-spring-2026-bioblitz-tickets-1985368571843?aff=oddtdtcreator. If you have any questions about this event, please contact the Natural Resource Agent Bridget Gerovac at bgerovac@ufl.edu.
For those not located in St. Lucie County, be sure to check out your local UF/IFAS Extension Office for an upcoming bioblitz opportunities.
Interested in learning more about bioblitz? Check out these links below:
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