What is a BioBlitz?
BioBlitz is a species documentation event hosted in the Dallas area. The event consists of many people with cameras and a passion for nature, going out to take photos during a specified time period. The goal is to identify as many different species as possible. This includes all plants, animals, birds, fungi, bugs, fish, and anything else that lives.
When is the BioBlitz?
The event is in its 3rd year and is held in the first week of September. The event this year will be from September 4th-10th and you do not need to join the project for your observations to be add, they will be automatically added.
What equipment do I need?
Although high-quality photos are appreciated, this is not an artistic venture. The entire goal is to identify the species. Therefore, the images should be focused and detailed enough to identify the species. So, all that is required
is a camera that can take decent photos.
How long does the event last?
It depends on the event’s organizer and goal, but most events are ten days long with a three-day grace period to upload the photos you have taken.
Where do I post my photos?
iNaturalist is where participants will post the images. Creating an account is free, and posting photographs is streamlined for easy use, link here iNaturalist app or website. If you are using an external camera, the organization would like those photos uploaded no later than three days after the event.
What will my photos be used for?
Biologists and nature enthusiasts with admin access to the site and the data will use the images for research. Doing these Bio Blitzes year after year allows us to see a change in the species density and migration patterns. This research is beneficial in identifying invasive species or species that may be endangered.
Are there any other ways I can contribute to the event?
Yes. If you would like to identify the species in the photos other people take this is a task that will take a few weeks to complete. And if you are interested in doing more nature related projects, the Texas Master Naturalist would love to have you as a member. Joining the organization will involve taking the educational course and doing volunteer work. Link here.
If you would like to see my observations click the link here.
Here are the projects for the past two years:
2020: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/fall-socially-distant-bioblitz-dfw-urban-ecosystem
2021: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/fall-socially-distant-bioblitz-dfw-urban-ecosystem-2021
And the results:
If you would like to watch the the results in real time come in, here’s the project page:
Fall Socially Distant BioBlitz – DFW Urban Ecosystem 2022 · iNaturalist