Started in 2016 as a competition between San Francisco and Los Angeles, the City Nature Challenge (CNC) has grown into an international event, where people around the world find and document wild things in their cities. By participating in CNC, you are adding valuable data to a worldwide database that scientists and communities can use to care for species and habitats!
All you have to do is download the iNaturalist app, and start taking pictures of plants, animals, fungi, any species around you or at your favorite park. Anyone can participate by making observations of WILD organisms April 30-May 2 and then uploading and identifying observations May 3-May 8. You don't need to be an expert to participate - the app and fellow participants will help you identify things. This is a wonderful, self-directed way to learn more about the incredible biodiversity around us!
If you head out to Mt Tam to participate, be sure to stop by the Tam Van which will be stationed at Carson Falls trailhead this coming Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Get an in-person introduction to iNaturalist and City Nature Challenge, pick up maps and hike ideas, learn about all our community science and conservation programs, test your animal ID skills and enjoy family friendly activities (bring your kids!) Then head out to take some photos of the amazing things you'll see. More at onetam.org/tamvan.
Learn more about CNC at https://citynaturechallenge.org and see other companion events being hosted across the Bay Area here: https://www.calacademy.org/community-science/city-nature-challenge
