BioBlitz

In partnership with the Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region, Arrowsmith Naturalists is conducting monthly bioblitzes in the Oceanside area.

What is a Bioblitz?

A bioblitz is a short outing to a natural spot with the aim of identifying and recording as many species as possible within a few hours. It is a citizen science initiative that yields useful scientific data on biodiversity in our area. Species observed are documented in iNaturalist.

Why do them?

Bioblitzes contribute scientific data on biodiversity within the Biosphere Region in support of MABR
They provide a fun opportunity for naturalists of all skill levels to practice their species ID skills and learn more about nature in our area

How do Arrowsmith Naturalists Bioblitzes work?

We gather on the 2nd Thursday of each month at a specified site within the Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region (sites vary each month)
New participants are instructed on how to use the iNaturalist app on their phone as required
Participants split into groups of 2-4 people and each surveys a different area of the site for the next 2-3 hours
Opportunities will be provided for those with mobility issues to participate with shorter routes and easier walking
For each natural species they see, participants take a photo with their phone using the iNaturalist app (which will help you ID)
iNaturalist observations are uploaded to predefined projects established for each bioblitz
A full record of all observations and statistics for each bioblitz will be available on iNaturalist

2026
June	12	Hamilton Marsh
July	9	Little Qualicum Falls
August	13	Englishman River Estuary – Mariner Way
September	10	Top Bridge
October	8	Little Qualicum Hatchery
November	12	Bonnell Creek
December	10	Rathtrevor Beach Provinial Park

2027
January	14	French Creek Estuary Nature Preserve
February	11	Moorecroft Regional Park
March	11	Beachcomber Regional Park & tide pools
May	13	MalcomCommunity Park – Steves Loop
June	10	Summit & Loon Lakes