During the City Nature Challenge iNaturalist BioBlitze, I chose to visit both Beeken Rivrshore Preserve and my phenology place in Centennial Woods. I chose these areas because they are very different habitats; expanding the amount of species that I could look for. I have been using iNaturalist for some time now, be it in labs or on personal outings. For this reason, I am very in tune with the app. I enjoyed the process and had no trouble with iNaturalist. I encountered four bird species, three mamal species, as well as identified six plant species.
The plant species that I identified also included, cotton wood, boxelder, and hemlock; the dominant tree in my phenology spot. In terms of bird species, I identified my states bird; the Chikadee (Beeken and Centenial). As well as Robin, (on campus, Pheobe (Centenial), and Turkey Vulture (Centenial).
The mamal species that I found consisted of Grey Squirls, Chipmunks, and Eastern Cottontail Rabbit; in Centenial. I also found evidence of Beaver in the Beeken Rivershore Preserve.
In terms of other citie’s participation; I am in awe of the amount of citizen science that is happening. I think that this project shows the power of technology and how it can be instrumental in documenting species. This has made me reflect on how important citizen science like this is to making the Half Earth project happen. It not only allows for habitat recognition and categorization but also spreads awareness. I was very glad to see so many people interested in Biodiveristy; it shows that there is hope for conservation.