Discover nature in Great Southern BioBlitz

Citizen scientists can help map the Moreton Bay Region’s diverse flora and fauna as part of this year’s Great Southern BioBlitz.

The BioBlitz aims to record as many species of aquatic life, flora, fauna and fungi as possible between October 28 and 31, with scientists and the community working together to capture data using the iNaturalist app.

Moreton Bay environmental education centres team leader Bronwyn Apelt says the more people who take part in the blitz the merrier.

Treasure trove of nature

The Caboolture Regional Environmental Education Centre (CREEC), Osprey House and Kumbartcho are all holding free guided walks during the BioBlitz, where people can discover local flora and fauna treasures in unique habitats.

Bronwyn says that on the walks visitors will be shown how to use the iNaturalist app to record the sounds of nature and photograph the natural treasures they find along the way.

“They can record sightings of plants and animals and fungi – everyone has an opportunity to submit observations to iNaturalist,” she says.

“What’s great about the Great Southern Bioblitz is we’re looking for everything – whether it’s lichen or bird calls we can hear and record – nobody is expected to know the species.

“Last year we only had about 400 observations, so we’re hoping it will be at least twice that this year.”

Backyard discoveries

Bronwyn says anyone can take part in the Great Southern Bioblitz anywhere in the region – they don’t have to join a guided tour at a local environmental education centre.

“That’s what the organisers of the Great Southern Bioblitz are aiming for – to get a really good picture of the biodiversity of the region.

|“It’s a citizen scientist project for all ages and abilities.”|

Moreton Bay Regional Council venue manager Kim McLaughlin says people don’t need to be experts to take part and the iNaturalist community is welcoming and helpful.

“It’s a genuine sharing of knowledge – it’s a community of people who really want to share their knowledge.”

Kumbartcho at Eatons Hill will host its guided BioBlitz walk on October 28 from 10-11.30am. The walk is free, but you must book here to attend.

Griffin’s Osprey House is holding its event on October 29 from 10-11.30am. Click here to book.

CREEC at Burpengary’s event is on Monday, October 31 from 10-11.30am. Make a booking here.