The Nature Conservancy of Canada is holding a virtual event next week encouraging people to look at nature and learn more about habitats and species in their own backyards, neighbourhoods, and wherever they find nature.

The Big Backyard BioBlitz is part of the non-profit organization’s mandate to connect Canadians with nature.

They simply want us all to go out into nature to take photos.

NCC says Canadians can make a meaningful contribution to conservation and our understanding of wild species and natural habitats. Citizen science is just what it sounds like, community members like you contributing to science.

Data collected from backyards and greenspaces across the country help to build our knowledge about wildlife and can even help inform conservation actions.

“Anyone can participate. It’s a great way for people of all ages to look at nature more closely and learn about the plant and animal species close to home,” said Carys Richards, communications manager with NCC in Alberta. “Spending time outdoors is also beneficial for our physical and mental well-being. This is a great way to connect with nature and fellow nature lovers, while contributing to our collective knowledge on Canada’s wildlife.”

People can register anytime during the BioBlitz week.

They will then receive access to a participant package with instructions on how to submit their photos, as well as activity sheets for kids, fact sheets and resources to learn more about species identification.

They can then head outside and observe plants, animals and insects, snap photos and upload the images, which will be reviewed by a global network of scientists.

Last year's Big Backyard BioBlitz resulted in over 20,000 observations.

Last year, participants observed 872 species, including American black bear, creeping thistle and red osier dogwood.

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