Lake Macquarie City Council is calling on residents to become citizen scientists this month and simply record the native flora and fauna across the local government area.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The council has signed up to an international project, called Great Southern Bioblitz, which aims to identify animal and plant species throughout the Southern Hemisphere.
Margo Smith, the council's senior sustainability engagement officer, said the Great Southern Bioblitz was the perfect platform for anyone, of any age, to become citizen scientists and learn about the vast number of species found across Lake Mac.
Lake Mac participants can sign up and upload their finds at any time through the Great Southern Bioblitz website however the Bioblitz will officially take place from Friday, September 25 to Monday, September 28. The event will span three continents: Australia, Africa and South America.
"All residents need to do is sign up to the website and start recording the native flora and fauna that surrounds them," Ms Smith said.
"Experts are on hand to assist with identification, and your observations will provide valuable data for scientific research."
"This is a COVID-safe activity. Members of the community can participate from their own backyard or head to one of our bushland reserves, beaches, the lake or state parks. You don't have to travel far; you just have to enjoy nature, take time to observe the plants and critters around you and take a photo or two on your phone or camera."
The Great Southern Bioblitz was launched through the online science platform iNaturalist, with the aim to connect people with nature while creating a catalogue of scientific information.
For those who would like to build their skills and learn more about Biodiversity in the Southern Hemisphere, a series of free online seminars will be held from September 3-12. Go to eventbrite.com.au to book.