Get ready, nature explorers! April 24-27, people all over the world will be working together to share photos of nature where they live.
All you need is a phone or digital camera and the free iNaturalist app to help the Pittsburgh region collaborate (safely!) with cities everywhere.
Operation Observation
Start practicing now!
· Work with a grownup
· Download the free iNaturalist app & create a family account
· Take photos of plants and animals that you find and share them on iNaturalist
· The app and the online community will help you identify the nature in your photos!
· Think about ways you might attract more wildlife to your area before the challenge. Check https://carnegiemnh.org/visitor/city-nature-challenge/ often for activity ideas.
During the Challenge
· Take as many photos of nature where you can safely find it between April 24-27, and share them on iNaturalist
· Some great places to look for plants and animals include backyards, gardens, parks (but only if you can keep a safe distance between you and other people), and even the cracks in sidewalks!
A bullfrog perched on a rock. Photo by Melissa Cagan.
Staying Safe for the City Nature Challenge
Keep up-to-date on the latest state regulations at https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/disease/coronavirus/Pages/Coronavirus.aspx.
You may want to stay close-to-home and see how many different kinds of plants and animals you can find right where you live!
If you visit a park or trail, please stay 6 feet or more away from other people. You may want to wear a homemade mask, too.
Get social with your observations! Use the hashtag #CityNatureChallenge on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram or tag @CarnegieMNH.