Ever wonder what animals are living in the tree tops of Stanley Park? How about under the waves just off the Park’s shores?
On August 12th-13th, 2017, join Stanley Park Ecology Society, the Vancouver Aquarium and many more organizations to explore the incredible biodiversity of Stanley Park. The Stanley Park BioBlitz is part of BioBlitz Canada 150, a national effort by the Canadian Wildlife Federation with support from the Department of Canadian Heritage. The initiative is bringing 35 bioblitzes to communities across Canada to explore our natural diversity, from the giants of the forest to the tiniest of insects. Within just 24 hours, we will survey intertidal areas, plants, insects, birds, small mammals and more!
Members of the public will have the opportunity to work with local scientists and taxonomic experts on a variety of field surveys. Participants can help identify incredible little creatures that live just off the shores of Stanley Park, use a sharp eye as we check trail cameras for Northern flying squirrels, or peak under logs in a family-friendly bug hunt. Families will particularly enjoy the BioBlitz Festival at Lumberman’s Arch on Saturday from 2:00-6:00pm which will include environmental exhibits, stage performances, and drop-in events.
To join our free surveys and nature walks and build an appreciation for the biological diversity of this special place, preregister today at http://stanleyparkecology.ca/education/public-programs/bioblitz-2017/.
The BioBlitz has a variety of volunteer opportunities including Survey Assistants that will work alongside our taxonomic experts, documenting species and assisting with identification – a great opportunity for students and naturalists to work with experts in the field! Enthusiastic nature lovers could be interested in being a part of our Festival Crew that will help promote and support the exhibits at the festival. To find out more, please visit http://stanleyparkecology.ca/get-involved/volunteer/volunteer-opportunities/.
We are thankful for the support from the Canadian Wildlife Federation, the Department of Canadian Heritage and TD Friends of the Environment that has made these events possible.
By Alyx Coulter, Outreach Coordinator
