Published: 16 September 2022

How many different species can you find? During a walk around the Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Garden the challenge is to identify and record as many living things as you can – including insects!

The botanic garden will host its first BioBlitz event on Sunday 2 October, starting at 10am.

BioBlitz is a National Geographic challenge where scientists, families, students, teachers, and other community members work together to get a snapshot of an area’s biodiversity.

Garden manager Michael Anlezark said the BioBlitz will be a fun day for the whole family.

“It will be a day looking at nature and learning more about the beautiful plants and animals in our region,” Mr Anlezark said.

BioBlitz is all about discovering, identifying, and recording as many living things in the one location as possible during a short period of time.

“Participants get to interact with and learn from experts, and also offer their own local expertise and insights,” Mr Anlezark said.

Participants can contribute observations through the iNaturalist smartphone app.

“Data collected through the app will contribute to scientific research and conservation planning across the globe,” Mr Anlezark said.

iNaturalist was already helping the botanic garden better understand seasons when plants were flowering and what insects were about.

“People have taken beautiful photos of fungi and insects which we would not have been able to appreciate without iNaturalist,” Mr Anlezark said.

“We are also getting a much better picture of the post-fire recovery of the garden.”

Since the bushfires, Mr Anlezark said the garden has grown rapidly with the help of decent rainfall. He said rare species started popping up!

“Last year we spotted the rarely-seen East Lynne Midge Orchid, which only occurs in the area between Moruya and Ulladulla,” Mr Anlezark said.

The botanic garden is a great place to get a glimpse of a broad range of native plants.

“All of the plants in the garden are native to the broader Eurobodalla region, which makes it a great place to learn about the local biodiversity,” he said.

“The garden also includes a large area of natural forest which is home to a fascinating array of wildlife.”

The BioBlitz offers hikes for all ages so everyone can get involved.

“We hope to see many people taking photos; we can help with the iNaturalist app as needed,” Mr Anlezark said.

“For younger children, we have find-it sheets which does not require a phone.

“For those who just want to come and appreciate the garden in Spring and leave their phone in their pocket – that’s ok too.”

More information or to register for the BioBlitz, visit www.erbg.org.au

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