Join us for our annual Churchyard Bioblitz at 10am on Saturday 7th June at St Mary's Church, Abbotskerswell. This year we are also inviting members of the community to join us for an evening night safari to see if we can detect any additional critters that like to surface after sunset!
What is a Bioblitz?
A Bioblitz is a snapshot survey where we record as many different species as we can find - be it animal, plant or fungi.
What if I am not very good at identifying things?
Don't worry - we will use a simple app to photograph and record our findings. Anyone can do it regardless of their level of knowledge or experience.
How can I prepare?
Please download the iNaturalist app in advance of the survey. This will save a little time on the day. You can create a FREE account (just skip past screens asking you to sign up for a paid account). Then you can simply take photos of anything you see on the day and upload them. Your findings will automatically be added to our survey results - it really is that simple!
What else do I need to know?
Children are welcome to come along but should be accompanied by a responsible adult. Sensible footwear is recommended as some areas of the churchyard are uneven under foot. You should bring a drink and a snack if you feel you will need one.
Will there be anyone there to help me?
Yes - members of the Abbwild team will be on-hand to help you to work the app or to provide guidance where required.
Will the event go ahead if the weather is poor?
Please watch the Abbwild Facebook Page or check for updates in the chat section of this event. If light rain is predicted the survey will likely go ahead but if we have heavy persistent rain forecast then we may postpone to the following weekend.
Can I just take part for a portion of the event?
Yes! You are welcome to come for as much of the event as you would like - every single record helps us to build a picture of wildlife in our churchyard. You may just want to come in the morning or you may prefer the adventure of bug hunting after dark! Our survey will run for the entire day so all records taken will count - you may want to stay on for longer or come later in the afternoon if you can't make the morning session. Although members of the team may not be around to help you, your records will still be added to the project and will help us to build a fuller picture of the wildlife in our churchyard.
Why do a Bioblitz?
By taking records annually, we can help the church team with their journey to become an Eco Church. This information can also help us to target our interventions to help maximise the churchyard environment for wildlife. All records also go to the Devon Biodiversity Records Centre and help scientists and researchers with larger projects, so you'll be doing more than you realise to help wildlife when you take part.
Also check out other Trips & Adventurous Activities in Newton Abbot.
