Last year's event brought together hundreds of cities worldwide, with 52,000 participants recording over 1.2 million observations featuring around 45,000 species. As well as providing a chance for people to boost both their wellbeing and knowledge about the natural environment, recording the species in our local areas helps scientists and land managers plan with their community to best care for the nature on our doorstep.
The University of Brighton is organising the local regional effort in collaboration with the South Downs National Park Authority, The Living Coast and University of Sussex. As in previous years, the two universities will also engage in a friendly competition over the number and variety of observations by students and staff!
Dr Rachel White, Principal Lecturer in Ecology and Conservation in the School of Applied Sciences at the University of Brighton, said: "We’re encouraging everyone to take part in this year’s City Nature Challenge -– young and old, experienced naturalists and curious beginners. Together, we’re aiming to collect as many wildlife observations as possible to showcase the incredible diversity on our doorsteps. You can search your garden, local park, beach or nature reserve and help conservation efforts by recording your sightings using the iNaturalist app.
"Here at the University of Brighton, we’re focused on tackling global challenges at a local, national and international level. By supporting the City Nature Challenge, we’re helping boost understanding and appreciation of biodiversity, conversation, wellbeing and community engagement in Brighton and across the Sussex."
Key dates for this year’s City Nature Challenge are:
- Observation period: Friday, 29 April – Monday 2 May 2022
- Uploading and identifications: Tuesday, 3 May – Sunday 8 May 2022
- Results announced: Monday 9 May 2022
Twitter: @citnatchallenge