2026 City Nature Challenge: BIOBLITZ!

Step into the role of a community scientist and help uncover the biodiversity of South DeKalb’s greenspaces.

There is nature all around us. Knowing what species are in our city—and where they are—helps us study and protect them. The only way to do that is together.

The City Nature Challenge is a global community science event where people document local wildlife using tools like iNaturalist. By participating, you not only learn more about the nature around you—you help make your city a better place for people and wildlife.

A Bioblitz is a focused, time-based effort where we work together to document as many species as possible in a specific place.

In this experience, we will use tools like iNaturalist, Merlin, and eBird to observe, document, and chronicle the plants, animals, fungi, and insects that share this habitat with us.

Over time, this kind of collective data helps us:

• Understand what species are present
• Track changes in biodiversity
• Inform conservation and stewardship efforts
• Build stronger connections between people and place

Tasha Messer
DeKalb County RPCA Park Naturalist

Gresham Park Recreation Center
3113 Gresham Rd SE, Atlanta, GA 30316

Saturday, April 25, 2026

Participants will step into a shared moment where community-powered discovery and data collection meet in an engaging and accessible way.

Together, we will:

• Explore the trail and surrounding habitat
• Learn how to use iNaturalist, Merlin, and eBird
• Observe and document wildlife in real time
• Support one another in identifying species—no pressure, just curiosity

This is a mistake-friendly, curiosity-led experience where learning happens together.

To create a personalized and engaging experience, participants must register for a specific session.

Please plan to arrive 30 minutes early to allow for a smooth check-in and transition between groups.

• Observation Session I: 8:00–10:00 a.m.
• Observation Session II: 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
• Observation Session III: 4:00–6:00 p.m.
• Observation Session IV: 7:00–9:00 p.m. (evening session optimized for nocturnal viewing)

Note: Time between sessions is intentionally built in to allow for transition, nourishment, hydration, and reset.

Each session offers a slightly different window into the landscape—consider joining more than one.

Wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear. Bring a refillable water bottle.

Required (for participation):
Participants must bring a fully charged, easily portable device (smartphone or small tablet with data/Wi-Fi capability) with the following apps downloaded and logged in prior to arrival:

• iNaturalist: https://www.inaturalist.org/home
• Merlin Bird ID: https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org/
• eBird: https://ebird.org/about/ebird-mobile

This ensures a smooth, hands-on experience during the Bioblitz.

Optional (if you already own them):

• Binoculars
• Field guides or plant/wildlife reference books
• Magnifying glass or hand lens
• Flashlight or headlamp (especially for evening session)
• Blacklight (for revealing fluorescent colors and patterns in lichens not visible in natural light)
• Protective gloves
• Portable phone charger (recommended)
• Small notebook and pen for field notes
• Laser pointer (for guiding group observations—use responsibly)

All ages welcome.
Adult supervision required for participants 14 and under.

Moderate walking at a relaxed pace on mostly paved paths, with brief transitions to mixed terrain and frequent stops for observation.

DeKalb County RPCA is committed to inclusive and accessible programming. Reasonable accommodations may be available upon request. Please contact the program organizer at least 48 hours in advance.

Restrooms are available on site during recreation center operating hours only. Please plan accordingly.

This program will be held rain or shine unless conditions are deemed unsafe by DeKalb County RPCA.

By registering for or attending this program, participants acknowledge that outdoor activities involve inherent risks including uneven terrain, weather conditions, physical exertion, and use of tools.

Participation is voluntary. Attendees assume full responsibility for their safety and agree to release and hold harmless DeKalb County RPCA and affiliated partners, except in cases of gross negligence.

Food may be present and may contain allergens. Participation in consumption is at your own risk.

By attending, participants grant permission for photography and media use for educational, promotional, and reporting purposes.

Registration indicates agreement with all DeKalb County RPCA program waivers and policies.

Come curious. Leave connected. Help us document what’s living all around us.

~ Naturalist Tasha
404-927-4227

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Host or Publisher South DeKalb Parks Naturalist