Birds and Flowers (Guided Walk)

Come meet the birds and flowers that inhabit an early successional grassland near Western's campus. This will be a slow-paced walk with opportunities to explore your curiosity about the plants, fungi, and animals that you see. No prior knowledge is necessary.

We will also introduce you to the iNaturalist community science app where you can upload photos of your plant, animal and fungi observations from the walk as part of the City Nature Challenge! Please download iNaturalist and create your account in advance. If you would like help getting started with iNaturalist then arrive 15 minutes early and an iNaturalist Ambassador will be there to teach you how to make observations.

This walk is lead by Tim Hain, Assistant Professor in the Biology Department at Western University.

We will meet in the parking lot at Gibbons Park near Montessori School - 29 Victoria Street, London ON.

Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear. This hike will be on uneven terrain and is not wheelchair accessible.

We need YOUR help to track biodiversity in London, ON!

From April 24–27, 2026, you’re invited to get outside and document the plants, animals, insects, fungi, and other living organisms you encounter using the iNaturalist app. The City Nature Challenge is a global collaboration to document nature. Every observation counts and everyone is welcome - from nature newbies to seasoned naturalists! It’s fun, easy, and a great way to explore the natural spaces in the Forest City.

HOW IT WORKS

April 24–27, 2026

📸 Get outside and take photos (or record sounds) of wild plants, animals, fungi, and other life you find.

April 28–May 10, 2026

🔍 Help identify what was found—yours and others’ observations.

Results announced: May 13, 2026

🏆 Which cities will come out on top for biodiversity, participation, and total observations?

HOW TO PARTICIPATE

Find it - Spot any wild plant, animal, or other living organism

Snap it - Take a photo or sound recording

Share it - Upload your observation to iNaturalist and help with identifications

That’s it - anyone can do it!

You can get outside on your own or join a guided nature walk or bioblitz to learn from knowledgeable naturalists. For a full schedule of events, visit bioblitzlondon.ca.

WHY PARTICIPATE?

Your observations contribute real data used by scientists, students, and conservation efforts.

NEW TO iNATURALIST?

No problem! Download the free app. Create your account. Then come 15 minutes early on any of the events and we'll have an iNaturalist Ambassador there ready to help teach you how to get started.

Let’s show the world the amazing biodiversity of our city!

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher City Nature Challenge: London, ON