Exploring Western's Biodiversity
Schedule
Fri Apr 24 2026 at 01:00 pm to 03:30 pm
UTC-04:00Location
North Campus Building | London, ON
About this Event
Help us discover what species are living along Thames River! We will explore the area, searching high and low to discover what species live in the area, with special attention to birds, flowers, and freshwater mussels. No experience or knowledge is necessary. If you have binoculars then it would be a good idea to bring them. We will also have a few pairs that we can loan out if you don't have your own.
We will document what we see using iNaturalist. Please download the iNaturalist app and create your free 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.
At the end of the walk, we will also take water samples and look at those samples under microscopes. You are welcome to come look at the specimens under a microscope or just see the photos on iNaturalist!
This walk is lead by Tim Hain, Assistant Professor in the Biology Department at Western University.
We will meet in the parking lot at North Campus Building, 2004 Perth Drive, London, ON. Paid parking is available at Westminster or the North Campus Building.
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 free 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!
Where is it happening?
North Campus Building, 2004 Perth Drive, London, CanadaEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
CAD 0.00
