California Biodiversity Day is Just Around the Corner!

With summer in full swing, now is a great time to explore nature in your backyard. California boasts not only the largest state parks system in the country, but also the most plant and animal species in the country. Celebrate California’s Biodiversity Day— September 7th. Throughout September you can attend events across the state that showcase California’s unique plants and wildlife. 

Have you ever done a BioBlitz or used iNaturalist? BioBlitzing is a fun way to engage with the natural world and the community around you!  Learn more about what a BioBlitz is here  and get some tips on simple tools that you can use to track biodiversity.

California quail on fence post. (Photo Credit: USFWS)

Here are some of the BioBlitzes and Biodiversity events happening at California State Parks in September.  

• Bothe-Napa Valley State Park is hosting a BioBlitz and environmental DNA sampling event. This is a great option if you have never done a bioblitz and would like guidance on the process while learning about the park’s ecology and stewardship efforts. September 12th from 1 pm to 4 pm. 
• See the tallest tree species at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park and Humboldt Redwoods State Park. Both parks are hosting self-guided BioBlitzes for those who already have iNaturalist in their back pocket or want to explore on their own. Starting on September 4th, Prairie Creek will go until the 21st and Humboldt will go until the 12th.   
• The beautiful coastal bluffs of Monterey are a breathtaking place to hike, picnic, and learn. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve will be providing docent lead nature walks and a self-guided BioBlitz on September 9th from 10 am to 1 pm.  

Don’t see one near you? Check out this complete list of events or get out and relish the diversity of plants and wildlife of California in your own way.

Wildflowers at North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve. CDFW photo by Laura Shaskey.

Have a great time celebrating California’s biodiversity. Make sure to give yourself time to find parking and pay entry fees where needed, each park is different so check out the CA State Park website before you go. Here is a helpful list of Bag Packing and Safe Trail Use tips for when you are enjoying your time at the park. 

Tip: Have the iNaturalist app downloaded and your phone charged if you are doing a BioBlitz event.