VCP BioBlitz: City Nature Challenge 2024

Join us at the VCPA Garden and Compost Site for an exciting event as part of the global City Nature Challenge! This four-day bioblitz aims to gather as many observations of local wildlife and plants as possible, competing with cities and boroughs worldwide. Let’s band together to showcase the Bronx and Van Cortlandt Park’s rich biodiversity!

This year, we’re participating in the Greenspace Race, aiming to be the first NYC park to hit 5,000 recorded observations. Your contribution can help demonstrate why Van Cortlandt Park stands out among the city’s greenspaces.

While you can participate anytime during the challenge, our event on April 27th offers a unique opportunity. We’ll provide guidance on using the iNaturalist app effectively and share strategies for making valuable observations. Whether you prefer to explore the garden or venture into the Northwest Forest, your efforts will add to our growing database of over 40,000 observations, directly informing our conservation strategies and management practices.

At the end of the event, participants will gather to enjoy snacks and see how many observations we collectively made!

Gathering this ecological snapshot is crucial for our park’s future, offering a fun, educational experience for all involved.

To prepare:

• Download iNaturalist and set up your account before the event. (Join Van Cortlandt Park Nature Network by searching in Projects)
• Dress Appropriately: Wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and bring sunscreen, bug spray, water, snacks, and battery chargers if possible.

RSVP Now.

This is your chance to contribute to the City Nature Challenge, learn more about your local ecosystem, and help the Bronx claim the top spot. Join us in celebrating our park and our borough—let’s win those bragging rights together!

Questions? Email noel@vancortlandt.org.