On May 21-22, 2016, Cabrillo National Monument and several other park units hosted a Centennial Bioblitz event. Utilizing the biodiversity observation application, iNaturalist, explorers of all ages made their way to the Monument to discover biodiversity in the Park. Thanks to a truly outstanding community effort and an incredible team of over 157 scientists, exhibitors, and volunteers, over 1706 observations spanning 427 species were documented throughout the 24-hour
Bioblitz period.
On May 21-22, 2016, Cabrillo National Monument and several other park units hosted a Centennial Bioblitz event. Utilizing the biodiversity observation application, iNaturalist, explorers of all ages made their way to the Monument to discover biodiversity in their National Park. Thanks to a truly outstanding community effort and an incredible team of over 157 scientists, exhibitors, and volunteers, over 1706 observations spanning 427 species were documented throughout the 24-hour Bioblitz period. Not only did this land Cabrillo in 3rd place for overall iNaturalist observations, but it was a tribute to the unique biodiversity hotspot that is San Diego, California.
In conjunction with the Bioblitz, Cabrillo hosted a Biodiversity Festival where over 19 exhibitors conducted hands-on science based activities for hundreds of park guests. From producing replica native Kumeyaay rock art, interacting with animal ambassadors, listening to current research updates from local scientists, and much more, we were excited to celebrate and introduce the public to science and biodiversity. Thanks to our strong partnerships with the Climate Science Alliance and California Geographic Alliance, over 300 students of all ages were provided transportation to the festival including an international contingency from Mexico.
The following infographic summarizes the iNaturalist observations made at Cabrillo National Monument over this 24-hour period.
For more information on Bioblitz and the importance of biodiversity, please visit: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/biodiversity/national-parks-bioblitz.htm