Pollinator Bioblitz 2016

Pipevine Swallowtail by Greg Hume, Pallid Bat by NPS Photo

News Release Date: August 2, 2016

Contact: Adam Springer, 520-377-5090

TUMACÁCORI, AZ - In celebration of the National Park Service's 100^th anniversary, Tumacácori National Historical Park is hosting a "BioBlitz" on August 20, 2016 focused on locating and identifying pollinator species. The objective of this event is to document as many pollinator species in the park in a single day as possible, while raising awareness about the importance of pollinators to our communities and natural environments. The event will target species active during the day and at night.

The BioBlitz will offer public volunteers an exciting opportunity to join scientist-led teams to search for unique pollinator species. During the morning, teams will search for birds, butterflies, bees, ants, and other pollinating species;after dark, scientists will lead groups in identifying night-time insects and bats using black lighting sheets and mist nets.

"Southern Arizona is celebrated for its incredible biodiversity. With year-round water in the Santa Cruz River, Tumacácori hosts an exceptional diversity of resident and migrating pollinator species throughout the year. We want to use the occasion of the 100^th anniversary of the NPS to showcase these species at Tumacácori," said Bob Love, Superintendent at Tumacácori NHP.

The BioBlitz is a collaboration between the park, university partners, non-profit organizations, and local schools. The public plays a critical role in this event by getting as many eyes searching for pollinator species as possible. BioBlitzes have been held across the National Park Service this year, with many new additions being made to parks' species lists.

This event is free and open to the public. To participate in the morning, arrive at the Visitor Center by 7:00 am. To participate in evening activities, arrive at the Visitor Center by 7:00 pm. Morning and evening sessions will last about three hours. No experience is necessary and all ages are welcome. Long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and hats are recommended for morning activities. Bring a water bottle, sunscreen, camera, and binoculars if available.

For more information, call Tumacácori National Historical Park at 520-377-5060, or visit the park website, at www.nps.gov/tuma.