Public can participate in ‘bioBlitz’ to document species at Reinstein Woods

people looking at a leaf
Mary Losi, right, volunteer nature guide, shows visitors how to identify a leaf at Reinstein Woods in Depew. The public can help in identifying as many species as possible during the “bioBlitz” to be held May 13-14. Photo courtesy Reinstein Woods

A 24-hour “bioBlitz” will be held to find and identify as many different species of organisms as possible at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve, 93 Honorine Dr.,  Cheektowaga.

It will take place from Friday evening through Saturday, May 13-14. It is being held by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) in partnership with Friends of Reinstein Woods.

Starting on the evening of Friday, May 13, field teams of local scientists and volunteers will work together to seek out species living at Reinstein Woods. Volunteers will accompany trained leaders in documenting a specific group of organisms, such as birds, insects or flowering plants. Overnight, scientists will trap and record data about organisms that are active at night.

On Saturday, efforts to find and identify organisms such as trees, fungi and mammals will continue throughout the day. All of the data will be shared on www.iNaturalist.org, enabling participants to see the results of their efforts.

From 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, families can participate in “mini-blitz” stations, a bird walk and a photo scavenger hunt, learning how to identify common plants and animals along the way. Participants of all ages and abilities are invited to attend.

Registration is required to join a field team. Register online or call Reinstein Woods at (716) 683-5959.

No registration is required for Saturday’s “mini-blitz” activities.

Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve is a 292-acre complex of forests, ponds and wetlands.

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