Record nature observations with iNaturalist

Common Brown Butterfly.jpg

Explore, observe and connect with nature through the citizen science app iNaturalist.

Discover the natural world around you, learn about local biodiversity, and contribute to citizen science.

iNaturalist is a free and easy-to-use app that allows you to record and share observations of plants, animals and fungi by uploading photos from your smartphone. Every observation helps build our understanding of local biodiversity and contributes valuable information for research and conservation.

It's a great way to connect with nature, develop your identification skills, and share knowledge with a global community of nature enthusiasts, scientists and conservationists.

How to use iNaturalist

  • Download the free iNaturalist app on your smartphone or visit the iNaturalist Australia website on your computer.
  • Create an account, or sign in if you're already an iNaturalist user.
  • Explore nature and photograph the plants, animals or fungi you discover.
  • Upload your observations through the app. Your records will automatically contribute to the Mornington Peninsula Biodiversity project.

To see what the community is observing across the Peninsula, visit our project page on iNaturalist: Mornington Peninsula Biodiversity Project

To learn more about how to use iNaturalist see this great video made by Yarra Ranges Shire and the video tutorials on the iNaturalist website.

Join the September BioBlitz

Each September, the Shire joins other local councils across greater Melbourne for a month-long  IiNaturalist BioBlitz . It's a fun way to explore nature, contribute to citizen science, and help build a snapshot of the region's biodiversity. Learn more about the BioBlitz and other Biodiversity Month events at: September is Biodiversity Month
 

Tread lightly

Please respect local plants and wildlife when taking photos and recording observations.

Spring is an especially important season for biodiversity. Many birds are nesting, while native orchids, wildflowers and herbs are emerging and flowering. When observing nature, take care not to disturb wildlife or damage vegetation. 

By observing responsibly and leaving nature as you find it, you can help protect the species and habitats we're working together to document, understand and conserve.