Join the Bioblitz this weekend

There is some spring fun lined up for nature lovers this weekend.

The Great Southern Bioblitz is taking place from today, 25 September to Monday, 28 September.

One of the organisers, Sandra Falanga, of the Garden Route City Nature Challenge Core Committee, says: "Here in the Southern Cape, spring is spectacular and everyone is just loving being outside.

"The Southern Cape Bioblitz works on the same principles as the City Nature Challenge, which took place earlier this year.

"One and all are encouraged to take part. Wild plants and creatures on land, in rivers, estuaries, on shores and in the ocean can be photographed from Friday, 25 September to Monday, 28 September.

"Upload the pictures to www.iNaturalist. org by Friday, 2 October and help identify observations, where you can. The number of species for an area is logged, plus the number of observations and participants," Falanga says.

Reminder:

- The cellphone app or website can be used. - Check that the dates and times on cameras, cellphones and georeferencing devices are correct. - Enable locality settings on your cellphone or camera, or make sure you know where your picture was taken.

Falanga says: "Cape Town is going all out not to be outdone by Australia, but remember South Africa and the Garden Route are rich in biodiversity. Enjoy being outside and take part wherever you are." For more information and support, see:

- wessageorge@isat.co.za

- Facebook: @GardenRouteCNC - www.inaturalist.org/projects/greatsouthern-bioblitz-2020-garden-route-district - www.inaturalist.org/projects/greatsouthern-bioblitz-umbrella