St Andrews Bioblitz 2014
The University of St Andrews will be holding its first ever Bioblitz on Friday and Saturday 13th and 14th June 2014 at East Sands beach with the aim of recording as many species of plant and animal as possible within a 24 hour period.
Anyone with an interest in biology or wildlife, or even those who would just like a day out, can come along to East Sands beach and take part in activities suitable for all ages including visits to the rock pools , bird, pollinator and wild flower walks, collecting insects and moths, beach games, craft activities and much more.
Dr Alfredo Ojanguren, one of the main organisers for the event said “The information collected from this will be publicly available and used by scientists from the Centre for Biological Diversity and elsewhere to further understand patterns of distribution and abundances of UK biodiversity.”
Experts and volunteers will be on hand to answer any questions about the wildlife found and throughout the event the Scottish Oceans Institute will be opening its doors for participants to help sort and identify samples. We have confirmed the participation of organisations such as the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES), the Marine Biological Association of the UK (MBA), the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), as well as local groups including Fife Nature Records Centre and Transition University of St Andrews. These organisations will also have information stands and provide activities throughout the Saturday.
Jack Sewell of the Marine Biological Association said “This is a great opportunity to learn about and contribute to scientific research as well as being aware of the rich biodiversity that surround us in our everyday lives”.
So come along and enjoy what will be two great days out, learning about and interacting with your local environment. Keep up to date with the activity schedule by liking our Facebook page or email us on [email protected]!
We look forward to seeing you at East Sands!