Citizen Science

City nature challenge with a person taking a close up photograph of the natural environment

Citizen science is all about everyday people contributing to scientific research by observing and recording nature. It is a meaningful way for our community to connect with Country - the lands of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung People who have nurtured this land we now call Darebin for tens of thousands of years.

How to Get Involved 

Whether you're exploring a creek, walking through a park, or gardening at home, your observations will help us better understand Darebin’s biodiversity and guide how we protect it. You don’t need to be an expert, just curious and willing to look closely at the natural world around you.

Join iNaturalist

One of the easiest ways to get started is by using the iNaturalist App:

  1. Download the iNaturalist App and create a free account
  2. Head outdoors and take photos of plants, animals, and fungi
  3. Upload your observations - the app helps you identify species and shares them with a global community of nature lovers.
  4. Contribute to science: your observations are shared with the Atlas of Living Australia, supporting biodiversity research across the country.
  5. Explore the iNaturalist map to see what others have observed in your area!

Learn more

Every observation you share as a citizen scientist helps build a clearer picture of Darebin’s natural environment. We use this community-gathered data to:

  • Track changes in local biodiversity over time
  • Guide habitat restoration and conservation efforts
  • Rediscover species not recorded in Darebin for many years
  • Spot newly emerging weeds before they spread
  • Celebrate and raise awareness of Darebin’s wonderful biodiversity

Get inspired

Get inspired with our webinars, created in collaboration with other councils to help you confidently explore nature using iNaturalist:

More Apps to Explore

Expand your citizen science toolkit with these apps:

While you explore nature, please remember:

  • Don’t disturb wildlife or their habitats
  • Leave no trace by taking your rubbish with you

Upcoming Citizen Science events:

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