From the birds overhead to the wildflowers at your feet, the capital region sits at the heart of one of CanadaB次元官网网址檚 biodiversity hotspots, bursting with an incredible array of plants and wildlife.

And thereB次元官网网址檚 no need to travel far to discover this rich diversity B次元官网网址� salmon-bearing streams, Garry oak meadows, vibrant wetlands and dynamic shorelines are found in neighbourhoods throughout the region, and in your own backyard!  

Why is this biodiversity important?

Not only does biodiversity support clean air and water, food security, and recreational and cultural opportunities, itB次元官网网址檚 essential to the quality of life we enjoy in the region.

Getting outside and observing the natural world boosts mental health and well-being, and is also a key step in conserving nature for future generations.

Explore, discover and celebrate

From May 21 to 24, the Capital Regional District is hosting a virtual in honour of the International Day for Biological Diversity on May 22.

ItB次元官网网址檚 simple to participate and youB次元官网网址檒l be joining a large community of local nature buffs who are helping to inventory and celebrate the regionB次元官网网址檚 amazing flora and fauna B次元官网网址� hunt for wild plants, animals and fungi within the capital region and record them using the iNaturalist app.

Join the challenge B次元官网网址� and vie for some incredible prizes!

• Create a free iNaturalist account ( or ) or at .
• Head to join CRDB次元官网网址檚 Biodiversity Challenge project page and click B次元官网网址渏oin this projectB次元官网网址� for the chance to win prizes and receive project updates.
• Join the hunt! Search for local nature in your backyard, neighbourhood or favourite park or beach between May 21 and 24 B次元官网网址� observations of wild native plants, animals, fungi, insects, tracks or even scat are all welcome.
• Snap a pic. Use a digital camera or smart phone to capture your sightings, and upload to iNaturalist.
• Upload your photos and identify your findings as best you can. Other participants and the iNaturalist community will help confirm, or suggest, identifications.

By joining the CRDB次元官网网址檚 Biodiversity Challenge project, youB次元官网网址檒l have the chance to win one of six prizes, including a consultation from Saanich Native Plants, a local field guide, Pacific Northwest Plant Knowledge cards, and a smartphone macro lens to take close-up photos of tiny creatures.

Visit for more information.