April 24-April 27, 2026
Join the City Nature Challenge! We’re partnering with John Ball Zoo for this exciting global bio-blitz, created by iNaturalist. With over 700 cities participating worldwide, it’s one of the largest community science events. Plus, you don’t need to be an expert! The app connects you with naturalists who can help identify the organisms you discover.
What’s a BioBlitz?
A BioBlitz is an event that focuses on finding and identifying as many species as possible in a specific area over a short period of time.
How do I get involved?
- Download the iNaturalist app. Not sure how to use iNaturalist? Click here to learn more.
- Join the “City Nature Challenge 2026: West Michigan” project on iNaturalist.
- Using iNaturalist, take and submit photos of plants, animals, and fungi in Allegan, Barry, Kent, and Ottawa counties from April 24-April 27, 2026.
- Tell 3 people in your life about the City Nature Challenge and invite them to participate!
Where can I participate?
You can participate by using iNaturalist anywhere in the following counties: Allegan, Barry, Kent and Ottawa. Meaning you can participate and explore from your own backyard! Plus, Ottawa County Parks is hosting a range of exciting and educational programs from April 24-27.
APRIL 24 – Twilight Hike from 8-9:30 pm at Grand River Park
In spring, as light of day turns to dark of night, wildlife springs to life! Come experience the park in a whole new way as you explore by the light of fading day! Click here to register.
APRIL 25 – Bald Eagle Walks at Grand Ravines
Whether you are an avid birder or are just desiring to experience birds beyond your backyard, join us and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of spring bird migration. Trail conditions vary depending on the park. Be prepared for muddy and wet trails.
APRIL 26 – Bald Eagle Walks at Grand Ravines
Bald Eagles frequent the Grand River corridor and have nested at Grand Ravines for many years. Join us for a guided hike and enjoy a special, up-close view of the nesting activities of Ottawa County’s most well-known Bald Eagle pair.
APRIL 26 – Sunday Stroll from 2-3:30 pm at Hemlock Crossing
Take a guided stroll at Hemlock Crossing. Click here to register.
How will my participation help?
Every participant provides an opportunity for new observations of all kinds of species found in west Michigan. This could be hundreds, even thousands of new observations! We also hope to encourage you and everyone in our community to get more involved in community science.
The City Nature Challenge is organized on a global scale by the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County and the California Academy of Sciences.