Bi-CAN BioBlitz at Amôwa Forest Preserve

A BioBlitz is an intensive survey of as many species as possible within a specified area during a 24-hour period. The goal is to collect basic taxonomic data and to highlight the value of local habitats. The hallmark of a BioBlitz is that members of the public witness and participate in the study of local biodiversity, learning more about the natural world in their own community.

The Amôwa Forest Preserve BioBlitz is a rare opportunity to join over 25 scientists and naturalists from around the region as they survey mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, plants, insects, and much more on the 179-acre mixed habitat preserve in East Moline, Illinois. Visitors are welcome to borrow insect nets to chase dragonflies, damselflies, butterflies and more in the prairie. They are also encouraged to bring cameras or smartphones to document the species they encounter. The free app, iNaturalist, will be used to record findings for the 2024 Blitz. The online “2024 Bi-CAN BioBlitz at Amôwa Forest Preserve” project can be used within the preserve boundaries during the 24-hour period.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

FRIDAY, 6/21
Throughout the Day/Evening: Survey Flora and Fauna with Experts
2:00PM - 5:00PM: Craft and Activity Tables
6:30PM: LIVE Raptors with The RARE Group: Tiny but Mighty
7:30PM: Marsupials with Deb Kutsunis
8:00PM: Guided "Owl Prowl" Hike
9:00PM: Moth/Insect Lightsheeting with insect expert

SATURDAY, 6/22
Throughout the Day: Survey Flora and Fauna with Experts
9:00AM: Native Plant Presentation
10:00AM - 1:00PM: Craft and Activity Tables
10:00AM: Guided Bird Hike
10:00AM: Guided Plant Hike
11:00AM: Story Time
11:30AM: Wildlife of Illinois with Ann Sullivan

Registration is NOT required. We hope to see you there!

The 2024 BioBlitz is brought to you by:

Bi-State Conservation Action Network (Bi-CAN)
Rock Island County Forest Preserve District
Guardians of the Prairie and Forest
Environmental Planning Strategies, Inc.
Augustana College Field Stations
Vildmark, Inc.
The RARE Group
Nahant Marsh Education Center
The City of Davenport
Niabi Zoo
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach: Scott County
Scott County Secondary Roads
& more!