iNaturalist

Explore and share observations from the natural world.

iNaturalist logo

iNaturalist is a platform that connects people with nature by allowing them to record and share observations of plants, animals, and other organisms.

With millions of users worldwide, iNaturalist creates a community of scientists, naturalists, and everyday citizens who contribute valuable biodiversity data for scientific research and conservation efforts. By documenting and sharing your encounters with nature, you contribute to a greater understanding of global biodiversity and help to protect it for future generations.

What is iNaturalist?

iNaturalist is an online social network that facilitates the sharing of biodiversity information to help people learn about nature. It is a crowdsourced species identification system and an occurrence recording tool that allows users to document their observations, collaborate with others, and contribute data that supports scientific research and conservation.



iNaturalist is designed to generate, share, explore, and curate data collected by its community, but it is not a repository for external data or a tool for mapping non-living objects. It emphasizes sharing observations of living organisms and encourages participation in citizen science projects to support biodiversity science and conservation.

Key Features of iNaturalist

  • Record Your Observations: Capture your encounters with organisms and maintain life lists in the cloud.
  • Contribute to Science: Your observations help create research-quality data for scientists worldwide.
  • Crowdsourced Identifications: Connect with experts who can identify the species you observe.
  • Engage in Citizen Science: Join existing projects or create your own to contribute to biodiversity knowledge.
  • Learn About Nature: Interact with a global community of naturalists to build your knowledge.
  • Run a Bioblitz: Host events to discover and record as many species as possible in a specific area.
  • Works on All Devices: Access iNaturalist through mobile apps, even without internet access.


A diagram of inaturalist

Detailed Features and Applications

Record and Share Observations

iNaturalist enables users to document their encounters with wild organisms and share these observations with a community of naturalists and scientists. Every observation contributes to a global dataset that helps scientists track the distribution and abundance of species.


Contribute to Science

Each observation made on iNaturalist has the potential to contribute to biodiversity science. The platform shares your findings with scientific data repositories like the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF), helping researchers access crucial data. Simply observe and upload; iNaturalist takes care of the rest.


Connect with a Community

iNaturalist fosters a collaborative community where users can help each other identify species, discuss findings, and learn from one another. Through crowdsourced identification, you gain access to expert knowledge and insights about the organisms you encounter.


Engage in Citizen Science Projects

Join existing citizen science projects that align with your interests, or create your own project to focus on a particular conservation goal. This enables collective efforts in data collection, analysis, and sharing, making a meaningful contribution to biodiversity knowledge.


Educational and Learning Opportunities

iNaturalist provides a platform for users to build their understanding of the natural world. By engaging with others, you can expand your knowledge, help others learn, and deepen your appreciation for biodiversity.


Host a Bioblitz

Organize or participate in a Bioblitz, an event where participants try to find and identify as many species as possible in a specific area within a defined time frame. This collaborative effort helps generate valuable data for local and global conservation.



Accessibility Across Devices

With mobile apps available for iOS and Android, you can record observations anytime, anywhere. iNaturalist’s apps work offline, allowing you to make and save observations without an internet connection, which you can upload later.

A map of the world with a lot of dots on it

About iNaturalist

iNaturalist began in 2008 as a Master's final project by Ken-ichi Ueda, Nate Agrin, and Jessica Kline at UC Berkeley's School of Information. After graduation, Nate and Ken-ichi continued to develop the platform, with support from Sean McGregor. In 2011, Ken-ichi partnered with Scott Loarie, and together they formed iNaturalist, LLC, which led to the platform's growth through numerous collaborations.


By 2014, iNaturalist became an initiative of the California Academy of Sciences and expanded further in 2017 by becoming a joint initiative with the National Geographic Society. In 2023, iNaturalist transitioned into an independent non-profit organization.


Today, iNaturalist partners with a global network of organizations, known as the iNaturalist Network, to provide localized experiences and broaden its impact in advancing biodiversity science and conservation efforts worldwide.


All information, images and videos sourced from https://www.inaturalist.org/

Share this article

Quicklinks

A field of tall grass with trees and mountains in the background.

Understanding Carbon Footprint and The Role of Carbon Credits in Nature Conservation

By Johann Nortje • November 18, 2024
Climate change is a global issue, with organizations like Conservation International leading efforts in nature conservation to mitigate its impacts. One of the most effective tools in this fight is the reduction of carbon footprints through carbon credits. But what exactly is a carbon footprint, and how does it connect to carbon credits, nature conservation, and global climate initiatives? In this article, we’ll examine the concepts of carbon footprints, explore the critical role of carbon credits , and highlight how organizations like Conservation International use these tools to promote sustainable solutions. Plus, we’ll link you to a helpful resource - the Carbon Footprint Calculator - to get started on understanding your own impact. What Is a Carbon Footprint? A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs), primarily carbon dioxide (CO₂), emitted directly or indirectly by human activities. This includes everyday actions like driving a car, heating your home, or even the food you consume. Essentially, it’s a measure of your impact on the environment, expressed in metric tons of CO₂ equivalent (CO₂e). Why It Matters for Nature Conservation The higher your carbon footprint, the greater your contribution to climate change. Excessive GHG emissions disrupt natural ecosystems, degrade habitats, and lead to extreme weather patterns. By understanding and reducing our carbon footprints, we can help preserve critical ecosystems like rainforests and mangroves, which are vital for nature conservation efforts championed by organizations such as Conservation International .
A tablet with a bunch of animals coming out of it.

Engaging Tech in African Schools Through Citizen Science

By Johann Nortje • October 29, 2024
The parallels between citizen science initiatives and the educational work we do through Zanza Labs resonate with me, especially when considering how technology could be better integrated into schools across the continent. At Zanza, we're focused on the convergence of conservation and tech—not just for conservation’s sake, but as a tool for broader educational impact.
Digital Impact

Digital Impact: Tech-Driven Conservation Success

By Johann Nortje • October 8, 2024
At Zanza, we believe conservation success isn’t about a linear progression from one solution to the next but rather a dynamic cycle of interconnected efforts, all working in harmony. Conservation technology is at the heart of this approach, providing a powerful vehicle for transforming communities and creating sustainable environmental change. The key is that each element—whether it's community engagement, resource access, or entrepreneurial development—reinforces the others, forming a cycle that drives meaningful impact on the ground.

The Challenging Complexity of Indigenous Knowledge in Modern Conservation

By Johann Nortje • October 4, 2024
In recent years, the integration of Indigenous knowledge with modern technologies has gained traction as a promising new avenue in conservation. From safeguarding biodiversity to managing natural resources, the narrative surrounding Indigenous practices often paints a picture of harmony with nature - a romanticized vision that can obscure the complex realities on the ground.

Rethinking Poaching Solutions: The Role of Technology and Skills Development in Conservation

By Johann Nortje • September 30, 2024
When we talk about conservation in Africa, we often focus on the big-ticket challenges: habitat destruction, illegal wildlife trade, and poaching. I've always known that poaching stems from more than just poverty, hunger and traditional practices. But over the past few years, I’ve come to understand that the drivers of poaching are far more complex than they first appear. Poaching is often a symptom of deeper societal issues; boredom, opportunity "a-way-of-life." This realization has fundamentally changed the way I think about conservation. It’s not just about protecting animals or enhancing security, I’m more interested in using conservation technology as a vehicle to create alternative options. For me, this isn’t just a strategy; it’s a mission. We need to provide people with viable, sustainable pathways that make poaching less appealing by offering better opportunities in life. At Zanza Labs, we’ve made it our mission to tackle these challenges in a way that combines education, entrepreneurship, and technology. Our vision is to create pathways for young people to develop marketable skills, ensuring that conservation isn't just about saving animals but also about providing real, tangible opportunities for the communities living near these wildlife hotspots.
Show More
A field of tall grass with trees and mountains in the background.

Understanding Carbon Footprint and The Role of Carbon Credits in Nature Conservation

By Johann Nortje • November 18, 2024
Climate change is a global issue, with organizations like Conservation International leading efforts in nature conservation to mitigate its impacts. One of the most effective tools in this fight is the reduction of carbon footprints through carbon credits. But what exactly is a carbon footprint, and how does it connect to carbon credits, nature conservation, and global climate initiatives? In this article, we’ll examine the concepts of carbon footprints, explore the critical role of carbon credits , and highlight how organizations like Conservation International use these tools to promote sustainable solutions. Plus, we’ll link you to a helpful resource - the Carbon Footprint Calculator - to get started on understanding your own impact. What Is a Carbon Footprint? A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs), primarily carbon dioxide (CO₂), emitted directly or indirectly by human activities. This includes everyday actions like driving a car, heating your home, or even the food you consume. Essentially, it’s a measure of your impact on the environment, expressed in metric tons of CO₂ equivalent (CO₂e). Why It Matters for Nature Conservation The higher your carbon footprint, the greater your contribution to climate change. Excessive GHG emissions disrupt natural ecosystems, degrade habitats, and lead to extreme weather patterns. By understanding and reducing our carbon footprints, we can help preserve critical ecosystems like rainforests and mangroves, which are vital for nature conservation efforts championed by organizations such as Conservation International .
A tablet with a bunch of animals coming out of it.

Engaging Tech in African Schools Through Citizen Science

By Johann Nortje • October 29, 2024
The parallels between citizen science initiatives and the educational work we do through Zanza Labs resonate with me, especially when considering how technology could be better integrated into schools across the continent. At Zanza, we're focused on the convergence of conservation and tech—not just for conservation’s sake, but as a tool for broader educational impact.
Digital Impact

Digital Impact: Tech-Driven Conservation Success

By Johann Nortje • October 8, 2024
At Zanza, we believe conservation success isn’t about a linear progression from one solution to the next but rather a dynamic cycle of interconnected efforts, all working in harmony. Conservation technology is at the heart of this approach, providing a powerful vehicle for transforming communities and creating sustainable environmental change. The key is that each element—whether it's community engagement, resource access, or entrepreneurial development—reinforces the others, forming a cycle that drives meaningful impact on the ground.

The Challenging Complexity of Indigenous Knowledge in Modern Conservation

By Johann Nortje • October 4, 2024
In recent years, the integration of Indigenous knowledge with modern technologies has gained traction as a promising new avenue in conservation. From safeguarding biodiversity to managing natural resources, the narrative surrounding Indigenous practices often paints a picture of harmony with nature - a romanticized vision that can obscure the complex realities on the ground.

Rethinking Poaching Solutions: The Role of Technology and Skills Development in Conservation

By Johann Nortje • September 30, 2024
When we talk about conservation in Africa, we often focus on the big-ticket challenges: habitat destruction, illegal wildlife trade, and poaching. I've always known that poaching stems from more than just poverty, hunger and traditional practices. But over the past few years, I’ve come to understand that the drivers of poaching are far more complex than they first appear. Poaching is often a symptom of deeper societal issues; boredom, opportunity "a-way-of-life." This realization has fundamentally changed the way I think about conservation. It’s not just about protecting animals or enhancing security, I’m more interested in using conservation technology as a vehicle to create alternative options. For me, this isn’t just a strategy; it’s a mission. We need to provide people with viable, sustainable pathways that make poaching less appealing by offering better opportunities in life. At Zanza Labs, we’ve made it our mission to tackle these challenges in a way that combines education, entrepreneurship, and technology. Our vision is to create pathways for young people to develop marketable skills, ensuring that conservation isn't just about saving animals but also about providing real, tangible opportunities for the communities living near these wildlife hotspots.
Man testing river

New Oxford Rivers Portal Empowers Public to Monitor River Thames Health

By Johann Nortje • September 17, 2024
A new digital platform, the Oxford Rivers Portal, has been launched to provide the public with real-time data on the health of the River Thames. This innovative website allows users to access critical information about water quality, sewage spills, and water levels, enabling people to make informed decisions when planning recreational activities like swimming, canoeing, or paddle boarding.
Elephants

Global Trends in Wildlife Conservation: Embracing Innovation and Collaboration

By Zara Nyota • September 15, 2024
As climate change and human activities continue to pose significant challenges to biodiversity, global efforts in wildlife conservation are evolving rapidly. Conservation strategies are shifting toward more innovative, tech-driven approaches while fostering collaboration between governments, communities, and conservationists. This growing focus on wildlife conservation highlights the urgent need to protect endangered species and preserve ecosystems for future generations.
Copyright UNICEF South Africa/2022/Ngcobo Palesa uses the velocity plank in the water to record the

Strengthening Water Governance through Citizen Science: The Enviro-Champs Digital Innovation Pilot

By Johann Nortje • September 13, 2024
Advancing Community-Based Monitoring for Sustainable Water Resource Management Conventional water governance systems are increasingly inadequate in addressing the urgent challenges of water management and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These traditional frameworks, while essential, often lack inclusivity and fail to incorporate diverse perspectives, particularly from marginalized communities in the Global South. The result is a persistent gap in representation, where the Global North and wealthier regions dominate scientific discourse, leaving disaffected and indigenous voices unheard. Bridging this gap calls for innovative, inclusive approaches that empower local communities—those most affected by environmental and social challenges—to take an active role in water governance.

Valiance Solutions Launches WildlifeIQ

By Zara Nyota • September 4, 2024
A New Era of AI-Driven Wildlife Monitoring Revolutionizing Conservation Efforts with AI-Powered Insights Valiance Solutions has announced the launch of its groundbreaking AI-powered platform, WildlifeIQ, aimed at transforming wildlife monitoring and conservation practices. Renowned for its expertise in leveraging AI for digital transformation across various industries, Valiance Solutions now brings its technological prowess to wildlife conservation, offering a comprehensive tool designed to optimize wildlife management and protection. WildlifeIQ is a pioneering solution that integrates advanced AI algorithms with real-time data to provide intelligent insights into wildlife populations and their behaviors. This platform is set to be a game-changer, streamlining the traditionally labor-intensive process of wildlife monitoring, and enabling faster, more informed decision-making for conservationists and forest officials.

Great Southern BioBlitz 2024: Citizen Science with iNaturalist

By Zara Nyota • September 1, 2024
It’s that time of the year again when citizen scientists across the southern hemisphere are gearing up to explore the outdoors and contribute to the ever-growing repository of biodiversity data. The Great Southern BioBlitz (GSB), now in its fifth year, is set to take place from September 20-23, 2024, and promises to be bigger and better, continuing its upward trajectory in participant numbers and engagement.
More Posts