From its urban streams to dense west coast forests to Garry oak meadows blooming with native wildflowers, Greater Victoria is one of Canada’s biodiversity hotspots – home to an incredible diversity of plants and wildlife.
Filled with pollinating insects, migrating birds, salmon and other wildlife, this tapestry of flora and fauna supports clean air and water, food security, recreational and cultural opportunities, not to mention the well-being benefits that come as we get outside and observe the natural world around us.
At the same time, learning about biodiversity also helps us better understand how to protect nature for future generations.
It's with that in mind that the Capital Regional District invites residents to join the City Nature Challenge, part of a global initiative of more than 700 cities around the world, working to document and protect biodiversity.
Here's how to get involved:
Over four-days, April 25 to 28, Greater Victorians are encouraged to photograph and document local biodiversity using the free iNaturalist website or app and help to build a record of the nature surrounding us. Local governments and scientists can then use this vital information as they work to protect local ecosystems – documenting rare species, tracking invasive species, identifying wildlife hotspots and more.
Even better? You can win some incredible prizes while you’re at it!
- First prize (Most species observations): $50 gift card to Satinflower Nurseries
- Second prize (Most observations overall): $30 gift card to Wild Birds Unlimited store
- Third prize (randomly selected participant): Greater Victoria nature guidebook
To join the City Nature Challenge, simply hunt for wild plants, animals and fungi within the capital region and record them using the free iNaturalist website or app:
- Create an account using the free iNaturalist app (AppStore or Google Play) or website.
- Head online to join the Greater Victoria City Nature Challenge project for a 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 April 25 and 28. Observations of wild native plants, animals, fungi, insects, tracks or even scat are all welcome.
- Use a digital camera or smart phone to capture your sightings, and upload to iNaturalist.
- Identify your findings as best you can and have people from the iNaturalist community help confirm your identifications.
Looking for iNaturalist support or hoping to participate in a family friendly activity as part of the City Nature Challenge? Check out these free events, offered by partners across the region!
April 24:
• Rocky Point Bird Observatory “Feathers and Flight” iNaturalist virtual training
April 26:
• Mini Biothon at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary
• CRD Wildflowers of Horth Hill guided walk (Pre-registered program,18+)
• Nature Walks at Goldstream Provincial Park
• Earth Day Celebration at Oak Haven Park
April 27
• Saanich Gorge Park Tour and City Nature Challenge
Not only does getting outside and observing the natural world surrounding us boost mental health and well-being, it’s also a key step in conserving nature for future generations.
Learn more at crd.ca/news/join-2025-city-nature-challenge