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City Nature Challenge

April 24-27, 2026

Join our conservation challenge!

Free to participate

Are you a conservation champion? Join the City Nature Challenge!

From April 24-27, metro Detroit, the Detroit Zoo and the Belle Isle Nature Center are taking part in the City Nature Challenge to spot and identify wild species right in our own backyards. But we can’t do it alone — we need your help! 

While contributing to conservation is a reward in itself, we’re adding a little extra incentive. The person who records the most observations in the tri-county area by the end of the challenge will win two tickets to the Detroit Zoo, including complimentary passes to the limited-time Dinosauria experience, presented by Michigan First Credit Union.

Check out the Detroit Tri County Area project page on iNaturalist to learn more!

What’s the City Nature Challenge?

The City Nature Challenge is a global event that invites people to explore and document nature in their own communities.

By observing and recording wild plants, animals, and fungi, participants help scientists better understand and track urban biodiversity—right in their own neighborhoods.

How does it work?

It’s simple to get started. Head outside and take photos of wild plants, animals, and fungi (not the ones at the Zoo but in your own backyard!) then upload them to the iNaturalist app.

Each observation you share contributes to real scientific research.

Join the project, start exploring, and see what you can discover.

Get iNaturalist (Android)   Get iNaturalist (iOS)

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Where to Look?

  • The park
  • Your backyard
  • Along the sidewalk
  • Basically, if you’re outside, you’re in the right place. 

If you’ve got a phone or a camera and a little bit of curiosity, you’re all set.

Your Participation Matters

Every time you spot something during the City Nature Challenge — whether it’s a bird, a bug or a squirrel — you’re contributing to real science. You’re part of a global community that’s paying attention. And the more we pay attention, the better we can protect what matters.

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