The Salamander Crossing Brigades: Citizen Science for Salamanders in Southwest New Hampshire

Citizen scientists of the Salamander Crossing Brigades in New Hampshire help thousands of salamanders safely across dangerous roads in their migratory journey to the vernal pools. Find out how they contribute to conservation research by tracking and monitoring the salamanders on an annual basis. Guest post by Brett Amy Thelen Every spring, as the earth thaws and … Read more “The Salamander Crossing Brigades: Citizen Science for Salamanders in Southwest New Hampshire”

Categories: Animals, Citizen Science

I Used to Be A Moth Assassin. This is How I Fell In Love With Them

Turn on your porch light at night and bring out your inner citizen scientist. Record observations of moths for National Moth Week and help scientists understand these unique Lepidopterans. Guest post by Sandra Lanman I used to be a moth assassin. I’d grab the swatter or scream for my husband whenever one fluttered erratically inside … Read more “I Used to Be A Moth Assassin. This is How I Fell In Love With Them”

Categories: Animals, Citizen Science, Nature & Outdoors

Shark Week with a twist of citizen science!

It’s Shark Week! Do you know researchers need your help to learn more about these fascinating, underwater creatures? Below, you’ll find five projects to help us learn more about sharks and what we can do to protect them. Join us today at 2:00 PM ET for the next #CitSciChat, a Twitter discussion about citizen science, moderated … Read more “Shark Week with a twist of citizen science!”

Categories: Animals, Citizen Science

Divers Attempt to Solve Mystery of Sevengill Shark Sightings on the Pacific Coast

Diver-citizen scientists help find out why there has been a recent increase in the number of Sevengill Sharks spotted in the San Diego area The first thing the divers noticed upon reaching the bottom was that there were absolutely no fish—anywhere. The lighting, also being strange, lent everything a deserted, eerie feel. But, says diver … Read more “Divers Attempt to Solve Mystery of Sevengill Shark Sightings on the Pacific Coast”

Categories: Animals, Citizen Science

Can You Name this Paw Print?

A citizen science program documents the movement of six species in the mountain ranges and river valleys of northern New Mexico helping create wildlife corridors. For more wildlife related citizen science projects, visit SciStarter. by Sharman Apt Russel   Wild animals glide so easily through the landscape, into bushes and leaves, up trees, around corners, even … Read more “Can You Name this Paw Print?”

Categories: Animals, Citizen Science, Nature & Outdoors

Dragonfly Watch – Find Those Fast and Furious Insects!

“I’m an aquatic entomologist, and dragonflies and damselflies are the most colorful and noticeable insects in the habitats in which I work,” says Dr. Celeste A. Searles Mazzacano, a staff scientist and Aquatic Conservation Director at the Xerces Society. In her role as the project coordinator for the Migratory Dragonfly Partnership, she continues to add … Read more “Dragonfly Watch – Find Those Fast and Furious Insects!”

Categories: Citizen Science, Insects, Nature & Outdoors

Celebrate World Oceans Day with Citizen Science

On June 8th, people across the world will celebrate World Oceans Day, a day set aside to honor and protect our oceans. To help you participate in World Oceans Day, we’ve put together a list of 7 ocean-based citizen science projects that need your help. We are partnering with The TerraMar Project to share SciStarter’s … Read more “Celebrate World Oceans Day with Citizen Science”

Categories: Animals, Biology, Ecology & Environment

The White House Wants Your Help to Stop the Decline in Pollinators

Pollinating animals play a crucial role in our food production system, and they are essential in maintaining the health and vitality of many ecosystems.  Unfortunately, many pollinator species, such as bees and butterflies, have been declining recently.  In response to that decline, the national Pollinator Health Task Force, commissioned by the White House, recently released … Read more “The White House Wants Your Help to Stop the Decline in Pollinators”

Categories: Animals, Biology, Birds, Citizen Science, Nature & Outdoors

Like Bugs? Here Are Six Citizen Science Projects for You!

Many of us are fascinated by insects. They creep, they crawl, they fly, and they’re everywhere!  Good thing, because we need them. Here are six insect projects you can do in your backyard, your neighborhood, at school (or in Costa Rica!). Check out the SciStarter blog for updates on your favorite projects and find new projects … Read more “Like Bugs? Here Are Six Citizen Science Projects for You!”

Categories: Biology, Ecology & Environment, Insects

‘Snapshots in Time’: Spotting a Spotted Salamander

by Aditi Joshi Are you a resident of the northern US or Canada? You can help scientists to spot amphibians! Welcome Spring! As the temperature rises, the beauty of spring unfolds: snow melts, flowers bloom, and birds begin to chirp. In the amphibian world, spring marks the beginning of breeding activities. Among amphibians, wood frogs … Read more “‘Snapshots in Time’: Spotting a Spotted Salamander”

Categories: Amphibians, Animals, Citizen Science, Ecology & Environment, Nature & Outdoors