BioBlitz
Join us for a month-long BioBlitz adventure: a fun and interactive way to explore the rich wildlife around our campuses. From May 22 to June 22, students and staff are invited to observe, identify, and share local species while connecting with nature and each other.
What are BioBlitzes?
A bioblitz is a challenge that focuses on finding and identifying as many species as possible in a specific area over a short period of time. May 22 is World Biodiversity Day, and up until June 22, we invite all students and staff members to explore the wildlife around Maastricht University Campuses.
With other Higher Education Institutes around the Netherlands (#hogeronderwijsbloeit), our aim is to showcase the interesting and varied wildlife we have in our surroundings. This way, we can raise awareness about the environment we wish to protect.
How can you join?
Anyone can join the BioBlitz, no previous knowledge is required. You simply download the app Obsidentify, go explore and take photos of wild plants and animals that you see on the university grounds. The app can identify many species based on a photo. Observations can be uploaded by the app to waarneming.nl (part of observation.org where nature observations documented). All information on how you can join can be found there as well. The site is available in both Dutch and English.
Let’s explore together!
You’re invited to explore biodiversity with us through a range of activities designed to help you get involved, whether you're just starting or already an experienced nature observer.
In addition to our general species recording and identification sessions, you can join us for the following events:
Biodiversity 101: be part of the BioBlitz!
Curious about nature and how to protect it? Join us for an inspiring event that starts with a short lecture on the importance of biodiversity and an introduction to the app we'll use for species observation.
Then, we’ll head outside for a hands-on field exploration: discover and identify plants, animals, and fungi together along Tapijn!
Date: May 27, 12:00-13:00
Location: Tapijn (exct room soon TBA), Tapijn tuin
Bee Hot Spot Maintenance at Randwyck
Join us in supporting pollinators by helping maintain one of our bee hotspots! This is a hands-on activity, so be prepared to get involved. Tools and guidance will be provided. Peter Alblas (CNME) is present with great stories on bee lifestyles.
Date: June 11, 12:00-13:00 (in case of strong rain, we will postpone to June 12)
Location: Randwyck bee hot spot (next to Oxfordlaan 55, see picture below)
Moth Trapping at Tapijn
Ever wondered what moths come out at night? Join us for a fascinating evening of moth trapping and identification. This is a chance to see nocturnal biodiversity in action, maybe in ways you have never seen before!
Date: June 5 (exact time soon TBA)
Location: Tapijn (exact room soon TBA)
All events are free, but please register, so we know how many people we can count on:
Why is biodiversity important?
Biodiversity is the foundation of healthy ecosystems that provide us with clean air, water, food, and a stable climate. But today, it’s under serious threat from habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. Realizing the variety of organisms around us, letting us wander and appreciate it more, helps us understand why protecting it is an important task – not just for nature, but for our well-being and survival. Participating in the BioBlitz, we would like to raise awareness and invite you as well to join us!
If you are interested about the Sustainability Ambitions at UM, you can read more about it here!
Location Bee Hot Spot Randwyck:
