Join us for our annual bioblitz for the opportunity to hike with experts, experience wild Florida, and learn about our conservation work.
About this Event
Join Conservation Florida for an exclusive first-look at D Ranch Preserve! You'll be joined by Conservation Florida staff and subject matter experts on guided hikes to experience wild Florida, learn about iNaturalist, and hear about our conservation efforts!
We are following recommended guidelines from the CDC to provide a safe and enjoyable bioblitz!
Schedule
8 - 9 a.m.: guided hike options: Bright & Early Birding / Go Gopher Tortoise Spotting
9 - 10 a.m.: guided hike options: Search for Reptiles and Amphibians / Identify Plants on the Property
10 - 11 a.m.: Hike the Habitats of D Ranch Preserve
11 a.m. - noon: Explore and Chat with Conservation Florida Staff
Meet the Bioblitz experts who will be leading the hikes here!
What's a bioblitz?
Participants come together to find, COUNT, and identify as many species of plants, animals, microbes, fungi, and other organisms as they can spot! You can learn more by watching this short video.
Where is this event taking place?
Our bioblitz is being hosted at Conservation Florida's D Ranch Preserve in Volusia County across from the Lake Monroe Conservation Area.
2655 Reed Ellis Rd.
Osteen, FL 32764
Who should attend?
Everyone! We will have activities throughout the day that are designed to be fun and informative for families, community groups, and people of all ages and abilities. A smartphone is required to participate in the species cataloging activities but not needed to enjoy learning about and experiencing natural Florida.
How much does it cost?
Tickets for adults are $5. Children under 18 are free to attend. Purchasing tickets directly supports our important stewardship work at D Ranch Preserve. With the generous gifts from our friends & neighbors like you, our efforts will continue to be successful. Please consider making an additional donation today.
How should I prepare?
Plan as you would for any daylong adventure in the great outdoors. Some of the activities are guided hikes that require a considerable amount of walking on trails that might be difficult to navigate. You may encounter a variety of wildlife, including: snakes, mosquitoes, ticks, spiders, tortoises, birds, and butterflies. You should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sunscreen, bug spray, protective clothing, and water. You will also want to check the weather and download a map to your location ahead of time in case cell service is not available along your route.
Please bring your cameras, binoculars, and cell phones - you won't want to miss the opportunity to observe some of Florida's amazing species!
How do I record what I see?
If you haven't already done so, please download the iNaturalist app to your smartphone. This app allows you to record your observations directly to Conservation Florida's bioblitz project. Please visit the iNaturalist tutorials for more information and join our iNaturalist project. Select the location where you plan to participate and record your findings on the day of the event! You can also share your experience on social media using #flbioblitz.
What if I have more questions?
We're here for you. Reach out to us at info@conserveflorida.org. We will also call you and email you periodically as the event date approaches.