III BioBlitz at Herdade da Mitra – Breaking Records in the Heart of Alentejo
DAY SUMMARY
24 hours exploring nature
The third edition of the Herdade da Mitra BioBlitz made history. Between 4:00 p.m. on 15 May and 4:00 p.m. on 16 May, naturalists, researchers and nature enthusiasts of all ages generated 2,723 species observations on iNaturalist in just 24 hours, surpassing the record achieved in previous editions of the event.
A total of 56 participants of different age groups took part in the proposed activities.
So far, 637 species have been recorded, although these numbers may still change as observations continue to be validated.
Plants, insects and birds were the most recorded groups, repeating the pattern observed in the first edition and reinforcing the ecological identity of this Mediterranean territory.
Among the species with the highest number of observations were the common house martin (Delichon urbicum), the olive tree (Olea europaea) and the meadow brown butterfly (Maniola jurtina).
The iNaturalist community continues to validate the records: 246 naturalists from around the world have already contributed to this process, meaning that the numbers may still increase (follow the updates here).
^ BINGOBLITZ cards randomly distributed among participants.
^ Owl release session with CARAS.
^ Opening activities of the first day. An adventure into the world of ants and reptiles.
BINGOBLITZ
This year’s new feature
This edition introduced a new activity that helped boost the numbers: the BINGOBLITZ. Each group of participants received a BINGOBLITZ card featuring 9 common species to find and record on iNaturalist. The result was enthusiastic participation, directly reflected in the high number of observations.
The prizes — sponsored by the Centro de Ciência Viva de Estremoz — are free tickets to the Centre and will be awarded to the participants who completed the highest number of species on their card. In the event of a tie, the winner will be decided by a draw.
So, to all participants who recorded species on iNaturalist: keep an eye on your email inbox.
CARAS ACTIVITY
Returning animals to their natural habitat
The event also included a special session led by CARAS – Wildlife Reception and Rehabilitation Centre, which presented its rehabilitation work and raised awareness among participants about the importance of preserving wild fauna.
During the session, two tawny owls (Strix aluco) were released back into the wild after undergoing a period of recovery and veterinary care. It was a special moment, open to the wider community, and will certainly remain in the memory of everyone who had the privilege of witnessing it.
Year after year, the Herdade da Mitra BioBlitz continues to build a picture of local biodiversity that is both valuable for science and inspiring for everyone who takes part. See you at the next edition.