Kincardine earns national recognition in City Nature Challenge 2024

The City Nature Challenge is an international, friendly competition to see who can make the most observations of nature, find the most species, and engage the most people using biodiversity apps and platforms, such as iNaturalist.

Observations were made April 26-29 and the competition closed May 5, with the extra time used to upload and refine entries.

The Huron Fringe Field Naturalists organized the event in the Municipality of Kincardine with members making observations and facilitating tours of area parks and trails.

Persistently wet and windy weather likely dampened participation; however, during the four days of surveying, 19 people made 441 observations of 163 species of plants, animals, insects, fungi, birds and amphibians.

The most observed plant was the Trout Lily, the most observed insects were the Red Admiral butterfly and the Seven-spotted Lady Beetle, and the most observed bird was the Northern Flicker.

The event produced a snapshot of biodiversity in the Kincardine area and encouraged participants to explore and learn more about local nature.

When the final results for Canada were tabulated, Kincardine earned an honourable mention for having the most observers per capita - a great result for a first-time participant.

The organizers hope to connect more with local citizenry to ensure even greater participation in the 2025 City Nature Challenge.