Have you ever seen a bird or a tree, and wondered what it is? Why did that bird show up here? How come I've never seen that tree anywhere else?

Just a few years ago, you'd need to consult an expert or spend loads of time reviewing field guides and natural history books to get those answers.

Today, the answers are at your fingertips. And with curiosity comes the satisfaction of learning.

Explore the transformative power of the iNaturalist app through the journeys of Jennifer Rycenga, a humanities professor turned nature enthusiast, Joseph Montes de Oca, a high school foreign languages teacher, and Cat Chang, an architecture professor and now, an iNaturalist board member.

Hear how this technology is connecting millions globally, from identifying species to contributing to vital science databases.

And learn how YOU can join the movement and start your own adventure today!

>>> See the full show notes and images on jumpstartnature.com<<<

Beyond a podcast, Jumpstart Nature is a movement fueled by volunteers, igniting a fresh approach to reconnecting people with the natural world. In the face of our pressing climate and biodiversity challenges, we're on a mission to help you discover newfound purpose and motivation.

Join us in this vital journey towards nature's revival. Explore more and show your support at jumpstartnature.com, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube.

Links to Topics Discussed
The City Nature Challenge
Alison Young's Nature's Archive interview about the City Nature Challenge
Eastern Grey Squirrel observations on iNaturalist - A North American species that has been introduced in many places around the world
How-to Use iNaturalist: Mobile Phone, Website, and iNaturalist's in-depth videos
The Yard of the Future - Jumpstart Nature podcast episode from last season

CREDITS
This podcast episode was written, edited, and produced by Michael Hawk. Our host and co-writer is Griff Griffith.

The following music was used for this media project:
Music: Imagefilm 033 by Sascha Ende
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/535-imagefilm-033
License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Music: Mystical Autumn by MusicLFiles
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/9755-mystical-autumn
License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

#5: Every Observation a Discovery: How iNaturalist Changes Lives and Changes Science