Nature Pulses ⧽ Monitoring Plants and Wildlife in a Changing Climate

Join Claire O'Neill from Earthwise Aware (EwA) for a guided observation walk that explores the rhythms of local plants and wildlife and the seasonal shifts that shape the Outer Cape.

This is part of EwA's biodiversity and climate studies that collect data about the impact of climate change on the synchronicity of fauna and flora phenophases (i.e., observable stages or phases in the annual life cycle of a plant or animal that can be defined by a start and endpoint).

During the walk, you will practice documenting these seasonal patterns using the EwA Pheno Lite mobile app developed as part of the EwA Pheno Lite project to support accurate, user-friendly phenology recording. We will demonstrate the app’s main features and show you how to capture observations of local plants and the animal activity associated with them. This approach highlights key species interactions, reveals how ecological relationships may be shifting, and contributes to building a strong open-access phenology database that benefits scientists and the public alike.

As we explore the sanctuary trails, you will observe real-time phenological events, document those events at scenic stops, and connect with fellow nature enthusiasts. Recording these seasonal changes not only strengthens the global database but also sharpens your skills as a naturalist, deepening your connection to the landscapes you explore.

The walk is suitable for all ages and experience levels. Bring your curiosity and a smartphone if you have one, and get ready to engage closely with the living calendar of the Outer Cape.

⚠ IMPORTANT: PLEASE DO NOT BE A NO-SHOW!!! Our free offerings are frequently waitlisted, so if you cannot attend, please let us know a few days before the events so we can give your spot to another person who wants to participate. Thanks for your understanding and courtesy!

ⓘ Why limit the number of attendees? EwA caps the attendance size of its events so that they remain low-impact and ethical for the wildlife and habitats we document.

◇ What to Wear & Bring: Although these will be slow-paced hikes, please dress appropriately and consider wearing long pants (for the possibility of ticks, poison ivy, etc.) and sturdy hiking shoes. Bring water. Also, know that there is no bathroom in the forest.

✢ About the event leader: Claire O'Neill

✉ For any questions, you can contact Claire at citizenscience@earthwiseaware.org

#nature #ecology #biodiversity #botany #phenology #conservation #citizenScience #science

Photos: © Claire O'Neill, Earthwise Aware [Yellow-rumped warbler, Northern bayberry, American red squirrel, Gallberry]. More: See EwA's biodiversity records from this location » www.inaturalist.org/projects/EwA-at-the Fells

ⓘ EwA Participatory Science Program » www.earthwiseaware.org/citizen-science/

♡ We Need Your Support! Make an impact: Help our #ScienceForAll! campaign. Become an EwA Ambassador today! » www.earthwiseaware.org/donate