UNI Department of Biology hosts second annual BioBlitz on Sept. 13

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa - The University of Northern Iowa Department of Biology invites families, students, alumni and community members to take part in its second annual BioBlitz Saturday, Sept. 13, during UNI's Family Weekend.

The BioBlitz is a free, family-friendly event designed to bring school-aged children, parents and nature enthusiasts to campus to explore the rich biodiversity of UNI's prairie and forest habitats.

The event will take place at the Daryl Smith Prairie, located at 720 W 29th St., Cedar Falls, with activities all day between 7 a.m. and 9:30 p.m.

With guidance from UNI biology faculty and staff, participants will get hands-on opportunities to interact with and observe a wide variety of species - including small mammals, birds, insects, bats and native plants.

Throughout the day, participants will help document species they encounter, contributing their observations to iNaturalist UNI Preserve, a global database that helps track and protect biodiversity.

"Last year's BioBlitz drew more than 60 participants, and we're excited to see even more families join us this year," said Ai Wen, associate professor in the UNI Department of Biology and event organizer. "It's a wonderful way to connect people of all ages with the natural world right here on campus."

The BioBlitz is part of UNI's continued commitment to community engagement and hands-on learning opportunities.

To see the full schedule of events, visit the UNI Department of Biology website.