BioBlitz 2024: first icon species spotted at Utrecht Science Park
Nearly 2,000 people went out in recent weeks to map as many plants, animals and fungi as possible. They participated in the so-called BioBlitz held from 22 May to 21 June both at the Utrecht Science Park (USP), at the Utrecht Sister Parks and at other universities in the country.
At USP, nature lovers went out with their smartphones to spot species. And with success! A total of 2,547 sightings were made and 759 different species were uploaded, including 9 icon species. These species serve as indicators of how biodiversity is doing in the area. If the reed warbler is observed at the USP, it means that the area is also suitable for other songbirds to return. Utrecht University's ambition is to have twenty icon species back at the USP by 2035.
Since 2022, USP has therefore been working hard to enhance biodiversity. For instance, the thirty-four hectares of grass on the campus will be mowed less frequently and in phases. Robust ecological connections with the surrounding area will also be created in the coming years, for example between Oostbroek estate and Fort bij Rijnauwen. The BioBlitz is one of the measurements of a series in the coming years, to see whether our measures to strengthen biodiversity are adequate. With the data collected from the BioBlitz, we now know much better which species occur in the area. And at the same time, it's a great opportunity to connect people with nature and biodiversity.
Source: Utrecht University
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