Are you looking for ways to learn more about nature, spend time outdoors, or get involved in conservation? Although it can be difficult during these times of social distancing, technology has provided us with some new ways of learning—for example, through apps!
There are so many apps out there and it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to try out, so we’ve compiled a list of five nature-related apps that might interest you.
1. iNaturalist
iNaturalist is popular app used all over the world! Anyone can take a photo of a species and record it on this online social network. You can get help with identification as well as access the data collected by other users. Their primary goal is to connect people with nature.
Photo from inaturalist.org
2. WhaleReport
This app by B.C. Cetacean Sightings Network helps to alert commercial mariners to the presence of whales. This helps them take mitigation measures to prevent collisions and disturbances. Although the sighting information is only sent to certain vessel classes, your report can help contribute to important conservation-based research!
Photo from wildwhales.org
3. Seaweed Sorter
This app helps to demystify the often-overlooked world of seaweed. Co-developed by seaweed biologist Patrick Martone, the app helps you ID over 110 species of seaweed and includes information such as name, taxonomic details, photos, and descriptions.
Photo from the App Store
4. Fishing BC
Created by the Sport Fishing Institute of BC in partnership with Fisheries and Oceans Canada, this app is great for those of you who enjoy sport fishing. You can keep a personal catch log, get help with fish ID, stay informed about regulations, and display your BC fishing license.
Photo from fishingbcapp.ca
5. Conservation App
The BC Wildlife Federation created this app that lets you submit reports of environmental infractions that are geo-referenced and have the option to include time-stamped photos or videos. Raise awareness about these issues and help protect BC’s fish, wildlife and habitat!
Photo from BC Wildlife Federation