Is it possible to uncover the secrets hidden within Nantucket’s landscapes, to identify and document the lives of thousands of animal and plant species? Turns out, it’s not just possible, it’s happening right now! I discovered this firsthand at the BioBlitz event led by Dr. Sarah Bois (LLNF) at The Creeks, hosted by the Linda Loring Nature Foundation and The Nantucket Land and Water Council.
Unveiling Nantucket’s Hidden Biodiversity
Participating in the BioBlitz opened my eyes to the incredible variety of life thriving on the island. Who knew that a simple beach and salt marsh could be teeming with so much diversity? It felt like stepping into a hidden world, vibrant and full of surprises.
Dr. Sarah Bois leads the BioBlitz walk at the Creeks
The annual BioBlitz event (running this year from July 25th to August 8th) brings together the community to document the island’s rich biodiversity—from land to sea, plants to ecosystems. Anyone can join, whether you’re a seasoned pro, a local resident, a curious visitor, or even a kid armed with a phone.
Becoming a Citizen Scientist with iNaturalist
Dr. Bois showed us how to use the iNaturalist app. It’s like a treasure hunt! You snap a photo of any organism, and the app helps identify the species, marks its location, and adds the info to a global database. It’s an easy way to contribute to vital conservation research right here on Nantucket.
Using iNaturalist to document the Atlantic Fiddler Crab
The group photographs plants on a BioBlitz walk
Discovering the Wonders of The Creeks Preserve
Wading through the shallow waters of The Creeks Preserve, we encountered amazing creatures.
- Horseshoe crabs buried in the sand
- Fiddler crabs scurrying about
- Mottled sand grasshoppers blending into their surroundings
Horseshoe Crab
We even found a nearly complete skeleton of a small fish, perfectly camouflaged. The marsh is also bursting with plant life, like sea lavender and ferns.
Appreciating the Unseen and Unknown
Without our knowledgeable guides, many of these creatures would have remained unseen. But I quickly learned that even the smallest details can reveal the presence of hidden life:
- Small holes in the sand
- Footprints
- Tracks
Unidentified skeleton
Contributing to a Global Understanding
This year’s BioBlitz is already a success, with hundreds of species documented in the first week! Our goal is to build upon last year’s accomplishments:
- Engage the community in conservation
- Expand the Nantucket and global database on iNaturalist
Mottled Sand Grasshopper
Making a Difference, One Observation at a Time
Dr. Bois explained that this data helps scientists monitor ecosystem health, track biodiversity, and identify potential threats like invasive species. Even better, you can join in the fun on the LLNF porch, where BioBlitzers share their findings over snacks. What’s not to love?
Eubrachyuran Crab
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your phone, download iNaturalist, and head out to explore the hidden wonders of Nantucket! Your observations can make a real difference.
Each member shares a commitment to accuracy, transparency, and engaging storytelling to keep you informed and motivated to make a difference.
