Citizen scientists are being asked to help record biodiversity at parks and reserves across Victoria.

A new program aims to collect valuable biodiversity data in over 30 parks and reserves, including Churchill Island National Marine Park and the Bunurong Marine National Park.

Parks Victoria said April is Citizen Science Month and using the iNaturalist app, they’re asking people to visit one of the selected parks and capture images of plant and animal species on their smartphone.

Parks Victoria will use observations reviewed by iNaturalist to provide quality research data to its Conservation and Science staff who are working to protect nature.

“Parks Victoria’s Data Discovery Program provides anyone with a smartphone the opportunity to contribute to our work protecting nature and caring for country across the state,” said Leesa Riley, Statewide Volunteering Manager at Parks Victoria

She said citizen science like this can even make significant breakthroughs by finding species in places they may not have been seen before.

For more information and a full list of selected locations visit: www.parks.vic.gov.au/get-into-nature/conservation-and-science/science-and-research/become-a-citizen-scientist