Did you know there are apps to help you identify species?
Have you ever seen a cool-looking mushroom or an awesome spotted moth and wondered what it’s called?



All images: Rhett A. Butler
What is the Seek app?
Fortunately, there are apps that are easy to use and help you learn the names of your local plants, animals, and fungi. You can develop super observation skills along the way!
One fun and kid-safe app that we recommend is Seek (by iNaturalist).
The Seek app uses the camera on your phone or tablet to help you scan your environment and identify species. Seek keeps a tally of the species you’ve seen. You can earn cool badges and participate in fun monthly challenges.
Connect with nature! Learn the name of that weird grub in your yard. Learn to tell the difference between maples and oak trees. Is that spider hiding in your cupboard a harmless house spider or something more sinister? Seek it and find out!
More information for carers and educators
- Here is a comprehensive Seek user guide.
- You may also be interested in this iNaturalist Teacher’s Guide.
- See also:
Take the monthly Seek challenge!
Seek releases a challenge at the start of each month. You can earn badges and have loads of fun. Mongabay Kids will post the latest Seek challenge along with related activities and stories from our library. These challenges are a great excuse for an adventure! Get outside and explore your local plants, animals, and fungi.
Look out for the next monthly Seek challenge!
