April 2023: Nature Challenge

This Nature Challenge was created by Seek (by iNaturalist):

We are not alone on our planet! Wildlife is always around us whether we notice it or not. In our homes, gardens, towns, and cities there are hidden worlds to be discovered. Seek in and around your home, and you may be surprised by how many wild neighbors you find.

Seek out plants, fungi, bugs, birds, and animals. Watch out for signs of more elusive life – scat (poo), fur, nests, tracks, and webs can all give clues to other creatures that share your home.


What is Seek?

Seek (by iNaturalist) is a kid-safe app that helps you get outside and explore your local plants, animals, and fungi. Visit the iNaturalist website to learn more. Or, click here for more information.

What are you waiting for? Give it a go!

Hey Mongabay Kids, here are some ideas and stories to inspire you.

Hints!

Some common animals that occur in or around houses, buildings, and parks include:

  • spiders
  • ants
  • birds
  • flies
  • squirrels

How many different species of animals can you find inside your home? What do you think about sharing your home with other living creatures? Do you have a spider that lives in your window and helps control household flies?

You may have indoor plants at home. See if Seek can identify these. Then, go on an adventure and search for wild plants outside your home!

Art activity

Create an artwork of the coolest plant, fungus, or animal that you found at home. Draw, paint, make a collage, or even work digitally. Have fun!

April Species of the Week!

Meet a new species each week related to the challenge.

Week 1: American house spider

Photo of spider © Fyn Kynd (CC BY).

Week 2: Common fruit fly

Drosophila melanogaster SOTW

Photo of fruit fly © Jesse Rorabaugh (CC0).

Week 3: Portuguese millipede

Portuguese millipede species of the week

Photo of Portuguese millipede © Shane Walker (CC BY).

Week 4: Kentucky bluegrass

Kentucky bluegrass

Photographs of Kentucky bluegrass © logiibear and © Douglas Goldman (CC BY-NC).

You may like these stories and activities

Keep a nature journal!

Earth is home to quadrillions of ants

Appreciate squirrels