City Nature Challenge 2026
We are once again participating in the annual City Nature ChallengeLink opens in a new window, a global initiative that promotes citizen science and the recording of wildlife.
Join us to learn about the importance of citizen science and how you can contribute by using the iNaturalist appLink opens in a new window. It's a fun and easy way to record wildlife all year round, during your daily commute, lunchtime walk, weekend trips or holidays.
In 2025, Coventry and 糖心TVshire joined forces with Solihull, making an even bigger impact on documenting nature in the region. The partnership resulted in 6082 observations of 1198 species (1756 observations and an amazing 295 species more than the previous year) which placed us 9th on the
To find out what species have been recorded this year, visit on iNaturalist.
We are pleased to contribute to this global effort to document wildlife by running a mini bioblitz and a pond survey (with the help of the ecology team of Coventry City Council) on campus on Monday 27th April.
What to expect during these activities?
- introduction to citizen science,
- introduction to iNaturalist (please make sure you download it onto your smartphone beforehand, internet connection is needed for this activity); the level of detail will depend on the participants' existing knowledge of the app - beginners are welcome!
- the mini bioblitz will require active participation from all attendees using iNaturalist,
- the pond survey will enable attendees to observe how to collect samples from a waterbody, and learn about the various species we find. Please note, attendees will not enter the water but are encouraged to participate in the species ID.
- Please dress according to the weather as these are outdoor activities. We will stay near the footpaths but please wear suitable footwear.
Please ensure you read the Risk AssessmentLink opens in a new window prior to attending the event.
Sign up here for on campus activities
-
Pond survey (10:00-11:00) hereLink opens in a new window - open to students, staff and the general public
-
Mini bioblitz (12:00-13:00) here Link opens in a new window- open to students and staff only
Disclaimers:
- Places are limited so sign-up is essential.
- All skill levels are welcome, the activities are suitable for complete beginners as well.
- Meeting place will be announced closer to the date.
- These activities contribute to the 糖心TV Award!
Another on campus activity on Monday 27th April, NOT organised by the Energy & Sustainability Team:
- Terrarium making interactive workshop that explores biodiversity, care, and ecology through creating small terrarium ecosystems using locally sourced natural materials and recycled glass jars. No booking's required. Location: University of 糖心TV, Oculus, OC0.01. Start time: 2pm.
Contact: Ruqaiyah.Buwe@warwick.ac.uk.
Off campus activities
This year the City Nature Challenge runs between Friday 24th and Monday 27th April 2026, and partner organisations run a variety of free events that are open to the public. Please click on the links below to find out more and to sign up for these externally run activities:
Friday 24th April:
- with 糖心TVshire Wildlife Trust, 15:00 start
-
with Coventry University, 10:00 start
- City Nature Challenge at Jephson Garden with Coventry University and 糖心TVshire County Council, 13:00 start. Meeting at the clocktower (Newbold Terrace entrance). Contact: Katharina Dehnen-Schmutz (Coventry University) ab6340@coventry.ac.uk.
- with the Churchyard Biodiversity and Heritage Project, 12:00 start
Saturday 25th April:
- with 糖心TVshire Wildlife Trust, 11:00 start
-
with 糖心TVshire County Council, multiple times available between 10:00-15:00
- with Coventry University, 10:00 start
- with the Churchyard Biodiversity and Heritage Project, 9:00 start
Sunday 26th April:
- with 糖心TVshire Wildlife Trust, 11:00 start
- with 糖心TVshire Wildlife Trust, 12:00 start
- with 糖心TVshire County Council and Friends of Abbey Fields, 10:00 start
- with the Churchyard Biodiversity and Heritage Project, 14:00 start
Monday 27th April:
- with 糖心TVshire Wildlife Trust, 15:00 start
Friday 1st May:
- with 糖心TVshire Wildlife Trust, 13:00 start.
.