Explore Cornwall’s fascinating wildlife at this year’s BioBlitz Penryn

Returning this Saturday 4 May, members of the community are invited to become explorers for the day and help a team of students as they attempt to record all the living species surrounding the Penryn campus for the annual BioBlitz.

As well as the chance to take part in the survey, there will be plenty of activities for the whole family to get involved in throughout the day, including wildlife spotting, summer games, face painting and storytelling. There will also be fayre stalls, music and a bouncy castle.

The aim of a BioBlitz is to survey all the flora and fauna in the local area in 24 hours, and raise awareness about the fantastic biodiversity on our doorsteps.

The popular large scale wildlife surveying and monitoring event has been held annually at Penryn Campus since 2012 and has received alumni funding from the University of Exeter for the last four years, totalling £2,900.

The first BioBlitz was a huge success and with the help of naturalist and broadcaster Nick Baker and members of the public, the students recorded a total species count of 456.

One of the university’s student led societies, EcoSoc, is also helping to fund this year’s event and will be running the biological survey activities with help from local wildlife and charity organisations. 

Robyn Dean, Lead BioBlitz Coordinator and biosciences student, said: "This is a wonderful chance for us as aspiring conservationists to encourage the younger generations to get involved with nature stewardship!

“It's been a busy few months planning and I can't wait to see all the hard work we invested come together on the day."

Volunteer Coordinator, Kate Fox, who is also studying biosciences, said: "It’s been great fun organising BioBlitz over the past few months.

“I’m looking forward to all of the awesome activities we have lined up, and inspiring people to get out in nature and learn about the amazing wildlife that’s all around us- there’s something for everyone!"

Conservation biology and ecology student, Catherine Walker, who organised last year's BioBlitz and applied for the alumni funding, said: “BioBlitz Penryn is a brilliant event for the local community around Penryn.

“Not only is it a day to celebrate wildlife, it also brings students and local people together.

“The event is entirely student-run and takes a lot of work to put on, therefore its lovely to have the support of the University of Exeter in putting it together.

“I hope the event this year is enjoyed by all!”

The event is open to all ages and will take place between 9am and 4pm. Parking and entry is free.

To sign up for early morning or late evening events, including bird ringing and bat walks, please email bioblitz.penryn@gmail.com