Get closer to nature in the city: Start your own wildlife journal!
Who says that you have to leave the city to connect with nature? You can find wildlife all around you, even in the busiest urban areas. By starting a city-based nature journal, you can document your encounters and deepen your appreciation for the natural world that surrounds you. Here are some tips for creating your own wildlife journal and discovering the hidden wonders of urban wildlife.
Discover the hidden wonders of urban wildlife in your own backyard
You may be surprised by the diversity of animals that you can find in your own backyard, park or rooftop garden. Birds, butterflies, bees, squirrels, and even raccoons and coyotes can be spotted in many cities around the world. Start by observing what you can see from your window or balcony. Then, take a walk around the neighborhood and pay attention to the plants and animals that you encounter. You may want to bring a camera or binoculars to get a closer look.
As you become more attuned to the rhythms of nature in the city, you will start to notice patterns and changes over time. For example, you may notice that certain birds are more active during certain seasons, or that the flowers on a particular tree bloom at a certain time each year. By documenting these observations in your wildlife journal, you will be able to track your own learning and share your discoveries with others.
Keep track of your encounters with city wildlife and watch your list grow!
One of the most rewarding aspects of keeping a wildlife journal is seeing how many different species you can spot over time. As you become more familiar with the animals that live in your area, you may start to notice subtle differences in their behavior, colors or markings. You may also begin to recognize individual animals by their distinctive features or calls.
To get started with your city-based nature journal, you can create a simple chart or spreadsheet to record the species that you observe, the date and time of your encounter, and any interesting behaviors or observations you make. You may also want to include sketches or photographs of the animals you see. Over time, you can add to your journal and watch your list of sightings grow.
Creating a city-based nature journal is a great way to deepen your connection with the natural world and discover the hidden wonders of urban wildlife. By observing the plants and animals that live in your area, you can gain a new perspective on the city around you and appreciate the diversity of life that thrives even in the most unexpected places. So grab a notebook and pen, head outside, and start exploring the wild side of your city!
