COVENTRY is gearing up to participate in the City Nature Challenge, a friendly competition engaging hundreds of cities, regions, and countries worldwide in recording observations of plant and animal species from April 26 to 29.
This marks Coventry’s fourth year of involvement in the challenge, with organisers aiming to inspire more residents to take part, get active, and document species across the city.
As participants contribute their observations, a map of Coventry’s diverse plant and animal life will be created, helping organisations like Warwickshire Wildlife Trust and Canal & Rivers Trust in better understanding the city’s biodiversity.
The City Nature Challenge encourages exploration of local green spaces and promotes physical and mental wellbeing.
Coun David Welsh, cabinet member for housing and communities, expressed his enthusiasm for Coventry’s participation.
“This is a brilliant programme that anyone in Coventry can take part in and enjoy for free. Every person who takes part is supporting biodiversity recording in Coventry.”
Coventry aims to build on last year’s success, where it secured the tenth spot among all UK cities.
Globally, the City Nature Challenge has yielded significant discoveries, helping in the location and support of endangered species.
A new species, ‘Lathys Humilis,’ was recorded for the first time in Ukraine, showcasing the programmes impact on biodiversity conservation.
Coun Gavin Lloyd, deputy cabinet member city services said: “We know how valuable our green spaces are for health and well-being, how valued they are by local people and also of course for the habitats they provide for wildlife.
“I hope lots of people and families will get out about next month, support the nature challenge and find out a bit more about nature right here in Coventry.”
The challenge kicks off with an event on April 2h, with more free in-person and online activities scheduled to be announced on Coventry City Council’s social media channels.
Events will be hosted across various parks and open spaces, including Lake View Park, Charterhouse, Egdwick Park, Wyken Slough, and Coundon Wedge.
