This Earth Month, the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University is inviting residents, students, families, scientists and nature lovers across the region to help reveal one of the city’s greatest treasures—its incredible urban biodiversity—by participating in the 2026 City Nature Challenge (CNC).

From April 24–27, people throughout the Greater Philadelphia area (Philadelphia, Delaware, Montgomery, and Bucks counties in Pennsylvania and Burlington, Camden, and Gloucester counties in New Jersey) are encouraged to join people in cities around the world for the CNC, a global community science event that encourages people to find and document wild plants, animals, fungi and other organisms using the free iNaturalist app.

“In a year when all eyes are on Philadelphia as the birthplace of American democracy, the City Nature Challenge is a chance to celebrate another part of what makes this city extraordinary: its living landscapes, vibrant neighborhoods and surprising abundance of wildlife. From creek corridors and parks to bus stops, schoolyards and backyards, nature is everywhere in Philadelphia — and this is our chance to discover it together,” said Andrew Kleiner, Director of Community Science for the Academy of Natural Sciences. “City Nature Challenge gives everyone a chance to participate in something joyful, meaningful, and truly global.”

The City Nature Challenge is an annual international event that connects people to the natural world while generating valuable biodiversity data for scientists, land managers, educators and conservationists. Every observation contributes to a better understanding of urban ecosystems and helps inform future stewardship of local green spaces.

How to Get Involved

• Download iNaturalist – Create a free account in the app or at iNaturalist.org.
• Make Observations – Take photos of your findings anywhere in the Challenge Area between April 24 and April 27 and add to iNaturalist.
• Join an Event or Explore on Your Own– Attend an in-person event led by naturalists and community scientists or photograph wild species in your neighborhood, local park or backyard and upload them to iNaturalist.
• Spread the Word – Invite friends, family, classrooms, and community groups to join the challenge.
• Identify – Continue to upload and identify your photos on iNaturalist until the results are tallied on May 9.

City Nature Challenge Events

Friday, April 25

CNC Kickoff: Nature at Noon
10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at FDR Park, 1500 Pattison Ave.

Join staff from the Academy of Natural Sciences and FDR Park for interpretative ecological walks, “little sits” and guided observations to kick off CNC 2026. The event will begin at the Boat House at 10 a.m.

Dinos After Dark
5 – 8 p.m. at the Academy of Natural Sciences, 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

A special CNC Meet and Greet will be held at the Neighborhood Naturalists exhibit during this exciting evening event. CNC Philly organizers will be on hand to talk about the annual challenge, demonstrate observation technique, iNaturalist use and community science efforts across the region.

Monday, April 27

CNC Nature at Noon
12 – 2 p.m. at Independence Hall, NE corner of 6th St. and Walnut St.

Join staff from the Academy of Natural Sciences for an outdoor gathering with accessibility, biodiversity, safety and connection that bridges science, art and community.

Saturday, May 9

CNC Identification Party
10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Conservatory at Laurel Hill Cemetery West, 225 Belmont Ave., Bala Cynwyd

Join Laurel Hill and ANS staff along with naturalists, hobbyists and professionals as we learn how to identify species in the cemetery and arboretum. Bring the whole family for iNaturalist tutorials, interactive games, basic exploration of taxonomy and classification, with snacks and conversation about the importance of biodiversity and environmental literacy.

The City Nature Challenge allows all to explore local ecosystems, build observation skills and contribute to real scientific research. The Academy partners with community organizations and public agencies to encourage schools, educators, families and neighborhood groups to participate and make City Nature Challenge 2026 one of Philadelphia’s most inspiring and successful community science events yet.

As Philadelphia celebrates the 250th anniversary of the United States, the City Nature Challenge offers a powerful reminder that the story of this city is still being written — not only in its historic landmarks and neighborhoods, but also in its rivers, forests, meadows and the countless species that call it home.