Citizen Science Initiatives: Encouraging Local Involvement in Monitoring Urban Wildlife in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, often hailed as the "Garden City," is home to a rich tapestry of urban wildlife. Amidst its bustling streets and sprawling IT parks, the city harbors an incredible array of birds, insects, mammals, and amphibians. However, with rapid urbanization and habitat loss, the need to protect and monitor this wildlife has never been more pressing. One of the most effective ways to do so is through citizen science initiatives, which empower local communities to actively participate in documenting and conserving the biodiversity around them. Why Citizen Science? Citizen science involves the participation of non-professionals in scientific research. In the context of urban wildlife, it serves multiple purposes: Data Collection: Citizen scientists can gather large volumes of data over diverse locations, which would be difficult for researchers alone. Awareness and Education: Participation helps individuals develop a deeper connection with their environment and understand the ...