iNaturalist: What It Is and How to Use It

iNaturalist is a global nature-recording platform that allows anyone – beginners, nature lovers, hikers, photographers, and scientists – to document the wildlife they encounter. It combines modern technology with community knowledge, making it one of the world’s most widely used biodiversity tools.

What iNaturalist Does

iNaturalist lets you record observations of plants, animals, insects, birds, marine life, and fungi. You simply take a photo or sound recording, upload it, and the platform helps identify what you’ve seen. Artificial intelligence suggests possible species, and experienced naturalists from around the world can confirm or refine your identification. Each observation contributes to a global biodiversity database used by researchers, conservationists, and ecological projects.

Why People Use It

iNaturalist is ideal for learning about nature, discovering species in your area, or contributing to real scientific data. For protected areas like Kanon Private Nature Reserve, iNaturalist helps monitor wildlife, track seasonal changes, and understand the natural richness of the region. Every observation – whether common or rare – helps build a fuller picture of South Africa’s biodiversity.

How to Get Started

You can use iNaturalist on a computer or a smartphone. Most people prefer the app because it allows you to upload observations directly from the field.

Step 1: Download the App

Step 2: Create an Account

Creating an account is quick and free:

  1. Open the app or website.
  2. Choose “Sign Up”.
  3. Enter your email address, create a username, and set a password.
  4. Confirm your account via the email they send you.

Once confirmed, you can begin uploading observations immediately.

Step 3: Make Your First Observation

  1. Take a clear photo of a plant, animal, or organism.
  2. Open iNaturalist and tap “Observe” or “Add Observation”.
  3. Upload your photo and allow the app to suggest an identification.
  4. Select the closest match or leave it broad (e.g., “Bird” or “Plant”).
  5. Save your observation and allow the community to assist with ID.

Using iNaturalist at Kanon Private Nature Reserve

Kanon Private Nature Reserve is home to exceptional biodiversity – fynbos, marine life, birds, reptiles, mammals, and coastal species. By recording what you see on iNaturalist, you help build a public species list for the reserve and contribute to conservation awareness. Visitors often use iNaturalist when walking the trails, exploring the coastline, or documenting interesting finds washed up on our beaches. View recordings, observations uploaded and documented at Kanon in this link here.

Every observation helps us understand the natural environment better, protect sensitive species, and celebrate the incredible wildlife of the Garden Route.

For more information and to start exploring, visit: www.inaturalist.org