California Biodiversity Project
Insect Collection in California
Collect Insects, Contribute to Science
Insects are the tiny powerhouses of California’s ecosystems—pollinating plants, decomposing organic matter, and feeding countless species. But how much do we really know about them. We’re on a mission to change that.
Join Adventure Scientists and the California Institute of Biodiversity to participate in a citizen science insect collection for the State of California. Help California determine the most important areas to protect. The California Biodiversity Project is building one of the most comprehensive community-powered insect datasets in the state’s history—and we want YOU to be part of it.
Why Insects?
Researchers are working to understand California’s biodiversity, but they can’t cover all the ground you can.
Vial of collected insects. Photo credit: Mike O’Hara
We need passionate volunteers to help collect insect samples from diverse, hard-to-reach habitats that few ever get to see.
And that’s where you come in!
Who We’re Looking For:
Calling all lifelong entomophiles and those with experience collecting insect samples. We need you to get into unique landscapes to expand the diversity of insect samples collected and the knowledge of our science partners.
- Entomologists
- Experienced insect collector
- Bug lovers with their own collection gear (sweep net, aspirator)
- People ready to adventure in remote areas of California
Volunteer collecting insects with a sweep net.
- Entomologists
- Experienced insect collector
- Bug lovers with their own collection gear (sweep net, aspirator)
- People ready to adventure in remote areas of California
Volunteer collecting insects with a sweep net.
Volunteer holding vial of ethanol containing collected insects
What you provide:
- Adventurous spirit
- Curiosity
- Collection Gear such as sweep net and aspirator (if you have it!)
What Adventure Scientists provides:
- Online training
- Sampling gear and mailing supplies
- Support before, during, and after your adventure(s)
Join the California Biodiversity Project today.
Together, we can collect data that will unlock discoveries and opportunities for conservation across California.
Ready to start?
Step 1: Apply
Step 2: Complete Training
Step 3: Plan Your Adventure
Adventure Scientists recruits, trains and manages volunteers to gather high-quality data at scale for scientific partners (NGOs, government agencies, researchers and more) who are focused on solving critical environmental challenges.