Biodiversity Challenge 2025

From 30 April, biodiversity will take centre stage during the fifth edition of the annual Biodiversity Challenge. Wageningen University & Research (WUR) invites everyone to spend eight weeks – until 27 June – discovering the wealth of plants, animals, and fungi in their surroundings. This year, the challenge once again offers a varied and engaging programme for many participants. You can participate in campus excursions, a photo contest and of course the BioBlitz!

A BioBlitz is a competition between 18 European universities, who can find the most species on their campus? In 2024, no fewer than 1,575 species were found on campus – a significant increase compared to the 1,373 species recorded in 2023, and good for a third place in the BioBlitz. This year, the bar is set even higher, with the ambitious goal of discovering at least 2,000 different species. With this, WUR aims to further map the biodiversity on campus and raise awareness of the importance of nature conservation.

Everyone is welcome to take part, from experienced nature enthusiasts to curious locals. By simply recording species using the ObsIdentify app, you actively contribute to mapping and protecting biodiversity. Every observation counts and helps strengthen nature conservation efforts in Wageningen and beyond.

The Biodiversity Challenge is a collaboration by many organisations. With 18 European universities, the municipality of Wageningen, KNNV, IVN/Groene Wiel and Stadslab all taking part. Together we can increase knowledge and awareness on Biodiversity!

Apart from the before mentioned events there is much more to do! Take a look at the website for more information! https://www.wur.nl/en/research-results/themes/biodiversity/wageningen-biodiversity-challenge/wur.htm