On 4-5 July 2025, we’ll be launching BioBlitz 2025, an exciting 24-hour event with wildlife spotting, learning, and community discovery across the University of Lincoln campus! Come meet fellow nature enthusiasts, hear about the exciting activities planned, and get inspired to take part in one of the region’s biggest biodiversity surveys.
What is a BioBlitz?
A BioBlitz is a 24-hour race against the clock to discover and record as many species of plants, animals, fungi, and other organisms as possible. Community members, families, scientists, students, and teachers all work together – guided by experienced naturalists – to explore and document local biodiversity. Everything we find contributes to local and national wildlife databases.
There will be the opportunity to book onto ID and surveying workshops, whether you’re interested in insects, mammals, birds or plants – there will be something for everyone!
All events listed are free and are open to staff, students, and members of the public! If you’re joining us for the open day, why not book onto one of our sessions?
What else is going on?
Even if you haven’t booked onto an event, we’ll have experts on hand to help with identification of flora and fauna on campus, areas to explore with the chance to test out microscopes and ID stations, and mini Bioblitz challenges to complete on the day, as well as a “Nature Detectives” trail for children.
We’ll also be launching our new iBiodiversity app, a newly developed nature surveying app, funded by the UPP Foundation and created by our students! Version One allows users to survey plant types, view habitat types, flood maps and more!
You can help us pilot our innovative app by getting involved with our competition for the most logged plant IDs during the Bioblitz. With more features to be added in the coming months, this is your opportunity to be amongst the first in the world to test it!
You can help us shape our Biodiversity Action Plan up to 2030, by voting for our priority species, from otters to adders – you’ll be able to have your voice heard on which wildlife should be our focus on the estate!
This year’s Bioblitz events have been coordinated by University of Lincoln students, the Lincoln Imps UMAC team, our Nature Positive University Student Ambassadors and the Sustainability team. We’re also thrilled to welcome nature experts from both the University of Lincoln and the community.
BioBlitz 2025 Opening Event - Kickstart Your Weekend of Wildlife!
Join us as for our launch event on Friday evening, as we kick off our 24 hours of citizen science in nature!
What to Expect:
- Welcome speech and event overview
- Introduction to BioBlitz goals and how you can help
- Meet experts, volunteers, and citizen scientists
- Learn how to use apps and tools for recording wildlife sightings
- Vote for your new campus priority species
When? Friday 4 July 2025 5:00 PM – 5:50 PM
Where? University of Lincoln – Ross Lucas Medical Sciences Building
Cost: FREE – no booking required!
Open to all ages (under 16s accompanied by a responsible adult)
Owl Pellet Dissection Event
Join us for a fun and educational Owl Pellet Dissection Workshop! This event is part of BioBlitz 2025 at the University of Lincoln – open to the public with free wildlife events on the 4 – 5 July.
We have two owl pellet sessions you can attend:
- Friday 4 July 2025 6pm – 6:50pm
- Saturday 5 July 2025 10am – 10:50am
- 📍 Location: University of Lincoln Brayford Campus (specific room or area TBC – full details will be provided after booking)
Wait… What’s an Owl Pellet? Let’s clear this up – owl pellets are not poo! They’re the parts of an owl’s prey that it can’t digest, like bones, fur, and feathers, which are coughed up in a compact pellet. By dissecting them, you can find out exactly what the owl ate – sometimes even identifying tiny skulls and bones of mice, voles, and shrews!
🔍 What to Expect:
- Hands-on dissection of real owl pellets
- All materials and equipment provided
- Identification guides and expert help
- Insights into local small mammals
- A chance to contribute to real science as part of the “Searching for Shrews” project run by The Mammal Society
Who Can Join?
- Suitable for ages 5 and up
- Under 16s must be accompanied by a responsible adult
- Free to attend, but spaces are limited
- Booking required via Eventbrite only – sorry, no drop-ins!
Whether you’re a budding biologist or just love nature, this is a unique opportunity to explore the secret lives of owls and contribute to real wildlife research.
Bird Photography Workshop
When? Friday, July 4 · 6 – 6:50pm
Where? University of Lincoln – Ross Lucas Medical Sciences Building
Ever wondered how to capture that perfect shot of a bird mid-flight or perched in just the right light? Join us for a fun and interactive Bird Photography Workshop, perfect for beginners and budding wildlife photographers alike!
During this session, you’ll get a beginner-friendly introduction to the world of wildlife photography, from choosing the right camera settings to using different lenses. Learn how to use light to your advantage, frame the perfect shot, and bring out the beauty of your feathered subjects, whether they’re perching peacefully or soaring through the sky.
What to expect:
- Discover the secret to photographing birds, as they rest, feed or take flight
- Explore camera settings, lens types, and how to work with natural light
- Pick up tips on focusing, timing, and composition
You’ll leave with practical skills, creative inspiration, and a new appreciation for the art of wildlife photography. This workshop will provide you with knowledge so you can bring birds to life through your photos!
No fancy gear or experience required — feel free to bring your cameras but if you don’t have one, just bring your enthusiasm and love for birds!
Footprint Tunnel Building Session for Citizen Science
When? Friday, July 4 · 7 – 7:25pm
Where? University of Lincoln – Ross Lucas Medical Sciences Building
About this event
- Event lasts 25 minutes
Incredible Insects Talk and Walk
When? Friday, July 4 · 7 – 8:20pm
Where? University of Lincoln – Ross Lucas Medical Sciences Building
About this event
Join us for a jam-packed session where you can learn all things insect! This is a hands on event where you’ll learn basic ID and surveying techniques in a 20 minute talk, followed by an hour outside in the open air putting your newfound knowledge to the test! With a variety of hands-on surveying equipment to try out, like sweep nets and pooters, you can guarantee you’ll have fun, learn something new and contribute to real-world data collection.
What you’ll be doing:
Learning insect surveying techniques
Getting hands-on experience with a variety of insect surveying equipment
Learning how to ID some common insects
Taking part in real recording as part of the BioBlitz species survey!
Ages: This is a session open to all ages (under 16s must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times)
Cost: FREE – but booking via Eventbrite is essential
Plant ID Session with Professor Libby John
Session One: When? Friday, July 4 · 7 – 8:50pm
Where? University of Lincoln – Ross Lucas Medical Sciences Building
Session Two: When? Saturday, July 5 · 8:30 – 9:50am
Where? University of Lincoln – Meeting point to be confirmed on booking.
Brayford Wharf North Pool LN6 7TS
About this event
Ever walked past a wildflower and wondered what it was? Join us for a relaxed but informative ‘Plant ID Session’ and build your confidence in identifying the plants and wildflowers growing right here on campus!
As part of BioBlitz 2025, this session combines both field exploration and a classroom discovery session, giving you the tools and techniques to identify local species with ease. It’s also led by one of the region’s leading voices in botany and sustainability, Professor Libby John. This is a rare chance to learn directly from a passionate expert who has spent a lifetime studying and sharing the wonders of the plant world.
What You’ll Do:
- Head out into the field with guides to explore wildflower habitats on campus
- Learn key features to look for when identifying plants
- Use simple tools, ID guides, and resources in a short indoor session
- Help assess which wildflowers are growing on site as part of the BioBlitz survey
- Ask questions, share knowledge, and expand your botanical skills!
This session is perfect for beginners, budding botanists, students, and anyone curious about the plants beneath their feet.
- Cost: FREE – booking required via Eventbrite
- Ages: 8+ (under 16s must be accompanied by an adult)
All materials provided – just bring weather-appropriate clothing and a notepad if you like!
Whether you’re a complete beginner or just looking to sharpen your plant ID skills, this is a fantastic opportunity to learn in a friendly, practical environment as part of the BioBlitz weekend.
Mammal Tracks and Signs Session
When? Friday, July 4 · 7:30 – 8:50pm
Where? University of Lincoln – Ross Lucas Medical Sciences Building
About this event
Ever walked through nature and wondered who’s been there before you? Join the Lincoln Imps Mammal Group for a guided Mammal Tracks and Signs session and discover how to spot the subtle clues that wild mammals leave behind – from footprints and droppings to feeding marks, fur, and burrows. Part of BioBlitz 2025 at the University of Lincoln – open to the public with free wildlife events on the 4th and 5th July.
What You’ll Discover:
- How to identify common mammal signs in the wild
- Tips for recognising the presence of animals like badgers, foxes, hedgehogs, rabbits, voles, and more
- How to record your findings for wildlife monitoring and citizen science
- A relaxed and engaging guided walk around the campus and green spaces
Time: 7:30 PM – 8:50 PM
Location: University of Lincoln Brayford Campus (meeting point confirmed upon booking)
Cost: FREE – booking essential via Eventbrite
Ages: Open to all (all under 16s must be accompanied by a responsible adult)
What to Bring: Comfortable footwear, weather-appropriate outdoor clothing, and your curiosity!
Whether you’re new to tracking or just love wildlife, this evening walk will give you the skills to spot mammal activity in your local area – even when the animals stay hidden.
Coming earlier? Why not join the Footprint Tunnel Workshop at 7:00 PM, just before this event! Build your own recycled mammal tracker to take home – a perfect complement to this walk. (Book separately via Eventbrite – spaces limited!)
Bat Walk & Talk
When? Friday, July 4 · 9 – 10pm
Where? University of Lincoln – Ross Lucas Medical Sciences Building
About this event
Wrap up your BioBlitz evening with a magical dive into the world of bats! Join us for a Bat Walk and Talk led by bat enthusiasts Lucy and Raul, and discover the secret lives of these fascinating flying mammals that come alive after dark.
This event is part of BioBlitz 2025 at the University of Lincoln, open to the public and packed with free wildlife experiences.
What You’ll Experience:
- A short, engaging talk about the bats we find in the UK – how they live, feed, echolocate, and why they’re so important to our ecosystems
- Then head outside with bat detectors to explore the University campus and listen in on bats hunting and flying overhead
- Learn how to identify different bat species by their calls and behaviour in real time!
Bat detectors provided but welcome to bring your own – no experience needed, just bring your curiosity!
- Date: Friday 4th July 2025
- Time: 9:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Location: University of Lincoln (talk location and walk meeting point confirmed on booking)
- Cost: FREE – booking essential via Eventbrite only
- Suitable for ages 12+ (Under 16s must be accompanied by a responsible adult)
- Please dress for the weather – this is an outdoor evening walk after the talk
Did you know? Over 17 species of bats live in the UK, many of which may be flying right over your head without you even knowing. Come and meet them up close (through sound!) on this unforgettable night walk.
Finish off your Friday BioBlitz with the ultimate nocturnal adventure – book now to join the Bat Walk and Talk!
Moth ID Session
When? Saturday, July 5 · 7 – 7:50am
Where? University of Lincoln – Ross Lucas Medical Sciences Building
About this event
Join us for an early morning wildlife surprise as we open a moth trap set the night before and explore the fascinating world of nocturnal insects. From tiny micromoths to showy species like the Poplar Hawkmoth, you never know what we’ll find!
This session is part of BioBlitz 2025, a series of wildlife events where we’ll be recording as many species as possible across the University of Lincoln campus.
What You’ll Do:
- Open a light trap and examine the moths that were attracted overnight
- Learn how to handle and identify moths using simple guides and expert tips
- Hear about the important role moths play in our ecosystems
- Help record your sightings as part of the BioBlitz species count!
Perfect for beginners, families, and anyone curious about moths — no experience needed!
- Date: Saturday 5th July 2025
- Time: 7:00 AM – 7:50 AM
- Location: University of Lincoln campus (exact meeting point shared after booking)
- Cost: FREE – booking required via Eventbrite
- Ages: All welcome (under 16s must be accompanied by an adult)
- Please dress for the weather and early morning conditions.
Beginners Birding Session
When? Saturday, July 5 · 8 – 8:50am
Where? University of Lincoln – Minerva Building
Brayford Wharf North Pool LN6 7TS
About this event
Ever wondered who’s fluttering, flapping, and singing their hearts out around our university campus? Join us for a relaxed and eye-opening wander around the University of Lincoln Brayford Campus, where you’ll get to know the birds that call our city centre home!
Together, we’ll explore the bird life of our urban campus, from regal swans and cheeky geese, to the quieter song birds that flit amongst the trees. Along the way, you’ll learn the basics of bird identification, including how to recognise different physical characteristics and how to pick out birds from their calls and songs.
What to expect:
- Learn beginner-friendly bird ID advice
- Find and observe the birds in their urban habitat, you will meet some of our familiar favourites and learn about their history and lives on the Brayford
- Tune in to the sound of birdsong, using top tips to tell birds apart
- Enjoy a gentle guided walk through a beautiful part of campus
Perfect for nature lovers, avid birders and anyone who wants to recognise more bird song in their day to day lives. Through this, you may see the Brayford Campus in a whole new light! No binoculars? No problem! We will have some available for all to use. Bring your eyes, ears, and a sense of curiosity!
Book your spot now – spaces are limited! Part of BioBlitz 2025 at the University of Lincoln – open to the public with free wildlife events on the 4 and 5 July.
UK Mammal ID Session
When? Saturday, July 5 · 9 – 9:50am
Where? University of Lincoln – Minerva Building
Brayford Wharf North Pool LN6 7TS
About this event
Start your Saturday with some wildlife detective work! Join the Lincoln Imps Mammal Group for a hands-on Mammal ID session, where you’ll be checking footprint tunnels and trail cams set out around campus, learning how to identify the mammals that left their mark. You’ll also get a crash course in mammal tracks and signs, so you can be a mammal expert too! As part of BioBlitz 2025, this is a great intro into tracking small mammals using real field signs and citizen science techniques.
What You’ll Do:
- Examine overnight footprints left by local wildlife
- Learn to ID tracks and other mammal signs
- See how footprint tunnels work and how you can use them at home
- Learn how to tell apart different mammal signs, including poo, footprints and feeding remains
- Perfect for beginners, families, and nature-lovers of all ages!
All materials provided – just wear comfy shoes and dress for the weather!
- Cost: FREE – booking required via Eventbrite
- Everyone welcome (under 16s must be with an adult)
Book your spot now – spaces are limited! Part of BioBlitz 2025 at the University of Lincoln – open to the public with free wildlife events on the 4th and 5th July.
Pond Dipping Session
Where? University of Lincoln – Minerva Building
Brayford Wharf North Pool LN6 7TS
About this event
Dip into the secret world of freshwater life in this hands-on Pond Dipping Session on the beautiful Brayford Pool, right next to the University of Lincoln! As part of BioBlitz 2025, we’re inviting families, nature lovers, and curious explorers of all ages to grab a net and see what fascinating creatures are lurking in our city-centre waters.
What You’ll Do:
- Use nets and trays to gently collect and observe pond invertebrates
- Learn how to identify common species like water boatmen, snails, larvae, and more
- Find out how pond life helps us understand water health and biodiversity
- Contribute to a real-time wildlife survey as part of the BioBlitz effort!
This is a fun, family-friendly introduction to freshwater science – no prior experience needed, and all equipment is provided.
- Location: Brayford Pool, University of Lincoln (exact meeting point sent after booking)
- Cost: FREE – booking required via Eventbrite
- All ages welcome! (Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult)
- Nets, trays, ID guides, and expert guidance all included
Whether you’re a mini explorer or a lifelong wildlife fan, this is your chance to see pond life up close and take part in one of BioBlitz’s most popular outdoor activities!
Book your spot now – spaces are limited!
Beetle ID Session
Brayford Wharf North Pool LN6 7TS
About this event
Have you ever seen a beetle scuttle past you and wondered – what is that marvellous creature? Well, if you have, this workshop is the perfect session for you to attend!
We will be diving into some pitfalls traps that have been placed the night before to see what wonderful beetles share the campus with us. Learn how to work out key identifying features and marvel at the beautiful array of colours as we log them for BioBlitz 2025. There will also be the chance to venture outside in a hands-on beetle session, where you’ll get to try out a few beetle surveying techniques to see what you can find!
Book your spot now – spaces are limited! Part of BioBlitz 2025 at the University of Lincoln – open to the public with free wildlife events on the 4th and 5th July.
Important information:
Cost: FREE – booking required via Eventbrite
Location: University of Lincoln Brayford Campus – details of room location will be released after booking.
Ages: All ages welcome (under 16s MUST be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times)
Pollinator Survey Session
Brayford Wharf North Pool LN6 7TS
About this event
Buzz on over for a fun and fascinating dive into the world of pollinators! Whether you’re a curious beginner, wildlife enthusiast or seasoned bug-spotter, this event is your chance to get up close with the incredible insects that keep our planet blooming. From bees, butterflies and moths, to beetles, wasps and flies, you will learn how to identify the main groups and discover how easy it is to get involved in monitoring and conservation!
Book your spot now – spaces are limited! Part of BioBlitz 2025 at the University of Lincoln – open to the public with free wildlife events on the 4th and 5th July.
What You’ll Do:
- Attend a brief talk introducing you to the main groups of pollinators in the UK, with some top tips on how to identify them
- Head outdoors for a hands on pollinator survey on campus
- Contribute to real citizen science and help track local biodiversity!
Who Can Attend?
- This event is family-friendly and suitable for all ages (younger children may need help from a parent/guardian)
- Under 16s must be accompanied by a responsible adult
- Open to members of the public
- Everything is provided, no experience needed – all you will need is a phone and your curiosity!
Wildflower ID Session
Brayford Wharf North Pool LN6 7TS
About this event
Come and discover the hidden world of wildflowers growing all around you. As part of BioBlitz 2025, this guided ‘Wildflower ID Walk’ will take you out into green spaces on the University of Lincoln campus to explore the colour, structure, and surprising variety of our native plants.
Led by one of the region’s leading voices in botany and sustainability, Professor Libby John, this is a rare chance to learn directly from a passionate expert who has spent a lifetime studying and sharing the wonders of the plant world.
What You’ll Do:
- Take a guided walk to discover wildflower areas on campus
- Learn how to identify wildflowers using simple techniques and visual cues
- Understand the role of wildflowers in supporting local ecosystems and pollinators
- Help contribute to the BioBlitz plant species list!
This session is outdoors, beginner-friendly, and a great chance to slow down and take a closer look at the natural beauty growing around you.
Cost: FREE – booking required via Eventbrite
Ages: 8+ (under 16s must be accompanied by an adult)
All materials provided – please wear weather-appropriate clothing and comfy shoes
Whether you’re a complete beginner or a budding botanist, you’ll leave this session seeing wildflowers in a whole new way. A perfect introduction to UK plant life and a peaceful pause in a busy BioBlitz weekend.
iosity!
The Lincoln Swan Project Talk
Brayford Wharf North Pool LN6 7TS
About this event
Ever wondered about the amazing swans we have all around Lincoln? Did you know they are all part of a fantastic university research project called ‘The Lincoln Swan Project’ and you can get involved too! Join Raul, PhD student and swan expert, as he gives an enlightening talk all about these amazing birds and the work he’s been doing, including ways that you can help as a citizen scientist. You even get to enjoy a fun fact quiz at the end!
- Open to everyone – under 16s must be accompanised by a responsible adult at all times.
- Free – book your space on Eventbrite now!
- Location: Univeristy of Lincoln Brayford Campus – exact details will be shared after booking.
Book your spot now – spaces are limited! Part of BioBlitz 2025 at the University of Lincoln – open to the public with free wildlife events on the 4th and 5th July.
BioBlitz Quiz Night + Closing Ceremony
Brayford Wharf North Pool LN6 7TS
About this event
Join us for a fun and friendly quiz evening to round off an incredible weekend of wildlife discovery at the University of Lincoln!
After a day full of exploring nature and learning about local species, come test your knowledge and enjoy some great company at the BioBlitz 2025 Quiz Night. Don’t worry if you couldn’t make it for other events, this quiz is open to everyone and is set to be a lot of fun!
📍 Where: Towers, University of Lincoln
🕔 When: Saturday 5th July 2025, doors open at 5:00 PM. Closing ceremony is at 5:15pm, with the quiz starting shortly after at 5:30pm
💷 Entry: Free – teams of up to 6!
Prize for the winning team!
What to Expect:
- A lively quiz covering wildlife, nature, and more!
- Food and drinks available to purchase onsite
- A chance to meet fellow nature lovers and BioBlitz participants
- Support local conservation by simply joining in the fun!
Whether you’re a quiz whiz or just in it for the laughs and community vibe, everyone’s welcome to come along and contribute to an important cause.
The University reserves the right to postpone or cancel any events subject to inclement weather or other extenuating circumstances. Due to the nature of Bioblitz wildlife surveying events, dogs are not permitted, guide dogs are the only exception.
Queries about these events can be directed to environment@lincoln.ac.uk
