Bioblitz race for UK zoos
Edinburgh Zoo is one of 25 zoos and aquariums to take part in this year's Bioblitz Race, where they will attempt to spot as many animals and plants as possible within 24 hours.
The race is being supported by the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA), as a way to encourage people to engage with wildlife and create a snapshot of biodiversity.
Records taken of the animals, plants and fungi spotted within marked areas will be supplied to the national Bioblitz database following the race.
Chair of BIAZA's native species working group, Dave Coles, said: "Last year, more than 800 different species were recorded on BIAZA sites and this year we have even more zoos taking part so we are looking forward to seeing some interesting results."
Edinburgh Zoo will be holding a range of events between June 14 and 15, including mini-beast hunts, pond dipping and badger and bat watching.
Senior education officer at the zoo, Amy Cox, said: "We are delighted to be able to offer children and adults the chance to explore the wildlife right under their feet and on their doorstop in our series of BioBlitz events this weekend."
