Explore Nature

Join in our BioBlitzes, or get help with running your own

BioBlitzes are an exciting race against the clock where scientists and members of the public work together to find as many species as possible. Not only are they great fun, but they also collect useful scientific data.

See our BioBlitz page for information on upcoming BioBlitzes that you can get involved in, and read about OPAL's very first BioBlitz in Wembury.

We've also produced a guide for those of you interested in running your own BioBlitz.

Discover Classification - free teacher resource pack

The OPAL team at the Natural History Museum has developed a free resource pack to support the teaching of biological classification in secondary schools.

Aimed at Key Stage 3, the resource pack includes a series of three lessons on classifying species, two extension lessons and supporting PowerPoint presentations. The pack also serves as useful revision for Key Stage 4.
 

Free Darwin Guide

Learn to explore and record wildlife just like Charles Darwin. Co-authored by Darwin's great-great-grandson, The Darwin Guide has been produced by the National Biodiversity Network (NBN) to inspire people of all ages to record and enjoy nature.

It's completely free and can be downloaded or ordered from the NBN website.
 

Find out how OPAL can help your society

One of the main goals of OPAL is to promote and support existing natural history societies and recording schemes.

OPAL is running a grants scheme for societies, as well as providing other funding and support. If you are already a member of a society or recording scheme then get in touch and find out how we can help.

Join the Earthworm Society of Britain

Get to know more about earthworms with the help of experts, take part in field trips to improve your identification skills and help scientists with ongoing research.

The Earthworm Society of Britain has been created to give everyone the chance to learn more about these fascinating creatures.

Watch Nature Live events

Nature Live events give you the chance to meet experts and learn all about the natural world. They are hosted and run by the Natural History Museum.

We have arranged a number of Nature Live OPAL specials and they are all available to watch again here. See the videos from our recent bat weekend and learn more about these incredible animals.
 

Join a local nature group

Fancy getting more involved in nature? Want to help the environment and meet like-minded people?

Joining a nature society or wildlife recording group is a great way to learn more about your local wildlife, improve your identification skills and help the environment. Activities can range from wildlife recording to practical conservation tasks.

Join in the urban tree survey

What trees are growing in your garden or local park? Submit your findings online and help the Natural History Museum with a nationwide survey.

Taking part is quick and simple, and there's a free identification guide on the Museum site to help you.
 

2010 - International Year of Biodiversity

The International Year of Biodiversity (IYB) aims to raise worldwide awareness of biodiversity loss, as species and habitats are disappearing at an alarming rate.

Hundreds of organisations are showing their support by staging events across the country that you can get involved in.

Explore the IYB website to learn more about the issues and find out what's happening near you.

Get chatting in the bug forum

Curious about caterpillars? Amazed by ants? Or just wondering what that strange-looking bug in your house is?

Join the Natural History Museum’s bug forum and you can upload photos of a bug you’ve spotted and the Museum’s scientists will help you identify it. You can also ask all your bug-related questions. Insects, spiders, centipedes and any other creepy crawlies you find are all welcome.