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City Nature Challenge Returns to Ostrava

6/5 2025

From April 25 to 28, 2025, Ostrava will once again take part in the global City Nature Challenge (CNC), the world’s largest community biodiversity mapping project. Following the city's impressive debut last year, Ostrava joins hundreds of cities across all continents in this citizen science event that connects nature lovers of all ages with scientists to document urban biodiversity.

City Nature Challenge Returns to Ostrava

The event in Komenského sady was also attended by Deputy Mayor Aleš Boháč. Photo: MMO

At the event’s official launch in Komenského Sady, Deputy Mayor Aleš Boháč expressed his support:
"Let’s show the world that Ostrava is more than an industrial city – it’s home to rich and diverse nature worth exploring and protecting. Last year, thanks to the participation of hundreds of residents, Ostrava recorded the highest number of observations in the Czech Republic and ranked fourth in Europe. I believe we can go even further this year."

Participants are encouraged to use the free iNaturalist app to photograph and identify wild plants, animals, and fungi found throughout Ostrava. Every photo uploaded between April 25 and 28 counts toward the city's total observations in the challenge. You don’t need to be a scientist or photographer – just curious and observant.

In addition to individual exploration, there will be guided walks and biodiversity surveys led by experts from Ostrava’s Museum, University, Zoo, and other institutions. Highlights include birdwatching in the Rezavka Nature Reserve, plant and insect spotting on industrial heaps, and a nature walk through Landek with zoologists and geologists.

Accompanying Programs – City Nature Challenge Ostrava 2025:

  • April 25 (3 PM): Exotic Plants & Insects on the Heap – starting at the Faculty of Science, Ostrava University
  • April 26 (7 AM): Who’s Singing? – birdwatching in Rezavka Reserve
  • April 26 (8 AM): Welcoming the Birds’ Songs – forest walk in Ostrava-Martinov
  • April 26 (2 PM): Landek Nature and History Walk – with Ostrava Museum experts
  • April 28 (9 AM): Zoo Ostrava Nature Walk – starting at the flamingo exhibit

All walks are free of charge and guided by local scientists and conservationists.

Event Details:

Let’s explore, discover, and celebrate Ostrava’s natural beauty together! Will you be one of the observers who helps us top last year’s result?