Scientists to Document Wildlife in Quad City Nature Preserve

nahantmarsh

DAVENPORT, Iowa (AP) — Dozens of scientists are coming to a Davenport nature preserve with the goal of identifying as many species of life as possible in a 24-hour period.

The Quad-City Times reports that about 50 scientists will be at Nahant Marsh on Friday and Saturday for a “bio-blitz,” where they’ll collect basic taxonomic data and highlight the value of local habitats.

Nahant Executive Director Brian Ritter says there hasn’t been a comprehensive survey of the entire property. He says he’s interested to see if scientists will discover any threatened or endangered species in the area.

The event will also include educational activities for residents and children.

The bio-blitz is sponsored by the Guardians of the Prairie and Forest group in partnership with the Nahant Marsh Education Center and Friends of Nahant Marsh.