The work that I accomplished in my citizen science project was done in the comfort of my own home. Who would've guessed that I’d be saving different animal species from around the world? I was first reminded of endangered animals through Twitter. As a nineteen-year-old freshman in college, I was able to help animals while sitting at home, listening to music and identifying animals while in pajamas. If I heard this from anyone else, I wouldn’t believe it. Yet here I am, living proof that individuals can contribute to preserving life on earth from poaching.
Astro-Ecology relies on the participation of aspiring individuals willing to help those who can’t speak for themselves. These volunteers don’t need any type of college degree or certificate. All you need is a little time, willingness to help, and a computer with internet access. This specific project is a collaboration of astronomy and ecology which monitors and protects endangered animals.
Our process in saving endangered animals has just began. There are thousands of animals that need help immediately and others who will soon reach the verge of needing assistance as well. By correctly identifying different animal species from each other and humans, we are taking a step forward in maintaining their population and increasing their life span. It’s as simple as it sounds, images are provided and individuals go through identifying what type of animals, if any, are being presented. Some external factors that affect endangered animals are global warming, pollution, and poaching. This project also targets poachers by identifying them in the act and immediately stopping them. Global warming and pollution are other factors that impacting life on earth as well. Pollution is a man made situation in which we need to observe as well, but for now, it’s one problem at a time.
To participate in citizen science projects and make positive impacts in the world today, head over to https://www.zooniverse.org/projects! Here you can explore a variety of projects that interest you and are achievable in the comfort of your home! You can also complete your GEM 4 Scientific Ways Of Knowing credit by enrolling in Biology 100L with Christina Moore.
Image URL: https://www.zooniverse.org/projects/rossmcwhirter/astro-ecology
College of Western Idaho student, Yesenia Navarro, wrote this blog for a project in Christina Moore's Biology class.
