What it does
iNaturalist lets people record and identify plants, animals and other organisms. Photo observations and community identifications contribute to a shared biodiversity record.
For a wildlife-friendly garden, iNaturalist can help turn occasional sightings into a record of what lives nearby. Begin with one clear observation and its place and date. The app suggests an identification, and community members can confirm or refine it.
The service extends beyond plants to animals, fungi and other organisms, which is useful when garden questions involve insects as well as vegetation. Older photographs can also be contributed when the approximate date and location are known. Observations become part of an open scientific record, so consider that public purpose before sharing details. This is an observation community rather than a garden-care scheduler.
Strengths
- Covers plants, animals and fungi
- Community members can refine identification suggestions
Best for
- Recording wildlife around a garden
Sources
- A Community for Naturalists · iNaturalist (Oct 26, 2026)