La Seu d'Urgell hosts BioBlitz to explore Valira River biodiversity

The sixth edition of the citizen science event focuses on studying birds, vegetation, and fish at the Pont del Valira.

Generic image of outdoor citizen science.
IA

Generic image of outdoor citizen science.

La Seu d'Urgell will host the sixth edition of the BioBlitz on Sunday, June 7th, a citizen science event focused on studying the Valira River's biodiversity, with the Pont del Valira as its central point.

The city of La Seu d’Urgell is preparing to host the sixth edition of the BioBlitz next Sunday, June 7th. This citizen science initiative, taking place from 09:30 to 13:30, will focus its efforts around the Pont del Valira, which will serve as the main meeting point.
The event, organized by the municipality's Environment Department, is open to adults and children aged 8 and over. Its aim is to introduce the scientific method of species study within an urban natural environment, fostering public awareness of the surrounding environmental richness. The City Council emphasizes the value of these events in bringing nature closer to residents in a fun and rigorous manner.
Participants will concentrate on inventorying birds, vegetation, and fish (ichthyofauna) of the Valira River. The technique of electrofishing will be used to safely record fish species. All activities will be guided by experts, ensuring an enriching environmental education experience and an accurate data record.
This is the second consecutive year the BioBlitz focuses on the Valira River, following the 2023 edition where 34 species of flora, 21 of birds, and 5 of fish were inventoried. The initial editions were held in Pla de les Forques, yielding similar results for flora, birds, and fish, and cataloging butterflies as bioindicators.
The activity is free but has limited places. Pre-registration is required via the La Seu Tourist Office website. Attendees are advised to wear comfortable clothing, bring water, a hat, sunscreen, and optionally, a snack and binoculars.