The Big Record at Chester Zoo Nature Reserve
Do you want to be part of the world's largest wildlife recording event?!
Join us at Chester Zoo Nature Reserve as we head outdoors to explore the incredible wildlife that calls this brilliant site home — and work together to document it. Our third Big Record event is this time part of the City Nature Challenge — a global celebration of nature that brings together hundreds of cities worldwide in a collective effort to document urban wildlife.
What to expect:
🌱 Learn the tools of the trade
Get hands-on guidance using the free iNaturalist app — from setting up your account to tips and tricks for collecting high-quality observations.
🦋 Sharpen your ID skills
Discover the plants and animals living in the Nature Reserve, with expert support and identification tips from the Chester Zoo and RECORD team.
📊 Make a real impact
Every observation you log contributes to vital citizen science data, helping us understand how nature is doing — and how we can protect it.
No prior wildlife knowledge needed — just curiosity and a willingness to explore. This is a relaxed, friendly in-person outdoor event, so come dressed for the weather and ready to discover what’s right on your doorstep.
Important to note:
- Accessibility: We will be taking a slow stroll through Chester Zoo Nature Reserve and sticking to marked paths. We plan to walk for around an 1.5 - 2 hours in total as part of the session. If you have any mobility needs or other additional needs please do not hesitate to get in touch with us ahead of the event to discuss (email info@record-lrc.co.uk).
- This session is aimed at adults and older children (i.e. those able to use the app on their own device), however anyone is welcome to attend (under 18s need to be accompanied and supervised by an adult). The event is free to attend and takes place in the free to enter Nature Reserve therefore you will not need to pay for zoo entry to take part.
The session is hosted by Chester Zoo and RECORD. You can find out more about the Chester Region City Nature Challenge here.
Banner image of Chester Zoo Nature Reserve by Roy Lowry.