Citizen Science
Here’s your chance to be a real scientist! The Academy conducts numerous “Citizen Science” projects that rely on the field work of non-professionals everywhere. Collect actual specimens and scientific data to contribute to Academy research.
Bay Area Ant Survey
 | By collecting ants from your house, backyard, local park, or hiking trail, you can help Academy scientists document the ant diversity of the Bay Area. Help us map the spread of the invasive Argentine ant, and contribute to a permanent collection of specimens for scientific research and teaching. The Academy provides free collecting kits, too. |
Bay Area’s Most Wanted Spider
 | Arachnologists at the California Academy of Sciences are interested in documenting the current distribution and spread of Zoropsis spinimana spiders introduced into California. Native to the Mediterranean coastal countries and northern Africa, this spider recently migrated to Northern California, probably by hiding inside someone’s suitcase or inside shipments. Although harmless to humans, this spider could be considered invasive if it competes with local species. |
Living Roof Project
 | The community is invited to help monitor the many plants, birds and arthropods that inhabit and utilize the unique ecosystem on the Academy’s Living Roof. After attending an engaging training session, you’ll be eligible to return as a qualified citizen scientist to help Naturalist Center staff monitor the roof on a monthly basis. Collected data is shared with researchers from both the California Academy of Science and San Francisco State University. |
Naturalist Center |
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The Naturalist Center offers a wide range of resources and services to individuals interested in learning more about the natural world.
More Citizen Science |
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There are numerous citizen science projects out there. This short list provides a small sample of projects available to students and educators in the Bay Area.
