HYDERABAD: Hyderabad will once again take part in the global City Nature Challenge (CNC), scheduled from April 25 to 28, as it enters its tenth edition. The event encourages citizens to document biodiversity in their surroundings using the iNaturalist app. Over the past two years, Hyderabad has consistently topped the national list and maintained a strong global presence, with local residents discovering two previously unrecorded species during last year’s challenge.
This year, CNC Hyderabad expands its reach across all districts of Telangana. Observations from anywhere in the state will count toward the CNC Hyderabad project. The expansion is expected to draw participation from students, NGOs, wildlife groups, and casual observers, all of whom can contribute to open-source biodiversity data.
The Hyderabad chapter is being coordinated by WWF-India, which will organise orientation sessions and nature walks throughout the city and other regions. Diurnal and nocturnal trails will be conducted in association with local groups such as Hyderabad Birding Pals, Nature Lovers of Hyderabad and Secunderabad, and the Society to Save Rocks. Partner organisations from districts outside Hyderabad, including the Orugallu Wildlife Society, will lead similar walks elsewhere.
Participants are required to observe wild flora and fauna and upload them to the app. Certificates will be issued digitally, and top contributors will receive merchandise. Orientation details will follow after registration.
