OBSERVER'S KIT

STEP 1: Download and read the Observer's Manual.

The Observer's Manual outlines the best practices for finding and identifying pollinating insects and flowers.

   Pollination Canada Observer's Manual (1.8 Mb)

STEP 2: Download the Observation Forms.

You can make observations of pollinators anywhere that you find flowers growing. Watch in your garden, watch in your local park, watch when you go hiking. The key to providing useful information for the program is to observe regularly and submit repeated observations from the same locations. Once a month in the same locations would be ideal, though any information that you can provide is helpful.

The forms help you to make clear and useful observations step by step. After a few sessions, you'll get the hang of it, and you'll start to notice an insect world around you that you might not have really seen before!

Download and print the observation forms and take them with you when you observe. Do your best to identify the types of insects and flowers.

NOTE: The Observation Forms are also included in the Observer’s Manual, but you’ll need several copies.

   Pollinator Site Form

Use this form when you do the first observation session at a particular site. Describe the location and record your first pollinator count at the new site.

   Pollinator Follow-up Form

Use this form to record repeat observations at locations that you've already described.

   Pollinator Description Form

Use this form to describe pollinators that you don't recognise.

STEP 3: Submit Your Observations.

We’ve provided you with three options to submit your observations. You can: 

1. Send your observations directly online
    
2. Mail the forms to Seeds of Diversity's office:
   
   Pollination Canada
   c/o Seeds of Diversity Canada
   P.O. Box 36 Stn Q
   Toronto ON M4T 2L7
    
3. Leave your forms with one of Pollination Canada's Partners.

Thanks for being a Pollinator Observer!