Discover the Biodiversity of the West Estonian Archipelago

On March 27, 2025, it will be 35 years since the establishment of the West Estonian Archipelago Biosphere Reserve. One of the main goals of the reserve is to raise people’s awareness of the region’s natural values. Exploring nature offers a great opportunity to discover and appreciate our diverse landscapes and biodiversity.

HOW TO PARTICIPATE?

To make an observation, use the Estonian Environment Agency’s Nature Observations mobile app. Download it for free from Google Play or the App Store.

• Explore nature and keep your mobile phone close at hand;

• Notice the biodiversity around you and identify any species of interest;

• All species are suitable for observation, including protected and invasive species;

• You can also report signs of animals such as tracks, traces of activity, sounds, or droppings;

• You can submit observations even if you can’t identify the species—just be sure to include a photo, video, or sound recording;

• In the app, select the project “Biosphere Reserve 2025” from the projects list;

• Make sure the location of the observed species is correctly marked on the map (even if you are entering the observation later from a different location).

  
  

PLEASE NOTE!

During the challenge, we will highlight specific species or groups for focused observation (e.g., amphibians, reptiles, geese resting in fields, globeflower, species of the year, etc.).

However, all observations made during the challenge period (March 27–December 31, 2025) will count toward participation.

Prizes will be raffled among all participants by:

• TalTech Kuressaare College

• Hiiumaa Development Centre

• Estonian Environment Agency

• Local entrepreneurs in the Biosphere Reserve

  
  

THE MORE OBSERVATIONS YOU MAKE, THE GREATER YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A PRIZE!