rePhotoSA at the ADU Citizen Science Day, Intaka Island Education Centre 9 July 2016

11 Jul 2016
11 Jul 2016

Samantha Venter, the project coordinator of rePhotoSA, presented at the Animal Demography Unit’s (ADU) 22nd Citizen Scientist Day at Intaka Island Environmental Education Centre over the weekend (9 July 2016). The event was organised by the ADU and the Cape Bird Club. Dieter Oschadleus led the bird ringing in the morning, which was followed by a variety of talks on citizen science projects, including rePhotoSA. 

rePhotoSA is the repeat photography project of southern African landscapes and is a joint initiative between the Plant Conservation Unit (PCU) and the ADU. Samantha described the value of repeat photography and its role to play in understanding how landscapes have changed (and are changing) over time. She discussed current contributions of repeat photographs by citizen scientists and how the public can get involved further. She also spoke about where the project is going and what the PCU hopes to see in the future. Overall the day was a great success with 50+ attendees.

Many people commented to say that the day was memorable and that they felt inspired to get involved in the various projects as citizen scientists. Below are some pictures of the day taken from the Intaka Island Citizen Science Facebook Page.


Les Underhill spoke about the ADU's 25th anniversary and the incredible contribution to science by members of the public. He also demonstrated what we have learned from the Southern African Bird Atlas Project (SABAP).


Colin Jackson spoke about the history of citizen science projects and training programmes in Kenya including the incredible Ngulia Bird Migration Project, the AFRING Water bird counts, and the Fundamentals of Ornithology Course.


Dave Whitelaw spoke about the Cape Bird Club and its impact on bird conservation in the Cape by influencing policy through a passion for conservation and continued data collection by citizen scientists.


Sam Venter spoke about rePhotoSA to a captivated audience of citizen scientists. Members of the Cape Bird Club showed interest in the treasure hunt of taking repeats.


Marieka Gryzenhout took us on a trip into the fascinating world of Fungi. MushroomMap is an important platform to get to know these species better.


Jessie Blackshaw spoke to us about the birds of the Castle of Good Hope. She spoke about its history and showcased some very beautiful bird and butterfly photographs from this area.