Scientist monitors a giant swallowtail butterfly (Papilio cresphontes). [Photo by Tyler Jones, UF/IFAS]

When people think of scientific research, they often picture Bunsen burners, beakers, and scientists in white lab coats hunched over microscopes. But some of the most valuable data comes from community members observing the world around them.

The Great Florida Pollinator Census is a perfect example of the citizen science in action. Pollinators like bees, butterflies, beetles, and other insects play an important role in supporting healthy ecosystems and food production. It would be nearly imposition for scientists to monitor pollinator activity across an entire region.

A green metallic sweat bee (Agapostemon texanus) on blueberry flowers. [Photo by Tyler Jones, UF/IFAS]

This is where citizen scientists really shine!

 Volunteers who participate in events like the Great Florida Pollinator Census help create a snapshot of pollinator activity in their local community, parks, gardens, schools, and natural areas. While a single observation may seem small, hundreds—or even thousands—of observations collected across a region can help researchers better understand pollinator populations, identify important habitats, and track changes over time.

Join the Great Florida Pollinator Census August 21-22

The 2026 Great Florida Pollinator Census will take place on August 21 and 22. Participation is easy and open to all ages and experience levels. You can look for census events in your area – The Great Florida Pollinator Census – Upcoming Events – or select a flowering plant in your own backyard!

Here are the steps:

• Register and attend the Lunch & Learn: Great Florida Pollinator Census webinars to learn more about the importance of pollinators and their identification:
• July 22: Lunch & Learn: Pollinator Gardening and Insect Conservation (webinar), 12 PM – 1 PM EDT | Eventbrite
• July 29: Lunch & Learn: Pollinator Gardening and Insect Conservation (webinar), 12 PM – 1 PM EDT | Eventbrite
• Visit Extension to receive your Great Florida Pollinator Census form (webinar attendees will be mailed a copy) or download a copy here: Great Southeast Pollinator Census Count Form
• On August 21 or 22, sit in front of a flowering plant for 15 minutes, and count the number of times any pollinators land on the plant. Record these numbers on your census sheet. Watch this video from last year to learn how: It’s time for the #PollinatorCensus!
• Upload your census data into the University of Georgia Great Southeast Pollinator Census portal, open on August 21: The Great Southeast Pollinator Census – Citizen Science at Work

Every count helps build a better understanding of pollinator health in our communities. By spending just 15 minutes observing pollinators, you can become part of a growing network of citizen scientists working to support research, conservation, and environmental awareness.

Eastern carpenter bee (Xylocopa virginica) shows his shiny hiney as he visits a purple passionflower (Passiflora incarnata). [Photo by Don Hall, UF/IFAS]

This August, take a closer look at the pollinators around you—because every count counts!

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If you have any questions, please contact UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at 813-744-5519 or email hillsmg@mail.ufl.edu.

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