April 26, 2025 marked an exciting milestone for Flamingo Gardens as the Flamingo Gardens Eco-teers took part in our very first BioBlitz event, hosted in collaboration with our outstanding Horticulture team. Organized by Botanical Curator Amy Reilly, the evening brought together a vibrant community of 89 participants, including entomologists, Master Gardeners, nature enthusiasts, and dedicated volunteers.
From 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM, the gardens came alive with activity as attendees worked hands-on to identify and document the incredible biodiversity found throughout Flamingo Gardens. Observation stations were set up to attract insects, which participants then recorded and identified using the iNaturalist app under the project name Flamingo Gardens BioBlitz 2025.
By the following morning, the team had logged an impressive 193 insect observations, representing approximately 60 different species! Each entry contributed valuable data to our growing understanding of the ecosystems thriving within the gardens and reinforced the importance of community science in environmental stewardship.
One of the most memorable moments of the evening was the magical release of Luna moths. Several moths were released onsite, adding an enchanting element to the nighttime gardens, while others were sent home with attendees to emerge and later be released in new locations, helping to support moth populations across the region.
We extend our deepest thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of this inaugural BioBlitz: the Master Gardeners, the Flamingo Gardens Horticulture team, the Eco-teers, and all the volunteers and guests who brought their passion and curiosity to the event.
UF Master Gardener Volunteers – Class of 2025:
Lorna Bravo
Stephen Deegan
USDA Entomologists:
James Munroe
Julia Schwierking
Jose Gerena
Broward College:
David Serrano, PhD
Professor & Environmental Science BS Program Manager
Director, Broward College Insect Collection (BROW:BCIC)
Director, Broward College Botanical Collection (BROW:BCIC)
University of Florida:
Adam Pitcher
UF Entomologist
We are also deeply grateful to our dedicated Flamingo Gardens staff and volunteers:
Chris Maler, Senior Director of Horticulture
Amy Rielly, Botanical Curator
Anita Sobaram, Education Manager
Ashley Vieria, Eco-teer Coordinator
Flamingo Gardens Eco-teer Volunteers
Flamingo Gardens Horticulture Volunteers
Your support and enthusiasm for environmental education inspire us to continue offering engaging, community-driven experiences that connect people with nature in meaningful ways.
We look forward to hosting more BioBlitz events and other exciting programs soon. Stay tuned—and get ready to explore, learn, and make a difference!
To get involved and help create positive change in your community contact Ashley Vieira at [email protected] or call (954) 473-2955 x134.
