Mexico’s Spring Nature Challenge Records Nearly 10,000 Species

Why this is here: Participants submitted 157,048 observations in Mexico, with over 52,000 of those reaching “Research Grade” status—verified by the community and suitable for scientific studies.

Nearly 6,000 people from 62 cities across Mexico participated in the Spring 2026 Nature Challenge, documenting and identifying 9,998 species of plants, fungi, and animals. The challenge, which began in 2018, relies on citizen science to track biodiversity. Participants observed species including the royal duck, monarch butterfly, and Yucatan banded gecko, with 493 species listed as at-risk under Mexican or international conservation standards.

Mexico City led with 1,632 verified species, while Monterrey had the most participants with 2,754 people involved. Smaller cities like Loreto, Baja California, also made substantial contributions despite their size. Over 157,048 observations were made nationwide, and more than 52,000 were verified as suitable for scientific study.

The challenge saw roughly a 13% increase in registered species, a 21% rise in participants, and a 22% jump in observations from the previous year. While the event successfully gathers data, ongoing verification and analysis are needed to fully understand the implications for conservation efforts. The next challenge will be held in the fall.