Everyday Scientists: A Christian Invitation to Citizen Science

In recent years, citizen science has seen a remarkable rise in popularity—and for good reason. With nothing more than a smartphone and a sense of curiosity, ordinary people are helping scientists study the natural world, document biodiversity, and track global change. In doing so, they’re also drawing closer to God’s creation and stepping into the role of Adam, who was invited to name the creatures God made (Genesis 2:19–20), engaging creation with mindful stewardship and delight.

Whether you're identifying birds, tracking butterflies, or photographing wildflowers, citizen science invites everyone—kids, families, hobbyists, and students—to become hands-on participants in the observation and preservation of creation.

What Is Citizen Science?

Citizen science refers to scientific research conducted, in whole or in part, by non-professional volunteers. It’s a growing movement where regular people collect data that helps researchers answer big questions: Where are pollinators declining? Which birds are migrating early? How are plant blooming patterns changing in response to shifts in weather patterns and environmental conditions?

Thanks to the internet, mobile apps, and open-access databases, this kind of community-powered research has become easier and more meaningful than ever.

Why Is Citizen Science Growing So Fast?

Here are a few reasons why citizen science is exploding in popularity:

• Technology has made it accessible. Most citizen science platforms require only a smartphone camera and internet access.

• People want to feel useful. Participants know their observations contribute to real conservation and ecological research.

• It blends learning and leisure. Birding, hiking, or gardening can now double as scientific contributions.

• It builds community. Participants share findings, compete in events, and build local or global friendships around shared interests.

Why Does It Matter?

From a Christian perspective, citizen science is a tangible way to steward creation, serve our communities, and even worship God through observation. It trains our eyes to see the complexity, order, and wonder of nature—not as a random accident, but as a reflection of divine craftsmanship (Psalm 19:1; 104:24; Romans 1:20).

It also empowers students, families, and communities to contribute to scientific understanding in meaningful ways. You don’t need a degree to make a difference—just time, intention, and a heart that pays attention.

How to Get Involved: Practical Tools & Opportunities

If you're eager to dive in, here are some of the best platforms to start your citizen science journey:

iNaturalist

What it is: A global database for recording and identifying observations of plants, insects, animals, fungi, and more.
Why it matters: Every observation adds to a worldwide biodiversity record. Experts and other users can confirm or correct IDs.
Great for: Beginners and seasoned naturalists. Excellent for homeschoolers and family outings.
Website: www.inaturalist.org
How to use it:

• Download the app on your phone

• Snap a photo of any wild organism

• Upload it with location info

• Get an ID and contribute to science!

eBird (by Cornell Lab of Ornithology)

What it is: A powerful birding platform where users log bird sightings and locations.
Why it matters: Used by scientists to track migration, population trends, and habitat health.
Great for: Birders, homeschool biology students, and nature walkers.
Website: www.ebird.org
How to use it:

• Create a free account

• Use the website or app to log bird sightings

• Note the date, location, and species

• Submit to build a permanent biodiversity record

Other Citizen Science Projects Worth Exploring:

• Butterflies & Moths of North America (BAMONA)
  www.butterfliesandmoths.org – Great for butterfly and moth tracking.

• Project Noah
  www.projectnoah.org – Focused on documenting wildlife through photography and education.

• Monarch Watch
  www.monarchwatch.org – Tracks monarch butterfly populations and tagging.

• Nature’s Notebook
  www.usanpn.org – Monitors seasonal plant and animal changes (phenology).

A Final Word for Christian Nature-Lovers

In a world that often distances itself from the rhythms of creation, citizen science offers a beautiful way to reconnect, worship, and witness. As stewards of God’s world, we are invited to “observe the ant” (Proverbs 6:6), “consider the lilies” (Luke 12:27), and “know the birds of the air” (Psalm 50:11)—not just poetically, but practically.

Even Solomon, the wisest king of Israel, modeled this kind of attentive study. In 1 Kings 4:33, we’re told that he spoke of trees, animals, birds, reptiles, and fish—demonstrating a deep awareness of and engagement with the natural world. His wisdom was grounded not just in words, but in wonder.

Through citizen science, you don’t just look—you see. You don’t just learn—you steward. And in the process, you participate in the sacred work of noticing, naming, and nurturing what God has made.