It seems today that almost everyone’s home pages are filled with standard apps like Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok, and Snapchat. In this day and age, how could they not?
While these media connect us to each other and exciting content in the digital sphere, did you know that there are apps that can also connect you to nature? It’s true! Harness that tech-savvy talent with the help of these apps that you might be unfamiliar with. In a few clicks, they’ll have you turning likes and reposts online into leaves and repose outside.
- iNaturalist: Have you ever really wanted to know what something in nature was but had no clue where to start searching? Here’s an answer! This app encourages users to post snapshots of things that have them saying “What is that?” With the help of researchers and other nature enthusiasts worldwide, images can be identified and sorted to help us all get to know our environments a little better.
- iTrack Wildlife Lite: We can surely recognize human footprints on the beach but what about…everything else? Simply scan any animal tracks you’re curious about and MyNature will provide you with the likely critter culprit! Coupled with images, common calls, and space for journal entries, you could be well on your way to becoming a true tracker.
- Merlin Bird ID: Nothing beats a serene scene but sometimes the head scratching over just what bird is singing can drive you wild! Thanks to this app, you can hit the record button on a few chirps of a feathered friend to learn all about what bird makes what noise, the variation of their songs, and which species are likely in your area.
- The NPS App: The vastness of the United States’ national parks may seem daunting but have no fear! The National Parks Service App comes to the rescue with their newest interactive database of maps, tours, trails, and camping information all at your fingertips. Grab your best hiking shoes and get out there!
Bringing your phone into nature can sure help you get great pictures of landscapes and wildlife, but now it just might teach you something along the way too. Happy downloading, adventurers!