> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.gainforest.earth/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.gainforest.earth/for-nature-stewards/overview/biodiversity-observations.md).

# Biodiversity Observations

{% hint style="success" %}
**Biodiversity observations** are the main data upload type on GainForest.app. Use them to document species, field activity, and ecological evidence.
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You can use biodiversity observations for BioBlitz entries, Project evidence, community science, and regular nature monitoring.

<a href="https://www.gainforest.app/en/manage/observations" class="button primary" data-icon="camera">Add observations</a>

A biodiversity observation can include:

* a photo
* a suggested or confirmed species name
* field notes
* date and time
* location
* an optional Project link

## When to use this flow

Use **Add observations** when you already have photos from the field and want to upload them directly.

This is useful for:

* BioBlitz submissions
* community biodiversity walks
* one-off species sightings
* regular biodiversity monitoring
* evidence for a Bumicerts Project

## Step 1: Upload photos

Start by adding photos from your device.

<figure><img src="/files/BsqoteUVrm1h9Mkp8Yzx" alt="Add observations upload modal"><figcaption><p>Upload photos through the Add observations flow.</p></figcaption></figure>

## Step 2: Review the observation

After uploading, review the suggested species name, date, location, and notes. AI can support the first identification, but users should still check the result.

<figure><img src="/files/TGAYmrcNdNxEc8w0nVFV" alt="Observation review screen with suggested species information"><figcaption><p>Review the suggested species name and add context before publishing.</p></figcaption></figure>

## Step 3: Link to a Project

If the observation supports a Project, you can link it before publishing. This helps the Project show real evidence from the field.

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You do not need a Project to upload biodiversity observations. You can start by uploading observations first and link them to a Project later.
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<figure><img src="/files/jXwynGlgPWxnrWMlB1Px" alt="Add observations form with project linking"><figcaption><p>Observations can be linked to a Project as evidence.</p></figcaption></figure>

## Location and sensitive species

Observation locations can be useful, but exact locations are not always safe to share publicly.

GainForest.app includes an option to **hide your exact location** when adding observations. Use this when you want the observation to be useful without revealing the precise place.

<figure><img src="/files/iMdxCVglZ5c8jf3S6EiJ" alt="Hide exact location options: tight, balanced, and wide approximate areas"><figcaption><p>Use “Hide my exact location” if you do not want to reveal the precise location of an observation. You can choose a tight, balanced, or wide approximate area.</p></figcaption></figure>

The current options are:

* **Tight** — about a 300 m radius
* **Balanced** — about a 500 m radius
* **Wide** — about a 1 km radius

Consider hiding or avoiding exact location details if:

* the species is rare or sensitive
* the location is private
* the information could put people, wildlife, or habitats at risk
* the knowledge is culturally sensitive or should not be public

## Good observation notes

Where possible, add short notes that explain:

* what you saw
* where it was found
* who collected the observation
* why it matters for the Project
* whether the species name is confirmed or still needs checking

## Related pages

{% content-ref url="/pages/b1KOtG9hDQJJgajdwvxQ" %}
[Linking Evidence to Projects](/for-nature-stewards/overview/linking-evidence-to-projects.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}

{% content-ref url="/pages/lcdy4DY5k2XrmQrNKiNi" %}
[Weekly BioBlitz Challenge](/for-nature-stewards/overview-1/weekly-bioblitz-challenge.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}