Our discussion on “Wildlife” featured Scott Loarie, co-founder and executive director of iNaturalist, and Budd Veverka, director of land management for the Mianus River Gorge. Loarie spoke about the power of iNaturalist, the global citizen-science platform that allows people to upload photos of plants and animals they encounter. These observations become part of a worldwide biodiversity database used by scientists, educators, and conservationists. Even a casual photo—such as a spotted lanternfly—can contribute to research and help track species distribution.

Veverka brought the conversation closer to home, discussing the wildlife and ecological research happening at the Mianus River Gorge. His work focuses on monitoring local species such as coyotes, black bears, and deer with tools like remote cameras. He also described efforts to manage invasive species, restore habitats, and study wildlife movement in the region.

Together, they highlighted how community participation and scientific research intersect, encouraging Bedford residents to observe and document the wildlife around them and to play a role in understanding and protecting the ecosystems of northern Westchester.