GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) – Pollinator lovers across North Central Florida spent the day watching bees, butterflies and other pollinators while helping scientists collect valuable data.
Dozens of people took part in the Great Southeast Pollinator Census, including at a pollinator party at the Butterfly Sanctuary at the Gainesville Garden Clubhouse.
In Micanopy, visitors spent about 30 minutes counting how many pollinators landed on flowers in the Pollinator Victory Garden.
The data was collected and sent to a UF gardening research center in Ocala to help scientists better understand pollinator populations.
In Ocala, people gathered at the Discovery Center for another pollinator party.
Scientists taught visitors about the different plants found in gardens across North Central Florida.
The free event was open to people of all ages and gave families a chance to learn more about the pollinators that play an important role in local ecosystems.
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