www.nps.gov/sagu , 520-733-8602 Saguaro National Park – Tucson Mt. District (west), 2700 N. Kinney Rd. at the Red Hills Visitor Center

Friday October 21 and Saturday October 22, 9 to 4 p.m. daily

free admission, free shuttle from Old Tucson Studios (free parking)

Saguaro National Park is proud to be hosting the next National Park Service / National Geographic BioBlitz in October 2011! This two-day celebration of biodiversity centers on a 24-hour race to count species. Teams of experts and public volunteers will explore the park’s mountains, valleys, cactus forests, and tinajas to identify as many species as possble.

Goals for the BioBlitz

Count, map, and learn about the park’s diverse organisms, ranging from microscopic bacteria to migrating birds, elusive mountain lions, and 200 year-old cacti.

Get scientists, kids, and YOU working together in the field, doing science in the Sonoran Desert ecosystem.

Add to the park’s official species list.

Create an opportunity for the Tucson community to join Saguaro National Park in protecting and better understanding this special place.

The Biodiversity Festival (celebrating Biodiversity & Sustainability) will feature science & conservation booths, animal demonstrations, art, music, speakers, fun for all ages. Everyone is invited to participate.