JACKSON, Miss. -- Teachers, students and community members are invited to learn about biological diversity and take part in naturalist activities at BioBlitz events in Jackson and Tupelo.

Participants will partner with biologists to track down and identify as many local trees, plants, insects, amphibians, reptiles, mammals and birds as possible. Individuals can help scientists by recording species they see on the free app, iNaturalist.

The Mississippi State University Extension Service will join the National Park Service, Mississippi Geographic Alliance and Mississippi Museum of Natural Science to host the BioBlitz events.

The first BioBlitz will be April 2 in Jackson at the museum. The second event, planned for April 16 in Tupelo at the Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor’s Center, will include a live snake presentation and hands-on nature activity stations.

Both events begin at 9 a.m. and end at 5 p.m. with scheduled times for educational hikes and guest presentations. The sessions are open to all ages.

Admission to the Museum of Natural Science in Jackson will cost $6 for adults, $5 for senior citizens and $4 for children aged 3 to 18. Museum members and children under 3 get in free. Admission for the Tupelo event is free.

Participants will be asked to sign in once they arrive. Groups can preregister by contacting Leslie Burger, assistant Extension professor of conservation education, at 662-325-6686 or [email protected].