Brief Suggestion to get Started in iNaturalist

TURNING IN AN OBSERVATION:
• Several pictures are best. Sometimes it is only possible to get one picture before the subject flies or runs off. For plants, take three – one of flower structure, one of leaf structure including stem, and one of entire plant. For insects, three from different angles is best as many insects have similar features.

MAKING AN ID:
• Hopefully, the submitted observations are in focus. When you are unable to make a reasonable ID because of quality of the picture, consider leaving a kind comment explaining why you cannot ID and suggestions. The observer may be new to and not understand the limitations.

• Look at all photos and comments with the observation. If you think you can ID, Suggest an Identification. If you are not confident, but have a suspicion of the species Leave a Comment.

• If the observation already has an ID you agree with, Click Agree. OR,

  • If you can ID to a FINER level, do so.
  • If you think the ID is on the right track but do not agree with species, suggest a COARSER level.
  • If you think the species is on a different track, suggest a different ID. Politely note why you are making a different ID in the Comments.
    NOTE: Some observers want to an ID to a level that qualifies for Research Grade. This is not always possible. This is especially true with insects as many can only be ID’s to species level with a physical specimen to study.

DO NOT AUTOMATICALLY AGREE:
• Do not agree to a previous ID unless you either know, or verify the suggestion independently.

ID TOOLS
• iNAT, use the Compare tool to see related organisms found in the same area.
• Right click on submitted ID to see a page for its Taxon which includes photos of other observations on INat. Look at Similar Species, the Map, Time of Year, etc.
• Other websites (like BugGuide for insects).

Search species in Google Images, you can click on image for link which may include additional info.
• BOOKS!!
• Verify range for any species you suggest to make sure it is in the correct region.

IF YOU CHANGE YOUR MIND, OR MAKE AN ERROR
• To delete your ID, select “Down” arrow on top line of ID, select "Edit", then "Delete".
• Withdraw your ID if someone following makes a different ID you feel is correct.

Please note: This was written as part of a workshop with a group that did not have iNat experience.
The intent was a guideline while working through features together.

Posted on 31 May, 2021 02:30 by judya judya

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