Final Release of the BOB Citizen Science App (Behavioural Observations in Beetles)

Citizen Science projects often encompass a wide range of participation opportunities. From documenting observations and investigating specific research objects (like in Beweisstück Unterhose), to creating ponds in home gardens to support and study green toads (AmphiApp) — Citizen Science projects on the SPOTTERON platform often go beyond reporting sightings.

The BOB Citizen Science App

Another example of this broader engagement is the new BOB project, an initiative by CREA. CREA teamed up with SPOTTERON to create the BOB Citizen Science App, which has now completed its prototype phase and, after some final updates, is officially available for download in the App stores. Hurray! SPOTTERON also created the logo design for the BOB project, along with the website, which is currently still under development and is expected to go live by the end of May.

Download the BOB App for iOS: https://apps.apple.com/ve/app/bob-beetleobserver/id6532616912

Download the BOB App for android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.spotteron.bob

What's the BOB App about?

The BOB App focuses primarily on the stag beetle (Lucanus cervus), though other beetle species such as Rosalia alpina and Morimus spp. can also be documented. The core of the BOB App isn't just about submitting sightings — it's about observing and recording beetle behaviour. Participants are encouraged to study a beetle for around 5–10 minutes and document what they observe in the App.

Taking the time to closely observe the beetle's actions allows Citizen Scientists to engage more deeply with the species. What is the beetle doing? What kind of behavior does it display? What surface is it on? How many beetles are there? Are they interacting? What else can be said about their behavior?

With the BOB App, participants are invited to briefly step into the role of a biologist, engaging in focused, mindful observation of beetle behavior. Observations can be entered into the App either during or after the session.

Citizen Scientists Explore Beetle Behavior

The BOB App not only encourages citizen scientists to celebrate finding a beetle but also to sit down, take their time, and carefully observe its behavior. For beetle enthusiasts, it's a wonderful new way to contribute behavioral data — and for beetle-newcomers, it's an opportunity to develop a deeper understanding with these fascinating insects.

At SPOTTERON, we're already keeping an eye out during our field trips and are thrilled that the App is now officially available for download on both iOS and Android for all Citizen Scientists. 

Happy Beetle Watching!

BOB is a project by CREA, Università di Parma, the National Biodiversity Future Center, and Parchi del Ducato.