Open ProvincesSharing an iNaturalist observation: evidence, identification and privacy
Create a coherent observation and choose what its location will disclose publicly.
Adapted from a guide first written for Quebec readers: passages specific to Quebec were removed. Rules in your province may differ.
Obscuring a location does not make the entire observation private.
Define one encounter
Group photos of the same organism encountered at the same time. Create another observation for a different organism or an encounter on a different date. [1]
Be precise without guessing
Check date and location and use a broad group when the species is uncertain. Indicate cultivated or captive status when applicable instead of forcing an identification. [2]
Choose geoprivacy
Check location settings and project permissions. Some species are automatically obscured; also understand any authorized access to exact coordinates. [3]
Review what remains public
Observations remain publicly viewable. Avoid photos, captions or details that indirectly reveal a sensitive address; choose another tool if the record must be entirely private. [4]
Official sources
- iNaturalist — What an observation is
- iNaturalist — Make an observation
- iNaturalist Canada — Geoprivacy
- iNaturalist — Public visibility
Related processes
- Mission Monarch: helping monitor breeding habitat
- Joining SOS-POP: monitoring birds at risk through the correct platform
Sources and limits
Official sources consulted August 30, 2026, linked above. This orientation guide is not exhaustive: confirm rules, fees, documents and submission windows with the authority. Preparation tips do not replace its requirements or professional advice.
General information based on federal and national rules; provincial rules may differ. Confirm with the official body before acting. Last reviewed : 2026-08-30.