Factors for a successful citizen science on the example of bumblebee observations on naturbeobachtung.at

Abstract

The bumblebee focus of the online platform naturbeobachtung.at has developed into a high quality zoogeographic data source and a place of collecting observation data from citizens, bringing them in contact with zoogeographic and ecological questions and connecting them to a network of common interests and shared competences. The main factors for the success are a sophisticated technology, prompt support for Citizen Scientists via internet and a long-term community building by public courses, common mapping excursions and presentations. Long term-engagement in know-how-transfer and support guarantees high quality data and an increasing community, that raises public awareness of the value of pollinators and the pollinator crisis.