Biodiversity Bingo – Fun Elements Combined with Scientific Methods

To promote biodiversity research and education, the “Switzerland Researches” initiative has adapted “Biodiversity Bingo”—a participatory format that combines playful approaches with scientific methods. The goal is to raise awareness of systematic biodiversity observation, particularly among non-academic audiences, while also creating accessible avenues for data collection.

1 min read · 02. April 2026

At the heart of the activity is a simple yet effective tool: egg cartons decorated with illustrations of locally occurring species. Participants are asked to identify these species in their immediate surroundings and place them in the corresponding compartments. This tactile and visual approach aids in species recognition while also encouraging a structured approach to nature observation.

The concept is based on the work of Amanda Wendelbo Mølgaard and Chiara Podany, who have tested and refined Biodiversity Bingo in various ecological and cultural contexts—including Denmark and South Africa. Their studies show that game-based formats can increase participant engagement while generating valid observational data, provided the methodological guidance is appropriately designed.

In addition to its educational value, Biodiversity Bingo also addresses key challenges in science communication: It provides direct experiences of nature, encourages a conscious awareness of biodiversity in everyday life, and strengthens emotional connections to the environment. These factors are considered crucial for long-term behavioral changes that support biodiversity conservation.

Institutions interested in implementing Biodiversity Bingo or seeking further information on methodological foundations and potential applications can contact the Schweiz forscht team directly: cs@science-et-cite.ch

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