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BionicBlitz is InsectAI’s hands-on field event dedicated to automated and AI-assisted insect monitoring. Inspired by traditional BioBlitzes, it brings technologies out of the lab and into real environments, creating space for direct exchange between technologists, entomologists, ecologists, and other researchers.

Rather than focusing on finding as many species as possible, BionicBlitz is about exploring how new monitoring technologies work in practice, what they can (and cannot) do, and how they can complement established ecological approaches. It is a place to test ideas, compare systems, and spark collaborations.

The first InsectAI BionicBlitz will take place in June 2026, more info here: https://insectai.eu/bionicblitz-2026/

How is BionicBlitz different from a BioBlitz

A traditional BioBlitz is often loosely structured: specialists sample their organism groups over a short period, identifications are frequently completed later, and the main outcome is a species list.

BionicBlitz shifts the focus:

  • from species lists to monitoring systems and data streams
  • from post-event analysis to near real-time interaction with data
  • from parallel expert activities to deliberate dialogue between disciplines

The aim is not to replace traditional methods, nor to rank technologies against them, but to build mutual understanding and critically explore what automated approaches add to insect monitoring.

How does it fit within InsectAI?

BionicBlitz builds directly on InsectAI’s core mission: enabling the transfer of innovative monitoring technologies and knowledge across disciplines and communities. It extends the popular hardware showcases from InsectAI annual meetings into longer, field-based events, where systems can be deployed, discussed, and evaluated in real conditions.

Materials produced during the event (such as short talks, interviews, videos, or demos) will be shared with the wider InsectAI community, so participation is not limited to those on site.

What does a BionicBlitz look like?

Each BionicBlitz is co-designed by tech providers and local organisers, with support from InsectAI. A typical event lasts a few days and may include:

  • field deployment of multiple automated monitoring systems in different habitats
  • live or near real-time inspection of incoming data
  • small workshops and discussion sessions with researchers and entomologists
  • optional public-facing activities such as guided tours or demonstrations

Events can also be paired with existing meetings or conferences, as long as the BionicBlitz activities are organised by InsectAI members.

How can you participate?

There are two main ways to get involved:

Tech providers

You can participate if you develop or use technology relevant to insect monitoring, including hardware, sensors, imaging systems, or algorithms that allow interactive or near real-time use in the field. Tech providers present their systems, deploy them on site, and engage with participants throughout the event.

Local organisers

Local organisers host and co-organise the event at their institution or field site. They help shape the programme, coordinate logistics, and create opportunities for meaningful exchange between technology developers, researchers, and (where appropriate) the public.

InsectAI covers travel costs for participating tech providers and contributes to local organisation expenses.

Why join?

BionicBlitz is for anyone curious about how insect monitoring is changing, and eager to be part of that change. It is a chance to:

  • see cutting-edge monitoring technologies in action
  • exchange perspectives across disciplines
  • help shape future monitoring approaches
  • connect with the growing InsectAI community

We look forward to building the first BionicBlitz together.