How Do You "Do" the Census?

How do you "do" the Census?


  • Identify a plant that has insects landing on it
  • Get an official datasheet, pencil and maybe a drink and chair
  • Fill out the basic information on the datasheet
  • Set a timer for 15 minutes
  • Put a tally mark next to the type of insect you see each time it lands on the plant (EVEN if you think it is the SAME insect)
  • After the 15 minutes is up, enter your data online at the QR code or URL at the top of the datasheet!

NOTE: If you have a VERY active plant, choose to watch a small section of it. Two people can observe on the same plant in this case!NOTE: Repeat as desired! You can do as many 15-minute sessions as you want!

Where do you "do" the Census?


Anywhere (in GA, SC, NC, or FL) where there is a plant that has pollinators landing on it!

This can be in your backyard, in a park, in a botanical garden, on a nature trail, or an attractive planter in a city center!

You do NOT have to ”do” it with a large group or event! But you can also reach out to your local N.C. Cooperative Extension County Center and see if they are hosting a Census event.

Are you hosting an event in your community? Let us know here so we can keep in touch and celebrate your pollinator successes!

Check out this Google Drive Folder for the Marketing Materials for the 2024 Season.