Observation data
Our observation data
Observation data are structured records that include: the identification of the species, the name of the observer, the precise date and location of the observation, and the method used.
These data are aggregated in the Museum’s database, published online, and made accessible to the public. They allow us, for example, to monitor the state of biodiversity at the local level, to track changes in animal populations, and to issue alerts in the event of the spread of invasive species.
Who collects the data?
- Professionals: Scientists and scientific collaborators of the Naturmusée, teams from public administrations or ministries, NGOs, consultancy offices, staff of nature parks and biological stations. Data collection in this context generally takes place during field inventories and biomonitoring programmes.
- Citizens: You, using your smartphone or computer.
How to submit your observations
1️. Send an Excel table
To simplify the transmission and encoding of data by consultancy offices and other professionals approved by the Ministry of the Environment, we have created an easy to use Excel file. You can download it here (Excel, 23 Ko) (EXCEL) and complete it following the instructions inside the file. You may fill in many optional data categories, but only the essential information is strictly required:
- the name of the observed species
- the name of the observer
- the location (with GPS coordinates)
- the date
- the observation method
Once completed, you can send the file by email to recorder@mnhn.lu — we will take care of importing the data into the Naturmusée’s database.
2️. Use iNaturalist
Since 2021, the MNHNL has been part of the iNaturalist network, a participatory science platform that helps identify and document wild species in Luxembourg and worldwide. Simply photograph the species you observe, upload it via the mobile app or website, and let the image recognition tool suggest an identification. Experts will then validate the observations, ensuring scientific reliability.
3. Visit Observation.org
Observation.org is a global biodiversity platform dedicated to citizen science. The MNHNL has been a partner since 2023, enabling professional users to access advanced features:
- entry without photos
- recording transects
- managing biomonitoring projects with customised protocols
How to consult the data
You can consult biodiversity data for Luxembourg on our geographical portal.
A large portion of the collected data is also published on the global GBIF portal.
On NATUDATA you will find information on the distribution of species protected under European directives across the Greater Region:
Mdata
Mdata is an online application designed for nature conservation professionals. It aggregates observation data for Luxembourg from iNaturalist, Observation.org, Ornitho.lu, GBIF, and all information stored in the MNHNL databases. The application gives you access to all these observation data and allows you to filter them by municipality, period, taxonomic group, or protection status. You can also download data in various formats and visualise your results on a map.
GBIF
The MNHNL serves as Luxembourg’s national node for the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF), an international infrastructure that provides free access, through a single portal, to biodiversity data supplied by institutions worldwide. See the data for Luxembourg.
NATUDATA
NATUDATA compiles information on the distribution of species protected under Annexes II and IV of the European Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC) in the Greater Region. You can consult the 10 km raster data on the Geographic Information System portal of the Greater Region via this link.
Monitoring the introduction of wild plants
To facilitate the integration of data relating to the introduction of wild plant species by organisations active in conservation, we provide an Excel template. This template is designed to be imported directly into the database of the National Museum of Natural History Luxembourg.
Steps to follow:
1) Download the template file here (Excel, 34 KB).
2) Complete the file following the detailed instructions included in the document.
3) Send the completed file by email to: recorder@mnhn.lu.
Alternatives for Recorder 6 users
If your organisation uses the Recorder 6 application, you may also enter plant translocation data directly in the software.
To do so, consult the instruction guide:
Downloand the instructions here (PDF 1,57 MB) (Pdf).
Why every observation matters?
Observation data help us better understand and protect biodiversity. They enable us to determine where and when a species has been observed, to track population trends, to detect rare or invasive species, and to measure the effects of climate change. This information is essential for scientists, nature conservation managers, and policy makers.
It guides conservation efforts, informs spatial planning, and raises public awareness of the importance of nature. So take the step and join us in this wonderful endeavour — whether you are an experienced naturalist or simply a curious walker.
Contact
Claude Pepin
Digital information on natural heritage