iNaturalist Classic

iNaturalist Classic

Connect with Nature

4.7K ratings
531 reviews
Free

Details

  • Released
  • Updated
  • February 25, 2011
  • September 6, 2025

Features

iNaturalist Classic video #1 for iPhone
iNaturalist Classic screenshot #2 for iPhone
iNaturalist Classic screenshot #3 for iPhone
iphone
ipad
🖼️Get Icon
Icons↘︎

About

Record and identify species encounters with a simple interface. Contribute to scientific research and learn about biodiversity. Connect with other nature enthusiasts and explore the natural world.

Identify species globally
Record species sightings
Contribute observations to science
Add observations to projects
Learn about biodiversity
Connect with nature enthusiasts
Show original description

What users say

See all reviews

What's New in iNaturalist Classic

3.3.9

September 6, 2025

We added analytics to help us better understand how users are interacting with iNaturalist Classic.

User reviews

Better than the new app but not by much

This app needs a lot of work but unfortunately they seem to be putting all their energy into the Android versions. Classic is still easier to use and interact with than the newer iPhone app, but functionality for identifying is limited and the "explore" feature is useless, only showing you some of the nearby observations and in no apparent particular chronological order even though you can sort "newest to oldest". I have both versions on my phone and use Classic most of the time. Overall though, I have been very disappointed since changing from Android to iPhone. It works fine for making observations in the field, but if you want to do much more you will be far better off waiting until you can get to a desktop. Unfortunately, that ends up meaning I use the platform less than I otherwise would.
Show more

Less functionality than the Android version

I recently switched to an iPhone and I thought this Classic version of the app was the same as the Android version. But I'm shocked to find that this app lacks the Compare feature. That feature is critical to avoiding confirmation bias in the Computer Vision model and helping users learn to find distinguishing characteristics. We should not thoughtlessly feed photos to an AI. This is not Seek, where you get told the answer; we should be learning with help from the CV model. I'm very disappointed that neither app lives up to the Android version.
Show more

J’adore

Facile à utiliser et très bien fait !

LionsandTigersandBears, oh my!

Of all the apps I've used this is the most amazing and helpful! I love the help and input of others! Thank you.

An Amazing Tool

iNaturalist is an awesome tool for both the curious observer and researchers alike!

Developer apps

User experience

🐞

Reported Bugs

3 issues

Login issues or inability to create account

Bug

Slow upload speeds or observation syncing

Bug

Inconsistent performance between mobile and web versions

Bug

Requested Features

5 requests

Ability to follow other users and see their observations

Feature

More filtering and sorting options for observations

Feature

Offline mode for taking photos and uploading later

Feature

Easier location input for observations

Feature

Private/personal project functionality

Feature

FAQ

What does iNaturalist Classic do?

iNaturalist Classic is an application designed to help you record your encounters with biodiversity. It allows you to identify species, keep a record of what you see, and contribute your observations to scientific projects. The app also facilitates learning about the natural world and connecting with other nature enthusiasts.

What are the key features of iNaturalist Classic?

Key features include the ability to identify species from anywhere in the world (when online), maintain a personal record of species you've encountered, and contribute your observations to scientific research. You can also manually add observations to projects, learn about biodiversity, and connect with other nature lovers.

Is iNaturalist Classic free to use?

Yes, iNaturalist Classic is freely available. Its nonprofit mission is supported by generous donations from its community of users.

What is the best way to use iNaturalist Classic?

This classic version offers a simple interface for recording biodiversity encounters, particularly for users already familiar with the iNaturalist platform. For an enhanced experience with more features and ongoing updates, the new, redesigned iNaturalist app is recommended.

How does iNaturalist Classic contribute to science?

By sharing your observations of species, you contribute valuable data to scientific research and conservation efforts. These observations can be added to various projects, helping scientists and researchers understand biodiversity patterns and trends.