On 16 and 17 May, the Group of Schools of Ansião took part in the Invasive Species Week 2026 through a series of awareness-raising activities focusing on biodiversity and the impact of invasive alien species on ecosystems.
On the first day, pupils from 10th grade at the Dr. Pascoal José de Mello EB2,3/S School went on a walk through the village of Ansião to identify native plants and map the presence of invasive species. This activity enabled the students to observe first-hand some of the impacts these species can have on local ecosystems.
The following day, 8th grade pupils from Avelar Elementary School No. 2 and Dr. Pascoal José de Mello EB2,3/S School took part in sessions to raise awareness of and observe biodiversity. Besides identifying invasive species, the participants had the opportunity to see birds, butterflies and other examples of the local flora and fauna, whilst also using a number of digital apps to identify several of the species present.
The activities were led by Ana Esteves, a visiting lecturer at the Portuguese Society for the Study of Birds (SPEA) and Milvoz, who highlighted the importance of biodiversity conservation and fighting invasive species. The initiative also sought to encourage pupils to take an active role in protecting nature, by promoting participation in citizen science and environmental monitoring projects.
