This Biological Conservation (Volume 292, April 2024, 110497) article highlights:
- Citizen science research rarely considers nature connectedness, an important driver of pro-conservation behaviours.
- A quasi-experimental design explored the impact of citizen science participation on nature connection and wellbeing.
- Big Butterfly Count participation increased nature connectedness and nature and butterfly noticing, and decreased anxiety.
- Stronger emotional experiences were associated with greater increases in nature connection and nature noticing.
- By improving human-nature relationships, citizen science makes important contributions to biodiversity conservation.
