Faved observations talk

General
1

I think this is something not talked about.

Why do you use your favourites? For what?

For me - Generally I use my favourites like a bookmark for new species or mystery ones. I also fave first ids when I flag the taxon so that once the taxon is created, I can find it and then of course to not clutter my faves, unfave it.

2

especially beautiful photos, unique/unusual features, good mimics, kinda just anything i think i might wanna be able to find again

3

I tend to use it for a few reasons:

  • something I find interesting/beautiful/
  • photos I find amusing
  • an observation of a particular species seen in an area I hope to/plan on visiting
  • anything else I think I may want to find again easily
4

Ooh, a reason to peruse my faves again? This was fun! Here’s some of what I found:

5

https://forum.inaturalist.org/t/poll-what-are-good-reasons-to-fave-an-observation/

https://forum.inaturalist.org/t/using-favourites-as-bookmarks/

6

I mainly favorite observations with really good photos / photos that I like, funny observations (like Mrs. Dave), and interesting observations (Vagrants, odd colors, behaviors, etc)

I have a google doc for any “useful” observations to go back and reference as needed so I dont need to favorite them. I also keep my other reference links there and have it organized somewhat.

7

I give Favs to new iNaturalist’s observations in my country. I hope it gives a little encouragement.

8

Exactly.

9

I use this as a way to highlight selected observations that has a photo (or photos) and sometimes a great set of images that present robust markers (physical characteristics - morphological) to help with identification (ID) of species (and subspecies). Ideally, I aim to create a journal post and it is based on a calendar year format of selected observations that meet my criteria for capturing the markers with the intent of an educational process - for me and for others. Thus, I have that in mind when I fave an observation. Near the end of the year, I go through them (with some triage) and use it in an extended journal post to then narrate the “why” in the selection for ‘exemplar’ in identification. I think this can be useful as a way to use actual observations in a given year to showcase how others have added in to the “good example of images that help to ID” and then I highlight the markers. For me, the faved list will be centered on Mule Deer (as example - obs showing two or more markers: antler structure, ears, face profile, pelage, tail profile, metatarsal gland…etc). On occasion, the faved also represents the functional + the aesthetic + behavioral.