Developed by Cornell Lab in conjunction with birding site E-Bird and other participants, the Merlin Bird ID app has been around since 2009. However, it was a bit 'under the radar' for quite some time. I am sure one or two of you out there have already heard of it, but I only downloaded Merlin just before taking off on this Seconds Trip, and golly, am I loving it!
I used to be really good at recognising bird calls in the UK. Then I migrated to OZ and, of course, became very adept at the birds down there. On return to the UK, I found that I was no longer so good at knowing who was who out there in the trees and bushes!
Now, I can press the sounds button on the app and have it assess the calls, then share the likely suspects. From that, it is possible to click on one or another and listen to other recorded examples to contrast and compare and make a firmer ID for oneself.
There is also a photo ID section, so if one has eyes on, opting for colours and size and shape, as well as location, again, one can narrow down the most probable identification.
This app is entirely free, and I have found it delightful to use. Highly recommend it if your phone is compatible. The link I gave above tells you more and access to download it.
I just wish I could have shared with you the recordings I have made—particularly in Banff, where the Greenfinches ruled! Given that this is one thing Merlin doesn't provide, let me, instead, just for fun, direct you to THIS SITE to listen to a variety of calls from this fun and feisty wee birdy.
For some reason, the sounds are not playing on my phone.
ReplyDeleteInteresting that there is a such an app. Quite useful.
ReplyDeleteI went to the link and he is a happy sounding little bird... music to the ears.. I think there must be an app for everything these days. this is great for you while oot and aboot in the wilds of UK
ReplyDeleteWe have been wondering which app to add to my phone
ReplyDeleteHello YAM,
ReplyDeleteI have the Merlin app on my phone, I have used the photo id but not the recorded bird sound. Take care, have a great weekend.
We use Merlin all the time, as does just about every birder I know. It is especially useful as we get older and our hearing ability diminishes. My high frequency range is just about non-existent.
ReplyDeleteI wish I had an ear that was good a id birds...but alas I don't mainly due to tinnitus. This is a wonderful app.
ReplyDeleteThere are a few native year around backyard birds I recognize.
Happy Saturday
Hugs Cecilia
My husband is a graduate of Cornell University where the Lab of Ornithology is that created Merlin. We've been using that app for years, but they just added the sound recording part in that past year or two. We've also used the picture id too. I also use their website if I'm at my computer and see a bird out my window that I need help identifying https://www.allaboutbirds.org/
ReplyDeleteHari OM
DeleteHi Cindy! I have used All About Birds for some time, but I don't think I had clicked that it was Cornell! Merlin does appear to have been relatively unknown here in the UK - but I think the addition of the sound part has renewed awareness and interest. Anyway, it is a delight to use and I am glad to have found it. Hope you are keeping well and the doggies too! Fondly, YAM xx
These apps have been amazing. I use BirdNet. I am often surprised. XX
ReplyDeleteHi Yam - incredible what's available ... while your commenters have added to your post - so pleased to read. Cheers Hilary
ReplyDelete