What is Merlin Bird ID?
Merlin Bird ID assists individuals in identifying birds encountered in nature. The application employs various methods to help users pinpoint bird species. Users can answer a few descriptive questions about a bird they observed, utilize the Sound ID feature to analyze bird songs and calls in real-time, or upload a photograph for the Photo ID function to suggest potential matches. These identification tools are designed to be accessible for bird watchers of all experience levels.
Beyond identification, Merlin Bird ID serves as a comprehensive digital bird guide, offering detailed information including photos, sounds, and range maps for species across the globe. Users can maintain a personal 'life list' by saving the birds they identify. The tool leverages data from eBird, incorporating billions of community observations, expert tips, and information from Birds of the World to provide location-specific bird lists and accurate identification support. The identification features work offline once relevant bird packs are downloaded.
Features
- Bird ID Wizard: Identifies birds based on user answers to three simple questions.
- Sound ID: Listens to bird songs and calls in real-time and suggests matching species, works offline.
- Photo ID: Identifies birds from user-uploaded photos, works offline.
- Global Bird Guide: Provides access to photos, sounds, maps, and information for birds worldwide.
- Custom Bird Lists: Generates lists of likely birds based on location and time, powered by eBird data.
- Life List: Allows users to save and track birds they have identified.
- Offline Functionality: Core identification features (Sound ID, Photo ID) work without an internet connection after downloading bird packs.
Use Cases
- Identifying unknown birds encountered while outdoors.
- Learning bird songs and calls.
- Confirming bird sightings through photo analysis.
- Exploring bird species present in a specific location or region.
- Keeping a personal record of observed bird species.
- Assisting beginner and experienced bird watchers.
- Educational tool for learning about ornithology.
FAQs
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How does Merlin Bird ID identify birds?
Merlin can identify birds in three ways: by answering simple questions about the bird (Bird ID Wizard), by analyzing its song or call (Sound ID), or by recognizing it from a photo (Photo ID). -
Does Merlin Bird ID work offline?
Yes, the Sound ID and Photo ID features work completely offline after you download the relevant regional bird packs. -
What regions does Sound ID cover?
Sound ID is available for birds in the US, Canada, Europe, and includes some common birds of Central and South America, and India, with more regions being added. -
Where does Merlin get its data?
Merlin is powered by eBird, using billions of bird observations, community-contributed media, expert tips, and range maps from Birds of the World. -
Can I keep track of the birds I identify?
Yes, you can tap 'This is my bird!' after an identification to save the bird to your personal digital life list within the app.
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