Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab

4.90

Information

Category:

Books & Reference

Price:

Free

Rank:

39

Rating:

4.90

Overview

Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab is a premier bird identification app that helps users identify birds they see and hear. Powered by eBird, the world's largest database of bird sightings, sounds, and photos, Merlin offers four engaging ways to identify birds: answering simple questions, uploading a photo, recording a singing bird, or exploring birds in a region. Whether you're curious about a single bird or aiming to identify every bird you encounter, this free app from the renowned Cornell Lab of Ornithology provides the answers.

With features like expert ID tips, range maps, photos, and sounds, Merlin not only aids in identifying birds but also helps users build their birding skills. Users can discover a new bird species daily with personalized Bird of the Day, receive customized lists of birds based on location, and track their sightings by building a personal list of found birds.

Features

Merlin Bird ID stands out due to its innovative use of machine learning technology. Powered by Visipedia, Merlin Sound ID and Photo ID utilize machine learning to identify birds in photos and sounds. The app learns to recognize bird species based on millions of photos and sounds collected by birders at eBird.org, stored in the Macaulay Library at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

Merlin delivers highly accurate results thanks to experienced birders who curate and annotate sightings, photos, and sounds, forming the backbone of Merlin's capabilities. Additionally, users can choose bird packs containing photos, songs, calls, and identification help for regions worldwide, including Mexico, Costa Rica, South America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, India, Australia, Korea, Japan, China, and more.

E-book library size & copyright authenticity

Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab offers an extensive collection of bird-related content, making it a valuable resource for both casual bird watchers and serious ornithologists. The app provides access to millions of photos, sounds, and sighting records from eBird, the world's largest database of bird observations.

The app's vast library includes bird packs for various regions around the globe, including North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. These packs contain high-quality images, bird calls, and songs, as well as expert identification tips. This rich repository ensures that users have comprehensive resources at their fingertips, enhancing both learning and birding experiences.

Copyright authenticity is a crucial aspect of Merlin Bird ID. All content within the app is sourced from eBird and the Macaulay Library, reputable databases maintained by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. This guarantees that all materials are legitimate and ethically collected, providing users with reliable information they can trust.

By leveraging machine learning technology powered by Visipedia, Merlin Bird ID continuously improves its identification accuracy. The app learns from millions of verified bird sightings, ensuring that users receive the most up-to-date and precise information available. This commitment to quality and authenticity makes Merlin Bird ID an indispensable tool for anyone interested in birds.

Format compatibility

Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab excels in format compatibility, ensuring that users can access its rich content across various devices and platforms. Whether you're using a smartphone, tablet, or computer, the app delivers a seamless experience, adapting to different screen sizes and resolutions.

The app supports multiple media formats, including high-resolution images, audio recordings of bird calls and songs, and detailed sighting records. This versatility allows users to engage with the content in ways that best suit their needs, whether they're identifying a bird by sight, sound, or location.

One of Merlin Bird ID's standout features is its integration with eBird, which enhances its compatibility with other birding tools and resources. Users can easily upload their sightings, photos, and recordings to eBird, contributing to the global database while maintaining a personal birding journal within the app.

Furthermore, Merlin Bird ID's offline functionality ensures that users can access critical information even without an internet connection. By downloading regional bird packs, users can identify birds and access detailed species accounts wherever they go, making it an essential companion for field trips and travel.

Pros

User-friendly interface

Accurate bird identification

Comprehensive bird database

Personalized bird lists

Free to use

Cons

Limited offline functionality

Requires internet connection

Occasional misidentification

Regional data limitations

Advanced features need subscription

FAQs

What is this app and what can I use it for?

Merlin Bird ID identifies birds through photos and sounds.

How do I download and install this app on my device?

Download Merlin Bird ID from Google Play Store.

How do I get started after opening the app for the first time?

Start by answering questions or uploading bird photos.

What are the main features and capabilities of this app?

Identifies birds via photos, sounds, and location data.

How can I customize my experience and adjust preferences?

Customize bird lists based on your location.

How do I save or bookmark my favorite content for later access?

Save favorite birds to your personal list.

How can I share content with friends or on social media?

Share identified birds on social media platforms.

How do I access detailed information and explore more content?

Access detailed bird info through Merlin's database.

What permissions does this app need and how do I manage them?

Needs access to camera and microphone for full functionality.

How do I check for updates and keep the app running smoothly?

Check updates in Google Play Store settings.
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