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For nature lovers and bird watchers, identifying birds by song can be quite a challenge.
Fortunately, technology offers tools and apps that make this task easier.
Here, we present 5 apps that help you identify birds by song, explaining how each one works and how you can download them.
Read too:
5 apps to identify birds by song
1. Merlin Bird ID
Merlin Bird ID is an application developed by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, one of the most respected institutions in the field of bird studies.
The app uses sound recognition technology to identify birdsong.
You simply record the song with your phone, and the app compares the recording to a vast database of bird calls to identify the species.
How to download:
- Android: Available on the Google Play Store;
- iOS: Available on the Apple App Store;
- Search for “Merlin Bird ID” and follow the instructions to install.
Available in: iOS | Android | site
2. Song Sleuth
Song Sleuth is another amazing app that works as a “Shazam” to identify birds by their song.
It analyzes the recorded sound and suggests the three possible species of birds that correspond to the song heard.
The app also provides detailed information about each species, including other song recordings, photos and identification tips.
How to download:
- Android: Available on the Google Play Store;
- iOS: Available on the Apple App Store;
- Search for “Song Sleuth” and follow the instructions to install.
Available in: iOS | Android
3. BirdNET
Developed by Cornell University and the German Institute of Technology, BirdNET uses artificial intelligence technologies to recognize and identify bird species from recordings of their songs.
It is a very simple to use and extremely accurate application.
How to download:
- Android: Available on the Google Play Store;
- iOS: Available on the Apple App Store;
- Search for “BirdNET” and follow the instructions to install.
Download here: iOS | Android | site
4. ChirpOMatic
ChirpOMatic is an application that automatically identifies birdsong. It works in a very similar way to the other apps listed, but stands out for its friendly and easy-to-use design, which makes it excellent for beginners.
After identification, the app offers detailed descriptions and additional song sounds for each identified species.
How to download:
- Android: Available on the Google Play Store;
- iOS: Available on the Apple App Store;
- Search for “BirdNET” and follow the instructions to install.
Available in: iOS | Android | site
5. iBird Pro
iBird Pro is a more advanced application, which in addition to offering song recognition, provides a complete bird identification guide with photos, drawings and distribution maps.
It is ideal for those who want to learn more about the species beyond just identifying them by their song.
How to download:
- Android: Available on the Google Play Store;
- iOS: Available on the Apple App Store;
- Search for “iBird Pro” and follow the instructions to install.
Available in: iOS | Android (not currently available)
Tips for Using Bird Identification Apps
- Practice use: The more you use the apps, the more familiar you will become with bird calls and the more effective you will be at identification;
- Be patient: Some birds sing less frequently or have very similar songs to others. It takes time and patience to distinguish these nuances;
- Use headphones: When trying to identify a corner, using headphones can help you better distinguish sounds in noisier environments.
These apps are fantastic tools for bringing people closer to nature and the fascinating world of birdwatching.
Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or just someone curious about the sounds you hear in your backyard, they offer a window into better understanding our flying friends.
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