Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab

4.9 Books & Reference Updated January 7th, 2026

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If you’re a bird lover like me, then you’ll definitely want to check out the Merlin Bird ID app by Cornell Lab. This nifty app is like having a personal bird expert in your pocket, ready to help you identify birds anytime, anywhere. I’ve been using it for a while now, and let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer in my birdwatching adventures!

Bird Identification Made Easy

Ever been out in nature, heard a bird singing, and wondered what it was? Yeah, me too. That’s where Merlin Bird ID steps in. With just a few taps, you can identify birds by sound, photo, or even by answering a few simple questions about the bird you’re seeing. It’s super intuitive, and even if you’re a newbie to birding, the app guides you through the process seamlessly.

Sound Identification

The sound identification feature is perhaps my favorite. You just hit record when you hear a bird singing, and Merlin will analyze the sound and give you a list of possible matches. I've been amazed at how accurate it is, even in areas with a lot of background noise.

Photo ID

If you manage to snap a picture of the bird, just upload it to the app, and Merlin does its magic. It compares your photo with its vast database and suggests possible matches. This feature is especially handy when you’re out in the field without a bird guidebook.

Guided Bird Watching

For those moments when you don’t have a photo or recording, Merlin asks you a series of questions like the bird’s size, color, and behavior. Based on your answers, it provides a list of potential matches. It’s like playing a fun game of 20 Questions, but with birds!

Why I Love It

What really sets Merlin Bird ID apart is its user-friendly interface and the accuracy of its identifications. The app is constantly updated with new data from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, ensuring you have the most current information at your fingertips. Plus, it’s free! I mean, who doesn’t love a free app that works this well?

Educational and Fun

Besides identifying birds, Merlin Bird ID is also educational. The app provides additional information about each bird, including its habitat, behavior, and conservation status. It’s like having a mini encyclopedia with you, which makes learning about birds so much fun. And let’s not forget, it’s a great way to impress your friends with your newfound bird knowledge!

In conclusion, whether you’re a seasoned birder or just starting out, Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab is a must-have app. It’s made birdwatching more accessible and enjoyable for me, and I’m sure it will for you too. So go ahead, download it, and start your birding adventure today!

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Screenshots

Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab screenshot
Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab screenshot
Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab screenshot
Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab screenshot
Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab screenshot
Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab screenshot
Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab screenshot
Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab screenshot

Download

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Pros

  • Accurate bird identification using AI.
  • Includes a vast database of bird species.
  • User-friendly interface with clear instructions.
  • Offline functionality for birding without internet.
  • Regular updates with new bird data.

Cons

  • Requires initial download of large data sets.
  • Some features need in-app purchases.
  • Limited to certain geographical regions.
  • Occasional identification errors.
  • App can be slow on older devices.

FAQ Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab

1. What is Merlin Bird ID and how does it help birdwatchers?

Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab is a mobile app designed to assist birdwatchers in identifying bird species. It uses advanced AI technology to recognize bird species by photos or sounds, providing detailed information and images to users. It's a valuable tool for both novice and experienced birdwatchers, enhancing their birdwatching experience by offering easy access to a vast database of bird species.

2. Is Merlin Bird ID free to use, or does it require a subscription?

Merlin Bird ID is completely free to download and use. The app offers its extensive features without requiring any subscription or in-app purchases. This makes it accessible to anyone interested in birdwatching, allowing users to enjoy its full functionality without any financial commitment.

3. How accurate is Merlin Bird ID in identifying bird species?

Merlin Bird ID boasts a high accuracy rate, thanks to its use of advanced AI and machine learning algorithms. It has been trained on a vast dataset of bird photos and sounds, which helps it accurately identify bird species in a variety of conditions. While no app can guarantee 100% accuracy, Merlin Bird ID is widely regarded as one of the most reliable apps for bird identification.

4. Can I use Merlin Bird ID offline?

Yes, Merlin Bird ID can be used offline. Users can download regional bird packs, which contain the necessary data for identifying birds in specific areas without needing an internet connection. This feature is particularly useful for birdwatchers in remote locations where internet access may be limited or unavailable.

5. What regions and bird species does Merlin Bird ID cover?

Merlin Bird ID offers comprehensive coverage of bird species across various regions worldwide. The app includes bird identification packs for North America, Europe, Central and South America, Asia, Africa, and more. With thousands of species covered, users can explore and identify birds from different continents, making it an essential tool for international birdwatchers.