Birdwatching is experiencing a digital transformation as millions of enthusiasts turn to mobile applications to identify species in real time. Among the most prominent is Merlin Bird ID, developed by Cornell University’s Lab of Ornithology, which has seen 42 million total downloads, including 12 million in 2026 alone.

The app, which utilizes machine learning to identify approximately 11,000 bird species, has become a staple for both seasoned birders and newcomers. Jessie Barry, director of the project, attributes the app's growth to advancements in artificial intelligence and the contributions of a global community of birdwatchers who provide data to train the technology. While some experts caution against relying solely on apps for official records, the platform’s Sound ID tool has already facilitated 4.4 billion identifications.

The rise of these tools coincides with a noticeable shift in demographics. Younger users, including members of Gen Z, are increasingly participating in the hobby, often sharing their findings on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. For many, these apps make birding more accessible, removing the barrier of needing specialized knowledge to get started.

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The trend has also sparked innovation in the app market. Software engineer Sam Lewis, inspired by his own experiences, developed an app called Lifer. The platform incorporates gamification elements, allowing users to collect virtual cards for their sightings, drawing comparisons to popular monster-collecting games. To promote conservation, Lifer hides the precise locations of rare breeding birds and contributes data to the Global Biodiversity Information Facility.

Despite the competitive landscape, developers remain focused on the primary goal: encouraging people to engage with nature. "We really want Merlin to be fun and easy to use, first and foremost," said Barry, emphasizing that the technology is intended to enhance, rather than replace, the experience of observing birds in the wild.

Source: BBC News