Have you ever sat quietly outside and just listened and watched for the birds? If you are like me, you are left wondering which made that high-pitched whistle or sounds like a flute playing. If I am lucky, I may see a flash of color fly by or catch a glimpse of the striking colors of a red-headed, white-breasted bird and question what I just saw.
For years I have been fascinated with birds and spent countless hours studying Audobon books to learn how to identify them. But I always struggled to remember all of them, and then their songs were impossible to determine from the words I read in books.
But then I discovered the most fantastic app for anyone interested in the natural world around them— Merlin.
This app is easy to use, and in a matter of seconds, you will find yourself amazed at all the fascinating birds just hanging out in the trees around you.
I recently sat down to do some work outside and quickly became captivated by all the birds singing. I grabbed my phone, opened the app, and tapped “Sound ID.” Within seconds it had identified six different birds.
I kept the recording going for a little over three minutes. I was thrilled to see 18 unique aviary friends entertaining me with their melodies—Red-Winged Blackbirds, Chipping Sparrow, Warbling Vireo, Baltimore Oriole, and a Belted Kingfisher, just to name a few. The bird’s name highlights when it hears that specific bird helping you to know which sound is made by which singer.
Author, Trish Mann
But that’s not all the app does. There is also a Photo ID. Take a picture of the bird and share it on your phone, and voila.
There’s more! You can explore so many different birds, including ducks, hawks, and owls. The identifier tells you if it’s rare for your area, and the app even calculates latitude and longitude for location.
You can create your own lists, save recordings and customize the features.
If you are interested in nature or have kids, this app is for you. I can’t tell you how much I enjoy this app. I use it everywhere. I continue to be amazed at the winged creatures.
The Merlin App is fun and educational, and FREE! Now download the app and let us know on our Facebook page what you discover and please share any pictures you take with the bird’s name. We can’t wait to see them.
