Birdwatching apps like Merlin Bird ID are gaining millions of users, driven by AI technology and a growing interest in nature among younger generations.
Key facts
- •Merlin Bird ID has reached 42 million total downloads, with 12 million of those occurring in 2026 alone.
- •The app's database has grown from 285 species in 2014 to 11,000 species today.
- •Sensor Tower reports that other bird identification apps, such as Birda, have seen a 31% increase in downloads this year.
- •Cornell University's Sound ID tool has recorded 4.4 billion bird identifications.
- •The app Lifer, created by software engineer Sam Lewis, gamifies birdwatching by allowing users to collect virtual cards based on their sightings.
Birdwatching apps are experiencing a significant rise in popularity, with millions of users turning to digital tools to identify avian species by sight and sound. Merlin Bird ID, developed by Cornell University's Lab of Ornithology, has emerged as a leading platform in this space. The app, which utilizes machine learning to recognize thousands of bird species, has seen its user base expand rapidly as birdwatching attracts a younger demographic.
By the numbers
Technological growth and AI integration
Since its initial launch in the United States in 2014, Merlin Bird ID has evolved from identifying 285 common species to recognizing 11,000 species, covering nearly all known birds globally. According to director Jessie Barry, this expansion was made possible by advancements in AI and a global community of birdwatchers who contribute recordings to train the system. The app's Sound ID tool alone has been utilized for 4.4 billion identifications.
Demographic shifts in birdwatching
The rise in app usage coincides with a broader trend of younger people, including Gen Z, engaging with birdwatching. While demographic data remains limited, developers report a noticeable shift toward younger audiences who share their experiences on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. This trend has also spurred the development of niche apps, such as Lifer, which incorporates gamification elements like virtual card collecting to appeal to users.
Limitations and expert caution
Despite the widespread adoption of identification apps, experts and charities advise against relying solely on these tools, particularly for recording official sightings. Seasoned birdwatchers note that the software does not always provide accurate identifications. However, users often view the apps as accessible entry points into a hobby that was previously perceived as requiring specialized knowledge.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by BBC Technology.
