I have the Merlin Bird ID mobile app on my phone. It comes in handy when I hear a bird, but I am not sure what it is. The app has a feature where you can record sound, and it compares the sound to its database of bird calls. Then, it shows you a list of what birds are calling. It knows which birds might be in your area based on your location at the time. It also has features to ID birds with a photo or by answering a couple of questions about what the bird looks like. If you agree with the bird ID, you can add the bird to your life list and start keeping track of all the birds that you see. This video helps explain more about how the mobile app helps you to ID birds.

Great Backyard Bird Count

I’m telling you this because right now, from February 14-17, 2025, is the Great Backyard Bird Count. Anyone in the world can participate in this bird count. All you have to do is identify the birds that you see, count them, and submit your counts to help scientists better understand and protect birds around the world. If you use the Merlin Bird ID app or eBird then your data is automatically collected.

In my backyard this past weekend, I saw and counted several yellow-rumped warblers, a couple of blue-gray gnatcatchers, a red-bellied woodpecker, and a red-shouldered hawk. What birds do you normally see in your yard? If you have time, download the Merlin Bird ID app and start documenting the birds that you see and hear. It really is a lot of fun. It also helps you to stop, listen, and watch.

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