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Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab

Name: Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab
Rating: 4.9 (173000 reviews)

Cornell Lab of Ornithology

4.9

Rating

5,000,000+ Downloads

3.9.2 Version

Category: Books & Reference
Price: free
Age Rating: Everyone
Rating: 4.9
Available on: /
Updated on: Jul 3, 2026

Features & Highlights

Explore Bird Sounds

Dive into a rich library of bird sounds with Merlin's audio feature, which offers recordings of calls and songs for thousands of species. This engaging resource helps you recognize birds by their sounds, adding a new layer to your identification skills and appreciation of avian life.

Personalized Bird List

Merlin Bird ID allows you to create a personalized bird list based on your observations. This feature enables you to track your birdwatching journey, keeping a record of species you've identified while also suggesting new birds to look for in your area.

Photo ID Feature

With the photo ID feature, you can snap a picture of a bird, and Merlin will analyze it to suggest possible species. This functionality allows you to confirm your sightings and learn more about the birds in your area, enhancing your birdwatching experience.

Smart Bird Identification

Merlin Bird ID utilizes cutting-edge technology to help you identify birds through a simple and intuitive process. Just answer a few questions about the bird's size, color, and location, and the app will provide a tailored list of potential matches, making birdwatching accessible to everyone.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Identifies thousands of bird species easily
User-friendly interface for all ages
Personalized birding guides tailored to location
Interactive features enhance learning experience
Community support fosters shared birdwatching excitement

Cons

Limited bird identification for less common species
User interface can be confusing for beginners
Lacks offline functionality for remote areas
Data accuracy may vary by region and season

Real Experience Using Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab

Application Scenarios

Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab is designed for bird enthusiasts, whether you are a seasoned ornithologist or a casual birdwatcher. The app shines in various scenarios, making it a versatile tool for identifying avian species. For instance, while on a nature hike, users can utilize the app's photo identification feature by taking pictures of birds they encounter. The app quickly analyzes the images and provides possible matches, enhancing the birdwatching experience. Additionally, during casual strolls in local parks or backyards, users can input characteristics such as size, color, and location to receive tailored suggestions. Whether you are participating in a bird count event or simply enjoying a weekend outdoors, Merlin Bird ID proves to be an invaluable companion in your quest to learn more about the feathered friends around you.

User Experience

The user experience of Merlin Bird ID is exceptionally intuitive and user-friendly. Upon opening the app, users are greeted with a clean interface that promotes ease of navigation. The onboarding process is straightforward, guiding users through the key features without overwhelming them with information. The identification process is streamlined; users can either upload a photo or answer simple questions about the bird's attributes. The app's database is extensive, ensuring that users receive accurate results quickly. Furthermore, the inclusion of high-quality images and detailed descriptions enriches the learning experience. Users report feeling a genuine sense of accomplishment when they identify a new bird, fostering a deeper appreciation for nature. The community aspect of the app, which allows users to share their sightings, adds an engaging social dimension, making birdwatching a shared adventure.

Pricing

Merlin Bird ID operates on a freemium model, allowing users to access a vast array of features without any initial cost. The basic identification tools, photo uploads, and species information are available for free, making it accessible to a wide audience. However, for those seeking a more enriched experience, the app offers optional in-app purchases, such as advanced bird guides or premium features that enhance the identification process. These purchases are reasonably priced, ensuring that users can choose to invest in their birdwatching journey based on their individual needs. Overall, the pricing strategy of Merlin Bird ID strikes a balance between accessibility and value, catering to both casual users and dedicated birdwatchers.

Updates & Support

Cornell Lab consistently updates Merlin Bird ID to enhance functionality and expand the species database. Users can expect regular updates that include new bird species, improved identification algorithms, and additional educational resources. The support team is responsive and dedicated to assisting users with any issues they may encounter. The app features a comprehensive help section that addresses common queries and provides troubleshooting tips. Users can also reach out directly through the app for personalized support, ensuring that their experience remains smooth and enjoyable. This commitment to continuous improvement and user support reflects Cornell Lab's dedication to fostering a community of informed and engaged bird enthusiasts.

Security & Privacy Review

Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab prioritizes user security and privacy through its clear data handling practices. The app does not require users to create an account, minimizing the amount of personal information collected. This approach helps protect user anonymity while using the app to identify bird species. The app primarily requests permissions related to location services, which enhance its functionality by providing localized bird identification. Users can choose to disable location tracking, ensuring further control over their data. Merlin Bird ID adheres to industry-standard encryption protocols to secure any data transmitted between the app and its servers. Additionally, the app’s privacy policy outlines its commitment to safeguarding user information, detailing what data is collected and how it is used. The Cornell Lab emphasizes a transparent approach, aiming to educate users about potential data sharing with third parties, which is primarily for research and conservation purposes. Overall, Merlin Bird ID demonstrates a strong commitment to user privacy while providing an engaging experience for bird enthusiasts.

Get Installation Details

Google Play

App Store

User Reviews

Justin Mowbray

2026/01/27

I was really excited to use this app and start cataloging birds, however, the life list is not working properly. I cataloged three birds and they are not showing up on the life list. if this issue's fixed, I'd happily give it five stars. thank you for all the hard work you've done on this app! update: the app does show you your life list but only a day after, which seems odd. I do think another disappointing aspect of the app is that when you take a picture of a bird, it does not save it.
dana anderson

2026/02/16

I don't really like rating apps unless they leave a lasting Mark and that's what this app has done. I've always been interested in birds but never got around to actually learning how to identify them? this app makes it incredibly easy with the ability to identify them just by the noises they make. I've been in many states including Wisconsin, Minnesota, Colorado, Hawaii, and California and no matter where I go, it has been consistent in giving me accurate birds just based on a call.
Shea

2025/05/16

Great app! I love the info about birds, the pictures, the call recordings, etc! It's been so fun keeping an eye (and ear) out for the birds in my area, since it gets me off my phone & interacting with my surroundings for once! My criticisms: 1) I'm unable to see a list of birds that I've sighted for the DAY. All I'm able to do is see the TOTAL list of spotted birds. This affects my feelings of achievement. 2) There are too many steps to log a sighting each time. This affects motivation to log.
Melissa Blomquist

2025/04/25

Super easy to navigate. Offers up very specific species based on my location and other identifying factors. Also has an easy to use and accurate photo ID option. It has bird calls and songs for each species, and I enjoy playing them to hear the birds respond. I have even used it on bird watching walks to call in the birds to take better pictures. If there was one thing I would change about it, I would add a feature to share the beautiful audio recordings I have captured.
Jen K.

2025/05/10

I enjoy using this app. You can identify birds by sound, photo, or a visual description. It has photos of the birds in different stages, migration maps, and interesting details about each bird. You can download packs based on where you live or are traveling to. I live in the lower 48 but have also used it in Alaska and the Dominican Republic. I already have the European pack downloaded for my trip next month.

Review Source: Google Play store public user reviews.

FAQ

Does Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab collect my personal data?

Merlin Bird ID prioritizes user privacy and does not collect personal data unless explicitly provided for specific features. Always refer to the app's privacy policy for detailed information.

Does Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab offer a free trial or free version?

Yes, Merlin Bird ID offers a free version with a variety of features available at no cost, allowing users to explore bird identification without obligation.

Does Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab require an internet connection?

While some features, such as bird identification and accessing certain resources, may require an internet connection, many aspects of the app can be used offline after initial data downloads.

How can I contact support or send feedback for Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab?

For support or feedback, you can reach out through the app's help section or visit the Cornell Lab's official website for additional contact options and resources.

How do I manage or cancel my Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab subscription?

You can manage or cancel your subscription directly through the app store where you purchased it, by navigating to your account settings and following the prompts for subscription management.

How to use Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab

How can I contact Customer Service for the Merlin Bird ID app?

You can reach Customer Service through the app's Help section or by visiting the Cornell Lab of Ornithology's website for support options.

How do I log in to the Merlin Bird ID app?

Simply open the app and tap on the login option; you can use your email and password to sign in.

Is there a way to activate Merlin Bird ID after downloading?

The app does not require activation; simply download and start using it immediately.

What is the customer support number for Merlin Bird ID?

The customer support number is not directly provided; please use the app or website for specific contact details.

What's New

What’s new in 3.12:Observation Deck: Your Merlin home screen now features a swipeable daily feed showcasing Bird of the Day, stunning featured photos, and bite-sized bird tips! Each contains a full-screen view for photos and videos, plus a "Learn more" button to dive deeper into species accounts or related content.New language support for Kyrgyz and Welsh.Improvements and new species added to Photo ID