Merlin Bird ID by Cornell Lab is a highly regarded tool for bird identification, especially for recognizing species by their vocalizations. The app's Sound ID feature allows users to record bird songs or calls in real-time, which are then analyzed against an extensive library of audio samples from thousands of species worldwide. This functionality is particularly useful in scenarios like hiking trips or backyard observations, where visual sightings might be limited. Users can simply point their device's microphone toward the sound, and the app provides a ranked list of potential matches, often with accompanying photos and descriptions to confirm identifications. Additionally, Merlin includes Photo ID and interactive questioning modes for visual identification, making it a versatile companion for birdwatching enthusiasts. Reviews indicate that many find the sound recognition surprisingly accurate, helping them discover local species such as red-shouldered hawks or hairy woodpeckers. However, some limitations exist, including occasional microphone access glitches after updates, as noted in user feedback where permissions appear enabled but the app fails to record. Despite this, the app remains free and backed by Cornell University's ornithological expertise, offering regional bird packs for offline use. Its intuitive design encourages exploration, turning casual nature encounters into educational moments without overwhelming technical jargon.
Key Features
Sound ID for real-time bird song analysis
Extensive global database of avian vocalizations
Photo ID and descriptive questions for visual confirmation
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From my username, you can tell I love birds... this app has almost every feature you could ask for from being able just to describe birds to recording them and getting feedback on the sounds.
★★★★★Verified User Review
iOSUpdated Jan 4, 2026
