- The Merlin bird ID app will now feed real-time identifications into eBird to aid conservation of at-risk birds.
- The app uses machine learning for instant sound identification of birdsong, covering 2,066 species across multiple regions.
- Bird populations in the UK have declined by over 70 million in 50 years, highlighting the need for monitoring tools.
- Nearly 2 million UK users utilized Merlin in May, with global downloads exceeding 40 million across 240 countries.
- Cornell Lab aims to improve data integration between Merlin and eBird to enhance conservation and ecological management.
- Concerns exist about potential misidentifications, with recommendations against using Merlin in official breeding surveys.
- Users report increased awareness of local bird diversity, though experts stress the need for verification alongside other methods.