Birdwatching is experiencing a resurgence, largely driven by the proliferation of smartphone apps such as Merlin Bird ID and eBird. These apps, developed by Cornell University's Lab of Ornithology, function as "Shazam for birds," allowing users to identify birds by sight or sound. Merlin, for instance, has been downloaded 42 million times overall, with 12 million downloads in 2026 alone. Its Sound ID tool has been used for 4.4 billion identifications, and the app can now identify approximately 11,000 species of birds, nearly all known species globally. This technological advancement has made birdwatching more accessible, moving it beyond the traditional stereotype of an older, specialized hobby.
This technological shift has particularly engaged younger generations, including Gen Z. An estimated 10.8 million U.S. birdwatchers were aged 16 to 24 in 2022, according to a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service analysis. College students are forming communities around birding, with Audubon on Campus connecting over 100 student-led chapters nationwide. Attendance at these chapter programs grew from 3,000 students last year to over 4,000 this year. Apps like Merlin appeal to young people due to their game-like features, including checklists and leaderboards, fostering social connection and a more inclusive community.
The apps have not only drawn new participants but also expanded the reach of birdwatching. They act as a bridge between technology and nature, encouraging people to spend more time outdoors. Experts note that the trend accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic as people sought outdoor activities. While some experts caution against over-reliance on apps for official sightings, their impact on democratizing birding is undeniable, making it easier for novices to identify species without prior extensive knowledge. The development of these apps is also aided by AI and a global community of birdwatchers who submit recordings, providing data to train the identification technology.
