There are websites and apps for just about everything and birding is no exception! Here are brief descriptions and links to current products.The narrative on each is short because things are advancing so quickly that it would be outdated before we could get it posted. Best to go to the links below to see what’s new!! Also – all are free unless noted.
eBird.org – website
eBird is an online database of bird observations providing scientists, researchers and amateur naturalists with real-time data about bird distribution and abundance.
Created by: Cornell Lab of Ornithology
eBird Mobile: – app
Use the eBird Mobile app (from the App Store or Google Play) to record birds you find and link observations with eBird.org. Most birders now keep their sightings on eBird. You can easily review your checklists using the desktop site.
https://allaboutbirds.org – website
Online guide to birds and birdwatching. Includes study guides, identification guides, lots of great articles, and links to several live cams. A tremendous birding resource, also from Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Would require internet or cell connection.
merlin.allaboutbirds.org website, Merlin app
This is another tremendous birding resource, and is being expanded and enhanced continuously to add features. The bird sound identification feature is amazing. Get the Merlin Bird ID app through the App Store or Google Play. It’s getting repetitive, but also created by Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Would require cell or internet connection.
Sibley Birds v2 App
The app based on the Sibley Guide to Birds includes all of the content in the printed guide as well as over 2800 audio recordings, additional text, complete seasonal status data for every species in every state and province, hundreds of searchable criteria, and much more. App Store or Google Play, works without internet or cell connection. $19.99
ibird.com
iBird pro guide to Birds $14.99 (ios and Android apps for US and UK)
A good bird guide for mobile devices. Also works without internet or phone service. Again, App Store or Google Play.
audubon.org/app
The Audubon Bird Guide is a free and complete field guide to over 800 species of North American birds, right in your pocket. Built for all experience levels, it will help you identify the birds around you, keep track of the birds you’ve seen, and get outside to find new birds near you. As usual – App Store or Google Play. May need cell or internet connection.
iNaturalist.org website and app
Not just birds – but virtually anything remotely alive. Handy for a plant, bug, reptile, etc – that you want to try to get an id on. As usual – App Store or Google Play.
Seek by iNaturalist: app
Take your nature knowledge up a notch with Seek! Use the power of image recognition technology to identify the plants and animals all around you. Earn badges for seeing different types of birds, amphibians, plants, and fungi and participate in monthly observation challenges.