Discovering Birds with Technology
On a recent hike, I was alerted by my phone with exciting news: “Merlin heard a new bird!” This notification marked the presence of a scarlet tanager, a striking songbird known for its bright red body and black wings. Although it can be challenging to spot in the treetops of a dense forest, its lively song might remind you of a robin.
Thanks to the Merlin Bird ID app, which uses artificial intelligence to analyze sounds, I was able to identify the bird just by pausing and listening. I watched as it chirped from above, and with a quick tap, I added it to my personal birdwatching list. It’s like a real-life Pokémon Go experience, where the thrill of spotting new wildlife keeps you engaged and eager.
A New Generation of Birdwatchers
Interestingly, the app is attracting a different crowd these days. Drew Weber, the manager of the Merlin app from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, notes that five years ago, most users were retired or seasoned bird enthusiasts. Today, younger users in their 20s and 30s are taking to social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram to share their bird sightings.
One such TikTok user excitedly wondered, “Am I a bird person now?” after quickly identifying multiple birds with the app. Even NFL quarterback Sam Darnold has jumped on the bandwagon, showcasing his newfound birdwatching skills.
While the app has its flaws—birds like mockingbirds can confuse the AI because of their ability to mimic—it still provides a fun way for users to connect with nature and learn more about their surroundings.
More Than Just Birds
Newer smartphones also offer built-in features to identify plants and other wildlife. With just a click on a photo, you can discover what kind of flower you’re looking at. However, these AI tools may lack the community aspect and the comprehensive experience offered by apps like Merlin and iNaturalist. Both platforms contribute to vital conservation efforts by allowing users to submit their observations, aiding ongoing research to protect our environment and its diverse flora and fauna.
Scott Loarie, the executive director of iNaturalist, explains that even a simple curiosity about plants can lead to a deeper appreciation for nature. The community’s encouragement helps all users, seasoned gardeners or novices alike, learn and grow in their understanding of the natural world.
A Cautionary Tale of Foraging
On my adventure, while searching for huckleberries, I used iNaturalist to identify other fruits. Aside from the huckleberry, I came across serviceberries and thimbleberries. After extensive research, I cautiously tasted them—two were sweet, while one was bitter and unpalatable.
However, it’s crucial to remember that not every identification tool is reliable, especially regarding edible plants. As Loarie wisely points out, “You should never trust any sort of automatic ID or a stranger on the internet for something as important as edible plants.” Getting familiar with our local flora and fauna can be rewarding but should be approached with care.
The surge in technology-driven nature exploration highlights the joy in discovering the wildlife around us. With careful observation, we can also identify things we want to avoid, such as poison ivy or invasive species like the spotted lanternfly.
In conclusion, as we embrace technology to deepen our connection with nature, it’s important to do so with appreciation and respect for the environment, ensuring that we cultivate not just knowledge, but also stewardship of our natural world.
