Join Alabama Audubon's Program Coordinator Andrew Lydeard for an online course that covers everything you wanted to know about using eBird and the Merlin app, but were afraid to ask! Some of the best, new tools for new and experienced birders alike come in the form of mobile apps, websites, or other digital resources. However, using these resources correctly is essential for boosting your birding and identification skills, and many new users often have questions about the functions, guidelines, and tips for best use practices of both eBird and Merlin. We will cover the basics of the eBird website and app, including how to download and use regional packs, do's and don'ts, and some common FAQs that you may have along the way. We'll also cover the exploration function, my eBird, and of course, how to submit a list on both the computer or your phone. For the Merlin app, we will cover how to download regional species packs, properly and effectively use Sound and Photo ID, and other tips and tricks to help you bird at your best!
Online: Participants will receive an email with a zoom link to the course the day before the event; please be sure to check your spam and junk mail folders if you can't find it.
Registration Fee: Members $20.00 / Non-member $30.00
Spots Available: 50
INFORMATION : eBird serves as a global database of bird observations, allowing users to track their sightings, contribute to a massive citizen science project, and access a wealth of information about bird distribution and abundance. The Merlin Bird ID app, designed to work in conjunction with eBird, is a free application that functions as a field guide and is also designed to help identify birds by sound and/or photo. Both programs are developed by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and use citizen science to obtain valuable data that gives researchers and conservationists current insights on distribution, seasonality, and status of birds throughout the world.
The program will only be cancelled by Alabama Audubon in the event of unforeseen circumstances. Please reach out to your course instructor (Andrew Lydeard / andrew@alaudubon.org) if you have any questions regarding the program.