Our understanding of birds has largely been shaped by the work of ordinary people. After all, anyone can step outside and pay attention to the wild world fluttering above us. This summer, we invite readers, novice and experienced birdwatchers alike, to participate in a scientific project that we are collaborating on with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. We will collect observations about the birds around us, fill in data gaps, and provide researchers with a clearer picture of biodiversity.
This is an important endeavor. Nearly half of all bird species worldwide are known or suspected to be in decline, and climate change may accelerate this trend. By collecting such data, you will help inform conservation decisions and bird studies.
For those new to this activity, we will provide a series of challenges in the coming weeks to start contributing scientific data.
If you are an experienced birdwatcher, we have an additional request. Cornell’s scientific database typically receives fewer bird observations in the summer. So we would like you to send your observations as often as possible, even just to record the common birds in your area. If you want an extra challenge, visit less frequented sites where data is scarce.
The project will start soon and end in September. Sign up now to connect with a global community of readers, scientists, and researchers; participate in online discussions, and share what you have learned to help others. You will also learn about virtual events, like this one. And you may even discover a new way to experience nature.
To get started, tell us a bit about yourself. It will only take a couple of minutes, and registration is free.
Almost there!
The next step is to download Merlin or eBird, the birdwatching apps from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Then click on the sentence that best describes your birdwatching experience, and stay tuned for an email with a series of instructions.
Please note that Merlin and eBird are third-party apps with their own privacy policies, and The New York Times does not control (nor is responsible for) their content or privacy practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I’m unsure if I’m a beginner or experienced birdwatcher?
If you are new to birdwatching, we suggest using Merlin for now. If you have some experience but are unfamiliar with eBird, we recommend taking Cornell’s basic eBird course in Spanish, or at least watching this short video before starting to submit checklists.
How can I participate if I’m new to this activity?
After filling out the aforementioned form, you will receive an email from [email protected] in the coming days. It will include the first of a series of challenges designed to develop your birdwatching skills. Over time, you’ll be able to participate in challenges for experienced birdwatchers listed below.
How can I participate if I already have experience?
If you haven’t already, sign up using the form above and download the free eBird app. Be sure to add the #NYT tag in the comments section of your eBird checklist.
All observations are valuable because Cornell’s eBird database receives less information in the summer. We count on you, as part of this project, to help fill gaps in scientific data so experts can better understand changes in bird populations. If you can, focus on these places to submit eBird checklists:
Non-recreational open spaces. Is that sidewalk tree a common spot for sparrows? Is that wetland behind a nearby Walmart bursting with life? Put it to the test!
Areas away from roads. Most reported bird observation points are near roads. The farther away you are from them, the better.
Farms and fields. Rural and agricultural areas are some of the habitats with the fewest bird sightings. Submit checklists from public roads adjacent to crop fields, cattle grazing lands, and other cultivated areas.
Areas between the major eBird hotspots. Use the Explore tab in the eBird app to find nearby hotspots or shared locations where other birdwatchers have submitted observations. Go birdwatching in areas between those points or far from them.
Areas with little observation of a specific species. What bird species is common in your area? Look up previous reports of that species on the eBird Species Map and focus on your city. Then visit areas without previous observations of that species and make a checklist.
Remember to add the #NYT tag in the comments section of your eBird checklist.
Will my observations be sent to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s database if I use the Merlin Bird ID app?
The Merlin app is a reference and learning tool. Observations in Merlin are not recorded in Cornell’s eBird database. To submit a finding from Merlin to the eBird database, follow the instructions in the Merlin app.
Can I still participate in The New York Times project if I already use the Merlin or eBird app?
Absolutely! But first, sign up by filling out the aforementioned form. Then continue using the apps as usual. Just make sure to report in eBird if you are an experienced observer and add the #NYT tag in the comments section of your checklist.
Why do I need to register with The Times if I’m going to submit my data to the Cornell lab?
This will allow us to specifically reach The Times readers.
Do I need to download the Merlin or eBird apps on my phone to submit my sightings?
If you are a beginner birdwatcher, we recommend using the Merlin app as a reference and learning tool. It will also allow you to share your observations with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.
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