Species Guide

Learn more with Birda’s species guide.

Identifying bird species can be tricky even for the seasoned birders amongst us. Our integrated free species guide combines reference images with distribution maps and thousands of user photos to help you learn about the world’s bird species and identify your bird sightings with confidence.

Identify bird species from reference images

If you are identifying bird species, getting familiar with a new species, or even just wanting to improve your bird identification skills, you are going to need high-quality reference images. Birda has a comprehensive database of species reference images covering most major birding regions around the world. What is even better is that the database is constantly growing with new bird species and improved images being continuously added.

Screenshot of Birda Species Guide reference image section to help identify bird species
Image of the Bird Species Descriptions section of the Birda Species Guide that helps identify bird species from descriptions

Bird species descriptions

Birda’s species descriptions offer an in-depth overview of birds’ appearances, behaviours, habitats, and more, crucial for identifying a bird by its description and improving general understanding. They cover everything from general descriptions to conservation status, aiding birdwatchers in recognizing species, appreciating their ecology, and supporting conservation.

Bird sounds

Did you know, listening to bird song can help improve your mood and reduce stress and anxiety? Bird calls from over 1000 species worldwide are integrated into the Birda species guide, so not only can you listen to bird sounds whenever you like, it can add another dimension to your bird identification knowledge. Sometimes you can’t actually see the bird, but you can definitely hear it!
Image of the Bird Sounds section of the Birda Species Guide that helps with bird identification
Image of the Bird Species Distribution Map section of the Birda Species Guide

Species distribution maps

Birda’s vectorized Bird Species Distribution maps are key for birdwatching, offering precise insights into where species are found. These maps enhance identification, fueling interest and learning by visually connecting birdwatchers to the habitats and ranges of birds. They not only make birdwatching more informative and enjoyable but also deepen understanding of bird ecology and conservation.

Fun facts about birds

Fun Facts brings birdwatching to life, turning it into a journey of discovery and enjoyment. By sharing surprising and amusing insights about birds, it ignites interest and deepens knowledge among enthusiasts. These snippets of information make birdwatching more engaging, fostering a connection with nature and encouraging a playful curiosity that enriches the birdwatching experience for everyone.
Image of the Fun Facts section of the Birda Species Guide
Image of the Similar Species section to identify bird species that look similar - Birda Species Guide

Identifying bird species with similar species help

Birda’s Similar Species feature streamlines bird identification by highlighting which species can be easily confused. It aids birdwatchers in discerning subtle distinctions in appearance and behavior, ensuring accurate identification. This tool enhances learning and reduces misidentifications, making birdwatching more rewarding and educational for enthusiasts of all levels.

User photos to help identify bird species

The community-generated photos and sightings enrich the Birda guide by showcasing real-world images and sightings from the birdwatching community. This feature offers a dynamic view of species in various settings and behaviours, enhancing identification skills and providing a vivid glimpse into birds’ lives.
Image of the User Sightings section that helps identify birds from other people's photos - Birda Species Guide

Seamless taxonomic integration

We know that understanding bird taxonomy can be tricky, especially when you want to compare different species across different authorities and languages. But don’t worry, we’ve made it easy for you. When you download Birda, we’ll automatically choose the right taxonomic authority and language based on what’s commonly used in your country.

 

We’ve also translated the common names for birds into over 19 different languages. Removing the headache of missing species or of seeing common bird names you aren’t familiar with.

What birders say about our bird identification features