Date: 1/24/26 4:37 pm From: Pete Wolf via groups.io <pete...> Subject: Re: [sbcobirding] eBird users using Merlin
Thanks Mark. That's a great idea. I find it interesting that there is a button for "This is my bird" but no button for "This is NOT my bird".
For example... at the kid's bird count today right in front of us all a CA Thrasher on a tree singing proudly... Merlin = Northern Mockingbird. It actually was a great way to build awareness. That happens quite often.
--- _Pete Wolf _🤘🏼 _Big Hammer Lures/Sunrize Tackle, Inc. [6]_ _Anoyze Productions [7]_
On 2026-01-24 18:20, Mark Holmgren via groups.io wrote:
> Hi Folks, > > Most birders know that Merlin is not to be relied upon solely as > evidence of species reported to eBird. At best, Merlin is a cue to > what species might be present. Do not submit on your checklist species > that you have not independently confirmed visually or auditorily. You > can help build awareness of the problems with Merlin by noting in your > comments the sounds that Merlin detected, but that you did not. That > informs others who read your comments about the caution needed when > using Merlin and it informs reviewers that you are birding carefully > and conscientiously with regard to Merlin. > > Thank you, > > Santa Barbara County eBird Reviewers >
