Press Releases

Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Audubon Launch New Version of eBird

New online tools allow birders to contribute important conservation data

September 26, 2005

Ithaca, NY, September 2005 -- The Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Audubon announce the release of eBird 2.0 at www.ebird.org, an updated version of the powerful Internet-based program currently used by thousands of birders. eBird is a free, user-friendly way for birders across North America to record, archive, and share their observations at any hour of the day. It is also an important tool for conservation, providing researchers with a comprehensive picture of the abundance and distribution of birds. The data come to life via eBird's colorful new interactive maps.

In addition to a completely new look and feel, eBird 2.0 has a streamlined data entry process and a suite of new output tools geared toward the interests of today's birders. On customized "My eBird" pages users can now view their life, state and county lists-all generated automatically as individual reports are entered. There are two primary ways to search the data: by location and by species. For example, trip-planners can view a list of all the species recorded near their destination. Those interested in learning more about a particular species can view maps and charts showing seasonal distribution and frequency of reports. eBird allows participants to do more than just record sightings; it helps them understand how their observations fit into the big picture.

Begun in 2002, eBird is growing and changing as it builds a strong base of dedicated observers. eBird already supplies data to researchers across the country, and new ways to extract and interpret information will increase its value as a tool for bird conservation. In the coming years, eBird may have a role to play farther south in gathering information in the Caribbean, Central and South America. Those wishing to learn more and to add their bird observations to this growing resource for conservation can visit www.ebird.org.

The Cornell Lab of Ornithology is a nonprofit membership institution interpreting and conserving the earth's biological diversity through research, education, and citizen science focused on birds.

Audubon is celebrating its centennial year of protecting birds and other wildlife and the habitat that supports them. Our national network of community-based nature centers and chapters, scientific and educational programs, and advocacy on behalf of areas sustaining important bird populations, engage millions of people of all ages and backgrounds in positive conservation experiences.