How accurate is Birdsong's bird identifier?

It runs Google's Perch, a research-grade acoustic model covering nearly 15,000 species. When a call is ambiguous, we say so honestly and let you record a second clip to confirm, rather than guessing.

Is my recording stored?

No. Your audio is used to identify the bird in the moment and isn't saved to our servers. The birds you confirm are kept as cards in your own field journal; the recordings themselves are not.

Is the bird identifier free?

Yes — identify birds every day for free, no account required. Birdsong Pro ($3.99/mo or $39.99/yr) unlocks unlimited IDs, full field guides, your growing collection, and shareable Field Report cards.

Do I need an account or internet to identify a bird?

You'll need a connection to identify, since the AI runs in the cloud. No account is needed to try it — sign in with Google or email to save your field journal and sync it across devices.

Birdsong field guide

Common Buzzard

Buteo buteo

A medium-sized, highly adaptable raptor characterized by its broad wings and remarkably variable plumage. It is frequently observed soaring in circular patterns or scanning for prey from elevated perches.

What it sounds like

A loud, distinctive, cat-like mewing 'pee-uu' usually delivered while soaring.

Reference call, compare with what you heard

0:00 / 2:23

Rec. Alvaro Ortiz Troncoso · GermanyCC BY-SA Xeno-canto

Field notes

Exhibits extreme plumage polymorphism, with individuals ranging from nearly pure white to dark chocolate brown.
It is currently the most widespread and numerous diurnal bird of prey throughout Europe.
The diet is highly opportunistic, consisting of small mammals, birds, reptiles, and significantly, earthworms and carrion.
Engages in spectacular 'sky-dancing' aerial displays during courtship to establish territory and pair bonds.
Pairs are typically monogamous and long-lived, often utilizing and defending the same nesting territory for many years.

Habitat

Woodland edges, agricultural fields, meadows, and occasionally moorlands or marshes.

Range

Widespread across Europe and Asia, with northern populations migrating to Africa and southern Asia for winter.

Similar & commonly confused birds

Augur BuzzardButeo augur Broad-winged HawkButeo platypterus Eastern BuzzardButeo japonicus Ferruginous HawkButeo regalis Forest BuzzardButeo trizonatus Galapagos HawkButeo galapagoensis Gray HawkButeo plagiatus Gray-lined HawkButeo nitidus

Heard a Common Buzzard?

Open Birdsong, tap record, and identify the bird singing near you in seconds — then collect it in your field journal.

Identify a bird by its song