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

Cyprus Scops-Owl

Otus cyprius

A small, nocturnal owl endemic to Cyprus, recently recognized as a distinct species from the Eurasian Scops-Owl due to its unique vocalizations and sedentary behavior.

What it sounds like

A clear, repetitive, whistling two-note 'pyu-pyu' or 'hoo-hoo' with a slight pause between notes.

Reference call, compare with what you heard

0:00 / --:--

Rec. Alain Verneau · CyprusCC BY-NC-SA Xeno-canto

Field notes

It was formally elevated to full species status in 2015 based on genetic evidence and its distinct two-note call.
Unlike the closely related Eurasian Scops-Owl, which is migratory, the Cyprus Scops-Owl is a year-round permanent resident of the island.
The species exhibits a darker, more grayish plumage with heavier streaking compared to its mainland relatives, aiding camouflage against local bark.
It is the only endemic owl species found within the European geographical region.
During the breeding season, pairs often engage in 'duetting,' where the female responds to the male's call with a higher-pitched version of the same whistle.

Habitat

Open woodlands, pine forests, olive groves, orchards, and gardens ranging from sea level to mountain peaks.

Range

Endemic to the island of Cyprus.

Similar & commonly confused birds

African Scops-OwlOtus senegalensis Andaman Scops-OwlOtus balli Anjouan Scops-OwlOtus capnodes Arabian Scops-OwlOtus pamelae Banggai Scops-OwlOtus mendeni Biak Scops-OwlOtus beccarii Collared Scops-OwlOtus lettia Comoro Scops-OwlOtus pauliani

Heard a Cyprus Scops-Owl?

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