BirdsCaribbean Launches a Sound Recording Challenge

From January to July 2026, birders and nature enthusiasts across the Caribbean are invited to record bird sounds, strengthen the region’s bird sound collections, and help train automated audio identification tools such as Merlin Sound ID

By BirdsCaribbean

BirdsCaribbean, in partnership with the Grabando Aves initiative, is launching the Caribbean Sound Recording Challenge 2026, a regional call to record and share bird sounds from January through July 2026, anywhere in the Caribbean.

What is the challenge?

Participants of all experience levels are invited to record bird sounds and upload them to eBird, contributing to Macaulay Library, an open-access sound library used by researchers, conservationists, and automated identification systems.

To qualify for special prizes, participants must:

  • Upload more than 50 bird sound recordings (from any species), and
  • Include recordings of at least three Caribbean priority species identified by the initiative.

All eligible participants will be entered into a special prize draw to be held during BirdsCaribbean’s 25th International Conference, taking place 23–27 July 2026 in Trinidad.

Priority Species for the Caribbean
Recording these species is especially valuable for training tools like Merlin Sound ID.
👉 Explore Caribbean priority species here

Why bird sound recordings matter

Bird sound recordings are essential for understanding species distributions, and ecology. They are also a cornerstone for training automated audio identification systems such as Merlin Sound ID.

Each well-documented recording helps improve the accuracy and regional coverage of these tools, making bird identification more accessible and engaging, while supporting long-term monitoring and conservation efforts throughout the Caribbean.

Participating is easy

Joining the Caribbean Sound Recording Challenge is simple:

  • Record bird sounds in the field—even recordings made with a mobile phone are welcome.
  • Upload your recordings to eBird following basic editing guidelines.
  • Keep recording throughout the challenge period and aim to include priority Caribbean species.

No specialized equipment or prior experience is required—just curiosity, careful listening, and a willingness to share what you hear.