FAQs
We want participating in the Grabando Aves 2026 Challenges to be simple, fun, and accessible to everyone. It doesn’t matter if you’re just getting started or if you already have experience recording bird sounds: every audio counts and helps improve the eBird/Macaulay Library databases and the performance of Merlin Sound ID. Below, we answer the most frequently asked questions.
Do I need bird knowledge to participate?
No. You can start from scratch. The idea is to learn along the way, by recording and sharing sounds.
What equipment do I need?
You can use your cellphone or professional equipment. Special microphones are not required.
Do recordings need to be professional?
No. It’s enough for the target bird to be clearly audible in the recording.
Are there minimum quality requirements?
- Do not use noise reduction filters
- Basic editing (trimming and/or normalization)
- The target bird must clearly stand out from background birds
Is there a minimum recording length?
There is no mandatory minimum length. Recording more than 30 seconds (ideally 1 minute or longer) is recommended to better capture the vocal repertoire.
Can I upload old recordings?
Older recordings are welcome, but they do not count toward the Grabando Aves 2026 Challenges. For challenges, the record date must correspond to the current year.
Do recordings in shared checklists count for everyone?
No. Recordings only count for the person who uploads the audio to eBird.
Do I need to record rare species?
No. Any species counts toward the collective challenge, the 30-Day Challenge, and the Club of 100. Only priority species count toward the Specialists Club.
What are priority species?
They are species that have not yet reached 150 archived recordings in eBird / Macaulay Library. They are key to improving databases and automatic sound recognition in Merlin.
Do species stop being priority once they reach 150 recordings?
No. Even if they no longer appear as priority in the dashboard, they will continue to be considered priority species for Grabando Aves throughout 2026.
Do I automatically win a prize if I complete a challenge?
No. When you complete a challenge, you earn a digital badge and enter the corresponding prize draw.
Does anyone review my recordings?
Yes. Recordings may be reviewed to ensure correct identification and basic quality.
How can I track progress?
Through monthly webinars, social media, and the official Grabando Aves website.