A Word About the Merlin App

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Paul Prappas

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Mar 17, 2026, 11:10:49 AM (11 days ago) Mar 17
to West Kootenay Birds
I've noticed that Merlin has made changes to how audio formats are saved. In the past, when you recorded audio, Merlin would automatically save the file, which you could access under "My ID Recordings." You'd have the option of deleting that file or forwarding it to your computer so you could upload to eBird. 

With my recent update, I've noticed that Merlin no longer automatically saves the file. After you're done recording, there is an X to close the session. If you wish to save the file, there is a SAVE button in the upper right of the recording.  Also, they call recordings "Sound ID Sessions."

Paul

Sachi Snively

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Mar 17, 2026, 11:26:10 AM (11 days ago) Mar 17
to Paul Prappas, West Kootenay Birds
Are you on an iPhone?

I just noticed this as well and have lost several recordings as I keep forgetting to save… Sometimes it seems to save if I don’t exit but then all of Merlin’s IDs are lost which I am not too fussed about. 

Apparently Android has had this version for a little while now. I am trying to adjust but so far I prefer the old method, but maybe that will change with time and experience. It forces me to pay attention! 

I don’t know if it has come through yet but eBird aims to automatically normalize your recordings when you upload. 

For those of you who are interested in recording birds and want to upload to eBird it is really worthwhile to read the link in order to understand how to trim and normalize your recordings before uploading them. It takes a bit of extra effort but is really worth it. 

Also if haven’t already it is a good idea to figure out where your bigger microphone is on your device (The bottom for iPhones, where the speakers are) and point that at the subject when you are recording and try and stay really quiet and still. 


Sachi

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