According to the 2011 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife Associated Recreation, 46.7 million Americans consider themselves birdwatchers. What may seem like an uncommon pastime to some is actually a popular activity that encompasses a vast network of enthusiasts who enjoy observing and identifying all types of birds.
It’s so popular, two men decided to create an application that not only caters to this already existing group of birdwatchers, but also to novices who want to give the activity a try.
Birdeez is unique in many ways. Created by Jeff Simeon and Thomas Kuo while they studied at UC Santa Barbara, the app is intended for broad use and appeal. While most bird watching apps are targeted at people who are already deeply interested in the sport, Birdeez can provide accurate identification in three simple steps.
“Mobile technology provides a way for people to coordinate to something that is much bigger than themselves,” Simeon said. “If you’re 5 or you’re 95, you can contribute to a broader base of knowledge.”
Instead of distracting users from the wonders of the outdoors, these co-founders hope that Birdeez can contribute to people getting excited about the nature that surrounds them. They envision their company as being something that connects people to each other and the natural world.
Birding books, though helpful, can prove to be too complex for more casual birdwatchers. Organized taxonomically, such reference books generally begin with the loon, as researches can trace its ancestry back the furthest. Books also tend to include migratory range maps, which can provide information about where certain species will be expected during different seasons—but this information can be complicated and confusing to interpret for some.
“You have to learn to use the book before you can learn to identify the bird,” Simeon said.
iPhone owners can use Birdeez to access more than 200 species of birds with little more than their fingertips.
After opening the application, users have three options. First, they can choose the shape of a bird by selecting one of a variety of different silhouettes, ranging from “gull-like” to “tree clinging.” The next step is to choose the estimated size of the bird, using five icons that range from “extra small” to “extra large.” Finally, they can select the color of a bird.
Once all of the appropriate information has been selected, an orange icon at the bottom of the screen offers users a chance to “view birds.” Tapping this will reveal the app’s best identification, with an animal profile including a photograph of the bird, an accompanying description of the creature, and its scientific name. Results can be saved for future reference, and can automatically post to Facebook or Twitter, if desired.
The social side of bird watching is something that both founders hope to emphasize in the future. As Birdeez evolves, there will be some changes in how the app is formatted.
“We are currently working on a second version of Birdeez,” Simeon said.
With the new version of Birdeez nearly ready for release, beta tests are expected to be available within the next month. In the updated version, users will have a profile through which they can connect with other bird admirers. The vision of both founders is to have the app consistently update with the help and input of dedicated people who use and enjoy it.
Birdeez’s current direction is toward a social experience, and its creators want to include an element of sharing for the app’s users. There will also be a game component in the new version, but mum’s the word when it comes to this new feature.
Another important facet of the new Birdeez app is that it will be available on Android devices as well as iPhones.
If you’re interested in testing out the new version of Birdeez, the company is looking for interested participants. Any inquiries can be emailed to flock@getbirdeez.com with the words “beta test” in the subject line.
Buy the current version and learn more via getbirdeez.com.
Intern Emma Fuhs wrote this week’s Biz Spotlight. Information should be sent to the Sun via fax, email, or mail.
This article appears in Jun 12-19, 2014.