
An AI taught me to listen to birds
A few days ago, I opened the window and heard a familiar sound I have not heard in a while: it was a fieldfare’s call, probably one of the first who migrated back to my town this year. And just today, I saw my first chaffinch of the year perched on top of a branch. These birds are very common where I live, so this is not too surprising, but what struck me is how much I have grown in terms of knowledge of their calls, appearance and behaviour. A few years ago, I wouldn’t have been able to name a single bird by call or name too many of them by looking at them. If you’re curious how I got here or want to build some knowledge and appreciation of birds, read on. ...