Bird Songs & Calls

Undoubtedly the most extensive websites for birding songs and call is a site run by a Dutch charity. xeno-canto was set up in 2025 and is where you can check out almost all the bird species of the world, listen to song or view sonograms or even down load calls to use on line. (Usefully, the site also shows the distribution of each species). For most species there are many recordings and each is listed with their location and the recordist.

The Merlin app is revolutionising song recognition for those like me who have compromised hearing, or are just terrible and recognising birds by song, also like me! Although originating in North America there are versions available for Europe and elsewhere.

The links below are to sites specialising in bird song and sound. On some you will find extensive libraries of bird song from around the world, others are specialised or limited including some of the most beautiful bird songs. Everything from amateur recordings to the massive archives stored in the University libraries and national bird conservation NGOs. Many of the sites have recordings protected by copyright. Downloading is not always free and may well not be possible as lots are encrypted. Before you resent this remember that someone`s livelihood may depend on respecting their copyright. Non-commercial use may be granted for free by some… it costs nothing to ask. As always, the Fatbirder welcomes more links.

Some of the most beautiful birdsong anywhere! Everything from amateur recordings to the massive archives stored in the University libraries. Many of the sites have recordings protected by copyright. Downloading is not free and may well not be possible as lots are encrypted. Before you resent this remember that someone’s livelihood may depend on respecting their copyright. Non-commercial use may be granted for free by some… it costs nothing to ask.