published

eBird API

The eBird API provides developers with access to a live global bird observation database, ideal for birdwatching apps and research applications.

Developed by Cornell Lab of Ornithology / eBird

Live API
99.80%Uptime
150msLatency
120Stars
API KeyAuth
NoCredit Card
RESTStyle
v2Version
API Endpoints

Reference for available routes, request structures, and live examples.

Lists recent bird sightings in a region

Full Endpoint URL
https://api.ebird.org/obs/region/recent
Implementation Example
curl -X GET 'https://api.ebird.org/obs/region/recent' \
  -H 'Authorization: Bearer YOUR_API_KEY'
Request Payload
{
  "back": 7,
  "regionCode": "US-NY"
}
Expected Response
[
  {
    "obsDt": "2023-07-18 08:30",
    "comName": "Red-winged Blackbird",
    "howMany": 12,
    "speciesCode": "rewbla"
  }
]
Version:v2
Limit:10,000 requests/day
Real-World Applications
  • Developing mobile apps for live bird sighting updates.Optimized Capability
  • Creating research tools for analyzing bird migration patterns.Optimized Capability
  • Building educational resources for avian studies.Optimized Capability
  • Integrating bird observation data into conservation initiatives.Optimized Capability
Advantages
  • ✓ Access to a comprehensive, global bird observation database.
  • ✓ Real-time data updated by a large community of citizen scientists.
  • ✓ Rich metadata including species images and taxonomy.
  • ✓ Ease of integration with JSON RESTful endpoints.
Limitations
  • ✗ Rate limits not explicitly documented, requiring cautious usage.
  • ✗ No official SDKs provided, requiring manual integration.
  • ✗ Some endpoints may have latency spikes during high traffic.
  • ✗ Limited to bird observation data, not suited for broader ecological data.

FAQs

API Specifications

v2
Pricing Model
Freemium with higher quota plans upon request
Credit Card
Not Required
Response Formats
JSON
Supported Languages
5 Languages
SDK Support
REST Only
Time to Hello World

Less than 30 minutes from signup to first API call

Rate Limit

1000 requests per day

Free Tier Usage

Free API key registration with up to 1000 API requests per day.

Use Case: Best For

Birdwatching app developers, ornithological researchers, educational content creators.

Not Recommended For

Applications requiring extensive real-time data beyond bird observations or high-frequency trading data.

Resources

Documentation Official Website Pricing Details Postman Collection
#ornithology#birds

Explore Related APIs

Discover similar APIs to eBird API

View All APIs
PUBLIC

SpaceX API

The SpaceX API offers developers free access to detailed information about SpaceX's launches, rockets, missions, and launchpads, suitable for various applications.

Science & NatureView Details
PUBLIC

The Cat API

The Cat API offers developers free access to a comprehensive collection of cat images and breed information, perfect for applications focused on pets and digital experiences.

Science & NatureView Details
OPEN ACCESS

Cat Facts

The Cat Facts API provides easy access to random cat facts, making it ideal for trivia games, chatbots, and pet-related applications.

Science & NatureView Details