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The Concrete Chorus Project

A Study of Urban Bird Song

Overview of the Project

The Concrete Chorus Project is a community science initiative investigating how urban environments shape bird diversity. Volunteers participate by collecting brief bird sound recordings at specific locations throughout their city using the free Merlin Bird ID app. This data will help us understand patterns like the "luxury effect," where wealthier neighborhoods sometimes—but not always—host greater biodiversity. We're also interested in learning more about how we can design cities to better support urban birds, given the alarming declines in bird populations all over the world. Your participation is key to understanding the concrete chorus!

Step 1: Find your location
Step 2: Download Merlin
Step 3: Make a recording
Step 4: Email it in

We are now recruiting for the 2026 field season! Click the "Instructions" tab in the menu to find the volunteer interest form for your city!