iRecord App for Android

iRecord — Mobile tool for recording wildlife

iRecord is a free Android application created by the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology. Listed under utilities and tools, the app lets people log sightings of plants, animals and other organisms directly from their phone.

Why it matters for research and conservation

Users submit observations that include location data, descriptions and supporting details. Those submissions feed into biodiversity databases used by scientists, conservation organisations and educators to monitor species, track trends and inform protection efforts.

Important features and capabilities

• Built-in data validation flags possible mistakes automatically before records are finalised.
• Full offline functionality so users can record sightings without an internet connection.
• Coverage that includes species across the UK, making it useful for national recording efforts.
• Simple record entry workflow to add sightings quickly while in the field.
• Expert verifiers can examine submissions to improve data quality.
• Non-sensitive observations are shared with other users and forwarded to relevant recording bodies.

How records are processed and shared

Records that are not flagged as sensitive are shared with the iRecord community and forwarded to organisations such as National Recording Schemes, Local Record Centres and Vice County Recorders for inclusion in official datasets. Expert reviewers help validate identifications, improving the reliability of the shared data.

Getting the app and installation notes

The app is available for Android devices at no cost. For most users the Google Play Store is the recommended source; if you choose to use alternative installers or sideload packages, follow safe installation practices and verify the source before installing.