In an age where smartphones dominate our attention, a new app called Flock is making waves by encouraging users to step outside and immerse themselves in the joys of birdwatching. Spearheaded by renowned ornithological artist Keith Hansen, who is hand-illustrating a stunning collection of nearly 1,000 bird species, Flock seeks to transform our relationship with technology and nature.
The Vision Behind Flock
Nestled in Bolinas, California, Keith Hansen has dedicated himself to capturing the beauty of North American birds through his paintings. His latest project involves creating a comprehensive visual guide of every bird species recorded in the U.S. and Canada, a task that has him meticulously painting each bird by hand. As he completes each illustration, Hansen adds it to a binder, with the latest effort being the vibrant painted bunting—his 420th bird.
Flock, an app conceived by Hansen’s friends Adam Donkin and Bob Stevenson, aims to counter the pervasive habit of screen time by leveraging elements of gaming and social interaction. Instead of trapping users in a digital vortex, the app encourages them to explore the great outdoors, fostering a community of bird lovers and conservationists in the process.
A Team United by Passion
Donkin and Stevenson, both accomplished tech industry veterans, share a profound passion for avian life. Donkin, with a background in product design at Amazon, and Stevenson, who has worked on numerous video game projects, have combined their expertise to create an app that resonates with their love of nature.
Hansen’s journey into ornithology began in his youth, inspired by his brother’s introduction to the cedar waxwing. His artistic career took flight during high school and has flourished ever since, culminating in his gallery in Bolinas, which has become a hub for local birders.
The trio’s friendship blossomed through their shared enthusiasm for birdwatching. Donkin recalls being introduced to the local birding community by a renowned ornithologist, while Stevenson discovered his own passion for birding after a chance encounter with Donkin. Their combined experiences have paved the way for Flock, a project that reflects their commitment to engaging with nature.
Innovative Design for Outdoor Engagement
Flock’s design philosophy sets it apart from conventional apps that often seek to monopolise user attention. Instead, the app features a minimalist interface that prioritizes the birdwatching experience. Users can track their sightings, engage with a community of fellow bird enthusiasts, and enjoy a unique leaderboard system that ranks users based on their observations.
To foster a supportive environment, the app replaces the traditional “like” button with a “high-five” feature. This thoughtful design choice encourages users to celebrate each other’s achievements in birding, reinforcing the app’s community-oriented ethos.
Hansen’s artistic touch adds an extra layer of beauty to the app, with his illustrations breathing life into the virtual birding experience. As users log their sightings, they can witness short animations that depict the birds in their natural behaviours, enhancing the connection to the avian world.
Growing Popularity and Community Impact
Since its launch in early 2025, Flock has steadily gained traction, amassing around 1,000 users without any formal marketing efforts. The app’s appeal has even attracted notable figures like bestselling author Amy Tan, who praises its aesthetic and functionality. Users like Tan find joy in tracking their backyard birds, with each new sighting accompanied by a vibrant illustration that animates in real time.
The app not only serves as a tool for birdwatching but also acts as a gateway to conservation efforts. As users become more attuned to the natural world, they may be inspired to take action—be it providing food, water, or safe habitats for birds in their communities.
Why it Matters
Flock represents a significant shift in how we engage with technology and nature. In a world increasingly dominated by screens, the app challenges users to reconnect with the environment and cultivate a sense of stewardship for the planet. By promoting birdwatching as both a hobby and a pathway to conservation, Flock has the potential to inspire a new generation of environmental advocates, fostering a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of our ecosystems. This initiative highlights the importance of preserving natural habitats and emphasizes that even small actions can contribute to a larger movement for ecological mindfulness.
