In a world increasingly dominated by screens, a new app is challenging users to step outside and embrace the captivating realm of birdwatching. The Flock app, spearheaded by ornithological artist Keith Hansen and tech-savvy entrepreneurs Adam Donkin and Bob Stevenson, aims to cultivate a community of nature enthusiasts by combining stunning hand-drawn illustrations with gamified engagement, all while promoting conservation.
A Labour of Love: The Artistic Journey of Keith Hansen
On a sunlit afternoon in Bolinas, a picturesque town along California’s northern coast, Keith Hansen meticulously adds the final touches to a vibrant watercolour of a painted bunting. With a fine sable brush, he enhances the bird’s cobalt blue feathers, slipping the completed piece into a collection now numbering 420 illustrations. Hansen’s ambitious goal is to hand-paint every one of the approximately 1,000 bird species documented in the US and Canada, excluding Hawaiian varieties. This monumental project serves as the visual heart of the Flock app, which seeks to inspire users to swap screen time for time spent in nature.
The app’s creators, Donkin and Stevenson, bring a wealth of experience from the tech industry, having previously worked on notable projects including the Kindle e-reader and various video games. Their shared passion for birding brought them together with Hansen, who has been illustrating birds since his high school days and has deep roots in the avian community.
Bridging the Gap Between Technology and Nature
Donkin, who began birdwatching at the tender age of four, recalls being enchanted by the expertise of Rich Stallcup, a renowned ornithologist. This early introduction fostered a lifelong love for birds, which he later shared with Hansen and Stevenson. The trio’s bond strengthened as they explored the vibrant birding community in Marin County, a region rich in avian diversity.
Stevenson, who transitioned from a successful career in gaming to focus on family and the natural world, found birding to be a revelation. Recognising the parallels between birdwatching and multiplayer gaming—such as skill development, competition, and community support—he was inspired to create a platform that could introduce others to the joys of birding while fostering a sense of ecological responsibility.
Their discussions led to the inception of Flock, conceived as an antidote to the addictive nature of many apps. Rather than vying for users’ constant attention, Flock encourages them to engage with their surroundings. “We’re trying to get your attention away from your phone so that you can then turn your attention outward,” Donkin explains.
A New Approach to Birding and Conservation
Flock distinguishes itself with a minimalistic interface that prioritises user engagement with nature. The app features sections for searching bird species, recording sightings, and connecting with fellow birders, all while fostering a supportive community atmosphere. Users can celebrate each other’s achievements with a “high-five” feature instead of a typical “like” button, creating an environment that feels more collaborative than competitive.
Hansen’s illustrations are central to the app’s appeal. Each meticulously crafted image undergoes a digital process that allows the birds to come to life through realistic animations. Users can witness the charming antics of an American robin or the stealthy movements of a great blue heron, enhancing their connection to the avian world.
Since its launch in early 2025, Flock has grown from a mere 100 users to a burgeoning community of around 1,000, all without any formal marketing. Among its users is bestselling author Amy Tan, who praises the app for its beauty and user-friendliness, highlighting how it enriches her birdwatching experience.
A Personal Journey into the World of Birds
As a recent user of Flock, I recorded my first sighting—a western gull—last spring. This simple act has deepened my appreciation for the feathered inhabitants of San Francisco. The app’s elegant design and the joy of seeing Hansen’s illustrations spring to life have motivated me to expand my birdwatching endeavours, including the prospect of setting up a hummingbird feeder.
The creators of Flock envision a future where their app not only enhances individual experiences but also plays a crucial role in conservation efforts. As users engage more with birds, they often become more conscious of their natural habitats and the need to protect them.
Why it Matters
Flock represents a vital shift in how technology can be harnessed to foster a love for nature rather than distract from it. By promoting birdwatching as a shared experience, the app has the potential to inspire a new generation of conservationists. As users step away from their screens and into the wild, they not only gain a deeper understanding of avian life but also cultivate a sense of responsibility for the environment, ensuring the protection of these beautiful creatures for years to come.
