RioBirds Watch Privacy Policy
Overview
RioBirds Watch is a personal birdwatching companion for iOS. This Privacy Policy describes how the app and the RioBirds Watch API at api.ribirdswatch.space handle information. We designed the product so your field journal stays private on your device while optional sync powers community features.
Developer contact
This app is developed by Portia Renshaw. For privacy questions or requests, email portia1renshaw@icloud.com.
Information stored on your device
The following data stays on your iPhone or iPad unless you choose to sync: bird sighting records, photos attached to sightings, personal notes, companion progress, trait upgrades, plumage unlocks, milestone claims, Thermal Glide run history, and app preferences such as your keeper name and journal sort order.
Information we do not collect
We do not require an account, password, email address, phone number, or payment details to use the app. We do not upload photo files or sighting notes to our servers. We do not track your precise GPS location.
Information synced to our servers
When the app syncs over HTTPS, it sends an anonymous device identifier and limited metadata needed to operate shared features: chosen display name for leaderboards, companion name and level, sighting metadata (species, family, habitat, count, date and time, and whether a photo exists), optional area labels stored only in your private device file on the server, quest completion awards, glide run scores, and aggregate profile counters such as streak days and best glide distance.
How we use information
We use synced data to provide daily quest decks, personal history and statistics for your device, season and weekly community tallies, and leaderboards. We do not sell personal information. We do not use your data for third-party advertising.
Community features
Community tally and leaderboard responses contain aggregated, anonymised counts. Your exact area names never appear in public aggregate responses. You may choose to appear as “Anonymous keeper” instead of your chosen field name when community name sharing is turned off in the app.
Data retention and deletion
Synced records remain on our servers while your anonymous device profile exists. You can delete your data at any time with Reset All Data in the app settings, which clears local records and requests deletion of your device profile, sightings, quest completions, and glide runs from our servers. Cached community aggregates are recomputed after deletion.
Children’s privacy
RioBirds Watch is not directed at children under 13, and we do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If you believe a child has provided personal information through the service, contact us at portia1renshaw@icloud.com and we will delete it.
Security
Transport uses HTTPS. Server data is stored in isolated per-device files. Only aggregated community statistics are derived from synced sightings. No system is completely secure, but we apply reasonable administrative and technical safeguards.
Changes to this policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. The effective date at the top of this page will change when we do. Continued use of the app after an update means you accept the revised policy.
Contact
Questions about this Privacy Policy or your data may be sent to Portia Renshaw at portia1renshaw@icloud.com.