Soundscape conservation

The wind rustling the leaves, a babbling brook, and birds singing from the trees - the sounds of nature are beautiful, and we’ve only started to understand the importance of the ‘soundscape’ they create. For humans, natural soundscapes improve our health and reduce stress (https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2013097118). For most animals, sound is necessary to carry out essential activities, such as finding and avoiding becoming food. Unfortunately, these natural sounds are increasingly under threat. Alongside the National Capital Commission we are assessing the effects of traffic mitigation on natural soundscapes in Gatineau park and the benefits for people and wildlife.