Traffic noise may be making birdsong less calming
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Listening to birds singing has a positive effect on our mental health and well-being. Birdsong is one of the most beautiful sounds in nature. Conversely, noise from traffic is annoying and can increase our stress. A new study from the University of Surrey in the UK suggests that the noise from traffic may reduce the positive effects of birdsong on our mood. Environmental psychologist Dr Eleanor Ratcliffe said: "Traffic noise undoubtedly affects the psychological benefits of natural soundscapes." She said we need to think more carefully about adding green spaces to towns, "so that people enjoy such areas to the fullest". She also suggested lowering speed limits near parks.
More than 1,500 people took part in the study. They listened to nine different soundscapes of natural sounds and traffic noise. The people then answered questions about how relaxed and refreshed they felt after listening to the sounds. The researchers found that listening to birdsong benefited well-being. However, even at low levels, traffic noise reduced feelings of well-being. Researcher Dr Melissa Marselle said the modern world is noisy. She said we need to investigate the impact of traffic noise on nature's sounds and whether it negatively affects their benefits. She added that we need to identify more quiet outdoor spaces to help people who are feeling stressed.
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