Using Soundscapes to Move From Knowledge to Action for Biodiversity Conservation

SPEAKER:
Dr. Rachel Buxton, Assistant Professor – Dept of Biology at Carleton University

ABSTRACT:
A surge in soundscape ecology research has led to a wealth of data and information on the diversity and distribution of vocalizing animals. Several projects now include arrays of 400+ recorders, collecting petabytes of acoustic data over months or years. These large-scale recording projects have the potential to address important research questions about species and community ecology. However, how to translate this information into action is urgently needed to address the ongoing biodiversity crisis.

Here I discuss a number of ways in which my lab is using soundscape ecology to support conservation. This includes using acoustics to: 1) explore the link between human health and natural sounds in the context of urban park restoration; 2) inform park transportation management by monitoring the outcomes of road noise reduction on bird communities; and 3) empower Indigenous-led conservation through co-development of acoustic monitoring programs.

MORE INFO:
Additional information on our CARE Acoustics Seminars, including upcoming and past recordings, can be found at https://eos.unh.edu/center-acoustics-...