An international study led by the University of Jyväskylä and the University of Helsinki, involving researchers from over 30 countries, analyzed 100 years of sound recordings from 139 locations worldwide to compare urban and natural soundscapes.
The research, published in Nature Ecology & Evolution (DOI: 10.1038/s41559-025-02786-5), found that urban soundscapes are less predictable than natural environments, affecting human exposure to sound rhythms.
Key findings revealed that bird species richness in urban green spaces often exceeded that of natural habitats due to habitat diversity, though many species unique to wild areas remain absent in cities. The study also confirmed that birds follow predictable singing patterns, being most active during mornings, evenings, and spring.
“These results show how urban environments alter soundscape rhythms and biodiversity,” said Professor Otso Ovaskainen of the University of Jyväskylä.
The research emphasizes the importance of urban green spaces for biodiversity while highlighting the irreplaceable value of untouched natural habitats.
Source: University of Jyväskylä | University of Helsinki
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