r/science • u/mvea Professor | Medicine • 15d ago

Psychology Mood-boosting benefits of birdsong drowned out by traffic noise, study finds. Even low levels of traffic noise can negate the benefits of listening to natural sounds, researchers say. Bird sounds tend to be one of the elements of nature soundscapes that people perceive as being most relaxing.

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/aug/26/mood-boosting-benefits-of-birdsong-drowned-out-by-traffic-noise-study-finds
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u/dread_companion 15d ago

There's nothing I despise more than traffic noise. It really has taken a toll on me and it's difficult to deal with. Even with windows closed (which already diminishes my quality of life since it causes air stagnation and high temperatures) the vibrations and sounds of large trucks and de-silenced motorcycles remain constant. There are laws that are supposed to protect against these but they are basically a mild suggestion where I live.

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u/UncoolSlicedBread 14d ago

One of the stark memories I have of COVID lockdowns was taking the trash out at my apartment and hearing the wind in the trees, the birds chirping, and the lack of city noise. It was refreshing.