Temporal and Spatial Characteristics of Soundscape Ecology in Urban Forest Areas and Its Landscape Spatial Influencing Factors

Abstract

We explored the spatial and temporal characteristics of the urban forest area soundscape by setting up monitoring points (70 × 70 m grid) covering the study area, recorded a total of 52 sound sources, and the results showed that: (1) The soundscape composition of the park is dominated by natural sounds and recreational sounds. (2) The diurnal variation of sound sources is opposite to that of temperature, 6:00–9:00 is the best time for the public to perceive birdsong, and after 18:00, the park is dominated by insect chirps. (3) The PSD (power spectral density) and the SDI (soundscape diversity index) of the park are greatly affected by public recreation behaviors, and some recreation behaviors may affect the vocal behavior of organisms such as birds. (4) Spaces with high canopy density can attract more birdsong and recreational sounds in summer, and the combination of “tree + lake” can attract more birdsong. Vegetation has a significant dampening effect on traffic sound. (5) Landscape spatial elements, such as the proportion of hard ground, sky, trees, and shrubs, have a significant impact on changes in the PSD, the SDI and different kinds of sound sources. The research results provide effective data support for improving the soundscape of urban forests.

Acoustic Benefits of Green Infrastructure in Urban Areas a Rapid Evidence Review

“…Landscape design forms and elements can affect the types, diversity, and significance of sounds in a green space, resulting in a wide range of soundscape quality [55,65,68,69].…”

“…Positive soundscape quality can be described as a combination of "naturalness", "diversity" and "appropriateness" [65]. Several studies found that the presence of natural sounds in green spaces resulted in increased preference, pleasantness, perceptions of tranquillity and health and wellbeing outcomes [65,68,[70][71][72]. Nature sound preference was also found to be dependent on several factors, such as gender, age, cultural background, living environment and behavioural and psychological elements [70,71].…”

“…Trees and hedges can promote wind-induced sounds and bird sounds, which can improve streetscape perception, as well as reduce stress and negative emotions, and increase potential for restoration [65,68,73]. Broad-leaved trees have been found to produce more wind-induced sounds and more significant bird sounds than coniferous trees, due to increased leaf size, as well as the provision of more food and nesting sites [69].…”

Assessing the Soundscape Characteristics of Historical Urban Environments: An Analysis of the Historical Erbil Citadel and Its Environments

“…Zhao, Yujie, et al highlight that effective management of the acoustic environment is crucial for enhancing overall livability. By thoughtfully integrating and utilizing sounds in our surroundings, we can significantly improve the quality of life for residents, fostering positive and harmonious living experiences [4]. These connections arise as people develop an understanding of, and attribute value to, those places.…”

“…Fundamentally, a well-maintained acoustic environment in a historical space is essential for preserving the authenticity and cultural importance of the area. The significance of soundscapes in shaping the historical ambiance and enhancing the perception of culture and landscape has been increasingly acknowledged and appreciated [1][2][3][4][5][6][7]. Leus and Herssens highlight the significance of conserving the entire sensory and natural experience of historical landscapes during renovation and conservation efforts.…”