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Acoustics of zoo enclosures

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Project Description

Awareness of the significant effects of anthropogenic noise on animal behaviours and fitness is rapidly growing. While there is good evidence of some aspects of noise pollution on birds in the wild, the acoustic conditions of birds in zoos are surprisingly under-studied. In particular, the enclosures used to house birds are likely to affect their soundscape significantly, but this is currently not taken into account in their design. Working with our partner Chester Zoo, in this project we propose to (i) assess the soundscape in bird enclosures; (ii) build computer acoustic models of the enclosures; (iii) propose and model the effect of improvements in the enclosure design (shape, materials). The ultimate aim is to improve enclosure design, welfare and ultimately breeding success of species of conservation concern. This is an interdisciplinary proposal, bringing together acoustic engineering and zoology.

Status Project Live
Funder(s) Royal Society
Value £19,634.00
Project Dates Oct 1, 2024 - Sep 30, 2026

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