Sounds of Our Surroundings

‘Soundscape’, the aural equivalent of townscape or landscape, can be defined as “the totality of all sounds within a location with an emphasis on the relationship between individual’s or society’s perception of, understanding of and interaction with the sonic environment”[1]

As the soundscapes around us change, what can we learn about our environment  by listening, and how might we use this knowledge to help shape the future of urban and natural environments?

Research Project areas:

Animal Perspective – By developing innovative microphone techniques to hear from the perspective of different animals, what can we learn about their behaviours and environments?

Fish Acoustics – The inner ear bones of fish (otoliths) have specific shapes depending on species. By conducting acoustic analysis of otoliths we may be able to ascertain more knowledge of inaccessible environments, enabling us to learn more about deep-sea fish ecology, as well as paleo-environments through the study of fossilised otoliths.

Sounds of Structures – This project, led by researchers at Leeds University proposes the use of sound as a diagnostic tool for the structural health of buildings through innovative, networked sensor arrays. Could this network model be employed for naturally occurring structures, such as trees? Could it also be used for more accuracy in the monitoring of different eco-systems if spread over a wide enough area?

Krill Swarms – Due to several key characteristics, male and female krill produce identifiably different acoustic signatures when swimming. The overall composition of the swarm (male/female) may be discernable by listening, rather than using the traditional net sample technique which could in itself influence the data.

Contact: Dr Rob MacKay: R.A.MacKay@hull.ac.uk

[1] Payne S et al, ‘Practical and Policy Applications of Soundscape Concepts and Techniques in Urban Areas’ University of Salford, Research Report NANR 200, Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, UK, 2009