CARE: Using Soundscapes from Knowledge to Action for Biodiversity Conservation

Tuesday, December 10, 2024 - noon to 12:50 p.m.

Online


Speaker: 
Dr. Rachel Buxton 
Assistant Professor, Dept. of Biology – Carleton University  

Full Title: 
Using Soundscapes to Move from Knowledge to Action for Biodiversity Conservation 

Abstract: 
A surge in soundscape ecology research has led to a wealth of data and information on the diversity and distribution of vocalizing animals. Several projects now include arrays of >400 recorders, collecting petabytes of acoustic data over months or years. These large-scale recording projects have the potential to address important research questions about species and community ecology. However, how to translate this information into action is urgently needed to address the ongoing biodiversity crisis. 

Here I discuss a number of ways in which my lab is using soundscape ecology to support conservation. This includes using acoustics to: 1) explore the link between human health and natural sounds in the context of urban park restoration; 2) inform park transportation management by monitoring the outcomes of road noise reduction on bird communities; and 3) empower Indigenous-led conservation through co-development of acoustic monitoring programs.

Center for Acoustics Research and Education (CARE) at the University of New Hampshire is pleased to announce this talk as part of our Fall Seminar Series.