Nature Overheard: “Tune in to Your Streets” – A Citizen Science Project

Be a Part of a Groundbreaking Study on Noise Pollution and Insects!

Join our Conservation ranger, Sila, and take part in “Nature Overheard: Tune in to Your Streets,” an innovative citizen science project initiated by the Natural History Museum. This is your chance to contribute to a vital study investigating how noise pollution affects insect communication near roads. No prior knowledge is required, and everyone with an interest in biodiversity, conservation, and insects is welcome!

Date: 17 Aug 2024
Time: 11.30am -1pm
Location: Meet Sila at the blackboard on the Terrace.
Tickets: Included with General entry to the gardens or free for members. Click here to buy your day ticket.

Why get involved?

Insects play a crucial role in maintaining healthy ecosystems, but the constant hum of urban noise can disrupt their ability to communicate. This project aims to collect valuable data on how road noise impacts insect life, helping researchers at the Natural History Museum to develop strategies for making our roads more nature-friendly. Your participation helps scientists understand and mitigate the effects of noise pollution on insects. You’ll also gain insights into the local ecosystem and have the chance to connect with like-minded individuals and be part of a nationwide community science project!

About the session:: Capture the sounds of insects. Your recordings will help train an algorithm to identify different insect sounds and their responses to noise pollution.
We’ll guide you on how to submit your audio recordings and observations to the Nature Overheard project, contributing to a national effort.

Participants will need to bring their own equipment to help you make accurate recordings – for this you will need a working mobile phone to capture audio and photos.

Weather:
This event is outdoors, please dress for the weather. This survey is weather-dependent. If the weather is too wet to be outside, we will hold an indoor survey information session. We will provide survey booklets and showcase our donated insect preserve collection while discussing UK insects.

Who can join?
This session is ideal for people ages 11 years and over.

No special skills or experience needed, just bring your curiosity and willingness to learn!
For more information on the initiative visit The Natural History Museum’s website https://www.nhm.ac.uk/take-part/monitor-and-encourage-nature/nature-overheard.html

Let’s tune in to our streets and make a positive impact on our local wildlife!