The preference for natural sounds in an urban residential area. Effects of demographic variables

A representative sample of urban residents was asked to rate common verbally presented urban sound types along a scale of pleasantness. Three types of natural sounds (‘bird song’, ‘sounds from wind’, ‘sounds from water’) received the highest scores, followed by ‘silence’, and ‘sounds from children playing’. Mechanical sounds (‘lawn mowers’ and traffic) and ‘dog barking’ were rated as moderately unpleasant. Differences across demographic groups were small. However, significant positive associations emerged between the rating of natural sounds and age, and educational level. Women more than men, rated natural sounds to be pleasant. Rating of mechanical sounds did not vary across demographic groups. Women more than men, and respondents with children in the household more than other respondents, rated ‘sounds from children playing’ as pleasant. The results are consistent with previous research on attitudes toward animals, and on adults’ responsiveness to children. The value assigned by urban residents to natural sounds should instigate urban planners to pay more attention to the conservation of animals and their habitat.