24 October 2023 , 10:30
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The average Brit is confident that they could identify seven different bird species just from their appearance – and when it comes to birdsong, the sounds of a blackbird and a Wood pigeon are the most easily recognisable, a study has found.
A survey of 2,000 adults found that more than two-thirds (68%) enjoy listening to the sounds of birds, with 42% saying it helps to boost their mental health.
Other easily identifiable calls include that of the Woodpecker, the House sparrow, and an eagle – while wren and raven birdsongs were also deemed easy to pick out. But on the other end of the scale, many would struggle to recognise the sounds of the Northern Cardinal, or a Woodlark.
But nearly a third (31%), who haven't yet had a go at bird-watching, are keen to try out the hobby, or to learn more about it in general.
It emerged that more than a fifth (22%) are already bird-watchers, doing so five times a month – with a further one in three venturing outside their home specifically to listen to the different bird callings.
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And 55% said that hearing birds chirping is one of the best things about spending time outdoors, as 44% believe it helps them feel more connected to nature, according to the research, commissioned by Pure.
The average Brit reckons they could confidently identify seven different bird species by their appearance (PinPep)In response to the findings, the audio brand has developed an interactive game testing people's knowledge on the different type of birdsongs.
Pure has also partnered with nature enthusiast and TV personality, Chris Packham, to celebrate the launch of its new Woodland Portable Speaker.
Chris Packham said: "As a lifelong advocate for the beauty of nature, and a passionate bird enthusiast, I am delighted that the connection between Brits and birdsong is being celebrated and researched.
"Birds bring us so much joy, and their songs have the power to transform our moods and elevate our well-being.
"They have a unique and magical way of connecting us to the natural world, and the positive feelings they give people when listening to birdsong is not surprising, but is a testament to the impact these creatures have on our lives.
"It's heartening to know that even in this fast-paced, digital age, something as simple and beautiful as the songs of our feathered friends can offer such comfort and respite."
Play Pure's new interactive birdsong game to be in with a chance of winning exciting prizes, including outdoor woodland speakers (PinPep)The study found hearing birds sing make 26% feel happy, while nearly a fifth (21%) feel peaceful, and 16% are left relaxed.
And regardless of where they hear it, birdsong transports over half of listeners (54%) back to the countryside or to woodland (47%), while 21% say it reminds them of their childhood.
To prove their love of birds, 44% have a bird feeder in their garden, with 32% owning a bird bath, and 26% are proud owners of a bird house.
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When it comes to inside the home, 18% of those polled, via OnePoll, listen to birdsong playlists at home to help them sleep or relax – but this leaps up to 42% of 18-24-year-olds, who often drift off to the beautiful sounds.
Hubert Eiter, at Pure, said: "We’re surprised to see the younger generation are taking the sound of birds into their home to help them get to sleep.
"It’s something which is lovely to see, and we hope it continues, as there are so many benefits from listening to the beautiful animals – whether that be in nature, or coming from a speaker in your home."
TOP 20 MOST COMMONLY IDENTIFIED BIRDSONGS:
- Blackbird
- Wood pigeon
- Woodpecker
- House sparrow
- Eagle
- Tawny owl
- European robin
- Wren
- Raven
- Common starling
- Song thrush
- Buzzard
- Carrion crow
- Great tit
- Collared dove
- Eurasian magpie
- Little owl
- Skylark
- Chaffinch
- Common goldfinch