Differences in birds' adaptation to anthropogenic disturbance in different urban green spaces——Response of urban birds to man-made noise in Beijing as an example

Abstract

With the accelerating process of urbanization, noise pollution in urban areas has become a major factor affecting
biodiversity. In this study, we took Beijing as an example and conducted experiments on common birds in several urban green
spaces. By controlling variables and playing different types and intensities of sounds for common birds in urban green belt,
we explored the birds' adaptability to urban noise and their responses and sensitivities to different types of noises, and
attempted to provide effective scientific support for the protection of urban birds in terms of noise reduction. The results
showed that urban birds were generally more alert to dog barking and clear human voices, and less alert to other types of
noise like car hooting, cacophonic human voices, and cat calls. The results of this study can provide scientific ideas for bird
protection from the perspective of noise control, such as reducing human voices and dog barking which can easily cause birds
to fly in alarm, setting up guard rails around bird habitats, strengthening daily patrols, and prohibiting dogs from entering the
range of bird habitats, so as to promote the harmonious symbiosis between human life and ecology and nature in the city.