Sounds of Nature

A group of professional nature recordists from around the globe have collaborated to develop Nature Soundmap , an enjoyable and interactive way of exploring the natural sounds of our planet. Combining high-quality field recordings with the latest satellite imagery, the project brings together some of nature’s most beautiful, interesting and inspiring sounds.

Hear the World Like Never Before

Immerse yourself in a pulsating insect chorus in Borneo’s tropical rainforest, or climb the Himalayas and relax to the melodies of birdsong in an alpine meadow. Use Nature Soundmap to discover the wonderful soundscapes and wildlife sounds of our planet.

Soundscapes

Many recordings in the collection are ‘binaural’ soundscapes, in other words, stereo recordings made with two microphones which capture sound in 360 degrees. This recording technique most accurately imitates the natural experience you would hear with your own two ears and provides a realistic representation of all of the sounds in a particular habitat or location. If you sit back, close you eyes and relax while listening to a well-recorded soundscape, it doesn’t take long before you feel like you’re actually there! A good pair of headphones certainly helps enhance the experience.

Individual Species

While the main focus is on whole soundscapes, we have also included selected recordings of individual species which are particularly outstanding or interesting examples of sound in the animal kingdom.

About The Recordists

A growing team of over 90 nature sound recordists from around the globe have collaborated to make this project a success. The contributors page displays brief overviews for all recordists with links to their individual profile pages. 

Support Nature Soundmap

At this stage, the best way to contribute is to visit the individual recordist’s website and purchase one of their cd’s or digital downloads. Much of their own time, energy and expense has gone into capturing the recordings, and the modest reimbursement received from online sales help to support future field trips.

If you are interested in submitting a recording to the project, please visit the submissions page for guidelines.

Learn more here