Close your eyes and listen. What do you hear? Soundscapes, the combined sounds from natural and non-natural sources, are an important resource in national parks. Non-natural sounds, such as those from vehicles, aircraft, and other visitors, can disturb nature's delicate balance and visitor experiences. Soundscape monitoring helps us understand the impact of human-caused noises on the natural world.

Animals depend on natural sounds to communicate, find mates and food, avoid danger, establish territory, and more. You can help preserve this soundscape by being mindful of the sounds you make, and listening to the world around you. You may hear the winds of spring, the thunderstorms of summer, or even the snap and crackle of ice shaping the landscape in colder months.