Backyard and Beyond

Starting out from Brooklyn, an amateur naturalist explores our world.

As John Burroughs said, “The place to observe nature is where you are.”

Listening

Last Sunday, I gave a sermon here in the church of nature that was on the critical side of polemic. Thank you for sticking through the rant. You’re good people.

My complaint include the over-worked soundtrack of Planet Earth II. As somebody who has led “listening tours” (the mockery of politicians is intentional here) of spring’s dawn chorus, twilight’s spring peepers, American Woodcock mating rituals, and summer’s nighttime katydids, I really think the integrity of the sounds of nature should be defended.

In this light, I offer you some of my friend Mark Wilkinson’s recording in the field. In English fields, mind you.

Nature, “simple” (well, far from that, actually) and unadorned by foley artists, for earth’s sakes! Don’t skip the ants and wasps!

2 responses to “Listening”

  1. OMG! My new favorite playlist!
    I grew up in the woods and the real nature sounds are incredible. I write this as the ever present blue jay outside serenades my breakfast. Such a great antidote to the chaotic sounds of man. Thanks for sharing these.

  2. Thank you.

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