Project Description Urban environments are challenging habitats for wildlife due to the high levels of anthropogenic noise. Birds which rely heavily on vocal communication for mating, territory defense, and other social behaviors, may be particularly affected by this noise. Previous studies have documented changes in song frequency and complexity in a variety of bird species, with birds often singing at higher frequencies in noisy environments and potentially simplifying their songs to increase communication effectiveness. However, the specific effects of urban noise pollution on robins have not been thoroughly evaluated. Noise levels will be measured using decibel meters and robin songs will be recorded and analyzed for frequency and complexity. By exploring both the frequency and complexity of robin songs in response to urban noise pollution, this study will provide insights into how urban noise alters bird communication and with the goal of guiding conservation efforts within busy cities. Overview This study will focus on how urban noise pollution impacts the frequency and complexity of robin songs across urban, suburban, and rural environments. By analyzing changes in robin vocalizations, this research will contribute to understanding the ecological consequences of urban noise on bird communication. Using a combination of field recordings, bioacoustic analysis, and statistical modeling, we will identify correlations between noise levels and song modifications, providing contributions to conservation and urban planning. Intellectual Merit This research builds on existing bioacoustic and ecological studies by focusing specifically on robins. Previous studies have examined general trends in bird vocalization adjustments, but limited research has specifically analyzed how robins alter both frequency and complexity in response to urban noise. Research by Slabbekoorn and Ripmeester (2008) demonstrated that anthropogenic noise affects birdsong structure, with higher frequency songs being more effective in urban environments. Similarly, Nemeth and Brumm (2010) found that urban noise levels drive adaptations in song characteristics to improve signal transmission. By integrating field noise level measurements with advanced bioacoustic software, the study will provide an understanding into how bird communication changes as environmental background noise levels change. Statistical modeling will be used to assess the interaction between background noise and song modifications. The results will contribute to bigger discussions on bird adaptation to environmental disturbances (ie. urban noise) and long-term ecological impacts. Broader Impacts Findings from this study will inform conservation strategies, particularly in urban environments where noise pollution is a concern. Results will be shared with urban planners and policymakers to advocate for supporting the robin/bird populations and implementing noise mitigation strategies. Additionally, the study promotes inclusivity in research by engaging undergraduate and graduate students from different backgrounds, citizen scientists, and nonprofit organizations such as the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. The collaboration with Wildlife Acoustics may also contribute to the advancement of bioacoustic monitoring technologies, which may have broader applications in conservation biology or environmental policy. Research by Blickley et al. (2012) emphasized the importance of studying anthropogenic noise impacts on wildlife communication, reinforcing the necessity of this study in informing urban conservation policies.