Two South American birds rival chainsaws in sound intensity
Researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst identified the bare-throated bellbird from the Amazon and the red-legged seriema from eastern South America as among the world's loudest birds. The bare-throated bellbird produces calls reaching approximately 131 decibels, while the red-legged seriema exceeds 120 decibels—comparable to the noise level of chainsaws or jet engines. The study focused on understanding these birds' acoustic abilities rather than establishing a simple loudness record.
Researchers from the University of Massachusetts Amherst conducted fieldwork across multiple continents to document bird vocalizations, employing specialized equipment including laser rangefinders and portable acoustic meters to account for distance variables. Their investigation encompassed 123 bird species, with 113 species previously lacking documented sound measurements. This represents a significant expansion of baseline biological data on avian acoustics.
The study's primary objective extended beyond identifying record-breaking specimens. Instead, scientists sought to determine whether observable physical characteristics could predict vocalization intensity and whether loudness correlates with a species' environmental role and social structure. Their findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal Evolution in September 2026.
This research may enhance understanding of animal communication and sensory biology relevant to conservation efforts, particularly for Amazonian and South American species. Expanded acoustic data could inform wildlife monitoring technologies and help scientists assess how environmental changes affect species. The study's foundational measurements might support future investigations into how noise pollution impacts vulnerable bird populations, potentially influencing habitat protection policies.