Echoes of Eco-Acoustics: An Acoustic Ecological Reading of Ruskin Bond’s Birdsongs in the Hill

Abstract

Acoustic ecology investigates the connection between humans and nature through sound, focusing on the relevance of natural soundscapes. In Bird Songs in the Hills, Ruskin Bond presnts the vivid and unique soundscape of the Himalayan hills. Bond emphasizes the importance of listening to the soundscape as an ecological act, encouraging readers to immerse themselves deeply in the environment as a means for ecological awareness. He connects soundscapes to local legends, highlighting their cultural significance. By illustrating a harmonious coexistence between bird and human presence, Bond’s work subtly advocates for acoustic ecology as a tool for conservation and sustainable living with nature. This study analyzes Birdsongs in the Hills using acoustic ecology, suggesting that preserving soundscapes can foster ecological awareness, cultural heritage, and environmental stewardship.