Chants d'oiseaux

In her book *Silent Spring*, published in 1962, Rachel Carson was already warning about the decline of bird populations, which were falling victim, in particular, to the effects of intensive agricultural practices. But, deep down, are we still capable of hearing their song? Isn’t there a form of selective deafness that makes the wildlife around us almost imperceptible? Are we still able to hear its warning? Yet, fortunately, the birds are still here. They inhabit our countryside, our gardens, our forests, and even the heart of our cities. All you have to do is listen closely to discover the richness of their world of sound: from simple, repetitive songs—sometimes lulling—to the most complex and inventive improvisations. Listening to birds is already a way to get to know them better. During this lecture, we’ll explore their songs: their function, structure, and diversity, as well as the astonishing abilities for learning and improvisation they reveal. We’ll explore the technological tools that now allow us to record and analyze soundscapes, track their transformations, and better preserve this fragile music of life—so that our springs never fall silent. By **Yves Piquot**, a professor at the University of Lille and a specialist in biodiversity, pollination, and urban ecology. He combines research, higher education, and naturalist expertise.