Depending on where you live, winters can seem like the quietest season of all.
The world seems to fall silent, in stark contrast to the hive of activity in summer.
Some love the peace of quiet, while others struggle with the seasonal changes.
But why are winters so quiet?
The answer is as much to do with nature as with human activity.
Shorter Days And Worsening Weather Limit Human Activities
One simple reason for a lack of noise in winter is that we have fewer opportunities to be outside to make any noise.
The will be events around the holidays where we gather for short bursts of excitement.
There may be the noise of winter funfairs and markets.
But, we aren’t spending so much time outside once the evenings become dark and cold.
It is much nicer to be inside by the fire with warm cocoa.
So, the streets become quieter.
This doesn’t just mean fewer people walking the city streets but also less traffic.
Why take the car out in driving rain and snow in the dark unless you have to?
Nature Is Also More Muted In The Winter
That snowfall also has a big impact on the landscape and the noise generated outside.
Instead of crunching through autumn leaves and splashing through puddles, there are softer footprints.
The white carpet deadens a lot of noise.
There are also fewer leaves on the trees to rustle in the wind, and the birds aren’t so inclined to sing.
They are more preoccupied with trying to find food than communicating.
They will be back in full voice when spring arrives, as they search for a mate.
So, unless you spend your winters in a vibrant ski resort town or seek out events to make the most of the dark nights and snow, winter will be naturally quieter.