Vineyard visitors enjoy their tours more when they hear a variety of birdsong, research has found.

The University of East Anglia study suggests outdoor businesses could improve customer experience by investing in site biodiversity.

The study involved hiding speakers in vineyards along tour routes, playing additional birdsong to create 'enhanced soundscapes'.

Visitors exposed to these soundscapes reported greater satisfaction with their tours.

Blackbird in English vineyard Blackbird in English vineyard (Image: Natalia Zielonka)

Lead author Dr Natalia Zielonka, of UEA’s School of Biological Sciences, said: “Vineyard visitors who experienced our enhanced soundscapes reported improved tour experience and showed stronger agreement with statements that the sounds in the vineyard were appealing and made them feel engrossed."

The research found that higher bird species richness, but not abundance, led to more diverse and louder soundscapes.

Visitors to vineyards with naturally louder and more diverse soundscapes also reported improved tour experiences.

Lead author Dr Natalia Zielonka Lead author Dr Natalia Zielonka (Image: Submitted)

This effect was stronger in visitors who engaged more in pro-environmental behaviours, such as purchasing organic foods.

Essex vineyard Saffron Grange, which participated in the research, is keen to support its ecosystem through biodiversity.

Vineyard manager Paul Harrison said: “What was surprising is the significant impact that birdsong has on people and then the further impact playing recordings then had.

“It goes to show how important nature is for humanity on so many levels and hopefully a study like this supports more investment and help in retaining as well as improving our natural environments.”

Chaffinch in English vineyard Chaffinch in English vineyard (Image: Natalia Zielonka)

The researchers suggest that their findings could be applied to any outdoor space that customers use, such as gardens, cafes, and national parks.

Co-author Professor Simon Butler, of UEA’s School of Biological Sciences, said: “Gardens or historic halls, cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating, outdoor markets, national and holiday parks could all potentially benefit."

The study was conducted in collaboration with the University of Cambridge.