Some animals listen to music just like humans do, and their reactions to music are fascinating. James Crossley is a gong and handpan musician who often frequents London parks to play for anyone or anything that wants to stop and listen. In a video Crossley shared in May, he was playing the handpan and a herd of deer stopped to enjoy the beautiful tunes he was making.
Keep the sound on. This music will put you in a bit of a zen moment during your day. It’s very relaxing. I’m not the only one who thinks so. The herd of deer were enjoying it too. Look how intently they are staring at him.
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Isn’t that cool to watch?! His music is so relaxing I could listen to it all day. I would have loved to have seen if the deer approached him or if he approached the deer. Commenter @mylam_runner had the same thought, “Wow, did the deer come with you or did you approach the deer?” James said, “I was with him for about 30 minutes. I agree with @waynehowardsaunders, “What an amazing crowd to play for!” @kaz_lenehan added, “Are you kidding me… like a dream. The music drew me in.”
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Love for animals and music
Another commenter responded to James’ video with, “Wow! They’re so close! They obviously love music!” Many animals, like these deer, enjoy listening to music. Many studies have shown that many animals enjoy music just like humans do.
Birds love music, whether it’s their own songs or music created by humans. Researchers at Emory University found that when birds hear bird songs, they respond to music in the same way that humans do. The pathways that the human brain uses when listening to music are the same as the pathways that a bird’s brain uses. This is why parrots love to sing and dance.
Studies have shown that cows produce more milk when they listen to music. Dr. Adrian North told the BBC, “Calming music may increase milk production, possibly because it reduces stress.” We don’t know if this cow is producing milk, but she loves music and dances to it. This wallaby plays rock and even air guitar.
Elephants are also big fans of music. Paul Barton is a world-famous pianist who used to play to packed concert halls. He gave it up, headed to Thailand and now plays for blind and disabled elephants. When he sits down to play, the elephants are attracted to the music just like the deer are and they stop and listen the whole time he is playing. It is a beautiful thing to see.
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