Listen to rustling leaves
How loud are rustling leaves?
Rustling leaves are about 20 dB, with a typical range of 15–25 dB. A gentle breeze moving through foliage.
That is quieter than normal conversation (60 dB).
Can it damage your hearing?
No – 20 dB is well below the 85 dBA level at which prolonged exposure starts to risk hearing damage.
How sound level changes with distance
Decibel figures always depend on distance. For a small source in open air, every doubling of distance lowers the level by about 6 dB; indoors, reflections reduce that drop. Use the sound-vs-distance calculator to estimate the level where you are.
Sounds as loud as rustling leaves
More recordings elsewhere
- Wind Rustles Leaves on Branch as Train Goes By.wav by dannydandanshababaloo – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- Game Rustle Leaves by Fupicat – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- rustling leaves 08.mp3 by TRP – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- Wind light rustling leaves plants birds bright Tommy Thompson 24-96… by TRP – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- Rustling leaves and fly.wav by Rimmer – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
Frequently asked questions
How many decibels are rustling leaves?
About 20 dB, with a typical range of 15–25 dB.
Is rustling leaves louder than a jet engine?
No – a jet engine at takeoff is about 140 dB at 30 m, while rustling leaves are about 20 dB.
How are these levels measured?
With a sound level meter, usually A-weighted (dBA) to match human hearing. Published figures depend on distance and conditions, so treat them as typical values.