Vin Scully(Dodgers), Dick Engberg(Angels, Rams), Chick Hearn (Lakers) and Jiggs McDonald(Kings) on my 9 volt transistor radio well hidden under the covers. So well hidden that it ended up switched off and in the drawer by morning.
Breeze, rustle of leaves, sounds from birds and insects. Fan if no breeze.
Yes it can be competitive, if you don't have a science background, need experience. Many people get experience volunteering. It is a great way to get familiar with habitats and species at the same time. Volunteering is a way start networking and learning about potential employers.
Pay for basic entry level field work is low but many factors at play. Private sector generally pays better than non-profit or government. Knowing native plant and animal species and their conservation status, along with knowing invasive species and how to manage can quickly lift you above entry level. Having certifications in soil, or water quality, or CRAM will boost pay and can lead to independent consulting work. All the field data goes into reports so word processing, spreadsheet and ArcGIS skills are another boost.
After a long and lucrative IT career I got a certificate in Ecological Restoration. I now do land stewardship, monitoring and maintaining habitats. Literally outstanding in my field, or marsh, or scrubland...
After the light turns green I take a couple seconds to scan left, right, and left before pulling out. I'm looking for last second red light runners. Saved me a couple times. Yep takes a couple seconds, no won't stop doing it. Most traffic safety courses advise this behavior.