Noises Disrupting Patterns of Whales and Dolphins
This is an interesting story about how global warming along with increased noise pollution by ships could be damaging to whales and dolphins. They both use sounds to be able to orient themselves and find mates. There are several factors contributing to this trend including:
- Global Warming: The warmer the water temperatures allow for sounds to travel further.
- Commercial Shipping: An increase in shipping generates additional sounds.
- Military Advancements: Sonar and seismic technologies have increased causing confusion in animals.
Not only are the increased number of ships on sea hurting the animals, but this indirect threat could really be a major factor in making already endangered species of whales and dolphins more scarce. The U.N. wildlife conference in Rome took place Wednesday to discuss these various dangers that are taking place and ways to mitigate the increased noise pollution in our seas. Many species are losing touch with each other along with whales are ending up on beaches because they are confused on where they are at. This is an interesting statistic about blue whales that they found:
A study by her group found that the blue whale, which used to communicate across entire oceans, has lost 90 percent of its range over the last 40 years.
Hopefully measures can be taken to protect these beautiful creatures of the oceans so that they are around for generations to come.
No comments yet.