Scientists believe some whales flee from sonar

Image
AP San Diego
Last Updated : Dec 16 2013 | 1:41 AM IST
The Navy plans to increase sonar testing in US waters over the next five years even as studies it funded reveal worrying signs that the loud underwater noise could disturb whales and dolphins.
Reported mass strandings of certain whale species have risen worldwide since the military started using sonar half a century ago. Biologists also are concerned that marine mammals may suffer stress from changes in diving, feeding and communication.
Studies so far have involved a small group of tagged animals, and it's unclear how changes in behaviour would affect populations.
For the first time, researchers coordinating with the Navy are conducting experiments using mid-frequency active sonar transmissions from ships. Last summer, the team tagged six whales and dolphins off the Southern California coast. Results are still being analysed.
*Subscribe to Business Standard digital and get complimentary access to The New York Times

Smart Quarterly

₹900

3 Months

₹300/Month

SAVE 25%

Smart Essential

₹2,700

1 Year

₹225/Month

SAVE 46%
*Complimentary New York Times access for the 2nd year will be given after 12 months

Super Saver

₹3,900

2 Years

₹162/Month

Subscribe

Renews automatically, cancel anytime

Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans

Exclusive premium stories online

  • Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors

Complimentary Access to The New York Times

  • News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic

Business Standard Epaper

  • Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share

Curated Newsletters

  • Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox

Market Analysis & Investment Insights

  • In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor

Archives

  • Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997

Ad-free Reading

  • Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements

Seamless Access Across All Devices

  • Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app

More From This Section

First Published: Dec 16 2013 | 1:41 AM IST

Next Story