Wind Noise Shapes Humpback Song Intensity and Structure
Researchers have found that loud winds cause humpback whales to sing with greater intensity, a phenomenon distinct from how boats generate sound. This insight comes from a study conducted at the University of Queensland.
During late 2010, data were gathered as humpback whales traveled southward from their breeding habitats in the Great Barrier Reef lagoon toward Antarctic feeding grounds off the Peregian Coast in Queensland. The investigation used a network of five hydrophone buoys deployed in the ocean to capture underwater signals, with transmissions directed to shore for analysis. To simulate ship noise, a 19-foot fishing boat played a role in reproducing the sonic character of maritime engines.
The findings reveal that whales adjust the tonal qualities of their songs in response to wind-generated ambient noise. Remarkably, the overall volume of their songs remained stable even when wind-like sounds were produced by a vessel. In whale communication, song represents the primary channel for interaction, and complex vocal patterns appear to be crucial for mating strategies and social exchange.
According to the researchers, humpback whales have evolved over millions of years to cope with natural noise sources. The introduction of artificial noise from ships, however, presents an unfamiliar challenge to their auditory system. Scientists noted that engine noise occupies a similar frequency range to wind noise, making the whales’ adaptation to wind sounds particularly surprising.
The team hopes this work will inform measures to mitigate the impact of human activity on marine wildlife and their acoustic environment. By understanding how wind and ships influence whale vocal behavior, policymakers and stakeholders can better evaluate noise management options at sea and in coastal regions, supporting healthier ecosystems for these migratory mammals.
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