“Underwater Sound” – Presentation by Tom Dakin

Tom Dakin, Ph.D., the Chief Scientist for Sea to Shore Systems Ltd., gave an excellent presentation at the last Council meeting on underwater sound, explaining how marine animals use sound for communication, navigation, finding food, and other vital functions, and how human-made noise impacts marine life.

Marine animals use sound for communication, navigation, finding food, attracting mates, defending territory, and stunning prey. Tom played audio recordings of various marine animals including Pacific white-sided dolphins, sperm whales, humpback whales, resident orcas, and transient orcas. Tom explained how human-made noise, particularly from shipping and recreational boating, can mask animal sounds and disrupt their ability to communicate and hunt.

The difference between the quietest and noisiest vessels can be 25,000 times in sound intensity. Targeting the noisiest vessels can therefore significantly improve the underwater soundscape.

The presentation without the sound bites is here. For the complete presentation including the sound samples, use this link.

Thanks, Tom, for giving us this great insight!