Human-made noise in Salish Sea disrupts orca hunting, particularly for endangered southern residents, with lowered vessel speeds proposed to help.
A University of Washington study reveals that human-made noise in the Salish Sea disrupts the hunting abilities of northern and southern resident orcas. Increased noise from ships and other activities forces orcas to expend more energy searching for prey, particularly impacting the endangered southern resident population. The researchers suggest that reducing vessel speeds could create quieter waters, enhancing the orcas' ability to hunt and aiding in their recovery.
September 10, 2024
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