Are We Damaging the Hearing of Whales?

Researchers at the Norwegian Defense Research Establishment are exploring ways to measure hearing levels in baleen whales. They aim to examine potential issues stemming from noise generated by underwater mining, oil drilling, and ship traffic.

Although some information is known about the high-frequency hearing of captive dolphins and orcas, little is known about larger baleen whales. They planned to measure hearing using auditory brainstem response testing.

In June, the researchers were able to get a baleen whale into a net, which was incredibly challenging given their weight and difficulties above water. Unfortunately, they were unable to conduct the experiment due to the whale’s health, which was of concern due to the whale’s paralysis likely caused by a diving reflex. They will continue to attempt the experiment next summer by using a slower approach to catching the whale.

Reference

Hagel S. (2022) How to measure a whale’s hearing. Sciencenorway.no. August 8 (accessed August 10, 2022).