Wildlife Welfare

Sound Pollution and Wildlife Welfare

Anthropogenic noise pollution affects wildlife across terrestrial and aquatic environments, disrupting communication, hunting, and stress levels.

Key Facts

Ocean noise from shipping has increased ambient levels by 32 decibels since the 1960s
Whales and dolphins rely on sound for navigation, communication, and hunting
Traffic noise causes chronic stress hormones in woodland birds
Urban noise causes blackbirds to sing at higher pitches to be heard
Military sonar exercises have been linked to mass cetacean strandings

Welfare Considerations

Sound pollution is an invisible stressor affecting billions of wild animals. Chronic noise exposure elevates stress hormones, impairs communication, disrupts predator detection, and reduces foraging success. Marine mammals are particularly vulnerable due to their dependence on acoustic communication and echolocation. Noise pollution mitigation requires policy action across transport, industry, and military sectors.

What You Can Do

Advocate for noise pollution regulations to include wildlife impact assessment
Support campaigns for quieter shipping and aviation standards
Reduce unnecessary noise near wildlife areas and during sensitive periods
Support organizations campaigning for military sonar restrictions in cetacean habitats