Reducing vessel noise increases foraging in endangered killer whales

• DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112976
• Publication Date: 2021-09-23T11:07:27Z
• Authors: Rob Williams; Erin Ashe; Laurel Yruretagoyena; Natalie Mastick; Margaret Siple; Jason Wood; Ruth Joy; Roland Langrock; Sina Mews; Emily Finne
• Keywords: 0106 biological sciences; Salmon; Animals; Whale, Killer; 14. Life underwater; Noise; 01 natural sciences; Ecosystem; Ships

Disturbance from underwater noise is one of the primary threats to critically endangered southern resident killer whales (SRKWs). Previous studies have demonstrated that SRKWs spend less time feeding when vessels are present. In 2018, we measured effects a voluntary vessel slowdown action in SRKW critical habitat assess whether ship speed (and related source level) affects foraging behaviour. Observations and ships were collected land-based sites on San Juan Island, WA, USA, overlooking Haro Strait slow-down area. Exploratory analyses found little support for linear relationship between behaviour, but strong received level probability engaging activity. Reducing speed, therefore amplitude will help decrease disrupting activity may increase proportion accessible salmon.