Anthropogenic noise pollution has become a widespread issue in the world’s oceans, affecting many marine species. Little is known of its impact on Australian fur seals, but there is some evidence that loud boat noise can disrupt normal behaviour and vocal communication, which can negatively impact health and survival. Phillip Island Nature Parks researchers in collaboration with University of Sydney and the University of Paris-Saclay are now using hydrophones to listen in to the seals underwater world and assess the impact of visiting vessels.

Listen to the latest recordings, you might be surprised! > https://bit.ly/31SHwvw

Jess Taylor is running the project for her PhD and is currently stationed on the Nobbies Boardwalks to record boats approaching Seal Rocks as part of the acoustic and visual monitoring aspect of her project. If you're visiting be sure to say hello!

Penguin Foundation donors contributed $20,000 towards this research which will ensure greater protection for Australian fur seals, improved understanding of other key marine species including cetaceans, and facilitate management of marine mammals at the local, national and global level. This project is also by the Holsworth Wildlife Research Endowment & the Ecological Society of Australia.

Wishing Jess all the best with her research and we look forward to sharing further updates!

Read more detail on this important project here.

Underwater images by Holly Baird, Kina Diving IG: @hollybaird79