Scientists trace mysterious sea thrums to humpback whales
7 reported
For the first time, scientists have recorded deep rumbling noises heard on shorelines and traced them to humpback whales, according to research presented at a conference in May. The sounds, described as thrums, have been noted by fishers, lighthouse keepers and sea kayakers for centuries. Researchers from the Alaska Whale Foundation set up land-based microphones after receiving tips from Alaskan coastal communities. Along with previously documented whale sounds, the team recorded very low frequency rumbles and new noises including pizzle, howl and hooting. The thrums traveled through the air and could be heard up to 6 miles away. The findings were presented at the Astrobiology Science Conference in Madison, Wisconsin, on 18 May.
What’s reported
Scientists recorded deep rumbling noises from shorelines and traced them to humpback whales for the first time.
The sounds have been noted by fishers, lighthouse keepers and sea kayakers for centuries.
Fred Sharpe from the Alaska Whale Foundation led the research with land-based microphones.
Tip-offs from Alaskan coastal communities helped identify recording locations.
New sounds recorded include pizzle, howl and hooting noises, in addition to previously documented trumpets, blows and shrieks.
The thrums could be heard up to 6 miles (10km) away through the air.
Sharpe presented the findings at the Astrobiology Science Conference in Madison, Wisconsin, on 18 May.
Key figures
Fred Sharpe, researcher from the Alaska Whale Foundation
Sources: The Guardian
