Effects of Military Noise on Wildlife. A Literature Review.

Abstract

(500-word abstract for cover) Effects on wildlife of noise associated with military training activities, especially vehicle noise, artillery, small-arms and other blast noise, and helicopter noise, are reviewed, but not effects on aquatic animals and effects of fixed-wing aircraft engine noise and sonic booms. Because directly relevant studies are few, some similar non-military sources of noise are discussed. Physical (acoustic) and biological principles are briefly reviewed and traumatic, physiological, and behavioral effects are discussed in relation to population-level effects. Noise affects wildlife differently from humans and the effects of noise on wildlife vary from serious to nonexistent in different species and situations. Risk of hearing damage in wildlife is probably greater from exposure to nearby blast noise from bombs and large weapons than from long-lasting exposure to continuous noise or from muzzle blast of small arms fire. Direct physiological effects of noise on wildlife, if present, are difficult to measure in the field; telemetric measurement of physiological variables such as heart rate has met with more success technically than as an indicator of health and survival. Behavioral effects that might decrease chances of surviving and reproducing include retreat from favorable habitat near noise sources