Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/11681/19992
Title: Effects of military noise on wildlife : a literature review
Authors: United States. Department of the Army. Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations and Plans
Larkin, Ronald P.
Pater, Larry L. (Larry Lamann), 1944-
Tazik, David J.
Keywords: Military training
Helicopter noise
Wildlife
Blast noise
Publisher: Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (U.S.)
Engineer Research and Development Center (U.S.)
Description: Technical report
Abstract: Assessing and mitigating impacts of military training on threatened and endangered species (I'ES) is a high priority for the Army. Noise is one impact of concern that is not understood very well. This literature review looks at research on the effects on wildlife of noise associated with military training, especially vehicle noise, artillery, small arms and other blast noise, and helicopter noise. Physical (acoustic) and biological principles are briefly reviewed and traumatic, physiological, behavioral, and population-level effects are discussed. Direct physiological effects of noise on wildlife are difficult to measure and although the processes are technically successful, they do not indicate the individual's health or chances of survival. Behavioral effects that might decrease chances of surviving and reproducing include retreat from favorable habitat near noise sources and reduction of time spent feeding, with resulting energy depletion. The literature contains a preponderance of small, disconnected, anecdotal or correlational studies as opposed to coherent programs of controlled experiments. Future research should stress quantification of exposure of subjects to noise, experimental approaches such as broadcasting accurate recordings of sounds, and observer effects.
Rights: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
URI: http://hdl.handle.net/11681/19992
Appears in Collections:Technical Report

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