SOCAL-11 Project Report

SOCAL 11 coverDuring the second year of the study, the sample size of blue whales and Risso’s dolphins increased considerably.  Researchers observed, photographed and/or tracked marine mammals from 18 different species and tagged 35 individual animals from 4 different species. Preliminary results indicate variable responses (ranging from no observable response to apparent temporary avoidance behavior), depending on species, type of sound, and behavioral state during the experiments.  Download the full report, Biological and Behavioral Response Studies of Marine Mammals in Southern California, 2011 (“SOCAL‐11”) – Final Project Report  (8 March 2012) or the SOCAL 11 project overview and objectives.