Page "Reflection seismology" Paragraph 74

A study has shown that migrating humpback whales will leave a minimum 3 km gap between themselves and an operating seismic vessel, with resting humpback whale pods containing cows exhibiting increased sensitivity and leaving an increased gap of 7 – 12 km.

Conversely, the study found that male humpback whales were attracted to a single operating airgun as they were believed to have confused the low-frequency sound with that of whale breaching behaviour.

In addition to whales, sea turtles, fish and squid all showed alarm and avoidance behaviour in the presence of an approaching seismic source.

It is difficult to compare reports on the effects of seismic survey noise on marine life because methods and units are often inadequately documented.