Story perspectives

Study Reveals Hydrophones Disrupt Narwhal Behavior in Greenland

11/13/2025

41 10

Summary

Story summary

Greenland researchers recorded 247 incidents of narwhals hitting hydrophones over a two-year study, challenging the view that passive acoustic monitoring is non-invasive.
The study, published in Communications Biology, involved collaboration with local Inughuit hunters and found narwhals primarily consume cod.
The findings raise concerns about the equipment's impact on narwhal behavior, suggesting devices may attract rather than deter.
Researchers recommend using shorter mooring lines to minimize potential disturbances.

1 of 1

Story summary

Greenland researchers recorded 247 incidents of narwhals hitting hydrophones over a two-year study, challenging the view that passive acoustic monitoring is non-invasive.
The study, published in Communications Biology, involved collaboration with local Inughuit hunters and found narwhals primarily consume cod.
The findings raise concerns about the equipment's impact on narwhal behavior, suggesting devices may attract rather than deter.
Researchers recommend using shorter mooring lines to minimize potential disturbances.