Assessment of the impact of anthropogenic airborne noise on the behaviour of Cape fur seals during the breeding season in Namibia

The increase of anthropogenic noise in the environment is a global phenomenon occurring various types habitats. Its impact on wildlife therefore growing research concern for many taxa. Due to their amphibious lifestyle, pinnipeds are exposed both aquatic and terrestrial environments. Using playback experiments, present study assessed engine (car boat) behaviour Cape fur seals at Pelican Point breeding colony, Namibia. Groups individuals (35 groups, 369 individuals) were either low, medium or high amplitude levels in-air noise, broadcast from land sea side. During exposure, we found significant energetically costly behaviours: time spent awake, vigilance locomotion females pups. This was detriment vital activities such as resting nursing that decreased considerably (from 5.9 45% decrease) compared pre-playback phase without exposure. Animals' behavioural disturbance limited 2-min period exposure observed rapid recovery when ceased. We stronger responses boat motor side car land. Noise pollution vehicles boats vicinity seal colonies may threaten health survival young by modifying natural behaviour. It important develop regulations (speed, distance) these areas with increasing tourist recreational limit disturbance.