Oldest-known whale song recording provides new insight into ocean sounds
Recording of humpback whale from 1949 could also provide new understanding of how the huge animals communicate
TL;DR
- The oldest known recording of whale song, a humpback whale's vocalization, was captured in March 1949 in Bermuda.
- The recording offers insights into the ocean's soundscape in the late 1940s, which was significantly quieter than today.
- This historical recording can help scientists understand how increased human-made noise affects whale communication.
- The sound was captured by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution scientists testing sonar systems.
- The recording was preserved on a plastic disc, which is significant as most recordings from that era were on deteriorated tape.
- Whale sounds are crucial for survival, social interaction, communication, navigation, and finding food.