The effect of simulated seal scarer sounds on seals

Seal scarers are used to deter seals from fishing gear, but also at underwater construction sites, in order to protect the seals against potentially injuring noise exposure. A study on the effectiveness of seal scarers was conducted on Anholt. Seals were exposed to seal scarer sounds at reduced sound pressure levels. Contradictory to expectations, results show that seals were observed closer to the loudspeaker when sound was played, compared to baseline and significantly more seals were observed just after sound was played compared to just before. Hence, the reduced sound source appeared to attract the seals instead of deterring them.