What are some effects of noise pollution in animals?

• A. Increased reproduction and longer lifespan
• B. Improved hearing sensitivity
• C. Stress, masking of sounds used to hunt or communicate, damaged hearing, changes in migratory routes
• D. None of the above

Answer: (C)

Noise pollution affects animals by introducing loud, persistent sounds that disrupt how they live and survive. It triggers physiological stress, with elevated stress hormones that can influence health, reproduction, and immune function. It also masks important acoustic signals animals rely on to hunt, detect predators, defend territories, or communicate with mates, making it harder to hear and respond to cues in the environment. Loud noises can physically damage hearing, reducing the ability to perceive sounds over time. In addition, animals may change where they go and how they move to avoid noisy areas, which can alter migratory routes and timing in ways that affect feeding and breeding. This combination of stress, masking, hearing damage, and altered movement aligns with the observed impacts of noise pollution on animals.