Abstract
The use of fireworks has increased worldwide in recent years. Despite this, their effects on sea lions and similar species are almost undocumented. In this study, we documented some effects of the 2015 New Year’s fireworks on the behavior of South American sea lions (Otaria flavescens), a marine mammal species that utilizes coastal rookeries for breeding, resting, and care and nursing of pups. An immediate cessation of vocalizations followed the start of the fireworks and a significant decrease in the number of sea lions in the colony was registered. This provided evidence that fireworks disrupted the ongoing behavior of the South American sea lion. Further studies will be necessary to determine whether this disruption has negative consequences for these animals or whether they have evolved behavioral mechanisms for dealing with these kinds of short-term disruptive events.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
