Patrick Jones Approximately 150 Words
INTD 105-19
October 31, 2016
“Whisper of the Wild” Summary and Analysis
In her piece, “Whisper of the Wild”, Kim Tingley describes her expedition deep into Denali National Park in Alaska. Tingley joined Davyd Betchkal, the physical-science technician of Denali National Park, in an attempt to record the natural sounds of the area without human interference. Betchkal is one of many who believe humans are polluting nature with our constant noise. Studies have shown that many species of birds, including the great tit, have altered their songs as a result of living near humans. Many other species have not been able to adapt and are struggling to survive in such a loud world. Betchkal hopes to record the sound of nature to help preserve and protect it as we continue to grow louder.
While reading this piece, I was enthralled by Tingley’s discussion of the effect of sonar on porpoises. My family owns a small cottage on Seneca Lake, the location of a sonar test facility for the military. I’d be interested in researching more about the sound pollution this military base produces and its effect on the wildlife I’ve interacted with.
Your summary of this article was very well done. The noise pollution of military bases could be a really interesting topic to research especially because you have a personal connection to it.