Noise pollution also has devastating effects on wildlife. Animals, such as bats, owls, whales, and dolphins depend on their acoustic surroundings to survive. Yet this is not the complete list of animals to be affected by the inclusion of excessive sounds in the ecosystem. Traffic noise elevates the heart rates of butterflies and caterpillars. The distant din of compressor stations makes it difficult for owls to locate their prey. The echo of snowmobiles causes stress hormone levels to spike in wolves and elk. And in noisy habitats, birds and frogs have adapted their calls to be heard over us. 

Underwater animals are affected the worst. The oscillating nature of sound becomes more prominent underwater. Ships, sonars, seismic tests have made the underwater environment a wavy mess. Whales and dolphins use sound to communicate, navigate, detect prey, and avoid predators, but external sound waves have exceeded their ability to echolocate. Sonar and seismic tests produce loud blasts of sound into the ocean that damage the ears of marine animals. 

There are many ways to get a handle on this problem. A study shows that using material of dampening characteristics in urban areas can help to get this problem under control. Another study suggests the use of plantations for noise reduction. It is a concept that has gained much attention around the world. Dense shrub bushes and tree barriers can help to reduce noise in urban areas. Underwater noise can be reduced by modifying propellers, performing regular maintenance, and implementing speed restrictions on shipping vessels.