seismic exploration and prairie dogs

[Erin Robertson <>]

I'm trying to assess potential impacts of seismic exploration on the
 white-tailed prairie dog.  I have good information on the white-tailed's
 hearing range and sensitivity, and minimal info on noise produced during
 terrestrial seismic exploration.  Seismic exploration affects prairie dogs
 because of the habitat degradation that accompanies it, but I'm trying to
 determine whether it also may damage prairie dog hearing, elicit stress
 responses, or disturb prairie dogs that are hibernating.
 
 Noise/hearing reaserch is not my area of expertise, so I'd very much
 appreciate any input list members may be able to provide on:
 1.  noise/sounds associated with terrestrial seismic exploration
 2.  noise/sounds that cause hearing damage
 3.  noise/sounds that elicit stress responses
 4.  noise/sounds that disturb torpor
 
 Thanks for your assistance!
 Erin
 
 .............................
 Erin Robertson
 Staff Biologist
 Center for Native Ecosystems
 2260 Baseline Road, Suite 205B
 Boulder, CO 80302
 303.546.0214
 303.546.9922(fax)
 www.nativeecosystems.org