For those in the group with a handy hydrophone, tie it around the trunk of
a tree where woodpeckers are present and record. The resonance of the sound
is usually spectacular and different from what you will get with simple
mics. Because of its (generally) great sensitivity, you'll also hear
scampering of squirrels, and even some insects as their vibrations are
transmitted through the medium.
I also use the hydrophone to demonstrate the effect of human noise - esp.
footsteps - around ponds where there are amphibians or reptiles. Clients on
our field trips often ask how it is that turtles and other creatures sense
when humans are approaching. We drop a h-phone into the environment and ask
folks to stand back about 100 yds, then walk toward to pond. The vu meter
on the recorder will begin to jump in sync with the steps immediately.
Hydrophones are also useful for recording in air - particularly infrasound
- when no other technology is available.
A really good one can be got through Off-Shore Acoustics (Beverly Ford),
5454 Indian River Dr., N. Vancouver, BC, V7G - 1L3, 604-929-0440,
Cost: around $350USD.
Bernie Krause
Wild Sanctuary, Inc.
P. O. Box 536
Glen Ellen, California 95442-0536
Tel: (707) 996-6677
Fax: (707) 996-0280
http://www.wildsanctuary.com
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