Research Links Low Rumbles Near Alaska Lighthouse to Humpback Whales

New research has identified humpback whale vocalizations as the source of low-frequency rumbles reported for generations near the Five Finger Lighthouse in Frederick Sound, southeast Alaska. The investigation was led by Fred Sharpe, a biologist at the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence Institute.

Whale-generated sounds fall within the 30-to-300 hertz range and can travel up to five miles, matching the characteristics of the previously unexplained noises.

Sharpe described the sounds as resembling distant thunder, an elephant's rumble, or industrial machinery. From greater distances, the noises take on a more mechanical quality, he noted. The precise reason why the whales produce these sounds remains unknown.

The identification could help marine conservation efforts by improving tracking of humpback populations and reducing collisions with shipping vessels.

Sharpe previously participated in research that recorded a 20-minute interaction between researchers and a 38-year-old humpback whale named Twain. Dr Brenda McCowan of UC Davis led that study, which showed the whale adjusting its responses to match a recorded greeting call.

Dr Sharpe told The Times that the failure to recognize these whale sounds for decades raises questions about detecting signals from extraterrestrial sources.