Evaluación del impacto ecológico del dispositivo sónico Hyperspike para controlar aves en camaroneras

Abstract

The intensification of aquaculture in coastal areas has increased interactions between wildlife and productive systems, particularly with piscivorous birds that incorporate culture ponds into their regular foraging areas. In this context, this study evaluates the effectiveness of a sonic device as a non-lethal deterrent method for Nannopterum brasilianum, aiming to determine whether the application of acoustic stimuli alters the species’ use of shrimp farming ponds. The hypothesis proposed that the acoustic stimulus would reduce the presence, visitation frequency, and residence time of individuals in treated ponds without causing physical harm. The study was conducted using a before–after experimental design, combining systematic counts, behavioral observations, and the targeted application of the stimulus, following international guidelines for non-lethal wildlife management. The results showed that although no consistent reduction in presence or visitation frequency was observed in treated ponds, changes in residence time patterns did occur during stimulus application. Overall, the findings indicate that sonic devices may represent an effective tool for the non-lethal management of cormorants in aquaculture systems