Throwing a little sci-fi into the hunting world, hunters in a small Arctic hamlet in Northern Canada have reported odd sounds they believe to be coming from the sea floor. The sound, described as either a “ping” or a “hum” by those that have heard it, is rapidly driving wildlife out of the area.
The area, approximately 75 miles northwest of Igloolik in the Canadian territory of Nunavut, is typically teeming with an abundance of sea mammals. This summer, however, local hunters are reporting that the area was lifeless and barren.
“That passage is a migratory route for bowhead whales, and also bearded seals and ringed seals. There would be so many in that particular area,” area Member of Legislative Assembly, George Qulaut told CBC News.
“This summer there was none.”
The mystifying noise, which apparently can be heard through the hulls of boats, is the root of a number of differing theories as to origination of the sound.
One such theory attempts to place the blame on mining operations in the area, the other accusing Greenpeace of deliberately placing a mechanism in the region to frighten wildlife away from local hunters.
According to CBC, no territorial work permits for activities such as construction, blasting or hydrography have been issued. Officials at Greenpeace vehemently denied any claims that they would deliberately disturb any animals or do anything that would hinder the local residents from hunting.
Left with little for explanations, the Office of the Premier of Nunavut involved the Canadian Department of National Defence (DND) to thoroughly investigate the phenomenon back in October.
“The Department of National Defence has been informed of the strange noises emanating in the Fury and Hecla Straights area, and the Canadian Armed Forces are taking the appropriate steps to actively investigate the situation,” DND spokesperson Evan Koronewski said in a statement.
“We appreciate the information provided by the Government of Nunavut and will follow up with the Premier’s Office once the investigation has concluded,” he added.
The investigation has yet to report any findings, but undoubtedly has the local residents and hunters who rely on game animals for sustenance patiently waiting for information.