How loud is a sperm whale click?
A sperm whale click is about 230 dB, with a typical range of 220–236 dB. The loudest sound made by any animal (dB re 1 µPa, underwater). About 170 dB in air terms.
Underwater sound levels use a different reference pressure (1 µPa instead of 20 µPa) and water has a much higher acoustic impedance than air, so underwater decibels are roughly 61–62 dB higher than in-air decibels for the same sound intensity. In air-equivalent terms, a sperm whale click would be around 168 dB.
How sound level changes with distance
Decibel figures always depend on distance. For a small source in open air, every doubling of distance lowers the level by about 6 dB; indoors, reflections reduce that drop. Use the sound-vs-distance calculator to estimate the level where you are.
More recordings elsewhere
- Cadborosaurus by Scpsea – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
Frequently asked questions
How many decibels is a sperm whale click?
About 230 dB, with a typical range of 220–236 dB.
Is a sperm whale click louder than a jet engine?
Underwater decibels cannot be compared directly with in-air figures like a jet engine's 140 dB.
How are these levels measured?
With a sound level meter, usually A-weighted (dBA) to match human hearing. Published figures depend on distance and conditions, so treat them as typical values.