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ArchiveLesson #183Science

Gibbons Quiet Due to Noise Pollution

Gibbons in Malaysia are singing less because of noise pollution from traffic. This affects their communication and social lives.

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Standard version (B1-B2)

Standard: natural English

Gibbons are unique animals that live in trees and are known for their beautiful songs. In Malaysia, some gibbons are not singing as much because of from nearby traffic. This their ability to communicate with each other. Gibbons use their songs to mark their and to communicate important information. When they do not sing, it can affect their social lives and relationships. The research shows that gibbons near busy roads sing less than those in quieter areas. This is a problem for their survival and well-being.

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Narration includes the headline and summary.

Adapted from The Guardian, 15 September 2026, and rewritten at three levels by Newslish. Newslish is not affiliated with the source. Read the original.

Key vocabulary

  • communication noun

    The way animals talk or share information.

    “Birds use songs for communication with their friends.”

  • disrupt verb

    To cause something to stop or break.

    “Traffic can disrupt the flow of people in the city.”

  • pollution noun

    Harmful substances in the environment.

    “Air pollution can make it hard to breathe.”

  • territory noun

    An area that an animal defends as its own.

    “Lions protect their territory from other lions.”

  • noise noun

    Sounds that can be loud or disturbing.

    “The noise from the construction made it hard to concentrate.”

Quick quiz

01Why are gibbons singing less?

02What does 'communication' mean?

03What is one reason gibbons sing?

04What is too loud for the gibbons?

Answered 0 of 4

Discussion

The gibbons are singing less because of noise pollution. How do you think this affects their communication? In your answer, use the words 'disrupt' and 'pollution'.