From pkuhn at accesswave.ca Thu Mar 1 12:21:02 2012 From: pkuhn at accesswave.ca (Penny Kuhn) Date: Thu, 01 Mar 2012 16:21:02 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] CALL FOR PAPERS in ESR- "Techniques for Reducing Bycatch of Marine Mammals in Gillnets" Message-ID: <91A0FC35-7F70-40D7-AB0F-613F89E1D1F1@accesswave.ca> CALL FOR PAPERS for a special THEME SECTION in Endangered Species Research on "Techniques for Reducing Bycatch of Marine Mammals in Gillnets" http://www.int-res.com/journals/esr/esr-specials/techniques-for-reducing-bycatch-of-marine-mammals-in-gillnets/ Gillnetting yields one of the highest portions of total fisheries catch worldwide and is a prevalent fishing method among the thousands of small-scale and localized fisheries in developing countries; where the annual catch can exceed that of the larger-scale industrialized commercial sector. Bycatch in gillnets often results in high collateral mortality of non-target marine species and is a major threat to many endangered marine mammals. For species such as the Gulf of California porpoise (or vaquita, Phocoena sinus), it is the most immediate threat to species recovery, or indeed continued existence. This Theme Section of ESR features papers that evaluate various techniques for reducing marine mammal bycatch in gillnets, including acoustic deterrents, non-acoustic gear deterrents (such as modifications to gillnet material), time-area closures, and gear switching (for example, from gillnets to hook-and-line). It assembles papers presented at the International Marine Mammal-Gillnet Bycatch Mitigation Workshop, convened in October of 2011 (see http://bycatch.org/marine_mammal_gillnet_bycatch). Other relevant manuscripts are welcome, please contact Tim Werner. Submission deadline: June 1, 2012 Editorial Team for the Theme Section: Dr. Simon Northridge, University of St. Andrews (Guest Editor); Dr. William Perrin, NOAA (Guest Editor); Dr. Andy Read, Duke University; Dr. Randall Reeves, Okapi Associates (Guest Editor); Tim Werner, New England Aquarium (Guest and Contact Editor; twerner at neaq.org) -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From a.kavanagh1 at uq.edu.au Sun Mar 4 16:48:05 2012 From: a.kavanagh1 at uq.edu.au (Ailbhe Kavanagh) Date: Mon, 5 Mar 2012 10:48:05 +1000 Subject: [MARMAM] Australian/New Zealand Student Chapter of the Society for Marine Mammology - Membership Form Message-ID: <0436A49DB5C9E448BC52A2CD7BE2F61C0647B781A1@UQEXMB08.soe.uq.edu.au> We are pleased to announce that the official membership registration form for the Australian/New Zealand Student Chapter of the Society for Marine Mammology is now available on the chapter page of the SMM website. To join the chapter and receive information on chapter related activities please fill in the membership registration form and send it to anzscsmm at gmail.com. Membership is available to all Australian and New Zealand tertiary students and membership is free. Thanks, Chapter Committee Ailbhe Kavanagh BSc Msc (PhD Candidate) Cetacean Ecology and Acoustics Laboratory, The School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Gatton Campus, QLD 4343, Australia. Tel: (07) 54601877 Mob: 0450401590 Email: a.kavanagh1 at uq.edu.au WebSite: www.uq.edu.au/whale/ceal -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From ctaylor at sea2shore.org Fri Mar 2 12:05:52 2012 From: ctaylor at sea2shore.org (Cynthia Taylor) Date: Fri, 2 Mar 2012 15:05:52 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] REQUEST FOR ARTICLES - SIRENEWS Message-ID: <003801ccf8af$dff8ede0$9feac9a0$@org> The editors of Sirenews, the newsletter of the IUCN Sirenia Specialist Group, would like to request articles for the upcoming edition. Updates on manatee and dugong research, management, education, and conservation activities from around the world are encouraged. The deadline for submissions is APRIL 1, 2012. Please submit articles to ctaylor at sea2shore.org. Thank you - Cynthia Taylor and James Powell Sea to Shore Alliance Cynthia R. Taylor Research Scientist Sea to Shore Alliance 941-232-4587 ctaylor at sea2shore.org www.sea2shore.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From Kirsten at dolphins.org Fri Mar 2 10:00:52 2012 From: Kirsten at dolphins.org (Kirsten Donald) Date: Fri, 2 Mar 2012 13:00:52 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] job opening Message-ID: Please pass along to anyone who might be interested-thank you!! Librarian/Library Resources Coordinator (Full-Time) Responsibilities: Dolphin Research Center (DRC) is seeking an enthusiastic individual with a bachelor's degree in library/information sciences/studies to head our collegiate library. This position will be responsible for maintaining and updating the organization's library, which includes books, electronic and hard copy journal publications, educational and research documents, audiovisual, and other materials. The librarian will also be responsible for assisting our scientists, faculty and college students with literature searches and information composition as well as the use of library information resources, rules and services. Qualifications: Qualified individuals will not only hold a minimum of a bachelor's degree in library/information sciences/studies, but also be familiar with current trends in library practices, technologies and procedures. The successful candidate will be outgoing, love helping people succeed, have a passion to share their knowledge with our staff and students and be excited about DRC and our family of dolphins and sea lions. Essential traits for employment include the ability to be responsible, organized, motivated, self-directed and an excellent "team player". Flexibility in the work environment and in job responsibilities is a must as this position will include other administrative responsibilities that support the corporation. Benefits: DRC currently offers medical benefits, life and disability insurance plan, a 401(k) retirement plan, flexible spending accounts, employee assistance program, paid holidays, vacation, sick, and overtime, as well as personal growth and training opportunities. DRC seeks to provide for the well being of its employees and our salary combined with our generous benefits creates a competitive total package that is right for our environment. If you are interested, please send your resume and completed application by email to drc-hr at dolphins.org or fax them to the Human Resources Director at (305) 289-8902. You may also mail them to Dolphin Research Center, Human Resources Director, 58901 Overseas Highway, Grassy Key, FL 33050 Dolphin Research Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Kirsten Donald Director of Education Dolphin Research Center Check out our live webcam! Dolphin Research Center . . . More than 25 years of Teaching, Learning, Caring for Marine Mammals and the Environment. P Please consider the Environment before printing this email "The creatures that inhabit this earth, be they human beings or animals, are here to contribute, each in its own particular way, to the beauty and prosperity of the world" -Dalai Lama -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From Suzann_Speckman at fws.gov Mon Mar 5 15:09:28 2012 From: Suzann_Speckman at fws.gov (Suzann_Speckman at fws.gov) Date: Mon, 5 Mar 2012 14:09:28 -0900 Subject: [MARMAM] USFWS job opening: Sea otter program lead Message-ID: The US Fish and Wildlife Service is looking for a Supervisory Wildlife Biologist to serve as branch chief for the Alaska Region's Northern Sea Otter program. The position offers the opportunity to oversee investigations related to otter management and harvest monitoring; to work collaboratively with a diverse group of partners on strategies for addressing priority issues; and to effectively lead a small but dedicated team of staff and volunteers. For additional information about the sea otter program and the Marine Mammals Management office, check out http://alaska.fws.gov/fisheries/mmm/index.htm. When you are not doing good for the environment, you can be outside enjoying it. Anchorage prides itself on being an all-season gateway to adventure and natural beauty. More information about the city and its environs can be found at http://www.muni.org/homepage/index.cfm The salary range for this position is $89,370-116,180 (GS-13) depending upon experience and educational background. In addition, the selectee will benefit from Alaska's cost of living allowance (COLA). COLA is not subject to Federal taxes and there are no income or sales taxes in Alaska. To view the vacancy announcement and apply, go through USAJOBS at http://www.usajobs.gov/ or use one of the links below: For former/current federal employees ("merit promotion"): R7-12-619280-JG For applicants without federal experience ("DEU"): R7-12-619713-JG The application process closes on 12 March 2012. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From mel at mcs.st-andrews.ac.uk Tue Mar 6 03:00:47 2012 From: mel at mcs.st-andrews.ac.uk (Mike Lonergan) Date: Tue, 06 Mar 2012 11:00:47 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Follow up paper on comparing PBR to other management approaches for marine mammals Message-ID: <4F55EE5F.2060702@mcs.st-andrews.ac.uk> Hi, The following paper has just reached the corrected proof/online early stage in its publication: Lonergan, M. "The targets of management rules for marine mammal populations require justification: a reply to Cooke et al. (2012)" Marine Policy (in press). http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.marpol.2012.02.010 (on the Marine Policy website at: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0308597X12000176 ) Abstract: The management of anthropogenic impacts on marine mammal populations involves the setting of targets that are built on assumptions and choices. Scientific methods can be used to investigate the implications of management actions, but the choice of overall objectives and priorities lies outside science. A recent paper (/Potential biological removal and other currently used management rules for marine mammal populations/: /A comparison/ in /Marine Policy/), summarised the characteristics of the main approaches currently used to set conservation management targets for marine mammal populations in order to provide a basis for discussion of the targets they contain. Cooke et al. (/Management rules for marine mammal populations/: /A response to Lonergan/ in /Marine Policy/) responded, giving some important additional information about these management rules. However most of that paper's criticisms were incorrect or misplaced. Specifically, it erroneously treated an example of how PBR could be reworked, to make its abundance explicit, as a proposal to ignore uncertainty in managing populations. This paper addresses Cooke's main criticisms, and suggests that explicit justifications should be an important part of the process of setting targets for the management of marine mammal populations. The paper is a reply to: Cooke J, Leaper R,Wade P, Lavigne D, Taylor B. Management rules for marine mammal populations: a response to Lonergan. Mar. Policy 2012; 36:389?92. which in turn was a critical response to: Lonergan, M. "Potential biological removal and other currently used management rules for marine mammal populations: A comparison." Mar. Policy 2011; 35:584?9. I am happy to send pdfs of my papers. Russell Leaper (r.c.leaper "at" abdn.ac.uk ) is listed as corresponding author on Cooke et al. Regards, Mike. -- Mike Lonergan NERC Sea Mammal Research Unit, Scottish Oceans Institute, University of St Andrews ________________________________________________________________________________ "The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland : No SC013532" From koopmanh at uncw.edu Tue Mar 6 06:22:31 2012 From: koopmanh at uncw.edu (Koopman, Heather) Date: Tue, 6 Mar 2012 09:22:31 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] seeking two graduate students to work on animal adipose tissues Message-ID: <4A253FCB6DFF3547AE8CBA22F39122EE80D27275E5@uncwexmb2.dcs.uncw.edu> March 5 2012 - seeking two graduate students in the Koopman/Westgate lab at UNCW PhD student - nitrogen solubility in tissues of vertebrates We are seeking a PhD student to work on a project which will be funded by ONR to examine nitrogen solubility and vascular density in the adipose tissues of vertebrates, from a comparative perspective. Our preliminary work has shown that in marine mammals, species with high wax ester content in their blubber tend to exhibit higher nitrogen solubility. This project will examine tissue from other divers (seabirds, turtles) as well as animals used as diving models (pigs, sheep - and humans). This student will need to be proficient with delicate lab instruments, tissue sampling and gas chromatography; in addition this project will have a significant histological component. UNCW's PhD program in Marine Biology is described here: http://uncw.edu/bio/grad-phd.html. Completion of a M.Sc. (or equivalent) in biology or chemistry, and a strong background in chemistry (major, minor) are required. MSc student - nitrogen solubility in the acoustic tissues of toothed whales This project will build on the preliminary data described above, examining how nitrogen solubility and vascular density in the specialized acoustic fats (melon and mandibular fats) of dolphins and porpoises compare with that of their blubber. This will be a lab-based study, involving lipid extraction, gas measurements and histology. UNCW's MSc programs in Biology/Marine Biology are described here: http://uncw.edu/bio/grad-ms.html Experience with marine mammals and tissue sampling strongly preferred. Completion of a B.Sc. in Biology or Chemistry, and a strong background in chemistry, are required. Please contact Dr. Heather Koopman koopmanh at uncw.edu if you are interested - and attach a CV to your email. Be sure that you understand that both of these will be almost exclusively lab-based projects, with little to no field work. We will consider applications until June 1st 2012. Heather Koopman, Ph.D. Associate Professor Biology & Marine Biology University of North Carolina Wilmington 601 S. College Road Wilmington, NC U.S.A. 28403 Telephone: (910) 962-7199 Fax: 910-962-4066 Email: koopmanh at uncw.edu NOTICE: Emails sent and received in the course of university business are subject to the North Carolina Public Records Act (N.C.G.S. ?132-1 et seq.) and may be released to the public unless an exception applies. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From gonzalez.socoloske at duke.edu Tue Mar 6 11:50:12 2012 From: gonzalez.socoloske at duke.edu (Daniel Gonzalez) Date: Tue, 6 Mar 2012 19:50:12 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication Message-ID: Dear Marmamers, We are happy to announce the publication of the following review article: Gonzalez-Socoloske, D. & Olivera-Gomez, L.D. (2012). Gentle giants in dark waters: Using side-scan sonar for manatee research. The Open Remote Sensing Journal 5:1-14. Available online at: http://www.benthamscience.com/open/tormsj/articles/V005/1TORMSJ.pdf Abstract: Manatees are tropical marine mammals that live in a wide variety of aquatic habitats ranging from coastal marine areas to freshwater lakes and rivers located hundreds of kilometers inland. All manatee species are currently characterized as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), primarily due to anthropogenic causes (i.e. poaching, habitat destruction, pollution, collisions with boats) and all of the environments they live in present challenges to biologists and wildlife managers. Tropical freshwater systems are especially difficult to work in because they are generally tannin-stained or turbid and water clarity is very restricted. Locating manatees and observing their behavior in these environments is extremely difficult and is a major limiting factor in determining population parameters. We summarize the use of sonar technology as an aid to detect and study manatees in these freshwater systems. First, by a summary of what has been attempted before our efforts, followed by presenting the various ways we have used this technology in the past 6 years to 1) detect manatees, 2) characterize manatee habitat in ways that would not be possible otherwise, 3) identify mother-calf pairs, and 4) assist in manatee captures. Finally, we discuss the advantages and limitations of using this technology for manatee conservation and research and present directions in which we believe future work can be directed, such as the determination of manatee abundance via distance sampling surveys using sidescan sonar and the use of one of the latest developments in acoustic technology, dual-frequency identification sonar. ------------------------------------------- Regards, Daniel Gonzalez-Socoloske PhD Candidate University Program in Ecology Duke University, Durham, NC 27708 Email: dg52 at duke.edu ------------------------------------------- -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From ehartel at hboi.fau.edu Wed Mar 7 10:19:57 2012 From: ehartel at hboi.fau.edu (Elizabeth Hartel) Date: Wed, 7 Mar 2012 18:19:57 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New Internship Opportunities at Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute! Message-ID: Voluntary Research Positions at HBOI Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute at Florida Atlantic University is now accepting applications for two voluntary research positions in the Population Biology and Behavioral Ecology (PBBE) Program. Successful applicants will participate in marine mammal photo-identification including data entry, database management, image analysis, field work, and potentially GIS mapping work. Positions are available throughout the year with 3 sessions: ? mid January - mid May ? mid May - mid August ? mid August - mid December There is some flexibility with the above dates. If applying for the upcoming 2012 summer session, preference will be given to those interested in starting early (i.e. before May). Please submit application materials with as much notice as possible, preferably at least one month prior to your desired session start date. If interested in participating for a longer duration, it may be possible to combine two of the above sessions. Volunteers will be expected to commit to a minimum of 30 hours per week, excluding University recognized holidays. Harbor Branch is located in Fort Pierce, FL, adjacent to the Indian River Lagoon. The PBBE program conducts boat-based photo-ID surveys of Western North Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in estuarine waters of Eastern Florida. We investigate multiple aspects of dolphin population biology, foraging ecology and social organization, including temporal and spatial aspects of abundance and distribution. Voluntary Researchers will primarily focus on data entry, database management, image analysis, and some photo-ID field work. These are unpaid positions, but this is an excellent opportunity to gain experience with marine mammal research and image analysis. Participants will be under the supervision of experienced dolphin researchers and will learn many valuable skills. If students intend to receive university credit for their participation, they are responsible for making all arrangements with their educational institution. Participants are also responsible for their own living arrangements and expenses. Ideal candidates will be advanced undergraduates or recent graduates of a university program in marine science, biology, ecology, or a related field. We are seeking applicants with a strong work ethic, a mature attitude towards marine mammal research, and preferably prior marine mammal experience. As these are unpaid positions, applicants must fill out the Volunteer Application found at http://www.fau.edu/hboi/Donate.php (scroll down to "Donate Your Time" and click on Volunteer Application). To apply, please send a r?sum? and cover letter with the completed Volunteer Application to Cathy Rossmell at crossmel at fau.edu. Please indicate PBBE- Photo-ID as your area of interest on the application. Please include the session(s) and/or dates you are applying for in your cover letter. Florida Atlantic University is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access Employer and is committed to the diversity of its workforce. [Description: 2010LogowithtaglinePMS877(metallic silver)][Description: PBBE] ____ Liz Hartel Biological Scientist Population Biology and Behavioral Ecology Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute - FAU 5600 US 1 North, Fort Pierce, FL 34946 work: (772) 242-2238 cell: (772) 216-4363 www.hboi.fau.edu -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 66073 bytes Desc: image001.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image003.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 161330 bytes Desc: image003.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image005.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 2921 bytes Desc: image005.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image006.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 2108 bytes Desc: image006.jpg URL: From =?utf-8?B?TcOzbmljYSBDb3JkZWlybyBkZSBBbG1laWRhIGUgU2ls?= Wed Mar 7 02:46:36 2012 From: =?utf-8?B?TcOzbmljYSBDb3JkZWlybyBkZSBBbG1laWRhIGUgU2ls?= (=?utf-8?B?TcOzbmljYSBDb3JkZWlybyBkZSBBbG1laWRhIGUgU2ls?=) Date: Wed, 7 Mar 2012 09:46:36 -0100 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication Message-ID: Dear Marmamers, We are pleased to announce the publication of the following article: Silva, M.A.; Prieto, R.; Magalh?es, S.; Seabra, M.I.; Machete, M. & Hammond, P.S. 2012. Incorporating information on bottlenose dolphin distribution into marine protected area design. Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems, 22: 122-133. Available online at: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/aqc.1243/pdf ABSTRACT 1. The steady growth of the whale-watching activities in the Azores and its concentration in a small area that partly overlaps the home range of a resident group of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) was one of the driving forces to proposing part of the range of this group as a marine protected area (MPA). 2. Six years of data collected during boat surveys were used to investigate how dolphins used the candidate MPA (cMPA) and whether they showed any preference for the cMPA over adjacent areas. This work also estimated the fraction of the resident individuals and group's range included in the cMPA and examined whether there were any temporal changes in its use. 3. Mean daily encounter rate of bottlenose dolphins was higher inside than outside the cMPA. Dolphin sightings inside the cMPA were nearly double what was predicted by the survey effort. Dolphins used the cMPA with similar intensity throughout the years. 4. Resident dolphins were frequently sighted in the cMPA. However, less than 20% of the known range (650?km2) and 41% (39?km2) of the core area of the group lay within the cMPA. The reliability in the use of the cMPA over a 6-year period suggests its importance for the dolphin population remained relatively stable but its surface area was clearly insufficient to satisfy the spatial requirements of the resident group. 5. Based on these findings, it was proposed to the Regional Government of the Azores to extend the boundaries of the cMPA. Accordingly, the modified protected area established in 2008 includes 100% of the core area of the resident group of bottlenose dolphins. This study provides an example of how information on cetacean habitat-use patterns may be used to design ecologically meaningful protected areas for this group. Regards, M?nica M?nica Almeida e Silva Post Doctoral Fellow ------------------------------------------------------------------- Centro do IMAR da Universidade dos A?ores Departamento de Oceanografia e Pescas 9901-862 Horta, Portugal Tel: (351) 292207800 Fax: (351) 292207811 E-mail: monica at uac.pt http://www.horta.uac.pt/projectos/cetamarh/ http://www.portulano.org/wkit/index.html ---------------------------------------------------------------- Biology Department, MS#33 Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA E-mail: msilva at whoi.edu http://www.whoi.edu/ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From sandro.mazzariol at unipd.it Wed Mar 7 09:06:32 2012 From: sandro.mazzariol at unipd.it (Sandro Mazzariol) Date: Wed, 07 Mar 2012 18:06:32 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] New paper on DMV and Toxoplasma gondii infection in a fin whale (Balenoptera physalus) Message-ID: <4F579598.4030201@unipd.it> Dear collegues, we're pleased to announce the following recent publication in BMC Veterinary Research reguarding the first case of co-infection of Dolphin Morbillivirus and Toxoplasma gondii in a Mediterranean fin whale (Balenoptera physalus) stranded on January 26th, 2011 along Tuscany coastline (Italy). Another fin whale positive to morbillivirus stranded in october 2011 in Sardinia. *Mazzariol*S.,***Marcer*F.,*Mignone*W.,*Serracca*L.,*Goria*M.,*Marsili L.*,*Di Guardo*G. and*Casalone C (2012). **Dolphin Morbillivirus and Toxoplasma gondii coinfection in a Mediterranean fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus). *BMC Veterinary Research 8:20. The abstract and provisional pdf could be found at the following address. http://www.biomedcentral.com/1746-6148/8/20/abstract For any comment or question, please don't exitate to contact me (sandro.mazzariol at unipd.it) Best regards Sandro Mazzariol -- Dr. Sandro Mazzariol, DVM, PhD Dept. of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA) University of Padova AGRIPOLIS - Viale dell'Universit?, 16 35020 - Legnaro (PD) ITALY tel.: +39 049 827 2963 fax: +39 049 827 2973 e-mail: sandro.mazzariol at unipd.it -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From jim.carretta at noaa.gov Wed Mar 7 15:41:59 2012 From: jim.carretta at noaa.gov (Jim Carretta) Date: Wed, 7 Mar 2012 15:41:59 -0800 Subject: [MARMAM] New paper on long-beaked common dolphin abundance in California waters Message-ID: Dear friends, A new publication on the abundance and distribution of long-beaked common dolphin (Delphinus capensis) in California and western Baja California waters has just been published: Carretta, J.V., S.J. Chivers, and W.L. Perryman. 2011. Abundance of the long-beaked common dolphin (Delphinus capensis) in California and western Baja California waters estimated from a 2009 ship-based line-transect survey. Bulletin Southern California Academy of Sciences 110(3):152-164. Abstract - The abundance of the long-beaked common dolphin (Delphinus capensis) is estimated from data collected during a 2009 ship-based line-transect survey. The survey was designed to provide fine-scale coverage of the known range of D. capensis along the California and west Baja California coasts. Estimates of D. capensis abundance presented are the highest to date for California waters and may reflect a combination of improved survey design for this species and increasing numbers of D. capensis in state waters. Estimates of D. capensis abundance within California waters are 183,396 (CV=0.41, 95% CI 78,149 - 379,325) animals. An additional 95,786 (CV=0.47, 95% CI 36,881 - 209,507) D. capensis were estimated in Baja California waters from the U.S./Mexico border south to the tip of Baja California. Total estimated abundance of D. capensis in California and Baja California west coast waters is 279,182 (CV=0.31, 95% CI 148,753 - 487,323) animals. This paper can be found at the Southwest Fisheries Science Center (NOAA) website: http://swfsc.noaa.gov/textblock.aspx?Division=PRD&ParentMenuId=148&id=1253 Sincerely, Jim Carretta -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From daniel.palacios at noaa.gov Thu Mar 8 10:56:42 2012 From: daniel.palacios at noaa.gov (Daniel Palacios) Date: Thu, 8 Mar 2012 10:56:42 -0800 Subject: [MARMAM] Recent book chapter Message-ID: MARMAM readers may be interested in this recent publication that, while focusing on white sharks, also reports on marine mammal occurrence in an oceanic region: Domeier, M.L., N. Nasby-Lucas and D.M. Palacios. 2012. The Northeastern Pacific White Shark Shared Offshore Foraging Area (SOFA): A First Examination and Description from Ship Observations and Remote Sensing. Pages 147?158, Chapter 12, in: M.L. Domeier, Ed. Global Perspectives on the Biology and Life History of the White Shark, CRC Press, DOI: 10.1201/b11532-15. Abstract Previous studies have shown that adult White Sharks (*Carcharodon carcharias *) migrate from aggregation sites near the coast to pelagic habitats situated between North America and Hawaii. Studies using satellite-linked radio transmitting (SLRT) tags have allowed for a better spatial description of this region while also delineating sex-specific offshore habitat partitioning. Although females roam widely in the pelagic habitat, males occupy a more defined region called the Shared Offshore Foraging Area (SOFA). Here we report the first direct observations of the SOFA, made from a ship in June 2009, and compare these observations with oceanographic remote sensing data to characterize the SOFA habitat. White sharks tagged with SLRT tags provided real-time tracking positions to guide the research vessel toward offshore regions used by White Sharks. The timing of the expedition coincided with a seasonal contraction of the SOFA. Ship observations in the region where the sharks were detected revealed an absence of epipelagic fish and small cetaceans, but Sperm Whales (*Physeter macrocephalus*) and three species of spawning squid (*Architeuthis* and two species of Ommastrephid squids) were present. Oceanographic remote sensing data showed the region to be an epipelagic cold spot, broadly characterized by downwelling conditions, reduced horizontal motions or other dynamical processes, no major temperature fronts, and very low phytoplankton biomass. However, the presence of apex predators like White Sharks, Sperm Whales, and squid suggests that the SOFA ecosystem supports a considerable mesopelagic biomass. Oceanic hot spots are currently described primarily by epipelagic and surface observations; this study demonstrates the need to incorporate mesopelagic observations into the characterization of hot and cold spots. A PDF is available (10.7MB). -- *Daniel M. Palacios, Ph.D.* Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research, Univ. Hawaii & Environmental Research Division, NOAA/NMFS/SWFSC Pacific Fisheries Environmental Laboratory 1352 Lighthouse Ave. Pacific Grove, CA 93950-2097 USA Phone: 831-658-3203 Fax: 831-648-8440 Email: Daniel.Palacios at noaa.gov http://www.pfeg.noaa.gov/~dpalacio http://scholar.google.com/citations?user=bBjy6ZcAAAAJ http://www.researcherid.com/rid/B-9180-2008 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Disclaimer: The contents of this message are mine personally and do not necessarily reflect any position of the Government or the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From CJones at mmc.gov Fri Mar 9 09:42:23 2012 From: CJones at mmc.gov (Cathy Jones) Date: Fri, 9 Mar 2012 17:42:23 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Vacancy - Policy Analyst Message-ID: <2E5330B53FAB1A40B143FC5EA5FA70521CA38028@SN2PRD0610MB360.namprd06.prod.outlook.com> The Marine Mammal Commission has a vacancy for a policy analyst. The Commission would like to post this vacancy with Marman. The vacancy is listed on USA Jobs at the link below. Please contact me if you have any questions. Thank you. http://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/310712500 Cathy Jones Marine Mammal Commission 301-504-00878 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From courtney.vail at wdcs.org Fri Mar 9 17:27:35 2012 From: courtney.vail at wdcs.org (Courtney Vail) Date: Sat, 10 Mar 2012 01:27:35 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] mosquito-borne viral diseases in cetaceans Message-ID: <901C110BAA7B3149914C3D499507F65343CB2942@WDCS-RED.wdcs-net.wdcs.org> Dear colleagues: We seek your assistance in obtaining any data relating to the incidence of mosquito-borne viral diseases in wild cetacean or other marine mammal populations. Two specific diseases of particular interest include West Nile Virus and St. Louis Encephalitis. We are looking for any data associated with possible exposure to such viruses based on climate, species and environment (e.g. coastal species and tropical environments). We would appreciate any data and insights, which can be directed to courtney.vail at wdcs.org Sincere regards, Courtney Vail WDCS Dr. John Jett Stetson University Dr. Jeff Ventre University of New Orleans -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From abarreto at univali.br Thu Mar 8 12:26:34 2012 From: abarreto at univali.br (Andre Silva Barreto) Date: Thu, 8 Mar 2012 20:26:34 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] ENC: Video os common dolphins stranding and being returned in Brazil Message-ID: <9488A2B599E4484482D5B09380E50A98041BC5@SIAIMAIL11.univali.br> Dear Marmamers, on the morning of March 5th, approximately 30 common dolphins stranded alive in a beach in Cabo Frio (-22.95893, -42.02423), north of Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil. By itself this isn't such big news, however, the event was filmed from the moment the dolphins were approaching the beach up to when the last was returned to the sea. It was a very brief stranding (less than 4 minutes) since there were many people on the beach and as soon as the animals beached, they were returned to the water. >From the video it seems that they all survived. The link for the video is: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ekmMD8oYtJ0 I'm not the one who filmed, so I don't have any extra information. But due to the rarity of having an event like this filmed, I believed that it deserved being forwarded to you since it might give some insights on why strandings happen. Sincerely, Andr? Barreto ________________________________ Dr. Andr? S. Barreto Lab. Oceanografia Biol?gica CTTMar - UNIVALI abarreto at univali.br http://sites.google.com/site/botosdoitajai/ Bloco E2, sala 108, Campus Itaja? Rua Uruguai 458 - Centro - Itaja?, SC CEP 88302-202 - Caixa Postal 360 Fone:(47) 3341-7714 Fax: (47) 3341-7715 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From jfor at bas.ac.uk Fri Mar 9 00:10:11 2012 From: jfor at bas.ac.uk (Forcada, Jaume) Date: Fri, 9 Mar 2012 08:10:11 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Posting: Special Issue New Zealand J Zool Call for Papers Message-ID: <1DCCED50D0696A498958BA6B254456E220D7220E9B@nerckwmb1.ad.nerc.ac.uk> Jaume Forcada jfor at bas.ac.uk Of interest for researchers on marine mammals and wind energy generation: Call for papers for a special issue of the New Zealand Journal of Zoology on: Wind Energy and Wildlife. The use of wind energy, as an alternative to fossil fuels, has increased worldwide in recent years. It currently accounts for some 4.2% of NZ energy generation, predicted to rise to 20% by 2030. However, some research has shown negative effects of wind turbines on both bats and birds. It is timely to consider the evidence for wider impacts of the burgeoning wind energy industry. In this special issue we seek NZ and international contributions that will encourage a better dialogue and understanding of how wind energy developments affect wildlife. The New Zealand Journal of Zoology is pleased to issue this call for papers for an upcoming special issue focussing on this topic. We welcome papers on any aspect of wind energy and wildlife, including: * Effects on birds, particularly migratory and predatory species * Effects on bats * Effects on other animals * Modelling * Mitigation Submissions of manuscripts up to 5,000 words can be made directly to our ScholarOne online portal at: http://mc.manuscriptcentral.com/nzjz The deadline for submissions is 1 July 2012. Please see our Information for Authors for full details of how to prepare submissions: http://www.tandfonline.com/action/authorSubmission?journalCode=tnzz20&page=instructions Please direct any enquiries to Dr Stuart Parsons: s.parsons at auckland.ac.nz Dr Jaume Forcada British Antarctic Survey Natural Environment Research Council High Cross, Madingley Road,Cambridge CB3 0ET, UK ph: 44-(0)1223-221326 fax: 44-(0)1223-221259 Email: jfor at bas.ac.uk Web: http://www.bas.ac.uk/profile/jforcada/ -- This message (and any attachments) is for the recipient only. NERC is subject to the Freedom of Information Act 2000 and the contents of this email and any reply you make may be disclosed by NERC unless it is exempt from release under the Act. Any material supplied to NERC may be stored in an electronic records management system. From brandon.southall at sea-inc.net Mon Mar 12 08:42:00 2012 From: brandon.southall at sea-inc.net (Brandon Southall) Date: Mon, 12 Mar 2012 08:42:00 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] New Manuscript on Assessing Effects of Noise on Marine Mammals in the Arctic Message-ID: <4F5E1948.7010007@sea-inc.net> MARMAM readers. We would like to call your attention to a paper recently published in BioScience that considers modern approaches to assessing the effects of noise on marine mammals in the Arctic. The full citation and abstract are given below; .pdf copies are available on request. Thank you, Brandon Southall on behalf of Sue Moore and co-authors Randy Reeves, Tim Ragen, Robert Suydam, and Christopher Clark. --------------------------- Moore, S.E., Reeves, R.R., Southall, B.L., Ragen, T.J., Suydam^R.S., and Clark^C.W.(2012).Marine mammals and anthropogenic sound in a rapidly changing Arctic.BioScience 62, 289-295. The recent loss of Arctic sea ice provides humans unprecedented access to the region. Marine mammals rely on sound as a primary sensory modality, and the noise associated with increasing human activities offshore can interfere with vital life functions. Many coastal communities rely on marine mammals for food and cultural identity, and subsistence hunters have expressed strong concerns that underwater sound from human activities negatively affects both the animals and hunting success. Federal regulations require scientists and oil and gas operators to acquire inci- dental harassment authorizations for activities that may disturb marine mammals. Currently, authorization requests are focused on the impacts of sound from activities considered in isolation of one another, and this precludes any possibility of a meaningful analysis of the cumulative impacts from multiple sources. We propose a new assessment framework that is based on the acoustic habitats that constitute the aggregate sound field from multiple sources, compiled at spatial and temporal scales consistent with the ecology of Arctic marine mammals. -- PLEASE NOTE: New mailing address and office/FAX #s for SEA, Inc. Brandon L. Southall, Ph.D. President, Senior Scientist, SEA, Inc. Research Associate, University of California, Santa Cruz 9099 Soquel Drive, Suite 8, Aptos, CA 95003, USA 831.332.8744 (mobile); 831.661.5177 (office); 831.661.5178 (fax) Brandon.Southall at sea-inc.net; www.sea-inc.net -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From C.Salgado at cmst.curtin.edu.au Sun Mar 11 18:59:24 2012 From: C.Salgado at cmst.curtin.edu.au (Chandra Salgado Kent) Date: Mon, 12 Mar 2012 01:59:24 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] 2012 Australian Acoustical Society Conference abstracts due March 26th Message-ID: Dear MARMAM subscribers, A reminder that abstracts for the Australian Acoustical Society 2012 Conference (to be held Nov 21st-23rd) are due on March 26th (2012) for those working/interested in the area of marine mammal acoustics/bioacoustics. There will also be a workshop on Underwater passive Acoustic Monitoring and the Impacts of Underwater Noise on Marine Fauna that may be of interest. The Conference webpage and locations where abstracts can be submitted is at: http://www.acoustics.asn.au/joomla/acoustics-2012.html. Best wishes, Chandra Chandra P. Salgado Kent Centre for Marine Science and Technology Dept. of Imaging and Applied Physics | Faculty of Science and Engineering Web | http://cmst.curtin.edu.au [Description: Description: Description: email_logo.png] Curtin University is a trademark of Curtin University of Technology. CRICOS Provider Code 00301J (WA), 02637B (NSW) -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 2097 bytes Desc: image001.png URL: From aszesciorka at mlml.calstate.edu Sun Mar 11 15:58:09 2012 From: aszesciorka at mlml.calstate.edu (Angela Szesciorka) Date: Sun, 11 Mar 2012 15:58:09 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] I3S Manta and I3S Contour Message-ID: Has anyone used I3S Manta or I3S Contour for photo-ID assistance, specifically with humpback whales? It appears to have worked successfully with whale sharks and manta rays. I am interested in using it and/or testing it out, but I was wondering if anyone out there had any previous experience with it. If so, I'd like to hear how it went for you. Thanks, Angie -- Angela Szesciorka Vertebrate Ecology Laboratory Moss Landing Marine Laboratories Moss Landing, CA 95039 aszesciorka at mlml.calstate.edu -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From mbearzi at earthlink.net Mon Mar 12 12:31:10 2012 From: mbearzi at earthlink.net (Maddalena Bearzi) Date: Mon, 12 Mar 2012 12:31:10 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] new commentary - Cetaceans and MPAs should go hand in hand: A case study in Santa Monica Bay, California In-Reply-To: Message-ID: I am pleased to announce the publication of the following commentary: Bearzi, M. 2012. Cetaceans and MPAs should go hand in hand: A case study in Santa Monica Bay, California. Ocean & Coastal Management 60: 56-59. The commentary is available at http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0964569111002237. Sincerely, Maddalena Bearzi Maddalena Bearzi, Ph.D. Ocean Conservation Society, President PO Box 12860, Marina del Rey, CA 90295 - USA ph.310.8225205, mbearzi at earthlink.net http://www.oceanconservation.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: 25943F20-0A53-47C3-9F44-7C1173E54E0B[12].png Type: image/png Size: 5673 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: 40C36781-644C-4899-8347-80EED7342D89[12].png Type: image/png Size: 3201 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: 9378787A-2007-453A-A715-509A49AAB8D9[12].png Type: image/png Size: 9991 bytes Desc: not available URL: From lara_6_a_secas at hotmail.com Wed Mar 7 13:44:02 2012 From: lara_6_a_secas at hotmail.com (Lara Delgado) Date: Wed, 7 Mar 2012 22:44:02 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] Assistant positions for cetacean prospecting survey trip in the Caribbean_in April 2012 Message-ID: Dear all, Positions are open for assisting with a cetacean survey trip in Cuba and Jamaica water. Dates from 7th to 15th of April 2012. Also from 16th to 30th. DESCRIPTION: EDMAKTUB association for the study and disclosure of aquatic environment is a NGO specially focused in the study of cetaceans. We offer positions for volunteers to assist with the spring surveys trips in the Caribbean. Our research vessel, the catamaran MAKTUB, will set sail, from Santiago de Cuba port the 7th of April (early morning) and be back the 15th of April. Volunteers are expected to arrive the 6th in the afternoon (can stay overnight on board) and leave the 16th as the boat will be back the 15th late in the afternoon (so can stay overnight the 15th). Visual and acoustical surveys will be conducted from early morning to evening during the 9 days in the boat, studying the distribution, behaviour, and sound production of the sighted species. The assistants would be able to learn: species identification, environmental and behavioural data collection, sound tracking and basic marine navigating skills. Assistants are required to pay 700? for food and accommodation expenses in the research vessel during the 9 days. No previous experience is required, as the scientists present in the prospective trip will teach the assistants. If you are interested or want more information, please write us sending your r?sum? at: info at edmaktub.com Thanks! All the Edmaktub team EDMAKTUB, Association for the Study and Disclosure of the Aquatic Environment Web: www.edmaktub.com Mail: info at edmaktub.com Facebook: Edmaktub and Asoc Edmaktub -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From nick.robinson at gardline.com Mon Mar 12 09:48:34 2012 From: nick.robinson at gardline.com (Nick Robinson) Date: Mon, 12 Mar 2012 16:48:34 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Gardline Pro-MMO Training Course Announcement for April 2012 In-Reply-To: <0C12D9846D7A29448E6CA5B25618BCF1973B2DD5A7@MBOX.gardline.co.uk> References: <0C12D9846D7A29448E6CA5B25618BCF18A0A7E98E1@MBOX.gardline.co.uk> <0C12D9846D7A29448E6CA5B25618BCF194789AC5CD@MBOX.gardline.co.uk> <7FB2AB9C70D9B441A5A82E214678C2D5947D5AD0D9@MBOX.gardline.co.uk> <0C12D9846D7A29448E6CA5B25618BCF194F9304AE3@MBOX.gardline.co.uk> <0C12D9846D7A29448E6CA5B25618BCF194F9305032@MBOX.gardline.co.uk> <0C12D9846D7A29448E6CA5B25618BCF195D23CA5EC@MBOX.gardline.co.uk> <0C12D9846D7A29448E6CA5B25618BCF195D23CA62C@MBOX.gardline.co.uk> <0C12D9846D7A29448E6CA5B25618BCF195D23CAA36@MBOX.gardline.co.uk> <0C12D9846D7A29448E6CA5B25618BCF1973B2DD5A7@MBOX.gardline.co.uk> Message-ID: <0C12D9846D7A29448E6CA5B25618BCF1973B2DD5DB@MBOX.gardline.co.uk> Pro-MMO Training Courses Gardline Environmental Ltd.s' Marine Wildlife Department provides a field taught training course for new and current Marine Mammal Observers (MMOs), in preparation for the working environment of offshore industries, whilst giving the opportunity to expand marine mammal identification skills. The Pro-MMO course trains applicants to become fully qualified, JNCC approved, professional MMOs who gain exceptional field experience during their training. The next available dates for this field-based course will be 17th - 19th April 2012. Prices will vary upon number of applicants, however, the price of the course will include all teaching materials, experienced staff, accommodation (during the course) and support afterwards. The course will take place on a vessel passing through the Bay of Biscay. Application forms and information for the course can be obtained from nick.robinson at gardline.com. Deadline for the applications is on 6th April 2012. Future courses are envisaged and dates are expected to be 24th - 26th July and 11th - 13th September (to be confirmed). Best Wishes, Nick Robinson ________________________________ CONFIDENTIALITY - This e-mail and any attached files contain information that is confidential and/or may be subject of legal privilege, intended only for use by the addressee(s). If you are not the intended recipient or the person responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, please be advised that you have received this message in error and that any dissemination, copying or use of this message or attachment is strictly forbidden, as is the disclosure of the information therein. If you have received this message in error please notify the sender immediately and preserve this confidentiality by deleting the message. No binding contract will result from this e-mail until and unless an officer, on behalf of the sender, signs a written document. Sender accepts no responsibility for the completeness or accuracy of this message as it has been transmitted over public networks. Unless otherwise specifically stated any views or opinions are solely those of the author and do not represent those of the sender Company. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ This email has been scanned by the MessageLabs Email Security System, on behalf of the Gardline Group of Companies. For more information please visit http://www.symanteccloud.com _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From gisli at hafro.is Tue Mar 13 07:11:18 2012 From: gisli at hafro.is (Gisli Vikingsson) Date: Tue, 13 Mar 2012 14:11:18 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Skin disease in humpback whale Message-ID: <4F5F5586.5080009@hafro.is> Dear Marmamers The following link is to photos taken yesterday onboard a whale watching vessel in SW Icelandic waters by Megan Whittaker. I have not seen this kind of skin condition before and was wandering whether any of you have ideas of what this might be? http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.262216990527473.63270.121924414556732&type=1 Regards G?sli A. V?kingsson -- G?sli A. V?kingsson Head of Whale Research Marine Research Institute Skulagata 4 PO Box 1390 121 Reykjav?k Iceland Tel. +354 575 2000 Fax +354 575 2001 Email: gisli at hafro.is www.hafro.is If you experience difficulties with this email, please try: gisliviking at gmail.com From recruitment at smru.co.uk Tue Mar 13 05:44:11 2012 From: recruitment at smru.co.uk (recruitment) Date: Tue, 13 Mar 2012 12:44:11 -0000 Subject: [MARMAM] SMRU Ltd - Marine Scientist vacancy Message-ID: SMRU Ltd has a vacancy for a Marine Scientist and is looking for knowledgeable and highly motivated scientist(s) to assist us in the ongoing growth of our Company. There would be opportunity for the successful candidate(s) to develop and evolve their role with the Company. If you are interested in applying, please email your CV together with a letter of interest to recruitment at smru.co.uk no later than Friday, 20th April 2012, quoting reference MS-03.12. Scope of Responsibilities: * Delivery of technical components of commercial contracts * Participation in fieldwork or site visits as required * Assisting the company maintain its reputation for excellence Skills and Abilities: Essential TWO or more of the following essential attributes: 1. A sound understanding of marine mammal ecology and/or behaviour 2. A thorough understanding of marine acoustics and the effects of underwater noise on marine species 3. Demonstrable ability in the treatment of temporally/spatially correlated data, development of advanced statistical techniques (e.g. GEEs, GAMMs, Bayesian methods). Comfortable writing and applying code/ syntax (e.g. in R or SAS) to manipulate, format and analyse complex ecological data to identify spatial or temporal change, with a particular emphasis on the potential drivers of any observed change 4. Delivery of EIAs, a sound knowledge of relevant legislation in Scotland or England and Wales and demonstrable experience of leading on EIAs or the development of IA methodologies with particular reference to assessing the impacts of development on marine mammals. AND also must be: i. Flexible and adaptable ii. Able to contribute to projects that may be outside current areas of expertise iii. Willing and able to learn new skills iv. Positive and outgoing nature v. Willing to work away from the office as required (offshore, UK or overseas) vi. Hold a Full Driving licence Desirable a. Experience of participating in marine mammal surveys using visual or towed passive acoustic methods b. Able to apply Distance Sampling methodologies in the design and implementation of visual surveys, and the analysis of data to provide robust density estimates (including Model-Based Analysis) c. Experience deploying static PAM devices for marine mammal monitoring and/or processing data using PAMGUARD d. GIS skills (ArcGIS, Manifold, MapInfo, QGIS) e. Knowledge of EPS legislation, EIA regulations and Habitat Regulation Assessment (HRA/ AA) process f. Experience of dealing with Statutory Agencies or Regulators g. Experience working with marine (renewable) industry h. Experience of working with academic or research institutions i. Experience of working with an environmental consultancy j. Experience of managing projects with multiple partners and tasks k. Budget management (including the setting, monitoring and management of project budgets. For more information about us, please visit our website, www.smru.co.uk. If you do not have the required range of skills and experience highlighted above, SMRU Ltd may still be interested in hearing from you as we are often looking for additional support in both the short and longer term. Please send your CV together with a letter of interest to recruitment at smru.co.uk quoting reference SP-03.12 Fiona Fiona Skilbeck Group Executive Assistant SOI Group Limited New Technology Building North Haugh ST ANDREWS Fife KY16 9SR Scotland * fas at soigroup.co.uk ( +44 (0)1334 466901 (direct line) Web: www.smru.co.uk | www.soi.ltd.uk |www.pambuoy.com Switch: +44 (0)1334 479100 Fax: +44 (0)1334 477878 P Please consider whether you really need a hard copy of this email before printing it - thank you. NOTICE OF CONFIDENTIALITY: This message, and any attachments, are intended solely for the addressee and may contain privileged or confidential information. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or action taken or omitted to be taken in reliance on it, is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you believe that you have received this email in error, please contact the sender immediately and destroy this email. Although we have taken steps to ensure that this email and any attachments are free from any virus, we advise that, in keeping with good computing practice, the recipient should ensure they are actually virus free. SOI Group Limited is a limited company registered in Scotland, Registered Number: SC413672. Registered Office: 5 Atholl Crescent, Edinburgh EH3 8EJ. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From leslie.burdett at noaa.gov Fri Mar 9 08:00:33 2012 From: leslie.burdett at noaa.gov (Leslie Hart) Date: Fri, 9 Mar 2012 11:00:33 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Gordon Research Seminar and Conference on Oceans and Human Health Message-ID: Please see below for information about the 2012 Gordon Research Seminar and Gordon Research Conference on Oceans and Human Health: *Gordon Research Seminar on Oceans and Human Health (for Graduate Students, Post-docs, etc.): * *(June 2-3, 2012, University of New England, Biddeford, ME, USA)* * * The Gordon Research Seminar on Oceans & Human Health is a unique forum for graduate students, post-docs, and other scientists with comparable levels of experience and education to present and exchange new data and cutting edge ideas. The effects of global climate change, coastal development, emergent pathogenic microorganisms, and anthropogenic pollutants present tremendous challenges to the fragile balance between humans and aquatic ecosystems. The Oceans and Human Health Initiative highlights the ?One Health? approach to aquatic conservation by recognizing the consequences of human activities on marine and freshwater ecosystems, and how our actions impact the use of aquatic habitats as a source of recreation, sustenance, and economic well being. The Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) seeks to attract new Oceans & Human Health (OHH) scientists from diverse scientific backgrounds who are at a critical juncture in their career development. Students and post-docs attending the GRS on Oceans & Human Health will participate in a two day conference that provides a relaxed forum for graduate students, post-docs, and other scientists with comparable levels of experience and education to present and exchange new data and cutting edge ideas. Students will also have the opportunity to interact with recognized leaders in the field of Oceans & Human Health. Areas of expertise include, but are not limited to, algal and microbial biology, epidemiology and public health, marine natural products, seafood production, molecular biology, oceanography, and toxicology. Keynote Speaker: Dr. Rita Colwell Applications for this meeting must be submitted by *May 5, 2012*. Please apply early, as some meetings become oversubscribed (full) before this deadline. *GRS Speaker Abstract Deadline:* *May 5, 2012*. Submit online at: http://www.grc.org/programs.aspx?year=2012&program=grs_oceans *Gordon Research Conference on Oceans and Human Health: * *(June 3-8, 2012, **University of New England, Biddeford, ME, USA**)* Oceans interact with humans in both positive and negative ways and this interaction has become the foundation for an emerging "metadiscipline" called Oceans and Human Health. The 2012 Gordon Research Conference on Oceans and Human Health (OHH) will address several of the many disciplines comprising OHH that include oceanography, waterborne and seafood borne diseases, harmful algal blooms, epidemiology, comparative animal physiology, natural products and synthetic organic chemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, social sciences, engineering, and other ocean-related areas. This conference will feature sessions on seafood, aquaculture, omics, natural disasters, climate change, forecasting, changes in fecal indicator detection, marine human pathogens, emerging chemicals of concern and communications, all as they relate to human health. It will have a session on the Deepwater Horizon to update the conferees on what research and restoration has transpired since the April 2010 oil blowout in Macondo Canyon. And finally, there will be discussions on a developing OHH initiative by the European Science Foundation?s Marine Board and the future of OHH in the U.S. As is the case with all GRCs, this conference will assemble experts in the several session areas who will present current information to junior scientists and graduate students in a very relaxed atmosphere. In addition to the formal presentations, poster presentations will provide opportunities for "one-on-one" discussions about OHH topics. Applications for this meeting must be submitted by *May 6, 2012*. Please apply early, as some meetings become oversubscribed (full) before this deadline. Website: http://www.grc.org/programs.aspx?year=2012&program=oceans * * -- Leslie Burdett Hart, PhD Jardon and Howard Technologies, Inc. (JHT) NOAA/NOS/NCCOS Hollings Marine Laboratory 331 Ft. Johnson Rd. Charleston, SC 29412 Phone: 843-725-4831 Fax: 843-762-8737 Email: Leslie.Burdett at noaa.gov -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From leslie.burdett at noaa.gov Tue Mar 13 09:28:51 2012 From: leslie.burdett at noaa.gov (Leslie Hart) Date: Tue, 13 Mar 2012 12:28:51 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] New manuscript: Skin Lesions on Common Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) from Three Sites in the Northwest Atlantic, USA Message-ID: MARMAM subscribers, We would like to inform you of a paper recently published in PLoS One regarding skin lesions on bottlenose dolphins from the southeastern U.S: "Skin Lesions on Common Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) from Three Sites in the Northwest Atlantic, USA". Leslie Burdett Hart, Dave S. Rotstein, Randall S. Wells, Jason Allen, Aaron Barleycorn, Brian C. Balmer, Suzanne M. Lane, Todd Speakman, Eric S. Zolman, Megan Stolen, Wayne McFee, Tracey Goldstein, Teri K. Rowles, and Lori H. Schwacke. Abstract: Skin disease occurs frequently in many cetacean species across the globe; methods to categorize lesions have relied on photo-identification (photo-id), stranding, and by-catch data. The current study used photo-id data from four sampling months during 2009 to estimate skin lesion prevalence and type occurring on bottlenose dolphins (*Tursiops truncatus*) from three sites along the southeast United States coast [Sarasota Bay, FL (SSB); near Brunswick and Sapelo Island, GA (BSG); and near Charleston, SC (CHS)]. The prevalence of lesions was highest among BSG dolphins (*P = 0.587 *) and lowest in SSB (*P = 0.380*), and the overall prevalence was significantly different among all sites (*p<0.0167*). Logistic regression modeling revealed a significant reduction in the odds of lesion occurrence for increasing water temperatures (*OR = 0.92; 95%CI:0.906?0.938*) and a significantly increased odds of lesion occurrence for BSG dolphins (*OR = 1.39; 95%CI:1.203?1.614*). Approximately one-third of the lesioned dolphins from each site presented with multiple types, and population differences in lesion type occurrence were observed (*p<0.05*). Lesions on stranded dolphins were sampled to determine the etiology of different lesion types, which included three visually distinct samples positive for herpesvirus. Although generally considered non-fatal, skin disease may be indicative of animal health or exposure to anthropogenic or environmental threats, and photo-id data provide an efficient and cost-effective approach to document the occurrence of skin lesions in free-ranging populations. PLoS One is an open access journal, so you can view and download the pdf from: http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0033081 -- Leslie Burdett Hart, PhD Jardon and Howard Technologies, Inc. (JHT) NOAA/NOS/NCCOS Hollings Marine Laboratory 331 Ft. Johnson Rd. Charleston, SC 29412 Phone: 843-725-4831 Fax: 843-762-8737 Email: Leslie.Burdett at noaa.gov -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From Mahaffys at cascadiaresearch.org Tue Mar 13 09:32:24 2012 From: Mahaffys at cascadiaresearch.org (Sabre Mahaffy) Date: Tue, 13 Mar 2012 09:32:24 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] M.Sc. Thesis on short-finned pilot whale social organization in Hawaii In-Reply-To: <97EEB27129689C4AB0328F320AB9FC99013D9CA39397@SERVERBLUE.cascadia.local> References: <97EEB27129689C4AB0328F320AB9FC99013D9CA39397@SERVERBLUE.cascadia.local> Message-ID: <97EEB27129689C4AB0328F320AB9FC99013D9CA43209@SERVERBLUE.cascadia.local> The following thesis was recently accepted by Portland State University: Mahaffy, S.D. 2012. Site fidelity, associations and long-term bonds of short-finned pilot whales off the island of Hawai?i. M.Sc. Thesis, Portland State University. 151 pp. ABSTRACT: Short-finned pilot whales (Globicephala macrorhynchus) are the most frequently sighted odontocete in a long-term study in Hawai?i (representing 23.8% of all odontocete sightings from directed research efforts), yet little has been published on this species in Hawaiian waters. Studies elsewhere have suggested that short-finned pilot whales travel in stable mixed-sex groups composed of strongly associated individuals; however temporal analyses of social structure are lacking. To examine site fidelity, association patterns and temporal relationships, I analyzed data from 267 directed research and opportunistic encounters of short-finned pilot whales off the island of Hawai?i from 2003 through 2007. Sightings occurred year-round. Analysis of sighting depths in relation to effort indicated short-finned pilot whales are strongly associated with the island slope, with no sightings in water >2,700m deep despite effort to ~5,000m. Using only good-quality photos, I identified 448 distinctive individuals; of these, 305 (68.1%) were seen more than once and 250 (55.8%) were seen in >1 year. Sighting histories varied from 1-29 sightings per individual (median=3) over the course of the study, suggesting only some individuals exhibit high site fidelity. Degree of residency was assessed using multi-year site fidelity to the study area; individuals seen ?5 times in ?3 years were considered core residents (154 individuals), individuals who fell below these criteria but that were seen more than once were termed residents (150 individuals) and those seen on a single occasion were termed visitors (142 individuals). Only 71.9% of the whales were linked by association into a single social network, suggesting the possibility of multiple populations using the study area. Individuals demonstrated preferential associations and community division was strongly supported by average-linkage hierarchical cluster analysis of the association data. Nine longitudinally-stable social units composed of key individuals (seen toget her ?8 times in ?4 years) and their constant companions (seen together ?5 times in ?3 years) were identified (unit membership 5-16, median=10.5; mean unit association index: 0.62-0.90). Qualitative assignment of age and sex classes to unit members indicated that some segregation between adult males and female/calf pairs may occur. Temporal analysis using standardized lagged association rates of individuals grouped in the same encounter produced a best-fit model where dyads gradually disassociated over time while individuals grouped in the same day produced a model where dyads remained in association, suggesting companions not documented during an encounter are likely still present in the study area. Differential patterns of residency and site fidelity were unexpected and may be indicative of multiple populations around the main Hawaiian Islands. Additionally, the presence of a core resident population demonstrating strong, long-term site fidelity and associations off the island of Hawai?i may warrant special management considerations. Evidence of fisheries-related injuries in addition to anthropogenic threats such as high levels of commercial and recreational vessel traffic, targeted tourist activities, and commercial and sports troll fisheries indicate that additional research is needed to evaluate potential threats to this island-associated population. A PDF copy can be downloaded from www.cascadiaresearch.org and more information on short-finned pilot whales in Hawaii can be found at www.cascadiaresearch.org/hawaii/shortfinnedpilotwhale.htm Cheers, Sabre ----------------------------------------- Sabre Mahaffy, Research Biologist Cascadia Research Collective 218 1/2 W. 4th Ave. Olympia, WA 98501 USA www.cascadiaresearch.org Follow Cascadia on facebook www.facebook.com/pages/Cascadia-Research-Collective/110495958982184 From lara_6_a_secas at hotmail.com Wed Mar 7 13:50:21 2012 From: lara_6_a_secas at hotmail.com (Lara Delgado) Date: Wed, 7 Mar 2012 22:50:21 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] Assistant positions for a cetacean survey in the Mediterranean Sea_August_2012 In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Dear all, Positions are open for assisting with a cetacean survey in the Mediterranean Sea, Spain. Dates from 1th to 11th of August 2012. DESCRIPTION: The EDMAKTUB association for the study and disclosure of aquatic environments specially focused in the study of cetaceans; offer positions for volunteers for one of the trips of the summer campaign of the project ?A novel technique for cetacean localization and surveillance by means of a radio controlled aircraft?. The aim of the project is to study the cetacean species present in the Mediterranean Sea (Catalan-Balearic area). The association catamaran will set sail to Mallorca, from the Barcelona port the 2th of August (early morning) and be back to Barcelona the 11th of August. Volunteers are expected to arrive the 1th in the afternoon (can stay overnight on board) and leave the 12th as the boat will be back the 11th late in the afternoon (so can stay overnight the 11th). Visual and acoustical surveys will be conducted from early morning to evening during the 10 days in the boat, studying the distribution, behaviour, and sound production of the sighted species. The assistants would be able to learn: species identification, environmental and behavioural data collection, sound collection, sound tracking and basic marine navigating skills. Accommodation and food is offered in the catamaran during the 10 days, but assistants are required to pay 700? for food and accommodation expenses. No previous experience is required, as the scientist present in the campaign will provide species identification information and teach assistants. If you are interested or want more information, please write us sending your r?sum? at: info at edmaktub.com Thanks! All the Edmaktub team EDMAKTUB, Association for the Study and Disclosure of the Aquatic Environment Web: www.edmaktub.com Mail: info at edmaktub.com Facebook: Edmaktub -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From koopmanh at uncw.edu Wed Mar 14 06:40:06 2012 From: koopmanh at uncw.edu (Koopman, Heather) Date: Wed, 14 Mar 2012 09:40:06 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] DATE CHANGE: seeking two graduate students to work on animal adipose tissues Message-ID: <4A253FCB6DFF3547AE8CBA22F39122EE80D0EB41BA@uncwexmb2.dcs.uncw.edu> Due to some UNCW application issues I need to change the date for consideration for this position to April 15 2012 (rather than June 1st). Thanks, Heather Koopman ________________________________ From: Koopman, Heather Sent: March 6, 2012 9:22 AM To: marmam at lists.uvic.ca Subject: seeking two graduate students to work on animal adipose tissues March 5 2012 ? seeking two graduate students in the Koopman/Westgate lab at UNCW PhD student ? nitrogen solubility in tissues of vertebrates We are seeking a PhD student to work on a project which will be funded by ONR to examine nitrogen solubility and vascular density in the adipose tissues of vertebrates, from a comparative perspective. Our preliminary work has shown that in marine mammals, species with high wax ester content in their blubber tend to exhibit higher nitrogen solubility. This project will examine tissue from other divers (seabirds, turtles) as well as animals used as diving models (pigs, sheep ? and humans). This student will need to be proficient with delicate lab instruments, tissue sampling and gas chromatography; in addition this project will have a significant histological component. UNCW?s PhD program in Marine Biology is described here: http://uncw.edu/bio/grad-phd.html. Completion of a M.Sc. (or equivalent) in biology or chemistry, and a strong background in chemistry (major, minor) are required. MSc student ? nitrogen solubility in the acoustic tissues of toothed whales This project will build on the preliminary data described above, examining how nitrogen solubility and vascular density in the specialized acoustic fats (melon and mandibular fats) of dolphins and porpoises compare with that of their blubber. This will be a lab-based study, involving lipid extraction, gas measurements and histology. UNCW?s MSc programs in Biology/Marine Biology are described here: http://uncw.edu/bio/grad-ms.html Experience with marine mammals and tissue sampling strongly preferred. Completion of a B.Sc. in Biology or Chemistry, and a strong background in chemistry, are required. Please contact Dr. Heather Koopman koopmanh at uncw.edu if you are interested ? and attach a CV to your email. Be sure that you understand that both of these will be almost exclusively lab-based projects, with little to no field work. We will consider applications until April 15th 2012. Heather Koopman, Ph.D. Associate Professor Biology & Marine Biology University of North Carolina Wilmington 601 S. College Road Wilmington, NC U.S.A. 28403 Telephone: (910) 962-7199 Fax: 910-962-4066 Email: koopmanh at uncw.edu NOTICE: Emails sent and received in the course of university business are subject to the North Carolina Public Records Act (N.C.G.S. ?132-1 et seq.) and may be released to the public unless an exception applies. From plyne1 at eircom.net Wed Mar 14 07:30:38 2012 From: plyne1 at eircom.net (Patrick Lyne) Date: Wed, 14 Mar 2012 14:30:38 -0000 Subject: [MARMAM] MMO/PAM practical experience and training course Message-ID: <00a301cd01ef$07453500$15cf9f00$@net> Dear Colleagues, The Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG) have on offer six places on a practical training week in Marine Mammal Observation and Passive Acoustics off the South West coast of Ireland. Training will be on board the newly refitted RV Celtic Mist (http://www.rvcelticmist.ie/) and involve discussion and instruction in the application of the Irish guidelines, as well as their practical application in the field. The course will start and finish in Castletownbere, County Cork, and will depart port on the 3 September 2012, returning on the 9th September. A second week will be offered immediately following, on the 12th of September if there is sufficient demand. Ireland has an abundance of marine mammals, turtle and marine fauna present along its coast, many of which have had relatively limited study. The summer months and are associated with abundant sightings of cetaceans and many more rarely seen visitors such as marine turtles. This is an opportunity for those who wish to gain experience in observation of a wide variety of cetacean species and their acoustic detection. RV Celtic Mist is fitted with a HF towed hydrophone array and dipping hydrophones with associated filter boxes and sound card for high sampling rates. The southwest of Ireland provides access to wide range of possible locations for study and the exact course for Celtic Mist will depend partially on weather patterns at the time, but it is expected to take in offshore shelf edge waters as well as inshore and coastal waters to provide the maximum variety of species and marine habitats for detection. The course will satisfy the National Parks and Wildlife Service requirements for MMOs (Marine Mammal Observers) but is intended primarily as an opportunity for those who wish to gain experience of this type of work, whether for scientific or commercial careers or just for interest. You will be expected to work as part of a crew on a rota and all sightings and observations will be logged and submitted to the IWDG (www.iwdg.ie) database. You will need to carry a valid sea survival certificate (STCW95 or equivalent) and current marine medical certificate (ENG11 or equivalent) for offshore work. The cost of the week long course is ?1435.00 (euros) with a small reduction for IWDG members. This includes accommodation onboard RV Celtic Mist and food. There will be no additional costs onboard for the week. INTERESTED? Contact the course coordinator, Patrick Lyne by email at mmo at iwdg.ie by March 31st stating reasons for doing this course and any past marine experience briefly. Deposit of 50% will be required by April 30th and the remainder by June 30th. Withdrawl from the course will be reimbursed less 7%, only if a replacement can be found. Patrick Lyne Marine Mammal Observer Coordinator Irish Whale and Dolphin Group Disert Castletownbere County Cork Ireland. Tel: 353-27-71930; Mob/Cell: 353-86-2334424 Email: mmo at iwdg.ie -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From cselfsullivan at sirenian.org Sun Mar 11 17:16:59 2012 From: cselfsullivan at sirenian.org (Caryn Self-Sullivan) Date: Sun, 11 Mar 2012 20:16:59 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] 2012 Summer Field Course in Belize Message-ID: <1D3FFF71-8A08-4FD9-A47B-AAD018E6D261@sirenian.org> Ecology, Behavior, and Conservation of Manatees & Dolphins: A Unique Field Course in the Belize Barrier Reef Lagoon System Session I: 16 - 29 June Session II: 4 - 17 August Lead Instructor & Principal Investigator: Caryn Self-Sullivan, Ph.D., Nova Southeastern University & Sirenian International Want to be a Conservation Biologist, Behavioral Ecologist or Marine Mammalogist? Here's your chance to join our research team for two intense weeks of total immersion into the world of animal behavior, ecology & conservation, Antillean manatees, bottlenose dolphins, coral reefs, mangroves and seagrass beds in Belize! Course Overview: This is an experiential learning field course where you will live, work, and study from a marine science field station on a pristine, private island off the coast of Belize. Additionally, you will visit one or more Community Conservation Sites in Belize. Data collected during the course will contribute to our long-term manatee/ dolphin research project. You will learn through a variety of learning activities, literature review and discussion, independent research projects, and actual field research. Be prepared to rise with the sun and spend 8-10 hours outdoors, including 3-4 hours on the water each day learning about the tropical Caribbean environment as we explore a maze of mangrove islands, seagrass beds, and coral patches searching for elusive manatees and charismatic dolphins. Location: Spanish Bay Conservation & Research Center at Hugh Parkey's Belize Adventure Lodge, http://belizeadventurelodge.com/ and Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation & Development, http://sartenejaconservation.org/ . Passport required, immunizations as recommended by CDC Your Share of the Costs: US$2995 includes housing, meals, ground & water transfer fees, research & materials fees; DOES NOT include airfare, books, tips, and credit hours. Optional Credit Hours: The course provides 100 experiential learning and lecture hours in the field, plus approximately 35 hours of pre- field reading, research, and preparation; at least 50 of the 135 total hours include direct instruction by faculty. This is comparable to a 3 credit hour university course and meets the US DOE criteria in 34 CFR, SS600.2. You must make arrangements IN ADVANCE with BOTH your advising faculty and Dr. Self-Sullivan for credit to be earned through your home university. Credit hour fees must be paid directly to your school and you must fulfill any study abroad requirements of your school. This course is divided into 4 major components: lectures and learning activities (~1 hour per day), independent reading and assignments (~2 hour per day), data collection in the field (~3 hours per day), project development & implementation (~2 hours per day), presentation of pre-field research (~1 hour per day), and debate/group discussion of reading materials (~1 hour per day). Deadlines: Registration & $500 deposit due 2 April 2012 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Main Website: http://www.sirenian.org/2012FieldCourse.html Visit our Facebook Event Page: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=370432825564 Downloadable Forms Registration Form: http://sirenian.org/2012BelizeRegistration.pdf Detailed Syllabus: http://sirenian.org/2012BelizeSyllabus.pdf Policy & Liability Form: http://sirenian.org/2012BelizePolicy.pdf Recruit a Friend: http://sirenian.org/2012BelizeFlyer.pdf Field Course Expedition Briefing: http://sirenian.org/2012BelizeBriefing.pdf Note this file is 14MB and takes a while to load! Caryn Self-Sullivan, PhD, KPA CTP President & Co-founder, Sirenian International, Inc. Consultant: Animal Behavior & Wildlife Conservation Email: cselfsullivan at sirenian.org Phone: +1.540.287.8207 Website: http://sirenian.org Blog: http://mermaidsandmermen.blogspot.com/ The mission of Sirenian International is to promote the long-term conservation of manatee and dugong populations around the world through research, education, and inter-cultural collaboration. Please remember us when budgeting for your charitable donations. Donate online at http://sirenian.org. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From soundwatch at whalemuseum.org Thu Mar 15 11:37:08 2012 From: soundwatch at whalemuseum.org (soundwatch) Date: Thu, 15 Mar 2012 11:37:08 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] Deadline Extended!! FW: Soundwatch Summer Internship Message-ID: _____ From: soundwatch [mailto:soundwatch at whalemuseum.org] Sent: Thursday, March 15, 2012 10:43 AM To: 'marmam at lists.uvic.ca' Subject: Deadline Extended!! FW: Soundwatch Summer Internship If you, someone you know, or students within your department/organization might be interested in working with Soundwatch this summer, please pass along this notice and attachments. Thank You! Deadline extended to March 27, 2012 !!! Be Part of the Soundwatch Boater Education Program Team! --- Summer Internships Available The Soundwatch Boater Education Program is seeking interns to assist with the successful and internationally acclaimed education and monitoring program working to reduce vessel disturbance to killer whales and other marine wildlife in the Haro Strait region of Washington State and British Columbia, Canada. Soundwatch needs assistants to help conduct seasonal vessel patrols to educate boaters on regional guidelines and regulations and to collect data while monitoring vessel activities around whales. Data from this important program characterizes vessel activity trends around marine wildlife and is used to promote better boater compliance and to inform marine mammal management strategies such as state and federal vessel laws and guidelines. Internship based in Friday Harbor, WA, approximately 35-40 hours per week, May-September, variety of tasks both in an office setting and in the field on the patrol boat and/or shore based whale watch areas. Internship is unpaid. Shared housing at reasonable cost, is likely available. Please SEE BELOW for additional application instructions, or DOWNLOAD from our website: www.whalemuseum.org REQUIREMENTS: Applicants must be at least 18 years, be physically fit (able to lift 40 lbs), able to swim, and not easily susceptible to seasickness. Be prepared to spend time aboard a small (20 ft.) vessel in unpredictable weather and sea conditions. Interns will need a valid passport or US enhanced driver's license, CPR/First Aid certification. A state boater license/or equivalent safe boating card, not required but is a bonus. HOW TO APPLY FOR INTERNSHIP POSITION Please send a letter of interest, a resume, and contact information for three references. Be sure to include what dates you can start/end. Applications accepted until March 5, 2012. Decisions will be made by the end of March. Deadline extended to March 27, 2012 !!! Please send application materials to: Eric Eisenhardt Soundwatch Coordinator P.O. Box 945 Friday Harbor, Washington 98250 Or email (preferred) to: soundwatch at whalemuseum.org Please visit The Whale Museum's Web site for more information on Soundwatch: http://www.whalemuseum.org/programs/soundwatch/soundwatch.html Eric Eisenhardt, Soundwatch Coordinator soundwatch at whalemuseum.org The Whale Museum P.O. Box 945 Friday Harbor, WA 98250 360-378-4710 X 33 360-378-5790 Fax www.whalemuseum.org Be Whale Wise! ADDITIONAL APPLICATION MATERIALS FOR SOUNDWATCH INTERNSHIP PROGRAM Soundwatch Intern Positions: Soundwatch relies heavily on community support in the form of volunteers and interns to be effective in changing boater behaviors around marine wildlife. Volunteers are an integral part of this innovative model of community based marine stewardship. Interns assist the Soundwatch program with all aspects of The Whale Museum's Soundwatch Boater Education Program, both in the field and in the office. Up to four intern positions are available for the season, although some shorter-term positions may also be available. Interns usually spend a minimum of 4 days volunteering with the program both in the office setting and in the field on the patrol boat and/or shore based whale watch areas. Qualifications: College undergraduate and graduate students seeking intern positions for credit and/or program related requirements. Some opportunities are available for recent graduates, research fellows or non-scholastic assistants, but priority will be given to students pursuing degree in related field seeking field experience. Interns work approximately 35-40 hours per week and are required to commit to at least two months, but preferably to the full study period, May-September, plus some training time. Intern Responsibilities: Office tasks include data collating and data entry, preparing educational materials for boaters, distributing educational materials, public outreach, tracking volunteer hours and program activities, and fielding some program questions by phone/email. Fieldwork includes working with Soundwatch staff primarily on data collection on vessel activities around whales and marine protected areas, from a vessel platform and/or shore based observation areas. Data includes commercial and recreational vessel compliance with regional guidelines and regulations as well as vessel and whale surveys. Interns work with other Soundwatch volunteers and are expected to help with some volunteer support activities. Interns will work with a variety of program staff, and will be under the direction of the Soundwatch Program Director. Various circumstances may require intern participation with media interviews, video projects, whale standings or separations, or other public events requiring Soundwatch presence or expertise. Interns must be friendly, with an open attitude since they will speak publicly, assist volunteers, and interact frequently with the public. Interns must have excellent communication skills and have strong leadership potential with a great amount of patience and flexibility. Teaching, writing and boat handling experience are preferred. Intern Requirements: Interns preferably should have some field research experience, prior boating experience and be proficient in the use of Microsoft Access and Excel. Interns should be familiar with the basic use of binoculars, range finders, hand-held GPS units, and digital video camera operation for data collection. In addition, interns must have current First -Aid and CPR training certificates. Applicants should have marine mammal interest/experience as well as interest/experience in issues related to marine wildlife viewing management. Persons interested in the position should be able to withstand exposure in a small boat for up to 8-12 hours a day 3-4 days a week, in harsh weather conditions (sun/rain/bouncing), able to carry approximately 50 lbs. All applicants are required to have a current passport. These positions are un-paid, housing is not provided, and interns must have own transportation. While these internships are not paid positions, they are excellent experience and resume builders. Interns will have the opportunity to participate in scientific research and other related projects such as helping with the marine mammal stranding network and assisting other killer whale researchers. Interns will have the opportunity to attend various meetings and lectures as well as meet other marine mammal scientists. Volunteers will also receive discounts at The Whale Museum store. TO APPLY FOR INTERNSHIP POSITION: Please send a letter of interest and a resume, including contact info for three references, and the dates and time you are able to commit to by March 5, 2012. Decisions will be made by the end of March. Address applications to: Eric Eisenhardt Soundwatch Coordinator P.O. Box 945 Friday Harbor, Washington 98250 -Or email (preferred) to: soundwatch at whalemuseum.org Please visit The Whale Museum's Website for more information on Soundwatch http://www.whalemuseum.org/programs/soundwatch/soundwatch.html Soundwatch Intern Job Description The Soundwatch Boater Education Program Mission: Promote responsible stewardship of the Salish Sea through the development, distribution and implementation of guidelines and regulations for marine wildlife viewing by residents, visitors and commercial users. Program goal: Reduce disturbances to marine wildlife by irresponsible boater behavior. Program objectives: * Educate boaters on best practices for viewing marine wildlife before they leave the shore * Reinforce the learning experience in the actual context where disturbances take place * Develop and evaluate community-based voluntary guidelines * Provide a scientific platform to monitor and record vessel activities around whales and other marine wildlife Soundwatch Internship Program Goals: Provide intern and volunteer opportunities in a safe and instructive program assisting the Soundwatch Boater Education Program in promoting its larger mission of marine stewardship. Intern Program Objectives: * Execute safe and proper seapersonship while educating boaters about wildlife viewing regulations and collecting data on wildlife viewing activities, * Educate commercial and private recreational boaters about wildlife viewing guidelines and regulations in a positive, professional manner, * Collect data on vessel activities around whales or other protection areas for further study, verification, or possible legal action. Pre-Training Requirements: A. Participate in a Soundwatch Training Workshop. Once you are invited to become a Soundwatch Intern or Assistant, you need to attend a training workshop to familiarize yourself with all aspects of the program. Workshops are usually done in the late spring and again in the early summer. You will need to fill out information sheets and a liability waiver. Once you have attended a workshop you can develop your volunteer schedule with the coordinator. B. Be familiar with the Soundwatch vessel. In addition to the training workshop, all volunteers must have a boat check out. This includes a basic run through of boat operations, safety equipment, radio and cell phone, GPS, range finder and video use. It is also a good idea to become familiar with the local area if you are not already. We do have some charts and field guides available, but you might want to get your own. Daily Operational Responsibilities A. Come prepared for a full day of variable conditions on boat days. Includes bringing the following items: Appropriate clothing; warm jacket, good rain gear, warm hat, sun hat, sunglasses, gloves and boots if it is cold and rainy. T-shirts and shorts are OK as long as they are not offensive and you have other clothing when it cools. Plenty of food and water; snack food and easy to eat items are best because we often do not stop to have a lunch break. Bring more water than you will need, as dehydration is very likely. Sunscreen is essential; the boat has no covered protection. Equipment; binoculars are very handy as is a wristwatch. You may bring a camera, but keep in mind we are a working boat and are not getting close to wildlife. Safety gear; we will provide floatation suits and jackets of various sizes. If you have something specific that you like to wear, feel free to use it. We have full first aide gear but bring anything you know you are likely to need. Please advise your driver of any special condition you may have before you leave the dock. B. Follow the lead of your driver. The Soundwatch driver's main responsibility is to strictly follow all wildlife viewing guidelines keeping wildlife well being the first priority. They need to be aware and conscience of whales' whereabouts at all times. You can help by keeping a whale lookout and by following directions given to you by the driver. Many things are going on at the same time on the water and it can be overwhelming for short periods of time. If the driver does not have to worry about what you are doing, they can concentrate on the whales. C. Follow the daily procedure. This includes doing the morning check-ins, having a reliable way to be reached, and arriving at the designated time. It also includes helping with gear schlepping, preparing daily educational materials, data collection gear and supplies and boat set-up. May also include instructing new volunteers on daily procedures. D. Be professional at all times. Come prepared and ready. Use appropriate behavior, language, attire (Soundwatch or Museum clothing if possible) and attitude- you are the SOUNDWATCH PROGRAM and you are representing The Whale Museum at all times. Be polite, courteous and firm. Don't loose your cool in tense situations. Relax. Take a deep breath. Have some fun. Education and Data Collection Responsibilities: A. Contact all private boats that are reasonable and safe to approach. Includes powerboats, kayaks, sailboats, personal watercraft etc. In general, try to communicate with commercial whale watch boats through radio and cell phone about guideline issues, rather than approach with passengers. Do not motor into groups of whales to contact boats. Soundwatch is setting an example, and wildlife safety is a higher priority. Stay clear of vessels actively engaged in fishing activities. If you need to approach, wait until lines are in. B. Distribution of Educational Materials. Using the pole on the boat, or at public facilities hand out educational materials that includes the Be Whale Wise Guidelines for Wildlife Viewing, Soundwatch Brochure, MPA and Special Local areas Flyer, Bottomfish Recovery Program Brochure when warranted, and any other relevant local service announcements. C. Verbal Communications. When handing out information on the boat or at a public facility, politely but loudly tell boaters who you are and what you are doing. Tell them the basic guidelines, something about the whales or refuge area, and any special conditions of the day. Always say thank you and if you can something positive. If the boater has not been following guidelines, explain to them what was potentially wrong, and give them the alternative for next time. If they continue to be a problem you can re-approach with a reminder, and/or remind them of the NMFS Marine Mammal Protection Act, use video in extreme cases. D. Maintain a daily boat log. Includes date, time, weather, crew, destination, fuel and oil levels, added fuel or oil, boat maintenance needed, boat maintenance completed, equipment comments, big events on the water, marine mammal sightings, communications with officials, messages for other drivers, return time, engine hours E. Fill out data sheets. Fill out data sheets correctly, accurately and legibly; help with boat identification, whale ID, boater behavior, and harassment issues. Data sheets include: 1. Whale Watch Vessel Counts 2. Whale Watch Vessel Contact Logs 3. Whale Watch Vessel Incident Log 4. MPA vessel activities and contact Logs -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From jens.koblitz at gmail.com Thu Mar 15 14:16:57 2012 From: jens.koblitz at gmail.com (Jens Koblitz) Date: Thu, 15 Mar 2012 22:16:57 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] New paper on harbor porpoise echolocation Message-ID: <4F625C49.9050103@gmail.com> Dear colleagues, I am pleased to announce the publication of the following paper in the Journal of the Acoustical Society of America: Koblitz, J.C., M. Wahlberg, P. Stilz, P.T. Madsen, K. Beedholm, and H.-U. Schnitzler (2012). Asymmetry and dynamics of a narrow sonar beam in an echolocating harborporpoise. Journal of the Acoustical Society of America. 131 (3), 2315-2324 URL:http://link.aip.org/link/?JAS/131/2315 DOI: 10.1121/1.3683254 Abstract: A key component in the operation of a biosonar system is the radiation of sound energy from the sound producing head structures of toothed whales and microbats. The current view involves a fixed transmission aperture by which the beam width can only change via changes in the frequency of radiated clicks. To test that for a porpoise, echolocation clicks were recorded with high angular resolution using a 16 hydrophone array. The beam is narrower than previously reported (DI = 24 dB) and slightly dorso-ventrally compressed (horizontal -3 dB beam width: 13?, vertical -3 dB beam width: 11?). The narrow beam indicates that all smaller toothed whales investigated so far have surprisingly similar beam widths across taxa and habitats. Obtaining high directionality may thus be at least in part an evolutionary factor that led to high centroid frequencies in a group of smaller toothed whales emitting narrow band high frequency clicks. Despite the production of stereotyped narrow band high frequency clicks, changes in the directionality by a few degrees were observed, showing that porpoises can obtain changes in sound radiation. Please feel free to contact me for a pdf copy. With kind regards, Jens Koblitz Jens.Koblitz at uni-tuebingen.de Biosonar Lab Animal Physiology Insitue for Neurobiology University of Tuebingen Auf der Morgenstelle 28 D-72076 Tuebingen Germany -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From gryan at wwf.panda.org Thu Mar 15 10:33:28 2012 From: gryan at wwf.panda.org (Gerry Ryan) Date: Fri, 16 Mar 2012 00:33:28 +0700 Subject: [MARMAM] Raptors and dolphins Message-ID: <4F6227E8.80108@wwf.panda.org> Dears, I have made multiple observations of Brahminy Kites fishing with Irrawaddy dolphins. I can find however, no evidence of other Acciptirids/raptors engaging in any such behaviour in the literature. If ladies or gents have ever made similar observations, I'd be interested to hear about it (gryan at wwf.panda.org). Best, gerry ryan -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From srichardson at coastalstudies.org Mon Mar 19 06:33:47 2012 From: srichardson at coastalstudies.org (Stephanie Richardson) Date: Mon, 19 Mar 2012 09:33:47 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] Summer Internship - Provincetown, MA USA Message-ID: *Marine Education Internship* *Summer 2012 * Provincetown Center for Coastal Studies, Provincetown MA USA *Education Responsibilities*-Interns will assist with environmental education programs, including on-site programs, off-site programs, and festivals, including PCCS?s new signature summer week of events: Whale Week: A Celebration of the Sea. Interns will assist in the staffing of the Center?s informational and sales kiosk on MacMillian Pier; designing and delivering presentations, answering questions about PCCS, marine mammals and ocean conservation issues, and other general duties. Interns may assist with a filming project, create displays for the PCCS?s laboratory, and help create lesson plans and activities that are aligned with the Massachusetts State Frameworks. Other Responsibilities- Each intern will take on a project which they will work on for the duration of their internship. The project must be proposed by the student and agreed upon with the PCCS staff. At the end of the internship the intern will present the project to the staff, volunteers, and members of the public. Interns must have their own transportation, and housing is not provided. *Qualifications:* - The internship is open to students who are currently enrolled in, or recently graduated from an accredited college or university. High school students may also be considered. - Preference will be given to students or recent graduates working towards environmental studies, education, marine science, biology or other related fields. - Interns should demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills. - Filming and editing experience a plus, but not necessary. - Students that are adaptable, responsible, hard working, willing to learn, and have attention to detail are encouraged to apply. - Must be able to work independently and as part of a team. - Must be comfortable working with all ages. - Must be comfortable working outside in all conditions. - Interns must be able to commit to at least two months; start and end dates are flexible due to school schedules. - Interns must work a minimum of 15-20 hours per week. The Provincetown Center for Coastal Studies is a non-profit organization dedicated to conducting scientific research with emphasis on marine mammals of the western North Atlantic and on the coastal and marine habitats and resources of the Gulf of Maine. PCCS has been conducting research and marine and coastal educational programs on Cape Cod for over 35 years. To apply please send your resume, cover letter, and one letter of reference to: Stephanie Richardson 115 Bradford Street Provincetown, Massachusetts 02657 Or Email: srichardson at coastalstudies.org Applications must be received by April 15th, 2012. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From shimoni at gviworld.com Mon Mar 5 20:49:36 2012 From: shimoni at gviworld.com (Shimoni (GVI)) Date: Tue, 6 Mar 2012 07:49:36 +0300 Subject: [MARMAM] Marine Research Expedition Staff Message-ID: Dear, GVI Kenya is looking to strengthen it's South-Coast Kenya programme and is welcoming applications for a Marine Programme Officer position. We would like to give preference to Kenyan nationals familiar with volunteer programmes and cetacean or wider marine ecological knowledge. Please find below he job description for more detailed information. Duration 1 year Location Mkwiro village, Wasini Island, close to Shimoni, 80km South of Mombasa. Satellite bases include Shimoni village on the mainland and communities close to Taveta and Tsavo West National Park Start date April 2012 Job Type Marine Conservation, Paid work Description Support the GVI Kenya expedition Marine Research Programme, primarily cetacean population research using photo-identification, and also snorkel surveys of turtles and reef fish. The expedition supports Kenya Wildlife Service and other local partner organisations. The successful applicant will be expected to support volunteer training and management, expedition logistics and other activities including coastal forest biodiversity research, teaching English, environmental education and supporting community-based sustainable development. Salary Starts at $100 per week, flight contribution paid in instalments after 6 months Organisation GVI owns and operates more than 150 volunteer programs in over 40 countries worldwide. We are one of the world?s largest independent volunteer program providers and have worked for over 10 years to supply quality volunteer programs across the globe. Every year over 3000 volunteers join programs from 1 week to over 1 year. Our programs are regularly featured in the world?s press and scientific and humanitarian publications for their great achievements in the field. Through its international network of over 175 personnel in over 40 countries GVI continues to support many of the most critical conservation and humanitarian projects around the globe. GVI is incredibly proud of its culture. We believe in what we do and are totally committed to providing the very best programs and volunteer experiences. Although we work hard we have a tremendous amount of fun. Come and meet us to see why so many people want to work with GVI at home or abroad. Responsibilities ? Training, supervising and leading volunteers ? Mentor and Assessor for BTEC qualification in Supervising Biological Surveys ? Programme development, data analysis and reporting ? Leading field research activities ? Maintaining high health and safety standards ? Maintenance of base, equipment, boats and vehicles ? Base and logistic support Qualifications/ Skills Required ? Relevant degree (Biological or Environmental Sciences) ? RYA Powerboat Handling Level 2 certified (or equivalent) ? First Aid certified ? Driving licence ? Emergency First Response Instructor qualification ? TEFL or alternative teaching qualification Other Details Applicants should be fit and in good health, enthusiastic, flexible and hard-working, with excellent personnel and leadership skills. Field research experience with cetaceans and boat driving essential. Teaching experience, community development experience and Swahili language all advantageous. Conditions Conditions are basic, with the research base located in a rural island community only accessible by boat and living in shared accommodation without running water and with limited power. Staff have their own room on base. Camp duty tasks such as cleaning and cooking are shared amongst the expedition team. Days can be long and physically demanding. Included ? All food ? Accommodation ? All travel during expedition activities http://www.careersabroad.co.uk/FullDescription.aspx?id=991 -- *Zeno Wijtten* Senior research and conservation programmes officer Shimoni at gviworld.com Ke: +254 (0) 700 774392 www.gvikenya.blogspot.com | www.gvikenya.wildlifedirect.org | www.scribd.com/gvikenya -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From gmeyer at csumb.edu Fri Mar 16 12:44:57 2012 From: gmeyer at csumb.edu (Greg Meyer) Date: Fri, 16 Mar 2012 12:44:57 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] Baja Summer Course Message-ID: *Baja Natural History Studies, Aug. 2 - 18, 2012 Biology 131, Glendale Community College $860 includes lodging, transportation to Mexico from Glendale, CA and all meals at the Field Station in Baja. * *Instructors:* Greg Meyer, California State University, Monterey Bay and Guy Van Cleave, Columbia College, Sonora, CA *Course Overview: * Our class is based at a seaside field station in the fishing village of Bahia de los Angeles. Offshore the nutrient-rich waters are alive with whales, dolphins, seabirds and marine turtles, while the nearby desert islands are habitats for endemic species. This richness of marine wildlife is rivaled by few places in North America. Our course focuses on the biology and ecology of marine vertebrates and the natural history of Baja. Daily boat excursions are complimented by afternoon and evening lectures at a new and beautiful field station where students can watch birds, dolphins and snorkel on our beach. Sperm, Bryde's, Fin and Pilot whales cruise the offshore waters with Long-beaked Common and Bottlenose Dolphins. We typically see more than 25 species of marine birds as well. Our 3-unit Biology class (CSU transferable) is sponsored by the Baja Field Studies Program of Glendale Community College, which has operated courses in Mexico for over 30 years. *Location: *Bahia de Los Angeles, Baja California, Mexico *For Registration Details and Other Information, Contact: * * * *Greg Meyer**, **Faculty,** **California** State University Monterey Bay*** *gmeyer at csumb.edu** (831)345-1973* * * *Guy Van Cleave**, **Professor of Biology, Columbia College*** *vancleave at yosemite.edu (209) 588 ? 5202* ** *Baja Program Website: **http://www.glendale.edu/index.aspx?page=226* -- Greg Meyer, M.A. Outdoor Education and Recreation Program Kinesiology Department, Valley Hall 82D California State University Monterey Bay 100 Campus Center Seaside, CA 93955 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From dpn3 at duke.edu Mon Mar 19 10:13:52 2012 From: dpn3 at duke.edu (Doug Nowacek) Date: Mon, 19 Mar 2012 13:13:52 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] Marine Bioacoustics at the Duke University Marine Lab Message-ID: <5382C27B-F805-4074-9503-E241F1E45844@duke.edu> Marine Bioacoustics @ Duke University Marine Laboratory, Beaufort, NC USA 12-24 August, 2012 This course will introduce the concepts of marine bioacoustics and the methodologies involved generating, recording and analyzing marine sounds. The course will follow a source, path, receiver model allowing students to gain a fundamental understanding of how sounds are generated by natural or anthropogenic sources, how sounds propagate through the complex marine environment and how marine organisms receive, interpret and use sound. Emphasis will be placed on methodology and providing participants with experience operating equipment, collecting data in the field and laboratory and analyzing acoustic data. The course is designed for graduate students with interest or current research in the marine bioacoustics field requiring acoustical technologies and methodologies. Applications are due 1 May 2012, and enrollment is limited to 15 students. Please visit the course website for further information. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From mgryzbek at ufl.edu Mon Mar 19 10:01:49 2012 From: mgryzbek at ufl.edu (Gryzbek,Mary K) Date: Mon, 19 Mar 2012 17:01:49 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] The Florida Student Chapter of the Society for Marine Mammalogy's 2nd Annual Research Symposium Message-ID: <7EDF3D18D0DE16499BAB7EDF87D6947F14F757F5@UFEXCH-MBXN01.ad.ufl.edu> The Florida Student Chapter of the Society for Marine Mammalogy (FSCSMM) 2nd Annual Research Symposium?Registration Form and Flyer! Please go to the FSCSMM's website to find the registration form, flyer, and updated information regarding the FSCSMM?s second annual research symposium on April 27-28, 2012 at Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, FL. The website can be found by clicking on the following link: http://www.marinemammalscience.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=109&Itemid=125 . If you have any questions about the symposium please email us at floridasmm at gmail.com. We are very excited about this upcoming event, and we hope to see you there! Your Florida Student Chapter Representatives, Michelle Davis Jason Ferrante Mary Gryzbek Vanessa Mintzer --------------------------------------------------------------------- Mary Gryzbek Master's Student Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation University of Florida Sarasota Dolphin Research Program Chicago Zoological Society c/o Mote Marine Laboratory -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From david.k.mellinger at noaa.gov Mon Mar 19 14:48:15 2012 From: david.k.mellinger at noaa.gov (Dave Mellinger) Date: Mon, 19 Mar 2012 14:48:15 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] JASA special issue: Methods for Marine Mammal Passive Acoustics Message-ID: <4F67A99F.60402@noaa.gov> The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America intends to publish a special issue on Methods for Marine Mammal Passive Acoustics. Given that a sufficiently large number of papers are accepted, these papers will appear as a group in a separate publication which will be the second part of a regular issue. Examples of such special issues may be found in the Part Two's of the January 2002, March 2005, September 2008, and November 2011 issues. General Topic The use of passive acoustics has been successful over the last several decades in advancing the study of marine mammals in their natural environment. Because marine passive acoustic data are typically collected for months to years at a time, automated techniques for detection, classification, and localization are crucial for data analysis. Such techniques have advanced rapidly in quantity and quality in the last few years. Concurrently, passive acoustic monitoring has also incorporated techniques for population density estimation, which is now a rapidly growing field. Papers are encouraged that describe new techniques or report on developments in previously-existing approaches, and which detail the advantages and drawbacks of the described methods. Papers that offer singular insight from different research and academic fields including biology, physiology, acoustics, oceanography, signal processing, mathematics, electronics, and computer science are also invited. However, prospective authors should note that papers published in JASA must fulfill the requirement that the content be "truly acoustics," rather than merely applicable to acoustics. How to Submit Papers Papers should be submitted in the usual manner for JASA via the Peer X-Press site. Go to the site http://asadl.org/jasa/ and click on the item "Submit to Journal." When you submit a paper via the online submission process, you will fill out an outline form that is the same for all papers that are submitted. However, the form will include a new feature in the portion of the form that has a tab for "Keywords and PACS-43 Index Terms." There will be a drop-down list at the bottom of the page that is labelled as "Special Issues." All special issues currently in progress will be listed in this drop-down list. The special issue you should select is MMA (for Methods for Marine Mammal Passive Acoustics). To make doubly certain that your paper will be grouped with others intended for the special issue, you should upload a cover letter that identifies the paper as intended for the special issue on Methods for Marine Mammal Passive Acoustics. A footnote with such an identification should also appear on the title page of the manuscript. Authors should also send an e-mail to the Guest Editor, David K. Mellinger (david.k.mellinger at noaa.gov) informing him of the submission. The editor reserves the right of deciding whether the topic of the submission is appropriate for the special issue, but all submitted papers will be considered for publication in the Journal. Peer-review and editorial decisions of submitted articles will be handled with the usual processes, but those accepted for the special issue will be be grouped together for the publication in the special issue. Deadlines and Relevant Dates Papers intended for the special issue should be submitted before June 30, 2012. The intent is that all papers accepted on or before October 1, 2012, will be passed on to the production department for publication as a special issue. It is recognized that the progression of submitted manuscripts through the JASA Peer X-Press system takes a variable amount of time, sometimes as long as a year, although 3 months is the desired objective. If a manuscript is not fully accepted before November 1, 2012, it is unlikely that it will be possible to include it in the special issue. It is highly unlikely that any manuscript submitted after June 30 will be accepted sufficiently rapidly to be included. The best strategy, if one desires a manuscript to be included, is to submit it as soon as possible. Papers accepted after the deadline will be published in the Journal, but not in the special issue. Introductory Editorial A brief editorial introducing the topic and the papers will be written by the Guest Editor David K. Mellinger in collaboration with the authors of the accepted papers. From jzeligs at mlml.calstate.edu Mon Mar 5 12:09:20 2012 From: jzeligs at mlml.calstate.edu (Jenifer Zeligs) Date: Mon, 5 Mar 2012 12:09:20 -0800 Subject: [MARMAM] Summer classes: Working with Marine Mammals/ Techniques of Animal Training Message-ID: The following posting may be of interest to MARMAM subscribers: California State University Monterey Bay and Moss Landing Marine Laboratories http://slewths.mlml.calstate.edu/ offer one-week intensive *summer classes* open to any one interested animal training or in pursuing careers in the marine mammal field. In addition, *hands-on internships *for people of all ages and levels of experience are also available at the lab working with marine mammals. The successful completion of both courses and a five-day internship will earn a *Certificate of Completion in Beginning Marine Mammalogy. *The classes' instructor, Dr. Jenifer Zeligs has over 30 years of terrestrial and aquatic animal training experience, across diverse disciplines including research, public display, and studio and film work. For further information on class content and registration forms please contact: jzeligs at mlml.calstate.edu *and see below*. For help with internships and housing please contact: sskrovan at mlml.calstate.edu. *Classes: TECHNIQUES AND THEORIES OF ANIMAL TRAINING: Bio 348 *(July 9-15, 2012) CRN 30276, Section 01 *: *This 3 credit interactive course provides students an in-depth understanding of the discipline of animal training across many different types of terrestrial and aquatic animals and techniques. It provides an exceptional background in relevant animal behavior and psychological principles related to the practical goal of modifying animal behavior. These techniques will be demonstrated daily using trained sea lions at Moss Landing Marine Labs where the course is taught. Horses, birds, and other animals will also be used to demonstrate these techniques. Students will intern at least one day at the lab assisting in the care and training of research-trained sea lions. Topics covered will include:* *Captivity, Why Train? Communication, Motivation, Desensitization, Aggression, and Practical Training. *Tuition:* $585 + $39 campus fee per semester is payable to CSUMB-EE. An additional $50 lab fee is payable to MLML on the first day of class. *WORKING WITH MARINE MAMMALS: Bio 347 *(July 23-29, 2012) CRN 30275, Section 01*: *This 3 credit course is designed to assist people who are interested in developing a career in marine mammalogy. It will provide practical information about marine mammals and working with them, drawing on the rich background of marine mammal work in the Monterey Bay area. The course will include live experiences with the marine mammals at Moss Landing Marine Labs. This class will instruct students in captive marine mammal husbandry (care and maintenance), training, basic physiology, an overview of common research topics and techniques, as well as public display, education, and current issues in marine mammalogy. Students will intern at least one day at the lab assisting in the care of research-trained California sea lions. They will also gain experience in developing a resume, job interviews, and public presentations. *Tuition:* $585 + $39 campus fee per semester is payable to CSUMB-EE. An additional $50 lab fee is payable to MLML on the first day of class. (If you book both classes- you will pay the $39 campus fee only once). *Registration: *For registration and enrollment please contact Cal State Monterey Bay http://extended.csumb.edu/ or call them at 831-582-4500. Please contact jzeligs at mlml.calstate.edu for a registration form which can be mailed in asap to guarantee your space and enrollment (instructions are on the form). *Enrollment details and housing*: *Enrollment for each class limited to 17*. *Summer registration for open enrollment begins April 30, 2012*, but you can send in your enrollment form early to reserve your space. The classes are open for enrollment to *any high school graduate* regardless of age and there are *no prerequisites*, however no transportation or housing is included in the enrollment price. International students are welcome. For help with *housing* and *to schedule an internship* please contact sskrovan at mlml.calstate.edu . Courses will be taught at Moss Landing Marine Labs in Moss Landing, CA. -- Jenifer Zeligs, Ph.D. Science and Environmental Policy, California State University Monterey Bay Director of SLEWTHS Science Learning and Exploration With The Help of Sea lions Moss Landing Marine Laboratories 8272 Moss Landing Road Moss Landing, CA 95039 v: (831)-771-4191 fax:(831)-632-4403 http://slewths.mlml.calstate.edu/ http://www.animaltraining.us/ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From B.J.Godley at exeter.ac.uk Tue Mar 20 06:29:09 2012 From: B.J.Godley at exeter.ac.uk (Godley, Brendan) Date: Tue, 20 Mar 2012 13:29:09 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Postdoc- Marine Vertebrates Message-ID: <298090EB4920AF4EA276FB25E2CF14EA9BD25FAA@EXCHMBS05.isad.isadroot.ex.ac.uk> Dear Colleagues Please see below an advert below for a postdoc position in our group working with the excellent NGO Prodelphinus in Peru http://www.prodelphinus.org/en/index.html. You may be interested in our recent you Tube video launching the project: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OhtVmUJ6hkY Papers already emerging from the work (available for download at http://www.seaturtle.org/mtrg/pubs/) include: Alfaro-Shigueto et al (2011) Small-scale fisheries of Peru: a major sink for marine turtles in the Pacific. JApplEcol 48:1432-1440 Mangel JC et al (2011) Post-capture movements of loggerhead turtles in the southeastern Pacific Ocean assessed by satellite tracking. MarEcolProgSer 433:261-272 Mangel JC et al (2011) Latitudinal variation in diet and patterns of human interaction in the marine otter. MarMammSci 27:E14-E25 Alfaro-Shigueto J et al (2010) Where small can have a large impact: Structure and characterization of small-scale fisheries in Peru. FishRes 106:8-17 Mangel JC et al (2010) Small cetacean captures in Peruvian artisanal fisheries: High despite protective legislation. BiolConserv 143:136-143 As advertised at: http://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/AED355/associate-research-fellow/ Associate Research Fellow Marine Vertebrate Ecology University of Exeter - Centre for Ecology and Conservation, Cornwall Campus Reference: R11074/P42976 Starting salary: will be from ?24,520 - ?26,779 per annum, depending on qualifications and experience. Fixed term contract to 30 September 2013 Closing date: for completed applications is 16th April 2012. Interviews are expected to take place in the week of 23rd April 2012 The College wishes to recruit an Associate Research Fellow to support the work of Professor Brendan Godley, Dr Annette Broderick and Dr Matthew Witt in the UK and overseas. This position funded by the Darwin Initiative, is available from 1 June 2012 to 30 September 2013. Research topics include Fisheries Bycatch, Marine Acoustics, Satellite tracking, Spatial Ecology and Conservation. The post includes a broad range of research and project management skills. The successful applicant will be able to present information on research progress and outcomes, communicate complex information, orally, in writing and electronically and prepare proposals and applications to external bodies. The post will require extended travel to Peru and work under field conditions and at sea. Spanish language fluency required. Applicants should have a background in fisheries or bycatch research with a preference for work in small-scale or artisanal fisheries. Applicants will possess a relevant PhD and be able to demonstrate sufficient knowledge in the discipline and of research methods and techniques to work within established research programmes. The successful applicants will be either experienced marine vertebrate or spatial ecologists. All candidates should have a strong track record of publishing in peer reviewed literature. For further information please contact Prof. Brendan Godley, e-mail b.j.godley at exeter.ac.uk. To view further details and apply online please click here. Alternatively, please send your CV, covering letter and the details of three referees to Prof. Brendan Godley, e-mail b.j.godley at exeter.ac.uk. Quoting the job reference R11074/P42976 in any correspondence. The University of Exeter is an equal opportunity employer which is 'Positive About Disabled People': if you have a disability, you should mention this in your application. Whilst all applicants will be judged on merit alone, we particularly welcome applications from groups currently underrepresented in the workforce. You may be interested in our recent you Tube videos: Darwin Initiative (Peru) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OhtVmUJ6hkY Kenya Field Course (MSc) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IkBmIehMZ9Q Prof. Brendan J. Godley Chair in Conservation Science Centre for Ecology & Conservation University of Exeter, Cornwall Campus TR10 9EZ, UK Tel: +44 1326 371 861 http://biosciences.exeter.ac.uk/cec/ http://uk.linkedin.com/in/brendangodley http://www.seaturtle.org/mtrg/ Editor-in-Chief, Endangered Species Research http://www.int-res.com/journals/esr/ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From edwardok at nova.edu Tue Mar 20 15:20:13 2012 From: edwardok at nova.edu (Keith, Edward) Date: Tue, 20 Mar 2012 18:20:13 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] Book Chapter Invitation Message-ID: <004a01cd06e7$9f231160$dd693420$@nova.edu> Hello, A colleague, Dr. Aldemaro Romero, and I have been commissioned to edit a new book about current issues and controversies in marine mammal science. It is our intention to produce a timely, up-to-date and "edgy" volume that reflects current controversies and/or advances in the field. It is our pleasure to invite you to submit a chapter proposal on any topic in consideration for inclusion in our book. We are especially interested in topics that will be of interest to all who are interested in marine mammal biology. If you are interested, please respond at your earliest convenience and then send us a chapter proposal by 1 April. The title and content of your chapter is entirely up to you. Chapter proposals should be written 1-4 pages long, describing main ideas, key points and research results. The chapter proposals can include images and/or tables, and there is no specific technical requirement. Please follow the instructions at the link below to submit a chapter proposal. Once we evaluate and accept your chapter proposal, we will notify you of the deadline date for submission of a full chapter. http://www.intechweb.org/participate-in-a-book-project.html The book is being published by an open-access publisher located in Croatia called In-Tech. The working title of the book is "Marine Mammals" and the ISBN is 979-953-307-948-5. We will probably change the title of the book to "Current Issues in Marine Mammalogy" or something similar in order to more precisely define its intended contents. Thank you in advance for considering this request. We look forward to working with you. Edward O. Keith, Ph.D. Nova Southeastern University Oceanographic Center 8000 N. Ocean Drive Dania Beach, FL 33004 954-262-8322 (voice) 954-262-3931 (fax) edwardok at nova.edu -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From joy.reidenberg at mssm.edu Tue Mar 20 10:03:01 2012 From: joy.reidenberg at mssm.edu (Reidenberg, Joy) Date: Tue, 20 Mar 2012 17:03:01 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] images of plastic bag ingestion causing whale death Message-ID: Does anyone have a good image of plastic bag ingestion that caused a whale's death? I'm hoping for an image of the plastic bag in the GI tract. Please contact me directly at: >. Thanks, Joy Reidenberg *************************************** Joy S. Reidenberg, Ph.D. Professor Center for Anatomy and Functional Morphology Mount Sinai School of Medicine Mail Box 1007, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place New York, NY 10029-6574 USA voice: (212) 241-7563 fax: (212) 860-1174 e-mail: joy.reidenberg at mssm.edu Web pages: http://www.mountsinai.org/Find%20A%20Faculty/profile.do?id=0000072500001497143502&officeDrawer=biz http://gsevals.mssm.edu/gs_listing/palumni.php?cid=1108 *************************************** \ __ -| \- __ _/ -- __ _/ -- / _ __ -- __ @ ) / / -- _ _ __ -- === __//__ | / /__^__\ |/ *************************************************** -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From p.strong at pembrokeshire.ac.uk Thu Mar 22 09:18:07 2012 From: p.strong at pembrokeshire.ac.uk (POWELL STRONG) Date: Thu, 22 Mar 2012 16:18:07 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Marine mammal and Seabird WOW courses 2012 Message-ID: <4F6B50BF0200004E0002FA74@pcov-gw8gwia.pembrokeshire.ac.uk> New short courses for 2012 are the WOW Seabirds for Beginners and WOW Seabird Monitoring. Repeat courses are WOW Cetaceans and WOW Seals. All carry UK nationally recognised qualifications. Pembrokeshire College and SeaTrust have been running WOW (Wildlife Observer Wales) short courses since 2007. The general structure of a 3 day WOW course is to provide an introduction to identification, biology , sampling theory and field recording. The Cetacean course includes the option of boat survey. Seabirds courses will hopefully include a Skomer Island visit. The Seabird Monitoring course will be led by former RSPB Ramsey Island Warden, Ian Bullock. Courses are based on the Pembrokeshire coast, West Wales, UK, with approximately half the course spent in the class room and half in the field Courses cost range from ?105-140 per person NEW COURSE - WOW Seabirds for Beginners 2 days, ?105, 9-10 May NEW COURSE - WOW Seabird Monitoring, 3 Days, ?140, 6-8 June WOW Cetaceans, 3 days, ?140, 26-28 June, 3-5 July, 24-26 July WOW Seals, 3 day course, ?120, 11-13 Sept, 23-25 Oct For more information see http://coast.pembrokeshire.ac.uk/wow/ or contact Powell Strong 01437 753 166 or p.strong at pembrokeshire.ac.uk To book on a course, contact admission at pembrokeshire.ac.uk Powell Strong Coastal & Marine Environment Research Unit Pembrokeshire College Haverfordwest, UK. SA61 1SZ 44 (0)1437 753 166 mob 07917752207 http://coast.pembrokeshire.ac.uk/ From cortezm at tamug.edu Fri Mar 23 12:14:10 2012 From: cortezm at tamug.edu (Michelle Cortez) Date: Fri, 23 Mar 2012 14:14:10 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Coastal Marine Biology and Geology of Alaska Course/Internship Message-ID: ALASKA FIELD EXPERIENCE THROUGH TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY AT GALVESTON Summer 2012 Course Name: COASTAL MARINE BIOLOGY AND GEOLOGY OF ALASKA Course Number: MARB 415, MARB 689 or as an INTERNSHIP without credit Session dates: June 2 - 13; June 16 - 27; July 21 - August 1; August 4 - 15. INSTRUCTORS: DR. RANDALL DAVIS Please contact Dr. Davis at (281) 250-7839 (davisr at tamug.edu) for more information. Travel to south-central Alaska for this three credit hour field course or internship. For 12 days, students will live and study at the remote Alice Cove Research Station located along the shores of Prince William Sound. Students will learn about the marine biology and geology of this area and participate in research on sea otter behavioral ecology. An overland day trip will be made to explore the Copper River Delta and visit the Childs and Sheridan Glaciers. There are no prerequisites. Attendance is limited to six students per session. Field course fee is $2,150, airfare to Anchorage and Cordova not included. You do not need to be a student at Texas A&M University to take the course for credit or as an internship. From Emily.Douce at marine-conservation.org Fri Mar 23 12:56:54 2012 From: Emily.Douce at marine-conservation.org (Emily Douce) Date: Fri, 23 Mar 2012 12:56:54 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] Internship Opportunity - Marine Conservation Institute Message-ID: <2DE395D4C683EB478271957567DD15B9E190F99FB5@exchange> Please pass along to those that might be interested. Marine Conservation Institute is a non-profit scientific and conservation advocacy organization that works to promote the protection and restoration of the Earth??s biological diversity. From our headquarters in Bellevue WA and our Washington DC and California offices, we work to protect marine life around the United States and beyond by encouraging research and training in marine conservation biology, bringing scientists together to examine crucial marine conservation issues, conducting policy research to frame the marine conservation agenda, leading outreach efforts to educate scientists, the public, and decision makers on key issues, and building partnerships to solve problems affecting marine life and people. Internship Program Marine Conservation Institute??s internship program provides motivated and academically-promising students an opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a real?\world arena. During their internship, students work closely with science and policy staff on cutting edge issues in marine conservation biology and ocean policy. Most of the internship opportunities are geared towards graduate students or students who have recently completed graduate degrees, although we have on occasion developed opportunities for undergraduates to work on pressing marine conservation issues. For internship positions, we seek individuals with excellent communication skills, substantive knowledge or professional experience in marine or environmental science or policy, and who share our commitment to the preservation of marine life and biological diversity. We also prefer candidates who have a demonstrated ability to work independently, with minimal direct supervision. Working out of our DC office, policy interns have the opportunity to work closely with our policy staff to gain important skills in conservation advocacy. Previous policy interns have had the opportunity to assist with establishing National Monuments and our National Marine Sanctuaries Reauthorization efforts. Policy interns have described their internship experience as being important for learning about lobbying and the legislative process and for understanding more about packaging science for Federal decision makers. These internships coincide with the academic calendar. Duties Internship activities include: ?? Conducting research on US marine policy ?? Setting lobbying appointments with congressional staffers ?? Accompanying Marine Conservation Institute staff on visits to the Hill/agencies and keeping records of visits ?? Staying abreast of and briefing staff on marine conservation news ?? Preparing educational materials and fact sheets ?? Providing administrative support (answer phones, file, purchase office supplies, open & distribute mail, computer troubleshoot, etc.). This constitutes approximately 20% of the intern??s time. Compensation We would prefer to hire a full-time intern (40 hours/week), but will consider bringing on a part-time intern (20 hours/week). Internships are on a volunteer basis. No benefits or relocation costs are provided, except standard holidays falling during the internship term. We are willing to work with interns and their universities to obtain academic credit for internship work. Opportunities for independent research in marine conservation should be discussed at the time of interview. Period of Internship May 2012 ?C September 2012 Application Process To apply to the internships, please send the following material via e-mail to internships at marine-conservation.org. The application deadline is April 13, but review of applications will begin immediately. Please reference the internship title and your name in the subject line: 1. A cover letter detailing your interests, relevant experience, goals and availability; 2. A r??sum??; 3. A writing sample (1-2 pages); 4. A course list detailing applicable coursework experience; 5. And a list of 3 references. Please no calls. Marine Conservation Institute is an equal opportunity employer. Emily Douce, Conservation Advocate Marine Conservation Institute 600 Pennsylvania Ave SE, Suite 210 Washington DC 20003 USA +1 202 546 5346 Emily.Douce at Marine-Conservation.org www.Marine-Conservation.org Saving wild ocean places, for us and future generations ________________________________ Please note that my email address has changed. Our new domain is marine-conservation.org. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.gif Type: image/gif Size: 70 bytes Desc: image001.gif URL: From robyn at northcoastmmc.org Fri Mar 23 15:32:28 2012 From: robyn at northcoastmmc.org (Robyn Walker) Date: Fri, 23 Mar 2012 15:32:28 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] NMMC Call for Volunteers Message-ID: <005d01cd0944$d5e408d0$81ac1a70$@org> The Northcoast Marine Mammal Center in Crescent City, California is looking for volunteers! With harbor seal pupping season upon us, we are preparing for another busy year of Rescue, Rehabilitation and Release. We are looking for interested and dedicated individuals to lend a hand and get involved. Originally founded by three volunteers, the Northcoast Marine Mammal Center relies entirely on a dynamic volunteer work force. NMMC is a private Non-Profit Organization, dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of stranded, sick or injured seals, sea lions, dolphins, porpoises and whales along the northern coast of California. The Center, located in Crescent City's Beachfront Park, also promotes public understanding of marine mammals and the importance of our marine environment. The energy and dedication of many talented people are needed to maintain the smooth operation of the NMMC. Not only do volunteers conduct all rescue and animal care at the Center, but we also rely on them to operate our gift shop and conduct educational outreach at local schools and community events. Volunteering at the Center can be a fulfilling and exciting adventure. Consider sharing your talents and meeting others whom share you concern and love for the ocean environment and its creatures. Volunteers are essential during an emergency, but it is the year round efforts of volunteers in animal care, fundraising, and our Gift Shop that make NMMC rescues possible. Our Volunteers are the people that have and continue to make the NMMC a reality. Interested in becoming a Volunteer? Please complete the online form on our website (www.northcoastmmc.org/opportunities/volunteer) and we will contact you as soon as possible. Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age and attend orientation and training classes. Thank you for your support! -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From oersdo at gmail.com Fri Mar 23 15:49:10 2012 From: oersdo at gmail.com (michael belanger) Date: Fri, 23 Mar 2012 18:49:10 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] Call For Papers Message-ID: *CALL FOR MANUSCRIPT SUBMISSIONS * The editors of the Journal of Marine Animals and Their Ecology (JMATE) would like to announce a call for submissions for its upcoming issue. The deadline is May 1st, 2012. JMATE is an electronic peer reviewed journal focused on issues dealing with the preservation, protection, and conservation of the marine environment including the rescue and rehabilitation of marine life. However, topics relating to any aspect of marine animal science are acceptable for submission. The unique goal of the journal is to attract a diverse and broad consumer base by having a multi-disciplinary approach to marine animal issues. For further information about the journal and instructions to authors please go to: oers.ca/journal/journal.html You can send any questions to: *editor at oers.ca* Thank you JMATE Editors -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From rossiter at csiwhalesalive.org Sat Mar 24 08:12:15 2012 From: rossiter at csiwhalesalive.org (William Rossiter) Date: Sat, 24 Mar 2012 11:12:15 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] Request re: LWL-Museum of Natural History exhibit: Whales - Giants of the Sea Message-ID: <4F6DE44F.8070109@csiwhalesalive.org> Posted on behalf of Uko Gorter , who says: I am writing on behalf of the LWL-Museum f?r Naturkunde, Muenster, Germany. The Museum is hard at work on their upcoming special exhibit, "Wale-Riesen der Meere" (Whales - Giants of the Sea). The around 1700 sq. meter exhibit will be open to the public from September 21, 2012 to November 3, 2013. http://www.lwl.org/LWL/Kultur/WMfN/Museum_Naturkunde/Ausstellungen/ To enhance the exhibit experience, the LWL-Museum has made the following requests for materials: Sound clips of: 1) (navy) sonar 2) vessel traffic noise 3) other anthropogenic noise 4) heartbeat of blue whale Video clips of: 5) whale (cetacean) birth 6) suckling whale calves 7) sleeping (resting) whales 8) entanglement in fishing gear Photos of: 9) threats to whales (e.g. sonar, entanglement, pollution, whaling etc.). While hoped that any of these materials are available as in-kind donations, the LWL-Museum of Natural History is willing to negotiate some kind of renumeration. It is important that anyone offering these materials is the author and/or holds the original copyright. Please, contact exhibit coordinator, Dr. Thorsten Pickel Landschaftsverband Westfalen-Lippe LWL-Museum f?r Naturkunde Westf?lisches Landesmuseum mit Planetarium Sentruper Str. 285 48161 M?nster Tel: (+49) 251-591-6057 Fax:(+49) 251-591-6098 E-mail: Thorsten.Pickel at lwl.org ----------------------------------------------- Thank you for your consideration, Uko Gorter -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From miolmor at gmail.com Sat Mar 24 13:33:46 2012 From: miolmor at gmail.com (Conor Ryan) Date: Sat, 24 Mar 2012 20:33:46 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] ECS2012 Galway Keynote Talks Live-Streamed Message-ID: *Keynote Speakers at ECS2012 Galway Streamed Live on the Internet* For those unable to attend the 26th European Cetacean Society Conference in Galway the keynote speeches from ECS2012 Galway will be live streamed on the internet. Note times are Irish (BST). Monday 26 March 2012 Matthijs Schouten - 10-10:45 >From despot to participant: Society and nature in the 21st Century Tuesday 27 March 2012 Louis Herman - 12:15-13:00 Thirty-five years with dolphins and whales Wednesday 28 March 2012 Greg Donovan - 15:30-16:15 Conservation science: The ethics of communication View Live Stream Simon Berrow Conference Organiser ECS2012 Galway ecs2012 at gmit.ie -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From rocio at cenpat.edu.ar Thu Mar 22 08:37:36 2012 From: rocio at cenpat.edu.ar (Rocio Loizaga de Castro) Date: Thu, 22 Mar 2012 11:37:36 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] =?iso-8859-1?q?Announcement_15=AA_RTSouth_America_and_9?= =?iso-8859-1?q?=BA_SOLAMAC?= Message-ID: <4F6B0F00.2176.74D8D7@localhost> We are pleased to announce the 15? Reuni?n de Trabajo de Expertos en Mam?feros Acu?ticos de Am?rica del Sur y el 9? Congreso de la Sociedad Latinoamericana de Especialistas en Mam?feros Acu?ticos. The meeting is planned to be held in Puerto Madryn, Chubut, Argentina during16-20 September 2012. Although all topics concerning aquatic mammals are welcome, the following topic will be emphasized: Effects of global warming on aquatic mammals. Online information regarding the conference is available at www.cenpat-conicet.gob.ar/meetings/15RT_2012/. Please refer to this website for registration details and the registration form and the format for submitting conference materials. Cheers RT commission --- Lic. Roc?o Loizaga de Castro E-mail: rocio at cenpat.edu.ar Laboratorio Mam?feros Marinos Centro Nacional Patag?nico - (CENPAT) - CONICET Bvd. Brown S/N Puerto Madryn - CP 9120 Pcia. Chubut Argentina Tel: 54-2965 - 451024 - 450401 - 451301 - 451375 - 451952 / Interno: 252 Fax: 54-2965 - 451543 --- -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From barbara at ccc-chile.org Mon Mar 26 10:27:07 2012 From: barbara at ccc-chile.org (Barbara Galletti) Date: Mon, 26 Mar 2012 13:27:07 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] ANNOUNCEMENT: Living Whales in the Southern Ocean Symposium live streaming Message-ID: <000001cd0b75$ab6514e0$022f3ea0$@org> Dear all, For those who are not able to attend the Symposium ?Living Whales in the Southern Ocean: Advances in non lethal cetacean research techniques?, that will be held tomorrow 27th March in Puerto Varas, Chile. Thanks to the Chilean company ALTAVOZ, we will be able to have a live streaming online at www.simposioballenas.cl from 9am (UTC -03:00) I hope you can join this initiative via web if are not able to come and I would appreciate it very much if you could forward this information to other interested persons. Cheers, Barbara B?rbara Galletti Centro de Conservaci?n Cetacea Casilla 19178, Correo Alonso de Cordoba Vitacura, Santiago - CHILE F/F: (56 2) 2282910 barbara at ccc-chile.org www.ccc-chile.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From albuquerquecris at gmail.com Tue Mar 27 11:21:52 2012 From: albuquerquecris at gmail.com (Cristiane Albuquerque Martins) Date: Tue, 27 Mar 2012 14:21:52 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] New paper on decision support system for management of MPAs with marine mammals Message-ID: <067E933C-62C5-4360-9385-46BC6CB684BE@gmail.com> Dear colleagues, On behalf of my co-authors, I am pleased to announce the publication of the following paper in the Environmental Modelling & Software journal. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1364815211001927 DOI: 10.1016/j.envsoft.2011.08.009 A decision support system to assist the sustainable management of navigation activities in the St. Lawrence River Estuary, Canada L. Parrott, C. Chion, C.C.A. Martins, P. Lamontagne, S. Turgeon, J.A. Landry, B. Zhens, D.J. Marceau, R. Michaud, G. Cantin, N. M?nard, S. Dionne Abstract We describe a decision support system that has been developed to inform management and planning in a portion of the St. Lawrence Estuary in Canada (covering the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park and the proposed St. Lawrence Estuary Marine Protected Area). The system is composed of a spatiotemporal, georeferenced database, a simulator (3MTSim) that reproduces the spatiotemporal movement of marine mammals and maritime traffic in the estuary, and data post-processing tools that can be used to analyse the output of 3MTSim. 3MTSim allows users to test different management scenarios for maritime traffic (e.g., area closures, speed limits, regulations concerning the observation of marine mammals) in order to assess their effects on navigational patterns which may influence marine mammal exposure to vessels. 3MTSim includes an individual-based model of marine mammal movement patterns that has been elaborated based on existing telemetry data on fin, blue, and beluga whales as well as on land-based theodolite tracking of humpback and minke whales. Observations recorded aboard research and whale-watching vessels have provided the spatial data necessary to estimate species? abundances and distribution maps that are used to initialise the whale model. Different types of vessels, including cargo ships and commercial whale-watching boats are also modelled individually, using an agent-based approach. The boat model represents the decision-making process of boat captains as a function of environmental conditions, the contextual setting, and their respective goals. An extensive database of real-time tracking data available for the different types of vessels, coupled with observations and interviews, has served in the elaboration of the boat model. In this paper, an overview of the entire system is presented and its effectiveness as a decision support tool is demonstrated via the results from a sample of scenario-based simulations. -- Cristiane Cristiane C. de Albuquerque Martins Candidat au doctorat/Ph.D. candidate Laboratoire sur les syst?mes complexes/ Complex systems laboratory Universit? de Montr?al D?partement de G?ographie 520 chemin c?te Ste-Catherine Montr?al (QC), Canada H2V 2B8 T?l.: (514) 343-8064 / (514) 713-9486 http://www.geog.umontreal.ca/syscomplex/3MTSim/index.htm http://www.geog.umontreal.ca/recherches/memoirestheses/encours.html#cristianecamartins -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From p.j.palsboll at rug.nl Tue Mar 27 03:36:20 2012 From: p.j.palsboll at rug.nl (Per J Palsboll) Date: Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:36:20 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] PhD position in Marine Evolution and Conservation (MarECon) at Groningen University in the Netherlands Message-ID: <4F719824.1010109@rug.nl> PhD position Marine Evolution and Conservation (1,0 fte) (Reference number 212075) Organisation The PhD position is with the Marine Evolution and Conservation (MarECon) group at the Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Studies (CEES) which is placed with the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands. The research conducted by the members of MarECon is aimed at the evolution and conservation of pelagic marine organisms, in particular marine mammals. We are interested in those processes that partition genetic variation within those species that inhabit this comparatively open environment. Our primary research approach is population genetics and genomics. The research is conducted with a global network of collaborators who collect data and tissue samples in the field. Job description The pinnipeds and cetaceans represent some of the most derived mammal groups. The many convergent features in these two groups provide clear evidence of the strong natural selection the mammal "bauplan" is subjected to when transitioning to a marine existence. The combination of strong convergent evolution in different lineages of mammals constitutes an excellent opportunity to gain insights into the genomic underpinnings of the evolution and adaptation in pinnipeds and cetaceans and the subsequent radiations into different distinct marine habitats. The objective of this PhD project is to utilize genome enabled methods to identify those traits under past and recent selection in pinnipeds and cetaceans. The research will mainly consist of genome wide-scans in select population samples and subsequent bioinformatics and population genomic analyses of those data. The newly fitted laboratory is situated in the new green building Linneausborg on the Zernike Campus with excellent facilities for this kind of work. The PhD student will be supervised by Dr. Martine B?rub? and Prof. Per Palsb?ll. Qualifications We are looking for a highly motivated person with a master's degree in biology or equivalent discipline, with a strong background in empirical and theoretical population genetics. The ideal candidate for this position has good quantitative skills and the ability to conduct bioinformatics analyses of the large amounts of short-read sequence data. Programming skills (or the interest and ability to acquire such) is a necessity. The candidate should be able to work and solve problems independently. Some knowledge of marine mammals is beneficial, but not a prerequisite. It should be noted that the opportunities for fieldwork will be few and brief. A good command of English is required. The candidate will be enrolled in Groningen Graduate School of Science, attend graduate courses within the Research School Ecology and Evolution and participate in our teaching program (10% of time). Conditions of employment The University of Groningen offers a salary of EUR 2,042 gross per month in the first year up to a maximum of EUR 2,612 gross per month in the final year. The employment is initially in a temporary position of 1.5 years with possible extension with another 2.5 years provided satisfactory performance during the first year. The PhD candidate will be evaluated after the first year in order to determine the likelihood of the successful completion of the PhD thesis within the following three years. If a successful completion is deemed unlikely, the employment will not be extended. The main objective of the position is to publish research articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals. These publications will form the basis of the doctoral thesis and obtaining the PhD degree (Dr) at the University of Groningen. Application A full complete application in English consists of a letter describing your personal motivation for applying for this position outlining which skills pertinent to the position you have, past experience as well as a brief explanation what you think the main research questions in evolution and conservation are today for marine mammals. Also make sure to add a complete curriculum vitae along with names and addresses, including telephone/fax and e-mail addresses for three referees. We would like to receive applications until 15 May 2012, 24:00 CET by means of the application form. Start date before 1 September 2012. Information For information you can contact: Dr. Per Palsboll, p.j.palsboll at rug.nl ; palsboll at gmail.com CEES Applications should be submitted on-line at http://www.rug.nl/corporate/vacatures/vacaturesRUG(the reference number for this position is 212075) before May 15^th 2012.// _Apply_ .pdf file attached -- Per J. Palsboll, Professor Marine Evolution and Conservation Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Studies University of Groningen Nijenborgh 7 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands Office phone: +31 50 363 9882 Mobile +31 64 870 3295 Mail address: PO Box 11103 9700 CC Groningen The Netherlands -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: PhD position at MarECon Groningen University (212075).pdf Type: application/pdf Size: 31290 bytes Desc: not available URL: From K.Rankmore at massey.ac.nz Mon Mar 26 21:50:33 2012 From: K.Rankmore at massey.ac.nz (Rankmore, Krista) Date: Tue, 27 Mar 2012 17:50:33 +1300 Subject: [MARMAM] Common dolphin Photo-ID Volunteer Position in the Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand Message-ID: Common dolphin Photo-ID Volunteer Position in the Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand A volunteer is needed to assist with a PhD study investigating the abundance, social structure and site fidelity of common dolphins (Delphinus sp.) in the Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand. This PhD project is part of the ongoing research of the New Zealand Common Dolphin Project (NZCDP) and the Coastal-Marine Research Group (C-MRG) at Massey University Albany, Auckland. (http://cmrg.massey.ac.nz). PROJECT BACKGROUND: The Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand, is an important habitat for common dolphins that are present in the Gulf all year and use the region extensively for foraging, and as a calving and nursery ground. Common dolphins have been found to consistently inhabit coastal waters making them vulnerable to the impacts of pollution, tourist interactions, recreational use and adjacent urban population growth. The aim of this project is to investigate the abundance, site fidelity and social structure of common dolphins in the Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand. DATES: April 2012 until June 2012 LOCATION: Auckland, New Zealand FIELDWORK: The volunteer position entails assisting during field surveys and analysis of common dolphin fin photo identification. The successful applicant will gain valuable experience in conducting marine mammal field research, identifying individual common dolphins based on dorsal fin characteristics, and the use of MS Access databases for archiving field data. Field work is physically and at times mentally demanding but it is a great opportunity to gain knowledge in visual cetacean surveying, to get hands-on field experience in relation to survey techniques, photo-identification, behavioural observations, and improve practical skills (data analysis, photo-ID). Due to the training required, applicants should be available for a minimum of 2 months, however all applicants will be considered. The placement commences in April 2012. Fieldwork is weather dependent and can vary between weekdays and weekends. Assistants need to be available full-time including weekends and be prepared to work long hours with early starts. RESPONSIBILITIES: . Photo-identification of dolphins in the lab, including photo sorting, grading, and matching, sighting data entry, assist in maintenance of long-term photo-id catalogue using a MS Access database and Finscan. Research assistants should be prepared to work long days in the office analysing of photographs and matching them with the photo-identification catalogue (75% of the time). . Assisting with boat-based photo-identification surveys of common dolphins from a local dolphin watching vessel, collecting environmental, location, and behavioural data for dolphin groups (25% of the time). This is a volunteer position, so there is unfortunately no monetary compensation or living provisions. The successful candidate should arrange their own accommodation in Auckland, living expenses, travel costs and visa. PREREQUISITES: . Be reliable, adaptable, hardworking and patient as fieldwork is highly weather dependent. This means office based work during bad weather and long consecutive days in the field when weather permits. . Have a mature attitude towards marine mammal research . Speak fluent English . Be sociable, enthusiastic and have a positive attitude . Strong interest in the marine environment and conservation QUALIFICATIONS: . Minimum of 18 years of age. The project is well suited to upper level undergrads, recent grads and graduate students who have some background in Biology, Marine Biology, Ecology, Zoology or related fields . Basic computer proficiency in MS Office (especially Excel and Access) . Field research including photo-identification experience is preferred but not required . Previous experience in survey techniques and especially in marine mammal research is preferred but not required . Participants must be able to swim and should be comfortable working on boats . First AID/CPR certification preferred but not required APPLICATION PROCESS: Applicants should send a short email to k.rankmore at massey.ac.nz, using ?photo-id position? as the subject line. The email should include an outline of why you would like to work on this project, your qualifications and relevant experience. Please also attach a brief CV including at least one reference acknowledging your relevant experience. Early application is recommended as applications will be examined in order of reception. All the best, Krista Rankmore PhD Candidate Coastal-Marine Research Group Institute of Natural Sciences Massey University Private Bag 102 904 North Shore City 0745 Auckland New Zealand Tel: +64 (0) 9 414 0800 EXT 41520 Mob: +64 (0) 22 025 6290 Fax: + 64 (0) 9 443 9790 http://cmrg.massey.ac.nz From sarahbaulch at eia-international.org Mon Mar 26 00:56:31 2012 From: sarahbaulch at eia-international.org (Sarah Baulch) Date: Mon, 26 Mar 2012 08:56:31 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] Information request - Marine debris impacts Message-ID: Dear colleagues, I am conducting a review of the impacts of marine debris on marine mammals. I would be very grateful for any information you could supply in relation to this. In particular: - Any case studies where cetacean populations have been impacted by marine debris and action has been taken (successful or not). - Information from strandings networks in relation to documented cases of ingestion/entrapment or other impacts of marine debris (e.g. habitat degradation) on marine mammals, including where possible the rates of prevalence of debris in necropsied animals, associated pathology or mortality, the species of marine mammal and debris composition. Please contact me by email at: sarahbaulch at eia-international.org Thank you in advance for any information you can provide. Kind regards, Sarah Baulch Sarah Baulch Campaign Researcher (Cetaceans) Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA) 62/63 Upper Street London N1 0NY United Kingdom -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From alesha.r.n at gmail.com Wed Mar 28 07:03:52 2012 From: alesha.r.n at gmail.com (alesha naranjit) Date: Wed, 28 Mar 2012 10:03:52 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] Wanted: cetacean ID key Message-ID: Hello, I am trying to obtain a cetacean ID key for the identification of cetacean carcasses and skeletal remains. These are mostly to ID stranded animals. I have a copy of the FAO Species Identification Guide, Marine Mammals of the World (1994 I believe) but would wondered if there were any other keys available. Also, I would appreciate if someone can confirm whether all delphinidae species, with the exception of *Steno, *have smooth teeth as I have not seen descriptions of the surface texture of delphinidae teeth other than those of *Steno*. If you have any information please contact me at alesha.r.n at gmail.com. Thanks Al?sha Naranjit -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From liditas at gmail.com Wed Mar 28 13:29:07 2012 From: liditas at gmail.com (Lida Pimper) Date: Wed, 28 Mar 2012 17:29:07 -0300 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication on spectacled porpoise genetics Message-ID: <1E2152D2-F204-4C1D-8A97-0AEAB218CEC7@gmail.com> We are pleased to announce the publication (online at this stage) of the following short communication in Mammalian Biology: First mitochondrial DNA analysis of the spectacled porpoise (Phocoena dioptrica) from Tierra del Fuego, Argentina Lida E. Pimper, R. Natalie P. Goodall and M. Isabel Remis. Abstract The spectacled porpoise (Phocoena dioptrica, Lahille, 1912) is one of the cetacean species about which least is known. Most information on the biology and ecology of this species has been obtained from stranded specimens and sightings at sea. In this study, analysis of 380 bp fragment of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region sequences (N = 50) was performed to provide a preliminary assessment of the genetic variation in spectacled porpoise specimens found stranded or by caught on the coast of Tierra del Fuego, Argentina. Results showed high levels of mtDNA diversity, as expected in large size and stable populations, and similar to other species of porpoises. The star-like shape phylogeny of haplotypes indicates a recent population expansion. This is the first report on the genetic variation of this species. Other lines of evidence (microsatellite loci, single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs)) are needed to improve our knowledge on the molecular biology of the spectacled porpoise. Keywords Phocoena dioptrica; Spectacled porpoise; mtDNA variation; Tierra del Fuego; Argentina Available from: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.mambio.2012.02.002 regards, Lida E. Pimper Postdoctoral Research Fellow Laboratorio de Gen?tica de la Estructura Poblacional. Departamento de Ecolog?a, Gen?tica y Evoluci?n. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales Universidad de Buenos Aires. Argentina. Museo Acatush?n de Aves y Mam?feros Marinos Australes. Tierra del Fuego. Argentina. Tel: +5411-4576-3300 int. 219 FAX: +5411-4576-3354 email: liditas at gmail.com / liditas at ege.fcen.uba.ar http://www.ege.fcen.uba.ar -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From GroningerH at TMMC.org Wed Mar 28 16:35:15 2012 From: GroningerH at TMMC.org (Heather Groninger) Date: Wed, 28 Mar 2012 16:35:15 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] The Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito, CA is hiring a Marine Mammal Pathobiologist Message-ID: The Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito, CA is recruiting for the following role: MARINE MAMMAL PATHOBIOLOGIST The Marine Mammal Center, an equal opportunity, non-profit employer, is seeking a Marine Mammal Pathobiologist to join our team. The Marine Mammal Center's mission is to expand knowledge about marine mammals-their health and that of their ocean environment-and to inspire their global conservation. Our core work is the rescue and rehabilitation of sick and injured marine mammals, supported by state-of-the-art animal care and research facilities, a corps of dedicated volunteers, and an engaged community. The Marine Mammal Pathobiologist is responsible for leading original research in The Marine Mammal Center's Veterinary Science Department, supporting and guiding other department members in assisting with research and coordinating research with external investigators. The Pathobiologist conducts original research into aspects of marine mammal biology pertinent to health and disease of Center patients and their rehabilitation. In addition to providing oversight to the research agenda, this position directly supports research efforts by other TMMC staff and collaborators by ensuring regulatory compliance, assisting with sampling of animals for research studies, necropsy examinations, data management and evaluation, and manuscript preparation. The Pathobiologist reports to the Director of Veterinary Science, with additional support and guidance provided by the Senior Scientist. This position supervises the Research Associate(s), Necropsy Manager and the Laboratory Manager/Medical Technologist. The Pathobiologist is also expected to be an active member of cross-departmental teams supporting the mission and directives of the Center Executive Director and TMMC Board of Directors. Major Responsibilities: * Develop an annual plan with measurable outcomes. * Manage staff, including providing performance evaluations tied to measures, and in conjunction with the Department of Human Resources, hiring and firing. * Conduct original research into marine mammal health and disease. * Ensure all research complies with all pertinent regulations. * Manage the Center's tissue and serum bank. * Contribute to Center grants management including drafting proposals, tracking expenses and reporting results. * Manage post release monitoring program of animals after rehabilitation * Assist veterinary science staff with data analysis Core Competencies -- Knowledge and Skills: * Knowledge of marine mammal biology, and current marine mammal health and disease issues * Knowledge of existing methodologies for tracking marine mammals * Knowledge of current regulations regarding marine mammal take and specimen handling * Ability to record, manage and analyze data, and perform statistical analyses * Ability to write scientific papers for publication in a peer reviewed journals * Ability to represent The Center before large and small groups * Ability to work as a member of a multidisciplinary team to coordinate shared and extra-mural projects, and monitor health and disease in marine mammals * Ability to supervise and train visiting interns and volunteers in marine mammal biology pertinent to the mission of The Center * Experience in multiple media venues Qualifications: * Significant and relevant experience with marine mammals in field research, clinical research, or both * Advanced degree in relevant field of study (e.g., PhD, DVM) * Demonstrated management experience To apply: Please send a cover letter and resume attention Human Resources and Operations Manager to admin at tmmc.org. Please put "Marine Mammal Pathobiologist" in the subject line. Deadline for applications is April 20, 2012. Please no phone calls or faxed submissions. Heather Groninger Human Resources and Operations Manager The Marine Mammal Center 2000 Bunker Road Fort Cronkhite Sausalito, CA 94965 415-289-7348 Fax: 415-754-4048 groningerh at tmmc.org www.tmmc.org Adopt-a-Seal! [cid:image001.jpg at 01CD0D00.6E13E0D0] Adopt a past patient like Garnett and you'll give future patients a second chance at life. Adopt-a-Seal today! -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 1938 bytes Desc: image001.jpg URL: From panebianco at macn.gov.ar Thu Mar 29 13:49:48 2012 From: panebianco at macn.gov.ar (=?utf-8?Q?Mar=C3=ADa_Victoria_Panebianco?=) Date: Thu, 29 Mar 2012 17:49:48 -0300 Subject: [MARMAM] new paper on franciscana male dolphin reproductive aspects In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <5173009F67394869AEDFFF3B7F7817EB@VikiPC> We are pleased to announce the publication (online at this stage) of the following article in Animal Reproduction Science: Abstract As the ?rst study to investigate reproductive aspects of male franciscana dolphins ?Pontoporia blainvillei? in Argentine waters, the aim of this paper was to assess sexual maturity by using histological and morphometric methods. P. blainvillei was labeled as ?Vulnerable? by the IUCN in 2008. The specimens analyzed were either incidentally caught in artisanal fishing nets (n = 47) or found stranded on the beach (n = 3). Testis weight and testicular index of maturity were reliable indicators of sexual maturity, being their values: MTW: 1.14 ? 0.60 ? 4.49 ? 1.94; IM: 0.03 ? 0.01 ? 0.09 ? 0.03, for immature and mature specimens? respectively. It was found that the Hierarchical Cluster Analysis might be appropriate for establishing sexual maturity stage, based on both the body morphometric measurements and age. The values for age, standard length and total weight at attainment sexual maturity were 2.92 ? 3.54 years, 126.19 ? 126.27 cm and 23.47 ? 23.75 kg. Considering the extremely low relative testis weight, the reversed sexual length dimorphism, the absence of secondary sexual characteristics, and the lack of scars from intrasexual combats in males, the hypothesis that sperm competition does not occur in the species, and male combats for accessing female reproductive may be rare for Pontoporia blainvillei is reinforced. All these features fit the species within a serial monogamous mating system. Keywords: Pontoporia; reproductive biology; sexual maturity; testis; South America, Argentina. Available from: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.anireprosci.2012.02.005. Best wishes. ___________ Dra. Mar?a Victoria Panebianco Postdoctoral Research felow Lab. de Ecolog?a, Comportamiento y Mam?feros Marinos (LECyMM) Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales "Bernardino Rivadavia" (MACN-CONICET) Av. ?ngel Gallardo 470, C1405DJR, Buenos Aires, Argentina Tel.: 54-11-4982-9410/6595 int.:211 Fax: 54-11-4982-5243/4494 From sharonbirzer at comcast.net Wed Mar 28 14:01:05 2012 From: sharonbirzer at comcast.net (Sharon Birzer) Date: Wed, 28 Mar 2012 21:01:05 +0000 (UTC) Subject: [MARMAM] Orcinus orca, seeking internal anatomy references/images In-Reply-To: <1949481106.379139.1332968131763.JavaMail.root@sz0186a.emeryville.ca.mail.comcast.net> Message-ID: <714845008.379256.1332968465987.JavaMail.root@sz0186a.emeryville.ca.mail.comcast.net> Dear Marine Mammal Specialists, I'm working on illustrating layers of the Orca whale, Orcinus orca for a marine science center. We have the skeletal layer but I'm missing images of the internal organs and muscle layers. Would anyone know of references or resources containing images of the internal anatomy of an Orca Whale? I do have references for the internal anatomy and muscle layers of the Bottlenose dolphin, Tursiops truncatus. Possibly I can adapt them for the Orca. Would anyone care to weigh in on specific differences between the internal anatomy and muscles of Orcinus orca and Tursiops truncatus? Thank you for any assistance or information you may provide. Please send information to my email at sharonbizer at comcast.net. Kind regards, Sharon Birzer Science Illustrator Seattle, Washingotn www.sharonbirzer.com www.gnsinw.org/sharon-birzer.html -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From benamer.ly at gmail.com Sat Mar 31 03:25:00 2012 From: benamer.ly at gmail.com (Ibrahen Benamer) Date: Sat, 31 Mar 2012 12:25:00 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] Monk seal carcass in Northeast Libya Message-ID: <4FA92667143B48C694D6982F3245658E@IbrahimBenamer> Dear all, Sad news indeed, on the 25th March and in the area of Ain Gazzalla (Northeast Libya near the Egyptian borders, 32.23284 N, 23.2848 E) a group of fishermen found a dead female monk seal trapped in their net. The case was reported to the coastguards who in turn informed the National Marine Laboratory. The carcass is now in their possession at the Lab and an autopsy is being arranged during this week. This event is the only confirmed case of monk seal existence in eastern Libya since Norris 1972, which may indicate that this critically endangered species can still be found in the area or close by which will support the importance of the area as an MPA. A report will be issued after the autopsy for more details, meanwhile pictures taken by the fishermen can be found at Flicker : http://www.flickr.com/photos/veezga/sets/72157629707045023/ regards Ibrahem ============================= Ibrahem Benamer MSc. Marine and Fisheries Science University of Aberdeen Lecturer Assistant, Faculty of Natural Resources and Environmental Science, Omar Mukhtar University (OMU), El-beida, Libya Tel: (+218) 92 859 6751 E mail: benamer.ly at gmail.com Skype: Ibrahem_benamer International Mailing address (Aramex(: Ibrahem Benamer TIP 398 Aramex House, Old Bath Road Colonbrook, Berkshire SL3 0NS UK P Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From brandon.southall at sea-inc.net Fri Mar 30 13:19:13 2012 From: brandon.southall at sea-inc.net (Brandon Southall) Date: Fri, 30 Mar 2012 13:19:13 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] SOCAL-BRS 2011 Annual Report available Message-ID: <4F761541.2050709@sea-inc.net> MARMAM subscribers, On behalf of our research team working on behavioral response studies of marine mammals in southern California (SOCAL-BRS), we would like to announce the availability of our annual report from the 2011 field season. Please go to: www.socal-brs.org and pull down the page that says SOCAL-11 - you will find a link to the .pdf right under the photo and header. We would like to especially thank all of our team members for their hard work, as well as the support of our research sponsors at the U.S. Navy, Chief of Naval Operations, Environmental Readiness Division (OPNAV N45) and the Office of Naval Research. Thanks also for the efforts of NOAA's Office of Science and Technology and Office of Protected Resources, the Southwest Regional Marine Mammal Stranding Network, the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary, the fun and dedicated crew of the /M/V Truth /from Truth Aquatics, the California Coastal Commission, and the American Cetacean Society. We are well into the analysis of both of the first two years of data and have presented some of the preliminary results; peer-reviewed publications from the SOCAL-BRS project we be forthcoming in the coming months. We are planning a slightly modified field approach in the summer and fall of 2012 - further information on these plans will be available at socal.brs.org in early summer. We will again provide the from-the-field blog when our fieldwork begins in late July. Brandon Southall (on behalf of the SOCAL-BRS team). -- PLEASE NOTE: New mailing address and office/FAX #s for SEA, Inc. Brandon L. Southall, Ph.D. President, Senior Scientist, SEA, Inc. Research Associate, University of California, Santa Cruz 9099 Soquel Drive, Suite 8, Aptos, CA 95003, USA 831.332.8744 (mobile); 831.661.5177 (office); 831.661.5178 (fax) Brandon.Southall at sea-inc.net; www.sea-inc.net -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: