From haydeecunha at yahoo.com.br Sat Feb 1 05:53:05 2014 From: haydeecunha at yahoo.com.br (Haydee Cunha) Date: Sat, 1 Feb 2014 05:53:05 -0800 (PST) Subject: [MARMAM] New publication: Reassessing Franciscana Management Areas (FMA) Message-ID: <1391262785.88533.YahooMailNeo@web161501.mail.bf1.yahoo.com> Dear Marmammers, on behalf of all co-authors, I'd like to announce the publication of the following paper: Cunha HA, Medeiros BV, Barbosa LA, Cremer MJ, Marigo J, Lailson-Brito J, Azevedo F, Sol?-Cava AM (2014) Population Structure of the EndangeredFranciscanaDolphin (Pontoporia blainvillei): Reassessing Management Units. PLoS One 9 (1): e85633.?doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0085633 Abstract ? Franciscanas are the most endangered dolphins in the Southwestern Atlantic. Due to their coastal and estuarine habits, franciscanas suffer from extensive fisheries bycatch, as well as from habitat loss and degradation. Four Franciscana Management Areas (FMA), proposed based on biology, demography, morphology and genetic data, were incorporated into management planning and in the delineation of research efforts. We re-evaluated that proposal through the analysis of control region sequences from franciscanas throughout their distribution range (N = 162), including novel sequences from the northern limit of the species and two other previouslyunsampledlocalities in Brazil. A deep evolutionary break was observed between franciscanas from the northern and southern portions of the species distribution, indicating that they must be managed as two Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESU). Furthermore, additional FMAs should be recognised to accommodate the genetic differentiation found in each ESU. These results have immediate consequences for the conservation and management of this endangered species. The pdf can be downloaded from: http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0085633? Cheers, Hayd?e ? ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Hayd?e A. Cunha, PhD Laborat?rio de Biodiversidade Molecular (UFRJ)/ MAQUA - Laborat?rio de Mam?feros Aqu?ticos e Bioindicadores (UERJ) Dept. de Gen?tica, Inst. de Biologia Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro - UFRJ CCS, Bloco A, Sl. A2-098. Ilha do Fund?o, Rio de Janeiro, RJ. Brasil. +55 21 2562-6389/2334-0065/9981-8382 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From amooney at whoi.edu Mon Feb 3 02:48:40 2014 From: amooney at whoi.edu (Aran Mooney) Date: Mon, 03 Feb 2014 05:48:40 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] new article - porpoise hearing Message-ID: <52EF7408.9040708@whoi.edu> Hi, Can you please post this announcement regarding a new research article on the hearing in finless porpoise. It is open access so people can download directly from the Journal of Experimental Biology or contact me at the email below. thank you. Hearing pathways in the Yangtze finless porpoise, Neophocaena asiaeorientalis asiaeorientalis T. Aran Mooney, Songhai Li, Darlene R. Ketten, Kexiong Wang and Ding Wang February 1, 2014 J Exp Biol 217, 444-452. * Author for correspondence (amooney at whoi.edu) Abstract How an animal receives sound may influence its use of sound. While ?jaw hearing? is well supported for odontocetes, work examining how sound is received across the head has been limited to a few representative species. The substantial variation in jaw and head morphology among odontocetes suggests variation in sound reception. Here, we address how a divergent subspecies, the Yangtze finless porpoise (Neophocaena asiaeorientalis asiaeorientalis) hears low-, mid- and high-frequency tones, as well as broadband clicks, comparing sounds presented at different locations across the head. Hearing was measured using auditory evoked potentials (AEPs). Click and tone stimuli (8, 54 and 120 kHz) were presented at nine locations on the head and body using a suction-cup transducer. Threshold differences were compared between frequencies and locations, and referenced to the underlying anatomy using computed tomography (CT) imaging of deceased animals of the same subspecies. The best hearing locations with minimum thresholds were found adjacent to a mandibular fat pad and overlaying the auditory bulla. Mean thresholds were not substantially different at locations from the rostrum tip to the ear (11.6 dB). This contrasts with tests with bottlenose dolphins and beluga whales, in which 30?40 dB threshold differences were found across the animals' heads. Response latencies increased with decreasing response amplitudes, which suggests that latency and sensitivity are interrelated when considering sound reception across the odontocete head. The results suggest that there are differences among odontocetes in the anatomy related to receiving sound, and porpoises may have relatively less acoustic ?shadowing?. From cetonews at yahoo.it Mon Feb 3 05:02:54 2014 From: cetonews at yahoo.it (Ceto News) Date: Mon, 3 Feb 2014 13:02:54 +0000 (GMT) Subject: [MARMAM] Paper on Fin Whale in winter in the Bonifacio Strait Message-ID: <1391432574.59946.YahooMailNeo@web28804.mail.ir2.yahoo.com> Recently published on the Journal Biologia Marina Mediterranea a short paper on the presence of Fin Whale in winter in the Bonifacio Strait (between Corsica and Sardinia) in the Pelagos Sanctuary. Arcangeli A., Campana I., Carcassi S., Casella E., Cracas F., Fabiano F., Ottaviani D.,Manca Zeichen M., Addis A., Crosti R. (2013). Seasonal sightings of Balaenoptera physalus in the Bonifacio Strait (Pelagos sanctuary).Biol. Mar. Mediterr. (2013), 20 (1): 252-253. The paper, with a translation in English, can be find at:http://www.accademiadelleviatano.org/pubblicazioni/biol.mar.medit.%202013,%2020(1).en%20252-253.pdf -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From kcr at ammcf.org.au Sun Feb 2 15:59:51 2014 From: kcr at ammcf.org.au (Dr Kate Charlton-Robb) Date: Mon, 03 Feb 2014 10:59:51 +1100 Subject: [MARMAM] Field Assistants opportunity: Burrunan dolphin research in Victoria, Australia Message-ID: <6a65684471ee02897a93728defcff160@ammcf.org.au> SEEKING EXPERIENCED FIELD ASSISTANTS FOR RESEARCH ON BURRUNAN DOLPHINS IN SOUTH-EASTERN AUSTRALIA. Positions now available for volunteer field assistants with the Australian Marine Mammal Conservation Foundation?s (AMMCF) Project Burrunan; incorporating field surveys, boat-based photo-ID and biopsy sampling of Burrunan dolphins (Tursiops australis) across coastal Victoria, south-eastern Australia. Register your interest in joining AMMCFs volunteer field assistant pool. The positions are well suited to upper level undergraduates and graduate students who have some background in Biology, Marine Biology, Ecology, Zoology or related field. ABOUT AMMCF The Australian Marine Mammal Conservation Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation with a mission to ?support and work with Australia?s marine mammal scientists and researchers to establish and advance the knowledge, conservation and protection of our marine mammals?. For further information please visit ammcf.org.au PROJECT OVERVIEW Project Burrunan focuses on using applied research to further investigate the newly described Burrunan dolphin (Tursiops australis)(Charlton-Robb et al. 2011). The aims of the project is to assess the species' distribution and range, gain better estimates of overall population size, assess the level of gene flow between the discrete populations and to assess potential migration pathways. This project will also investigate the presence and habitat use of the Burrunan across coastal and offshore regions of Victoria. This project is led by Dr Kate Charlton-Robb. LOCATION Single day trips on Port Phillip Bay. Multiple 5-10 day field trips in the Gippsland Lakes and across coastal Victoria. DATES There will be numerous field trips during 2014. Fieldwork will be weather dependent and will be conducted on weekdays and weekends. DUTIES & EXPECTATIONS ? Assisting with boat-based photo-identification surveys of Burrunan dolphins. ? Taking photos. ? Driving small research vessel (Victorian boat licence required). ? Recording field observations (dolphin and environmental). ? Data entry. ? Assisting at community awareness presentations. ? Communal cooking and housekeeping duties (on multiple day field trips). PREREQUISITES ? Experience of field research on small cetaceans (highly desirable). ? Experience of photo-ID survey techniques (highly desirable). ? Small boat operations experience (highly desirable). ? Victorian Boat Licence (essential). ? Not susceptible to debilitating seasickness (essential). ? Be reliable, adaptable and hard-working (essential). ? Be prepared to work long days (essential). ? Be team-oriented, sociable, enthusiastic and have a positive attitude (essential). EXPENSES This is an unpaid position. On multiple day field trips, accommodation at field sites will be provided at no cost to assistants. Volunteers will be expected to arrange their own travel to the field sites (however in some cases space may be available in the research vehicle). A communal ?kitty? is generally set up to cover the team?s food expenses. APPLICATION PROCESS: Please send a CV, a brief covering letter outlining your relevant experience, and contact details of two relevant referees to kcr at ammcf.org.au. Applications will be considered, if approved you will then be placed on AMMCFs field assistant list. As this field work is ongoing during 2014, you will be contacted on a regular basis and informed of field trip dates. All the best. Dr Kate Charlton-Robb Principal Researcher Australian Marine Mammal Conservation Foundation PO Box 2046 Hampton East VIC 3188 e: kcr at ammcf.org.au w: ammcf.org.au From kcr at ammcf.org.au Sun Feb 2 20:45:14 2014 From: kcr at ammcf.org.au (Dr Kate Charlton-Robb) Date: Mon, 03 Feb 2014 15:45:14 +1100 Subject: [MARMAM] HDR Honours opportunity: Burrunan dolphin research, Victoria Australia Message-ID: <6d06cace4c1253ab824c949b4aadba14@ammcf.org.au> HONOURS OPPORTUNITY with the AUSTRALIAN MARINE MAMMAL CONSERVATION FOUNDATION (AMMCF) and DEAKIN UNIVERSITY for PROJECT BURRUNAN. The Australian Marine Mammal Conservation Foundation (AMMCF), in affiliation with Deakin University, is currently seeking applications from highly qualified candidates for BSc Honours, mid-year intake 2014 (research-based). Two projects will be offered investigating the population structure and spatial ecology of the newly described Burrunan dolphin (Tursiops australis) in Victoria. These projects are a part of AMMCFs larger research program Project Burrunan led by Dr Kate Charlton-Robb. BACKGROUND & PROJECT OVERVIEW A new species of dolphin, the Burrunan dolphin (Tursiops australis), endemic to southern Australia, has recently been described (Charlton-Robb et al. 2011). Tursiops australis are currently known to inhabit inshore regions of Victoria, Tasmania and South Australia. Previous research shows the species consist of small genetically distinct populations susceptible to numerous threats and is likely to be of grave conservation concern. Tursiops australis has also recently been listed under the Victorian State Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act as ?threatened?. Gippsland Lakes is one of only two places in Victoria that T. australis has an established a resident population, as such greater scientific knowledge underpinning the correct management and conservation is crucial. AMMCF, a newly established not-for-profit organisation, has it's primary mission to ?strive to support and work with Australia?s marine mammal scientists and researchers to establish and advance the knowledge, conservation and protection of our marine mammals.? Dr Kate Charlton-Robb, AMMCFs Founding Director and Principal Researcher has over 14 years? experience researching the dolphins across southern Australian and was the primary researcher that formally described and classified the Burrunan dolphin. Project Burrunan focuses on using applied research to further investigate the newly described Burrunan dolphin (Tursiops australis)(Charlton-Robb et al. 2011). The aims of the project is to assess the species' distribution and range, gain better estimates of overall population size, assess the level of gene flow between the discrete populations and to assess potential migration pathways. This project will also investigate the presence and habitat use of the Burrunan across coastal and offshore regions of Victoria. AMMCF has several Honours projects on offer for 2014 that will be a part of the wider Project Burrunan supervised by Dr Kate Charlton-Robb. These projects will be offered in affiliation with Deakin University, co-supervised by Associate Professor John Arnould. We are seeking highly motivated, dedicated, high achieving students to be involved with; 1. Gippsland Lakes Burrunan dolphin population assessment - estimates of overall population size and structure and levels of residency through individual dolphin fin identification (combined with genetic analyses already being undertaken). 2. GIS/habitat mapping ? mapping environmental, spatial and dolphin sighting data to identify areas of significance within the Lakes and Gippsland coastal region (i.e breeding and feeding grounds). AMMCFs core and other affiliated projects can been seen on our website ammcf.org.au. This will allow you to learn more about the Foundation and its focus on marine mammal research, protection and conservation. REQUIREMENTS ? Bachelor of Science degree, with a minimum of Distinction average. ? Experience in collecting and processing ecological data. ? Proficiency in Microsoft and statistical packages. ? Experience in marine mammal (particularly dolphins) behavioural observations and photo-identification techniques (for Project 1). ? Experience with GIS software (for Project 2). ? Previous boat handling experience would be considered favourable. APPLICATION PROCESS Expressions of interest must be received no later than March 3rd 2014 and must contain the following: 1. A brief covering letter outlining your relevant experience and the project of interest. 2. Curriculum Vitae 3. Current academic transcript 4. Two relevant referees who are familiar with your academic, research and ethical record. Please forward the above to Dr Kate Charlton-Robb kcr at ammcf.org.au. Applications will be considered and we will contact you with further information by 24th March 2014. If you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact me. Kind Regards, Dr Kate Charlton-Robb Principal Researcher Australian Marine Mammal Conservation Foundation PO Box 2046 Hampton East VIC 3188 e: kcr at ammcf.org.au w: ammcf.org.au From peter.evans at bangor.ac.uk Mon Feb 3 05:49:24 2014 From: peter.evans at bangor.ac.uk (Peter Evans) Date: Mon, 3 Feb 2014 13:49:24 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] ECS/ASCOBANS/ACCOBAMS WORKSHOP ON NOISE IMPACTS Message-ID: <0d31e3c8b5c14a2287004e47491964ea@DBXPR03MB014.eurprd03.prod.outlook.com> Apologies for cross posting On Sunday 6 April 2014 at the upcoming Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society, there will be an international workshop on "Introducing noise into the marine environment: what are the requirements for an impact assessment for marine mammals?" Background: Noise from anthropogenic sources is a pervasive influence on today's marine environment. It may come from shipping, smaller craft, seismic surveys, pile driving, or sonar, amongst others. Negative impacts have been demonstrated on a wide range of marine mammals although population consequences are more difficult to ascertain. A fundamental part of any human activity should be an environmental impact assessment, and in many situations these are a requirement under national or international law. And yet the scope and content of such an assessment can vary greatly between and even within countries. Objectives: The purpose of this workshop is 1) to review contents that are common to all EIAs, such as baseline surveys, overall impact evaluation, and general mitigation methods; 2) more detailed assessments relating to particular activities (pile driving, dredging, seismic, etc); and 3) assessments that apply specifically to particular environmental conditions or regions within Europe. Those three themes will form the basis for presentations from key speakers followed by general discussion and break out groups. The aim is to bring together marine mammal scientists, environmental bodies, regulators and industry to produce a series of recommendations that can form specific guidelines for application across Europe. The workshop has the support of the CMS regional conservation agreements, ASCOBANS and ACCOBAMS, and is being held in conjunction with the Joint ASCOBANS-ACCOBAMS Noise Working Group. If you would like to offer a presentation or simply attend, please contact: Dr Peter G.H. Evans at . Rhif Elusen Gofrestredig 1141565 - Registered Charity No. 1141565 Gall y neges e-bost hon, ac unrhyw atodiadau a anfonwyd gyda hi, gynnwys deunydd cyfrinachol ac wedi eu bwriadu i'w defnyddio'n unig gan y sawl y cawsant eu cyfeirio ato (atynt). Os ydych wedi derbyn y neges e-bost hon trwy gamgymeriad, rhowch wybod i'r anfonwr ar unwaith a dilewch y neges. Os na fwriadwyd anfon y neges atoch chi, rhaid i chi beidio a defnyddio, cadw neu ddatgelu unrhyw wybodaeth a gynhwysir ynddi. Mae unrhyw farn neu safbwynt yn eiddo i'r sawl a'i hanfonodd yn unig ac nid yw o anghenraid yn cynrychioli barn Prifysgol Bangor. Nid yw Prifysgol Bangor yn gwarantu bod y neges e-bost hon neu unrhyw atodiadau yn rhydd rhag firysau neu 100% yn ddiogel. Oni bai fod hyn wedi ei ddatgan yn uniongyrchol yn nhestun yr e-bost, nid bwriad y neges e-bost hon yw ffurfio contract rhwymol - mae rhestr o lofnodwyr awdurdodedig ar gael o Swyddfa Cyllid Prifysgol Bangor. This email and any attachments may contain confidential material and is solely for the use of the intended recipient(s). If you have received this email in error, please notify the sender immediately and delete this email. If you are not the intended recipient(s), you must not use, retain or disclose any information contained in this email. Any views or opinions are solely those of the sender and do not necessarily represent those of Bangor University. Bangor University does not guarantee that this email or any attachments are free from viruses or 100% secure. Unless expressly stated in the body of the text of the email, this email is not intended to form a binding contract - a list of authorised signatories is available from the Bangor University Finance Office. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From lobeddia at yahoo.com Mon Feb 3 11:23:48 2014 From: lobeddia at yahoo.com (Lauren Rust) Date: Mon, 3 Feb 2014 11:23:48 -0800 (PST) Subject: [MARMAM] REMINDER: Veterinary Science Research Internship- DEADLINE-February 15 Message-ID: <1391455428.81337.YahooMailNeo@web121701.mail.ne1.yahoo.com> Veterinary Science Research Internship Announcement ? The Marine Mammal Center (TMMC) is a non-profit hospital dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of sick, injured or orphaned marine mammals. Also integral to the Center?s mission are the research and education programs that expand our knowledge of marine mammals, and their ocean environment, and inspire global conservation. Since 1975, TMMC volunteers and staff have responded to more than 18,000 stranded pinnipeds, cetaceans, and sea otters along California?s central coast. For more information about TMMC, please visit: www.marinemammalcenter.org. ? The Veterinary Science Department at TMMC is seeking applicants for a volunteer internship position in our research division. There is flexibility on the start date of this position, but we are looking for at least a 10 week commitment between April 1, 2014 and July 1, 2014. The successful candidate will participate in the following projects: ? 1)????? Assist with necropsies: Necropsies are performed on all animals that die during treatment at the center. Depending on the case, some necropsies require a significant amount of sampling. Primary responsibilities will include: assisting with necropsy sample collection, data collection, archiving samples, and clean up. ? 2)????? Marine mammal health map project: The goal of this project is to develop a web-based national marine mammal health tracking program that will allow detection of spatial and temporal changes in marine mammal health. Intern duties associated with this project will primarily include: retrospective surveys of hardcopy patient records to assign broad disease categories, comprehensive literature review of marine mammal health and disease studies, and geospatial data quality control. ? 3)????? Specimen archive project: This project will focus on tracking and optimizing the storage of archived specimens collected from live and dead marine mammals. Intern duties will primarily include: freezer inventory and electronic data entry. ? 4)????? Library project: This project involves cataloging scientific publications into TMMC?s hardcopy and electronic libraries. Intern duties will primarily include: reference entry using EndNote X, restocking hardcopy reprints, and scanning hardcopy publications. ? 5)????? Animal crew: The selected intern will spend one day on an animal crew. Animal crew?s duties include feeding the patients, cleaning the pens, restraining animals for feeds and/or procedures. Training is provided. ? In addition, the intern will assist with other duties within the Veterinary Science Department as needed, such as data entry, filing paperwork, rescues, releases, and the care of stranded marine mammal patients. ? Applicants would ideally have the following qualifications: * Minimum of 21 years of age and engaged in or recently completed undergraduate studies; * A background or degree in Biology, Marine Biology, Ecology, Zoology or a related field; * Basic computer proficiency, especially with Microsoft Office Suite; * Comfortable hiking 5 miles and lifting 50 lbs; and * A willingness to spend a minimum of 10 weeks working full time (40 hours per week) as a volunteer with our program. ? There is no compensation for this internship position, and the successful applicant will be responsible for their own living and transportation expenses during the time of the internship. This internship takes place at TMMC?s main hospital in the Marin Headlands near Sausalito, CA. ? The following application material is required and should be submitted electronically (PDF or Word document attachments) to Lauren Rust, rustl at tmmc.org by February 15, 2014 at 12am PST. ? 1. Statement of Interest (no more than two pages, double spaced) that describes: a) your professional interests and career goals, b) your reasons for applying for this internship, c) why you should be selected for this internship, and d) your availability and plan for housing. 2. College transcript(s) (official or unofficial copy) with all college-level courses you have taken to-date and the grades you have received. Please include an explanation of grading scales not on a 4.0 scale. 3. One letter of recommendation from an individual capable of commenting on your academic qualifications and, if possible, research skills. College or university faculty or research advisors preferred. Letters of recommendation MUST be sent directly from the person writing the letter, preferably via email (as an attachment or in the body of the email). 4. Resume or curriculum vitae (no more than two pages) describing any relevant jobs, internships, volunteer work, scholarships and/or other activities that you have held or participated in and other skills or accomplishments that you wish to identify. ? If email submission is not possible, application material can be faxed to (415) 754-4078 (Attn: Lauren Rust) or mailed to: The Marine Mammal Center, 2000 Bunker Road, Marin Headlands, Sausalito, CA 94965 (Attn: Lauren Rust). It is the responsibility of the applicant that all required material is submitted by the deadline. ? If the intern intends to receive university credit for their internship, they are responsible for making all arrangements with their educational institution. ? Lauren B. Rust Research Biologist The Marine Mammal Center 2000 Bunker Rd l Sausalito, CA 94965 T: 415.289.7328? I? C: 843.991.6953 Rustl at tmmc.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From sh52 at st-andrews.ac.uk Mon Feb 3 12:18:38 2014 From: sh52 at st-andrews.ac.uk (Sonja Heinrich) Date: Mon, 3 Feb 2014 20:18:38 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Master's in Marine Mammal Science (University of St Andrews, UK) Message-ID: <8230E407170BA44BA7D09AA533D53C2113A8ED23@UOS-DUN-MBX2.st-andrews.ac.uk> Master's in Marine Mammal Science at the University of St Andrews, Scotland, UK: We are currently accepting applications for our unique Master's programme in Marine Mammal Science at the University of St Andrews in Scotland, UK for 2014/15 entry. The Master's degree requires students to undertake two taught semesters (120 credits) followed by an independent research project of at least three months duration (60 credits, for the one year MRes/MSc), or 12 months duration (for the two year MPhil). During the taught semesters students undertake intensive training in quantitative methods, research techniques and study current issues in research and management in a broad range of topics. Teaching is done by means of lectures, student-led seminars and tutorials. Practicals involve lab work, field excursions, modelling and computer-based data analysis. The Master's in Marine Mammal Science is taught by members of the Sea Mammal Research Unit (SMRU), the School of Biology and the Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling (CREEM) which are part of the Scottish Oceans Institute at the University of St Andrews. This unique programme is now being offered in its 8th year and some exciting changes have been made to its curriculum including more flexibility in optional module choices in the second semester. Optional modules reflect the research strengths of the SMRU (http://www.smru.st-andrews.ac.uk/) covering biologging, advanced bioacoustics, behaviour and cognition, population biology, as well as estimating animal abundance (taught by experts at CREEM). The optional field course, Predator ecology in Polar Ecosystems, involves a vessel-based field expedition to the Antarctic Peninsula (requires additional payment of a substantial expedition fee) - you can follow our upcoming Antarctic expedition in March 2014 via the students' blog: http://www.smru.st-andrews.ac.uk/antarctic. For detailed information on programme content, entry requirements and how to apply please refer to the course's website: http://biology.st-andrews.ac.uk/pageset.aspx?psr=16 Or enter via the School of Biology website: http://biology.st-andrews.ac.uk/postgraduate/ Applications for the upcoming academic year (starting September 2014) must be received by Friday, 04 April 2014, and should be submitted online via the St Andrews Postgraduate Admission Portal: (http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/admissions/pg/apply//Howtoapply/). Please get in touch if you have further questions, via email: mresbiology at st-andrews.ac.uk Best wishes from St Andrews, Sonja Dr Sonja Heinrich Course Director, MRes Marine Mammal Science The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland: No SC013532 From lbelliveau at worcester.edu Mon Feb 3 19:56:31 2014 From: lbelliveau at worcester.edu (Lilly, Laura) Date: Mon, 3 Feb 2014 22:56:31 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Cape Ann Whale Watch Field Research and Environmental Education Internship Message-ID: Cape Ann Whale Watch is accepting applications for its Field Research and Environmental Education Internship. We work to educate passengers on our whale watch boat about marine life and the oceans to foster a sense of importance and personal responsibility in doing a part to contribute to the well being and conservation of the environment. This internship will allow you to gain hands-on experience in research, educational techniques, and the general workings of being on a whale watch boat. Interns are the core of the education program at Cape Ann Whale Watch. They work collaboratively with the naturalist to help accomplish our goal of educating people about whales and fostering a stronger appreciation and respect for whales and the ocean environment. Educators circulate the boat with hands-on teaching tools to educate the public about whales and their environment. Once the actual whale watching begins, the naturalist provides educational interpretive commentary while the interns collect data on whale behavior and identification for our research. Responsibilities: -Circulate the vessel using hands on teaching tools to educate passengers and are available to answer passengers' questions on a wide variety of topics- everything from whale behavior to ocean conservation. -Collect data and help to identify individual animals to contribute to ongoing research -Help with the general functioning of the whale watch vessel and provide a harbor tour to passengers at the beginning of each trip. -Attend and participate in weekly meetings, which cover topics of interest and relevance, and also provide opportunity for reflection and development among the group of educators. -Complete a project of their choice- past examples include creating a new teaching tool or developing a slide show for passengers to view while on board. Qualifications -Must have completed at least one year of college -Self-motivated and able to work with little supervision -Comfortable with talking to small and whole groups of passengers This internship is geared toward college students and recent graduates, however all who are interested are encouraged to apply. Applicants *do not need to be from the field of biology, and prior experience is not required- all training is provided.* The deadline for application is March 15, *however early application is strongly encouraged.* The whale watching season begins in early May and it runs through October. During this time, we ask that people can devote at least 10 weeks to the internship. This is an unpaid internship, and housing is not provided, but we will work with all the interns to find something suitable. It is your responsibility to arrange for college credit if you choose, and we will help you to complete your college's requirements.For full internship details, visit http://seethewhales.com/index.php?link=internship If you are interested please send a resume, cover letter, two written letters of recommendation, and an unofficial transcript to: lbelliveau at worcester.edu or Cape Ann Whale Watch PO BOX 345 Gloucester, Ma 01930 Attn: Laura Laura Lilly (978) 302-5802 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From phocoena73 at gmail.com Tue Feb 4 00:15:02 2014 From: phocoena73 at gmail.com (Krishna Das) Date: Tue, 4 Feb 2014 09:15:02 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] ECS workshop on Aquatic mammals from Latin America Message-ID: Hello, On Saturday 5 April 2014 (afternoon) at the upcoming Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society, there will be an international workshop on: *"WORKSHOP ON AQUATIC MAMMALS FROM LATIN AMERICA". * Abstract: The workshop (WS) intends to discuss current problems faced by aquatic mammals that inhabit Latin American waters. The perspective of the continent's economic growth and the consequent use and degradation of its rivers and coastal zones constitutes a matter of concern for the conservation of coastal and riverine aquatic mammals. A large set of construction works is planned for the establishment of hydroelectric power plants, harbours, shipyards and industries on Latin American rivers and coastal bays. Many of these aquatic systems have been suffering from a large series of different types of pressure, as well as they have been going through broad dredging and even submarine demolishing. This anthropogenic pressure results in habitat degradation, physical, acoustic and chemical pollution and their consequences. Some Latin American bays seem to be on the same degradation path once followed by one of the most anthropogenically-disturbed estuaries around the globe, the Guanabara Bay (GB), in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Guanabara Bay presents a residual Guiana dolphin (*Sotalia guianensis*) population assessed to be around 40 individuals only. The situation of the GB dolphins exemplifies the fact that many populations from species that are not officially regarded as threatened are facing extinction, which may hamper the gene flow. Taking this problem into consideration, the situation of riverine aquatic mammals should be highlighted, since hydroelectric dams may hamper the gene flow as well. Other examples of species regarded as common yet being regionally threatened are provided by bottlenose dolphin (*Tursiops truncatus*) and South American sea lion (*Otaria flavescens*). T. truncatus presents many local populations in Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina being small, isolated and declining due to the effects of ever increasing anthropogenic impacts as pollution, overfishing and bycatch. Concerning the abovementioned pinniped species, the situation of the sharp population decline of the Uruguay and northern Argentina stocks should be emphasised. Small and endemic coastal cetacean species, as franciscana dolphins (*Pontoporia blainvillei*) and vaquita (*Phocoena sinus*) are particularly vulnerable to incidental catches in gillnets, and the high levels of mortality are responsible for the critical conservation status of both species. Of particular interest is the La Plata river estuary, one of the most impacted environments in the world, characterized by continental inputs of organic and inorganic contaminants, as well as drugs. Precisely, P. blainvillei inhabits the outer zone of the estuary of the river. Although intentional hunting of marine mammals still exists in a few Latin American nations, most countries have ceased to hunt a few decades ago, using marine mammals in a non-lethal way to increase their socio-economic standards. However, the ever-increasing touristic activities focused on aquatic mammals also raise concern. This is especially important in the north of Brazil, where the artificial feeding of botos (*Inia spp.*) for tourism seems to be insufficiently controlled. In this context, the WS intends to discuss the status of the "Araguaian boto" (*Inia araguaiaensis*), the new species of river dolphin from Brazil, as well as the current situation of the most threatened species of Latin America. For accomplishing this last task, the WS intends also to discuss the recovery of mysticeti and sirenian populations after the hunting period, as well as the conservation status of the most endangered mustelid species, such as the giant (*Pteronura brasiliensis*), the marine (*Lontra felina*) and the southern river (*Lontra provocax*) otters. If you would like to offer a presentation or simply attend, please contact: *Prof. Paulo Renato Dorneles in charge of the organization: * *dorneles at biof.ufrj.br * Paulo Renato Dorneles Professor Adjunto UFRJ Polo Xer?m Laborat?rio de Radiois?topos Eduardo Penna Franca Instituto de Biof?sica Carlos Chagas Filho Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro UFRJ, CCS, Bloco G, subsolo, sala G0-62 Cidade Universit?ria, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil Looking forward to seeing you at the next ECS conference, Krishna Krishna Das Co-chair of the 28th Conference of the European Cetacean Society http://liege.europeancetaceansociety.eu F.R.S. - FNRS Research Associate University of Liege Laboratory for Oceanology - MARE Research Center All?e de la Chimie 17 , B6C, Institut de Chimie 4000, Liege (Sart-Tilman), Belgium Tel: (+32) 4 366 3321 Website: http://www2.ulg.ac.be/oceanbio/ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From phocoena73 at gmail.com Tue Feb 4 00:17:06 2014 From: phocoena73 at gmail.com (Krishna Das) Date: Tue, 4 Feb 2014 09:17:06 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] ECS workshop on pollutants in marine mammals Message-ID: Hello, On Sunday 6 April 2014 (morning) at the upcoming Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society, there will be an international workshop on: "*New developments in toxicological studies in marine mammals". * Abstract: It has been shown, numerous times already, that marine mammals are exposed to a wide variety of pollutants and that they also experience the toxic impact of these pollutants on their health and overall well-being. Since pollution is an ever-changing issue, the methods, approaches and techniques to assess or detect pollution must be equally dynamic. The goals of this workshop are to provide overviews of current practices and to highlight gaps in current knowledge. Since some of these gaps can be filled by non-toxicologists, this workshop will be open for everybody. If you would like to offer a presentation or simply attend, please contact: *Dr Liesbeth Weijs in charge of the organization: l.weijs at uq.edu.au . * *LIESBETH WEIJS | POSTDOC FELLOW | UNIVERSITY OF QUEENSLAND* *NATIONAL RESEARCH CENTRE FOR ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY (ENTOX)* *39 Kessels Road, Coopers Plains, QLD 4108 Australia* *p: +61 (0)7 3274 9113 | f: +61 (0)7 3274 9003* *m: l.weijs at uq.edu.au * *w: www.entox.uq.edu.au * Looking forward to seeing you at the next ECS conference, Krishna Krishna Das Co-chair of the 28th Conference of the European Cetacean Society http://liege.europeancetaceansociety.eu F.R.S. - FNRS Research Associate University of Liege Laboratory for Oceanology - MARE Research Center All?e de la Chimie 17 , B6C, Institut de Chimie 4000, Liege (Sart-Tilman), Belgium Tel: (+32) 4 366 3321 Website: http://www2.ulg.ac.be/oceanbio/ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From abarrows at meriresearch.org Wed Feb 5 07:11:47 2014 From: abarrows at meriresearch.org (Abby Barrows) Date: Wed, 5 Feb 2014 10:11:47 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Blue Hill Bay Coastal Monitoring Intern Message-ID: The Marine Environmental Research Institute (MERI), a nonprofit organization based in Blue Hill, Maine, is recruiting to fill a Coastal Monitoring Internship position for the field season 2014. This is a full-time position requiring an 8-month commitment from May through December. MERI is a scientific research and education organization dedicated to understanding the impacts of environmental pollutants on wildlife and human health, and to interpreting this information to a broad audience. Current projects include a marine coastal monitoring initiative, local and international microplastic contamination research, sediment acidification surveys and a long-term eco-toxicological investigation of northwestern Atlantic harbor seals. This is an excellent opportunity for an individual working toward a career in coastal marine ecology, natural resource sciences, or conservation biology to gain practical experience in the field and in the lab. The ideal candidate will possess a personal interest in marine ecology and ecosystem monitoring and a commitment to the mission of the organization. Primary Job Responsibility This position will involve assisting the Research Department with the implementation of the Blue Hill Bay Coastal Monitoring Project. Primary responsibilities will include water quality sampling at marine water sites, phytoplankton monitoring and identification, laboratory bacteria analysis, invasive species collection and identification, monitoring pinniped haul out sites and behavior, crewing MERI's research vessel, data entry and basic data analysis. Additional duties may include assisting with research outreach activities. Job Description: * Conduct in-situ water quality monitoring using a DataSonde multi probe and sample collection at marine sites throughout the Blue Hill Bay watershed * Collect biological samples in the field and identify them in the lab * Prepare for each field day by calibrating and maintaining field instruments * Perform lab chemistries and bacterial assays following established standard operating procedures and quality assurance protocols * Monitoring and recording pinniped haul-out sites and behavior * Assist with data entry, updating field logs and lab maintenance * Help run the volunteer water quality monitoring program * Assist with preparation of result summaries, reports, fact sheets and presentations * Weekly monitoring blog update * Articulate and promote the MERI mission to the public * Perform other duties relating to the organization's goals and mission as required Qualifications Applicants should possess a BS or MS degree in marine ecology, environmental sciences, marine biology, conservation biology or a related major. Marine field and laboratory experience, and seamanship skills are required. Experience with multi-parameter probes and a familiarity with environmental sampling methods and statistics are preferred. Experience identifying phytoplankton and coastal invasive species is desirable. Applicants must also be able to work outside in a variety of environmental conditions. They must also be comfortable working on a marine research vessel and be available to work occasional nights, weekends, and holidays as needed. Knowledge of computer software including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel is required; photography, statistics (SPSS), Microsoft Access, ArcGIS, EndNote and graphics experience is desirable. Knowledge of Gulf of Maine marine phytoplankton species is recommended. Applicant must possess a valid driver's license and a good driving record. Only US citizens should apply. Position requires some physical activity and applicant should be able to lift up to 40 lbs, walk carrying fragile equipment on uneven ground. Reports to: Coastal Monitoring Coordinator Time Requirements: May - December (Flexible start) Full-time (40 hours/week); additional hours to be agreed upon by employee and Director. Compensation: Stipend and shared housing in Blue Hill, Maine. Housing is within walking distance to Marine Environmental Research Institute. Interns are responsible for all travel expenses and food. To Apply: If you are interested in applying for this position, please state where you found the internship posting and submit a cover letter, resume, three references with the subject line *"Coastal Monitoring Internship"* by April 1st to: Abby Barrows, Coastal Monitoring Coordinator at abarrows at meriresearch.org Please, no phone calls. Marine Environmental Research Institute (MERI) PO Box 1652, 55 Main Street Blue Hill, ME 04614 Website: *www.meriresearch.org* MERI is an Equal Opportunity Employer -- _________________________________________________________________ Abigail Barrows Coastal Monitoring and Outreach Coordinator Marine Environmental Research Institute P.O. Box 1652 Blue Hill, ME 04614 207-374-2135 ext. 24 www.meriresearch.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From abarrows at meriresearch.org Wed Feb 5 07:13:03 2014 From: abarrows at meriresearch.org (Abby Barrows) Date: Wed, 5 Feb 2014 10:13:03 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Microplastics Monitoring Intern Message-ID: The Marine Environmental Research Institute (MERI), a nonprofit organization based in Blue Hill, Maine, is recruiting to fill a Microplastics Monitoring Internship position for the field season 2014. This is a full-time position requiring a 6-month commitment from May through October. MERI is a scientific research organization dedicated to understanding the impacts of environmental pollutants on wildlife and human health, and to interpreting this information to a broad audience. Current projects include a marine coastal monitoring initiative, an expanding microplastics monitoring program (local and international), sediment pH studies and invasive species surveys. This is an excellent opportunity for an individual working toward a career in coastal marine ecology, marine debris management, natural resource sciences, or environmental policy to gain practical experience in the field and in the lab. The ideal candidate will possess a personal interest in marine pollution and ecosystem monitoring and a commitment to the mission of the organization. Primary Job Responsibility This position will involve assisting the Research Department with the implementation of the Blue Hill Bay Microplastics Monitoring Project. Primary responsibilities will include water sample processing in the laboratory, microplastic identification and counting, upholding a contamination-free laboratory, field sampling, data entry and basic data analysis. The candidate will possess a serious attention to detail and be highly organized. The candidate will be responsible for properly cataloging water samples from local volunteers, long-term research, and international efforts (1000+ samples) and maintaining order in a high sample volume laboratory. Additional duties may include assisting with research outreach activities. Job Description: ? Process incoming 1-liter water samples using a vacuum pump filtration system ? Organize samples pre and post filtration ? Maintain microplastic excel database ? Analyze results for monitoring weekly blog ? Photograph and catalogue samples ? Collection and extraction of microplastics for polymer characterization/analysis ? Assist with data entry, updating field logs and lab maintenance ? Time: 60 % microscope, 25% sample processing, 15% field ? Weekly compilation of microplastic media items and endnote article update Qualifications Applicants should possess a BS or MS degree in marine ecology, environmental sciences, marine biology, organic chemistry, conservation biology or a related major. Marine field and laboratory experience are required. Experience with following laboratory QA/QC and familiarity with compound and dissection microscopes a must. Applicants need to be able to work outside in a variety of environmental conditions. They must also be comfortable working on and near the water, working alone as well as with other research staff and general public. Must be available to work occasional nights (meetings and lecture series), weekends, and holidays as needed. Knowledge of computer software including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel is required; photography, statistics (SPSS), Microsoft Access, EndNote, ArcGIS and graphics experience is desirable. Knowledge of plastic legislation and marine debris is recommended. Applicant must possess a valid driver's license and a good driving record. Only US citizens should apply. Position requires some physical activity and applicant should be able to lift up to 40 lbs, walk carrying fragile equipment on uneven ground. Reports to: Coastal Monitoring Coordinator Time Requirements: May - October (Flexible start) Full-time (40 hours/week); additional hours to be agreed upon by employee and Director. Compensation: Stipend and shared housing in Blue Hill, Maine. Housing is within walking distance to Marine Environmental Research Institute. Interns are responsible for all travel expenses and food. To Apply: If you are interested in applying for this position, please state where you found the internship posting and submit a cover letter, resume, three references with the subject line "*Microplastics Monitoring Internship*" by April 1st to: Abby Barrows, Coastal Monitoring Coordinator at abarrows at meriresearch.org Please, no phone calls. Marine Environmental Research Institute (MERI) PO Box 1652, 55 Main Street Blue Hill, ME 04614 Website: *www.meriresearch.org* MERI is an Equal Opportunity Employer -- _________________________________________________________________ Abigail Barrows Coastal Monitoring and Outreach Coordinator Marine Environmental Research Institute P.O. Box 1652 Blue Hill, ME 04614 207-374-2135 ext. 24 www.meriresearch.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From katjavp at gmail.com Wed Feb 5 12:57:54 2014 From: katjavp at gmail.com (Katja Vinding Petersen) Date: Wed, 5 Feb 2014 22:57:54 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] Volunteer field assistant opportunity during the southern right whale season in South Africa 2014 Message-ID: *Volunteer field assistant opportunity * *during the southern right whale season in South Africa 2014* *BACK GROUND:* This PhD project aims to obtain baseline information on fine-scale movement, individual behaviour and habitat use of cetaceans in the Greater Dyer Island area, Western Cape, South Africa. The main techniques used are theodolite tracking, passive acoustic monitoring and photo-id of the cetaceans. The focus species are; Southern right whale (*Eubalaena australis*), Indo Pacific humpback dolphin (*Sousa chinensis*), Humpback whales (*Megaptera novaeangliae*), Bryde's whales ( *Balaenoptera brydei*) and Indo Pacific bottlenose dolphins ( *Tursiops aduncus*). The PhD project is run under the auspices of the Mammal Research Institute (MRI) of University of Pretoria. *WHERE: *Kleinbaai, Western Cape, South Africa *WHEN:* During the main season of the southern right whale from the 1st of June until end of December 2014 *FIELDWORK & DATA ANALYSIS:* You will primarily be part of the theodolite tracking team. Surveys are conducted using a Total station and binoculars. Surveys are conducted from observation towers along the coastline. You will assist with the data recording, scanning the area using binoculars and entering data in the evenings or during bad weather days. As a volunteer you will also participate in sound analysis, from passive acoustic listening stations. Fieldwork is weather dependent and can vary between weekdays and weekends. You need to be available full-time, including weekends and be prepared to work long hours with early starts. On theodolite tracking days the team will leave before sunrise and return after sunset - spending the whole day tracking. Fieldwork is intense and demanding, but very rewarding. You will obtain hands-on field experience and knowledge in environmental and behavioural data collection of cetaceans, as well as photo-identification techniques. Max. 3 volunteers will be accepted at the time. *EXPECTATIONS, volunteers are expected to:* ? Be reliable, adaptable, hard working 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. ? NOT be afraid of heights. Some of the tracking will be done from the top of a water tower and getting there involves secured climbing on high open ladders. ? Physically in good shape. ? Have excellent eyesight. ? Be prepared to work long days with start before sunrise and after sunset. ? Be sociable, enthusiastic and have a positive attitude. ? Participate for minimum 1 month. *QUALIFICATIONS:* ? Upper level undergrads and graduate students who have interest and background in Biology, Marine Biology, Ecology, Zoology or related field - is preferred. ? Basic computer proficiency in Microsoft Office (especially Excel and Access). ? Previous experience in survey techniques, sound analysis - especially in marine mammal research is preferred but not required. ? Participants must be able to live and work well within a team for extended periods of time. Due to the training required, applicants should be available for a minimum of 1 month. *LIVING & COSTS:* Volunteers are expected to cover their own living expenses, including flight costs. Help will be provided to find accommodation in Kleinbaai. Expected accommodation cost is between ZAR 3500 - 5000 per month (final costs to be confirmed but will be kept within this price range). Food expenses, Internet etc can be kept between ZAR 2000-3000 a month. Pick-up and drop-off from Cape Town can be arranged. *DEADLINE AND APPLICANTIONS:* Interested volunteers should email the following before the 16th of February 2014. ? Letter of interest outlining relevant experience and motivation for participation ? CV ? Duration of stay (expected start and end date) PhD student, Katja Vinding Petersen; katja at whalesdolphins.co.za Relevant links: www.facebook.com/WhalesDolphins www.whalesdolphins.co.za -- Katja Vinding Petersen, M.Sc. PhD. Student University of Pretoria, South Africa Mobile Denmark: 0045 20 62 00 64 Mobile S.A.: +27 (0)7 22 80 11 46 www.facebook.com/WhalesDolphins -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From victoria.angeline13 at gmail.com Wed Feb 5 07:35:25 2014 From: victoria.angeline13 at gmail.com (victoria howard) Date: Wed, 5 Feb 2014 09:35:25 -0600 Subject: [MARMAM] Marine Mammal Research Internship Message-ID: *The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies is now accepting applications for the Summer 2014 Internship- deadline March 1, 2014* The IMMS Research Internship Program is designed as a way for students interested in a career in marine science to gain valuable research experience in a real-world setting. Interns will participate with multiple projects involving bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles and diamondback terrapins. As an intern, you will be trained in all aspects of dolphin photo-id research, sea turtle satellite tracking, and other current research projects at IMMS. Interns will also participate in other operations at IMMS including stranding response, education, and animal care. Our goal is to give Interns a well-rounded experience in a variety of areas while providing expert training and experience in marine science research. Interns must: - Commit to a minimum of at least 12 weeks. The internship can be extended depending on work performance. - Be available to work Mon-Fri and must be available for all boat trips. Some field days may fall on the weekends. - Have strong sense of responsibility, work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to admit mistakes. - Produce high quality research efforts and exhibit strong interpersonal skills. *Principle Duties include*: data entry, searching and cataloging journal articles, learning all research protocols, cropping and sorting photo-id fin images, learning to use photo-id programs such as Darwin (fin matching software), and FinBase (Microsoft Access), boat based field research (21' and 31' boats), and learn how to use ArcGIS Applicants must be 18 or older and must have a genuine interest in marine research. Applicants should be actively pursuing a college degree or be a recent graduate in oceanography, marine science/biology, biology, or a related field. Previous research experience in any capacity is a plus. Applicants must be able and willing to fulfill all duties outlined for this Internship Program. This is an unpaid position and Interns are responsible for their own housing and transportation. Once accepted, IMMS staff will be able to assist Interns in suggesting suitable housing options and locations *Please visit http://imms.org/internship.php for full Internship information and details on how to apply* -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From Keegan.Yager at hdrinc.com Thu Feb 6 12:37:12 2014 From: Keegan.Yager at hdrinc.com (Yager, Keegan) Date: Thu, 6 Feb 2014 20:37:12 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Project Manager opportunity (Norfolk, VA) Message-ID: <054E3C4CD9F62642BD5FDCA188D9AA0E0FC55EE2@OMAC-INEXDAG2N1.intranet.hdr> HDR EOC is currently in need of an experienced Technical Project Manager for Marine Species Monitoring projects. The ideal candidates will have Project Manager consulting expertise along with an extensive knowledge of Marine Science emphasizing the effects of underwater sound to marine mammals as well as experience monitoring marine mammal abundance, distribution, and/or behavioral responses to stimuli. This individual must possess excellent communication skills, a demonstrated history of reliability, strong work ethic, solid time management skills, and a demonstrated history of team-oriented performance. This position will assist in a wide range of project management and team support roles with our current clients This position will assist in a wide range of project management and team support roles with our current clients and expand our client-base in the Norfolk, VA area with an anticipated concentration of work assignments concentrated on the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico Ocean areas but also including the Pacific Ocean region from California to Guam and northward to the Gulf of Alaska. Travel up to 25% may be required. This individual must possess excellent communication skills, a demonstrated history of reliability, strong work ethic, solid time management skills, and a demonstrated history of team-oriented performance. The ability to manage multiple projects from conception, planning, budgeting, and completion is key to succeeding in this role. Knowledge of naval training and O&G development activities a plus. Master's Degree in Marine Biology or a related field strongly preferred. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Demonstrated history of reliability, strong work ethic, solid time management skills are all musts. Successful candidates must have a minimum of 3+ years of experience managing scientific research projects focused on marine mammal biology in a consulting or university-related research capacity; ideally this would include a background of direct interface with customers and regulatory experience in a combination of Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) and Endangered Species Act (ESA) compliance. Candidates must also be highly proficient in writing procedures, guides and/or studies. Qualified candidates must have the ability to obtain a security clearance at the secret level. More information on the position can be found by going to https://hdr.taleo.net/careersection/ex/jobdetail.ftl?job=23343&lang=en&sns_id=mailto Keegan Yager HDR, Inc Regional Recruiter keegan.yager at hdrinc.com| hdrinc.com Follow Us - Architizer | Facebook | Linkedin | Twitter | YouTube | Flickr PUSH // yourself Begin Exploring Opportunities At HDR! -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From gail.adams at iagc.org Thu Feb 6 11:34:17 2014 From: gail.adams at iagc.org (Gail Adams) Date: Thu, 6 Feb 2014 19:34:17 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] IAGC Issues New Towed Passive Acoustic Monitoring Guidance for Geophysical Operations to Further Protect Marine Animals Message-ID: <915D740ADCAE034F964CE873982E13F7022E578D@IAGC-SERVER.iagc-network.local> The International Association of Geophysical Contractors (IAGC) has released new Guidance on the Use of Towed Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) during geophysical operations. IAGC has taken steps to inform the geophysical industry and has developed recommended guidance for PAM use and reporting. As part of the efforts to minimize the very low potential impact on the marine environment, the geophysical industry takes a variety of measures for purposes of monitoring and mitigation. When used in the most optimized way, PAM can be an effective measure to detect marine mammals near seismic vessels. PAM employs the use of a hydrophone array pulled behind a seismic vessel to detect the presence of vocalizing marine mammals, and software technology that allows the data to be analyzed as it is collected. In addition to visual observers, PAM can be a useful monitoring tool, particularly during low or impaired surface visibility conditions. The IAGC Guidance on the Use of Towed Passive Acoustic Monitoring during Geophysical Operations was developed to maximize the operational performance of PAM systems during geophysical surveys. It was prepared by IAGC member company volunteers, using their experience and expertise to provide the industry with useful information for implementing PAM systems. Chip Gill, IAGC President said, "The new Guidance is another demonstration of the industry's efforts to further enhance the capabilities of PAM systems. We also support the use of the PAMGuard software for consistency within the industry. The geophysical industry is committed to conducting our operations in an environmentally responsible manner." IAGC has been an early supporter of complementary monitoring techniques to visual observations, such as PAM. IAGC recommends that PAM operators be trained and that minimum requirements for PAM equipment (including capabilities of software and hardware) should be considered. As a member of the International Association Oil & Gas Producers (OGP) E&P Sound and Marine Life Joint Industry Program (JIP), IAGC has supported research projects to improve the capabilities of PAM systems, including the development of PAMGuard. PAMGuard is a software package developed by the JIP for use on PAM systems. PAMGuard software is free and open to use. More information on PAMGuard and the free software can be found HERE. Other JIP projects supported by IAGC can be found HERE. Gail Adams Communications Director International Association of Geophysical Contractors Office: +1 713-957-8080 Mobile: +1 281-702-4201 Email: gail.adams at iagc.org Website: www.iagc.org Be sure to register for our 43rd Annual Meeting (February 18, 2014), featuring John Hofmeister and T.Boone Pickens! Early registration ends January 27, 2014. Click here to register early. Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail [IAGC email signature] NOTICE: The information contained in this e-mail transmission, and any documents, files or previous e-mail messages attached to it, is privileged and confidential and intended only for the use by the addressee. If you are not the intended recipient or a person responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient you should not read, copy, distribute or otherwise use the information, and you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution or use of any of the information contained in or attached to this message is STRICTLY PROHIBITED; IAGC accepts no responsibility for loss or damage of any kind arising from the use of this message; If you have received this message in error please notify sender immediately and delete this e-mail and attached documents. Thank you. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... 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Name: image003.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 8443 bytes Desc: image003.jpg URL: From nick.robinson at gardline.com Fri Feb 7 06:57:48 2014 From: nick.robinson at gardline.com (Nick Robinson) Date: Fri, 7 Feb 2014 14:57:48 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Marine Wildlife Observer(s) vacancy In-Reply-To: <0C12D9846D7A29448E6CA5B25618BCF19E3DE4712A@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> <0C12D9846D7A29448E6CA5B25618BCF19E3DE470B2@MBOX.gardline.co.uk> <0C12D9846D7A29448E6CA5B25618BCF19E3DE470E9@MBOX.gardline.co.uk> <0C12D9846D7A29448E6CA5B25618BCF19E3DE470EB@MBOX.gardline.co.uk> <0C12D9846D7A29448E6CA5B25618BCF19E3DE4712A@MBOX.gardline.co.uk> Message-ID: Gardline Environmental Ltd is a member of the Gardline Marine Sciences Limited Group of Companies and are a successful Environmental contractor, operating a fleet of inshore boats, conducting major integrated offshore projects on a worldwide basis and inshore projects for major clients in the UK and overseas. As GEL's Marine Wildlife Department continues its expansion we are seeking to add to the diverse team and expertise in the following role; MARINE WILDLIFE OBSERVER(s) The candidate(s) will be expected to lead and undertake a wide variety of marine wildlife surveys, including marine mammal observations, passive acoustic monitoring, seabird and environmental impact activities in the field, as well as providing general assistance to the project managers, lead scientists and report writer with the production of marine wildlife reports. You will be responsible for the appropriate collection and processing of data both at sea and in the office. This role will require you to work in the office (Great Yarmouth), but we have an expectation that you will spend approximately 120 days at sea, at locations worldwide, dependent on project requirements, during a 12-month period. Applicants will ideally be of degree calibre or equivalent in a relevant discipline and possess an understanding of marine mammals, their biology and identification and need to have a minimum of two years field experience. Familiarity with the use of Passive Acoustic Monitoring System (PAMS) or previous marine survey experience would certainly be advantageous. If you believe you have the experience and skills for this role, please e-mail your CV and covering letter to recruitment at gardline.com or via the careers section of our website www.gardlinemarinesciences.com Closing date: 7th March 2014 ________________________________ 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 naomi at awionline.org Sat Feb 8 11:14:14 2014 From: naomi at awionline.org (Naomi Rose) Date: Sat, 8 Feb 2014 19:14:14 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Panel discussion on captive killer whales in Dunedin, New Zealand Message-ID: Hello everyone: I understand there have been numerous inquiries as to when the transcript of the panel discussion on captive killer whales, held at the SMM biennial conference in Dunedin, New Zealand, would be posted on the SMM website. The website, on the page with the questions submitted by conference registrants, noted that a transcript would be posted and Doug Wartzok, the facilitator of the discussion, announced from the podium the night of the event that the discussion would be recorded and posted to the website. In correspondence I have since had with Doug and Helene Marsh, I was told that the board had made a decision after the conference not to post the transcript. Having not seen any announcement of this decision on the website (which in several places still promises the transcript), it seemed a general announcement to MARMAM would be useful, to forestall future inquiries. Please direct any questions to Doug Wartzok or Helene Marsh. Naomi Rose ____________________________ [13_AWILogo_ONLY] NAOMI A. ROSE, PH.D. Marine Mammal Scientist ANIMAL WELFARE INSTITUTE 900 Pennsylvania Ave., SE Washington, DC 20003 naomi at awionline.org T: +1 202 446 2120 ~ F: +1 202 446 2131 ~ C: +1 240 401 4269 www.awionline.org The Animal Welfare Institute is proud to be the only animal charity currently rated A+ by the American Institute of Philanthropy. Please join us in our work to protect animals ? visit our website to find out more and to sign up for AWI eAlerts: www.awionline.org. P Please consider the animals and their habitat before printing. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 2475 bytes Desc: image001.jpg URL: From mmoore at whoi.edu Fri Feb 7 18:51:56 2014 From: mmoore at whoi.edu (Michael Moore) Date: Fri, 07 Feb 2014 21:51:56 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Large whale euthanasia Message-ID: <52F59BCC.4050904@whoi.edu> On behalf of Craig Harms and co-authors the following paper is available Open Access by clicking on this link http://www.jwildlifedis.org/doi/full/10.7589/2013-03-074 or the pdf is at http://www.jwildlifedis.org/doi/pdf/10.7589/2013-03-074 LOW-RESIDUE EUTHANASIA OF STRANDED MYSTICETES *Craig A.Harms^1, ^9 ,William A.McLellan^2 ,Michael J.Moore^3 ,Susan G.Barco^4 ,Elsburgh O. Clarke,III^5, ^8 ,Victoria G.Thayer^6 , andTeresa K.Rowles^7 * ^1 Department of Clinical Sciences and Center for Marine Sciences and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 303 College Circle, Morehead City, North Carolina 28557, USA ^2 Biology and Marine Biology, University of North Carolina Wilmington, 601 South College Road, Wilmington, North Carolina 28403, USA ^3 Biology Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, 266 Woods Hole Road, Woods Hole, Massachusetts 02543, USA ^4 Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, 717 General Booth Boulevard, Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451, USA ^5 Department of Clinical Sciences and Center for Marine Sciences and Technology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 303 College Circle, Morehead City, North Carolina 28557, USA ^6 North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries and Center for Marine Sciences and Technology, 303 College Circle, Morehead City, North Carolina 28557, USA ^7 Office of Protected Resources, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 East-West Highway, 13th Floor, Silver Spring, Maryland 20910, USA ^8 Current address: Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, 1 Canal Street, New Orleans, Louisiana 70130, USA Abstract Euthanasia of stranded large whales poses logistic, safety, pharmaceutical, delivery, public relations, and disposal challenges. Reasonable arguments may be made for allowing a stranded whale to expire naturally. However, slow cardiovascular collapse from gravitational effects outside of neutral buoyancy, often combined with severely debilitating conditions, motivate humane efforts to end the animal's suffering. The size of the animal and prevailing environmental conditions often pose safety concerns for stranding personnel, which take priority over other considerations. When considering chemical euthanasia, the size of the animal also necessitates large quantities of euthanasia agents. Drug residues are a concern for relay toxicity to scavengers, particularly for pentobarbital-containing euthanasia solutions. Pentobarbital is also an environmental concern because of its stability and long persistence in aquatic environments. We describe a euthanasia technique for stranded mysticetes using readily available, relatively inexpensive, preanesthetic and anesthetic drugs (midazolam, acepromazine, xylazine) followed by saturated KCl delivered via custom-made needles and a low-cost, basic, pressurized canister. This method provides effective euthanasia while moderating personnel exposure to hazardous situations and minimizing drug residues of concern for relay toxicity. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From K.Rankmore at massey.ac.nz Sat Feb 8 00:26:12 2014 From: K.Rankmore at massey.ac.nz (Rankmore, Krista) Date: Sat, 8 Feb 2014 08:26:12 +0000 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 required 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 occur in the Gulf year round and use the region extensively for foraging and nursing. Common dolphins in this region consistently utilise inhabit coastal waters, making them vulnerable to the effect of tourism, pollution, and inshore recreational bycatch. DATES: While the field season runs year round, currently volunteers are needed from the March to June 2014. A minimum commitment of two months is required and priority will be given to those who can commit for longer periods. 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 individuals 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). 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. Surveys will be conducted from both a 20m whale watch vessel. As such, applicants should be comfortable from working from a large platform in isolated areas. RESPONSIBILITIES: . Assisting with boat-based photo-identification surveys from a local dolphin watching vessel, collecting environmental, location, and behavioural data for dolphin groups (25% of the time). . Subsequent analysis of photo-identification data in the lab, including assistance with photo sorting, grading, and matching, sighting data entry, maintenance of long-term photo-id catalogue. 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). As this is a volunteer position, 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 and independent attitude towards marine mammal research . Speak fluent English . Be sociable, enthusiastic and have a positive attitude . Strong interest in the marine environment and conservation . Participants must be able to swim and should be comfortable working on boats including tour platforms and on small open vessels QUALIFICATIONS: . 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) Preferred qualifications but not required: . Field research including photo-identification experience . Previous experience in survey techniques and especially in marine mammal research . Prior experience working on small research vessels . Experience with Endnote . First AID/CPR certification 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, the dates when you are available to assist on the 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 Krista Rankmore PhD Candidate Coastal-Marine Research Group Institute of Natural and Mathematical Sciences Massey University Private Bag 102 904 Auckland, New Zealand Tel: +64 (0)9 414 0800 Ext: 41520 (office) Cell: +64 (0)220 256 290 Email: k.rankmore at massey.ac.nz Web: http://cmrg.massey.ac.nz/ Courier: Massey University, Bld 5, Gate 4, Old Albany Highway, Albany, Auckland ____________________________________________________________________________________________ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From Veronique.Lesage at dfo-mpo.gc.ca Fri Feb 7 08:57:18 2014 From: Veronique.Lesage at dfo-mpo.gc.ca (Lesage, Veronique) Date: Fri, 7 Feb 2014 11:57:18 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Two PhD positions related to modeling and demography of whale food Message-ID: <9243880BCBF8FD498F6C3E8515F13E970389A30A@NCRKENEX01.ncr.dfo-mpo.ca> Hello, please find attached advertisement for two PhD positions that might be of interest for MARMAM subscribers with a larger interest into whales, and particularly the processes leading to whale habitat quality. Thank you Veronique Lesage, Ph.D. Chercheur, Cetaces/Cetacean research scientist Biologie et conservation des mammiferes marins/Marine mammal biology and conservation Peches et Oceans Canada/Fisheries and Oceans Canada Institut Maurice-Lamontagne/Maurice Lamontagne Institute C.P. 1000/P.O. Box 1000 850 Route de la Mer Mont-Joli, QC G5H 3Z4 http://www.meds-sdmm.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/sdb-bds/profile-profil.do?id=452&lang =fra TEL (418) 775-0739 FAX (418) 775-0740 Email: Veronique.Lesage at dfo-mpo.gc.ca -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: PhD_Krill_bio-physicalmodel_GulfofStLawrence_Eng.pdf Type: application/pdf Size: 1203759 bytes Desc: PhD_Krill_bio-physicalmodel_GulfofStLawrence_Eng.pdf URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: PhD_krilldemography_GulfofSt.Lawrence_english.pdf Type: application/pdf Size: 120919 bytes Desc: PhD_krilldemography_GulfofSt.Lawrence_english.pdf URL: From Magnus at biology.sdu.dk Sat Feb 8 13:19:19 2014 From: Magnus at biology.sdu.dk (Magnus Wahlberg) Date: Sat, 8 Feb 2014 21:19:19 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication: The tag, the eel and the whale Message-ID: <9F7BBE759C844844B772CF23F4CE320F04325039@ADM-EXMBX10C.adm.c.sdu.dk> Hallo, here is a new paper about a tag inside an eel inside a whale: Wahlberg, M., H. Westerberg, K. Aarestrup, E. Feunteun, P. Gargan, D. Righton (2014). Evidence of marine mammal predation of the European eel (Anguilla anguilla) on its marine migration. Deep-Sea Research Part I 86:32-38. Abstract Temperature and depth logging tags were implanted into adult eels released on Atlantic west coasts of France and Ireland to study their oceanic migration behavior. For three of the tags, 25 to 256 days after release there was a dramatic rise in temperature from 10?C to 36?C and the dive profile changed from depths of 300-1000 m to repeated ascents to the surface. This indicated that the eels carrying the tags had been eaten by a mammalian predator. Two of the tags had sufficient sampling rate to resolve the dives in detail. They recorded a total of 91 dives to maximum depths of 250-860 m lasting 11-12 min and with surface intervals of 5-7 min. More than two thirds of the dives included a rapid descent from approximately 500 m to 600-700 m. From this we infer that the predator was most likely a deep-diving toothed whale. The dives logged while the tags were inside the predator revealed that the temperature usually decreased during dives, and increased again during surface periods. The temperature drops during dives were probably caused by the ingestion of prey or water. These observations provide insights into the behavior of toothed whales foraging in the mesopelagic zone. The paper is available at: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0967063714000077 Magnus Wahlberg Marine Biological Research Centre University of Southern Denmark Hindsholmsvej 11 5300 Kerteminde Denmark http://www.sdu.dk/en/om_sdu/institutter_centre/i_biologi/forskning/marinbiologisk+forskningscenter -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From Ari.Friedlaender at oregonstate.edu Mon Feb 10 06:23:33 2014 From: Ari.Friedlaender at oregonstate.edu (Friedlaender, Ari) Date: Mon, 10 Feb 2014 14:23:33 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] SCAR Open Science Meeting 2014, Top Predator Session Message-ID: <90EF6AD5-E828-4091-815B-87A773EDA420@oregonstate.edu> Dear Colleagues, The 18th Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research Open Science Conference will be held from 25-29 August 2014 in Aukland, New Zealand. The call for abstracts is now open, and I encourage submissions (http://www.scar2014.com/call-for-abstracts/). Specifically, there will be a session entitled: Influence of top predators on ecosystem diversity around Antarctica: present processes and historical signal. This session will aim to consider the Influence of top predators on ecosystem diversity around Antarctica: present processes and historical signals. Using data from a range of taxonomic groups including seabirds, penguins, seals, and whales, we seek presentations that will explore the relationships between predators and their environment over a range of spatial and temporal scales. We encourage multi-disciplinary presentations that develop or test ecological relationships between top predators and the marine ecosystem. We will seek to bring together experts with a broad range of field and analytical methodologies (e.g. telemetry, remote sensing) to provide a foundation for our current knowledge on how predators influence ecosystem diversity as well as to stimulate ideas for collaborative research to address these issues in the face of environmental variability and climate-driven changes in the Antarctic marine ecosystem. Please email me if you have any questions, I look forward to seeing you at SCAR. Ari Friedlaender Ari S. Friedlaender, Ph.D. Associate Professor, Fisheries & Wildlife Marine Mammal Institute Oregon State University Hatfield Marine Science Center 2030 SE Marine Science Drive Newport, OR 97365 919-672-0103 ari.friedlaender at oregonstate.edu -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From hpeltier at univ-lr.fr Mon Feb 10 06:49:59 2014 From: hpeltier at univ-lr.fr (=?ISO-8859-1?Q?H=E9l=E8ne_Peltier?=) Date: Mon, 10 Feb 2014 15:49:59 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] new article on strandings as indicators of cetacean populations Message-ID: <52F8E717.7010703@univ-lr.fr> Dear colleagues, I am glad to inform you that following article was recently published in Ecological Indicators: Peltier, H., P. D. Jepson, W. Dabin, R. Deaville, O. Van Canneyt, P. Daniel, and V. Ridoux. (2014). THE CONTRIBUTION OF STRANDING DATA TO MONITORING AND CONSERVATION STRATEGIES FOR CETACEANS: DEVELOPING SPATIALLY EXPLICIT MORTALITY INDICATORS FOR COMMON DOLPHINS (DELPHINUS DELPHIS) IN THE EASTERN NORTH-ATLANTIC. Ecological Indicators, 39, 203-214. Abstract Cetacean strandings are an important source of information on cetacean population status and of biological samples. Nevertheless, collecting stranding data remains opportunistic and their representativity must be improved. The aim of this study was to improve the ecological significance of strandings, through the determination of stranded common dolphin origin found along the coasts of the Channel and the Bay of Biscay, by using the drift prediction model MOTHY. In order to map inferred distribution of dead dolphins, origin of strandings were weighted by the probability that cetaceans dying at sea become stranded. The difference between observed stranding origin and origin of expected strandings under the hypothesis of spatial and temporal uniformity of dead cetaceans, constituted the anomaly in stranding origin. Between 1990 and 2009, 6182 common dolphin strandings were reported by the UK and French stranding networks. Distribution inferred from strandings suggested that common dolphins died mostly in the neritic Bay of Biscay. The anomaly in stranding origin was maximal in the southern Bay of Biscay, highlighted as an area of high relative abundance or strong mortality for common dolphin. The monthly decomposition of this anomaly showed that positive anomaly was located in the southern Bay of Biscay in winter and expanded northward over the whole Bay of Biscay and western Channel in spring and summer. These results were consistent with current knowledge on common dolphin distribution and provide new insight on strandings as cetacean population indicators. These parameters are essential components for assessing the conservation status of vulnerable populations. The pdf is available on request. Please note too that recent article on stranding anomaly of harbor porpoises published in Plos ONE was corrected. http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0062180 Best wishes Helene Peltier. -- H?l?ne PELTIER -PhD Observatoire PELAGIS UMS 3462 Universit? de La Rochelle-CNRS 5, all?es de l'oc?an 17000 La Rochelle, France hpeltier at univ-lr.fr +33 (0) 16 49 67 82 /+33 (0) 6 82 74 08 41 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From sylvia.osterrieder at gmail.com Sun Feb 9 21:04:55 2014 From: sylvia.osterrieder at gmail.com (Sylvia Osterrieder) Date: Mon, 10 Feb 2014 13:04:55 +0800 Subject: [MARMAM] Seeking volunteer research assistants for a project on endangered Australian sea lions Message-ID: *Seeking volunteer research assistants for a project on endangered Australian sea lions* *Project title:* *Conservation ecology and human disturbance of Australian sea lions in WA* *Project description:* In this study, baseline information on the ecology and behaviour of Australian sea lions in Western Australia are being collected. This project aims to provide basic knowledge on the sea lions' colony sizes, movement patterns, temporal and spatial habitat use as well as critical haul-out behaviour that will inform the management of Australian sea lions inhabiting key breeding and non-breeding locations in Western Australia. Scan samples and individual focal follows (behavioural observations) are being conducted to measure the level of disturbance caused by humans using the beaches simultaneously with these endangered otariid. Also, a new photo-identification method is being tested and developed to recognize individual Australian sea lions in the field. This method would aid in estimating the population size of Australian sea lions and investigating their residency patterns and habitat use on key breeding islands and haul-out locations in Western Australia. . *Main field sites:* Seal Island in the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park and Carnac Island Nature Reserve, Western Australia. A few other haul-out islands within the Perth Metropolitan area are also being visited during monthly boat surveys. *Field trip dates: *March - April/May 2014 Bad weather days will be spent entering and processing data. Priority will be given to assistants who can commit for longer periods due to the training required. Research assistants who can commit for 2-3 months are strongly preferred. *Assistant duties: *Collecting and recording observational data, both on land and from the boat. Assistants will be helping with data entry and processing, including sorting and processing photos and information recorded on dictaphones. *Prerequisites:* 1. Background knowledge in marine biology, ecology or conservation and experience in field research is a plus. 2. Research assistants should be confident working for long hours on islands with limited facilities and on small boats. Boat license and handling skills would be beneficial. 3. Assistants need to be dedicated to help in this project. During data collection the ability to focus for long periods, collecting and recording high quality and accurate data is required. Assistants are expected to maintain a positive attitude during long hours in the field and towards other team members, also in varying weather conditions. 4. Field trips are very weather dependant and will therefore be organised at short notice (often only 1-2 days prior) and will vary between week and weekend days and may take place on public holidays. Field trips start early in the morning. *Expenses: *This is an unpaid opportunity to gain training and experience in ecological sciences and particularly in marine mammal research. Transportation to the study sites can be provided from Fremantle, WA but unfortunately other travel expenses cannot be covered. Research assistants are expected to bring their own lunch and water. If you are interested in helping out in this project, please send a CV, a brief cover letter highlighting previous experience and relevant qualifications along with contact details of two relevant referees to: sylvia.osterrieder at gmail.com. Sylvia Osterrieder PhD Candidate Ecology & Sustainability Group, College of Engineering and Science, Victoria University, Melbourne, Victoria and Research Associate Centre for Marine Science and Technology, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From sarah.dolman at whales.org Mon Feb 10 12:18:12 2014 From: sarah.dolman at whales.org (Sarah Dolman) Date: Mon, 10 Feb 2014 20:18:12 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] ECS Workshop report on Best Practice in Rescue Message-ID: Dear MARMAM The European Cetacean Society report on Best Practice in Rescue, resulting from the ECS workshop held in Setubal in Portugal in 2013, is now available. Please send me an email if you would like to receive a PDF: Sarah.dolman at whales.org We'd like to take this opportunity to thank all those who contributed to and attended the workshop, to Mark Simmonds for Chairing and to the ECS for making the Workshop possible. Thanks, Sarah Dolman, WDC and Dr James Barnett, BDMLR [WDC - Whale and Dolphin Conservation] Sarah Dolman Northeast Atlantic programme manager Telephone: +44 (0)1316 617 722 Mobile: +44 (0)783 449 8275 WDC, Whale and Dolphin Conservation Scottish Dolphin Centre Spey Bay Moray IV32 7PJ United Kingdom whales.org [WDC on Facebook] [WDC on Twitter] [WDC on YouTube] [WDC Blogs] [WDC E-Newsletter] [http://www.wdcs.co.uk/media/images/EmailSignatureImages/Campaigns/EUtrade.png] ________________________________ Whale and Dolphin Conservation ("WDC") is a company registered in England and Wales (No. 02737421) and a registered charity (in England and Wales No. 1014705, in Scotland No. SC040231) WDC Shop is a trading name of WDC (Trading) Ltd, a company registered in England and Wales (No. 02593116) Registered office : Brookfield House, 38 St. Paul Street, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 1LJ. Tel: +44 (0)1249 449 500 This message is private and confidential. 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Name: image007.png Type: image/png Size: 5849 bytes Desc: image007.png URL: From Alex.Brown at murdoch.edu.au Mon Feb 10 23:57:29 2014 From: Alex.Brown at murdoch.edu.au (Alexander Brown) Date: Tue, 11 Feb 2014 07:57:29 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Seeking experienced field assistants for research on tropical dolphins in north-west Australia Message-ID: <9E471CD7B390A7419D883DA9F248CD6F044C28@Exch-AD-MBX4.ad.murdoch.edu.au> SEEKING EXPERIENCED FIELD ASSISTANTS for research on tropical dolphins in north-west Australia Apr-May 2014 Institution: Cetacean Research Unit, Murdoch University - www.mucru.org Overview: I require experienced field assistants to fill two roles for either or both of the following independent projects: 1. Photo-ID and biopsy sampling. To assist with boat-based photo-ID and biopsy sampling in Roebuck Bay, north-west Australia, for 5 weeks from 01 April 2014 (2-3 positions). Project leader: Alex Brown. 2. Acoustic monitoring. To assist with acoustic monitoring of snubfin and humpback dolphins in Cygnet Bay, north-west Australia, for approx. 4 weeks in May 2014. Project leader: Dr. Josh Smith. As these positions are non-overlapping, you may apply for both with a single application. Please indicate which position(s) you are applying for. These projects aim to collect baseline data on the local abundance, genetic connectivity (project 1), and acoustic repertoire (project 2) of Australian snubfin (Orcaella heinsohni) and Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins (Sousa chinensis) in northern Western Australia. This is an opportunity to gain experience in field techniques for small cetacean research, while contributing to projects with high conservation and management value. Location and field conditions: Photo-ID and biopsy sampling. Based in the town of Broome, on the tropical north coast of Western Australia. While situated in a remote area, this is a small town with plenty of amenities. Accommodation will comprise shared basic rooms or tents, with indoor kitchen and bathroom facilities. Acoustic monitoring. Meeting in Broome, then based at Cygnet Bay on the adjacent Dampier Peninsula. This is a remote location with a tropical climate and limited amenities. Accommodation will comprise shared tents (2 person), with camp kitchen and bathroom facilities. Food is prepared by the resident cook, so no cooking is required at Cygnet Bay. This project only requires a small team of potentially only 1 person other than the project leader. Duties: Both projects. Searching for dolphins, driving the boat, taking photos, making and recording field observations, equipment cleaning and basic maintenance, data entry, a fair share in communal cooking and housekeeping duties, and generally working hard and having a great time. Expect early starts, hot weather, up to 11 hours on the water for multiple consecutive days, and up to a week between days off. Prerequisites: Photo-ID and biopsy sampling. Experience of working on and driving a small boat around cetaceans (essential); experience of photo-ID survey techniques (essential); no history of debilitating seasickness (essential); be team-oriented, patient, have a good sense of humour, and an enthusiastic attitude to hard work, long hours and collecting data on the natural environment (essential); experience of field research on small cetaceans (highly desirable). Acoustic monitoring. As above, minus experience of photo-ID techniques, plus experience of acoustic survey techniques (desirable). Expenses: These are unpaid positions. However, food and accommodation at the field sites are provided at no cost to assistants. Assistants are responsible for their own travel costs to/from Broome (direct flights available from Perth). Please send a CV, a brief covering letter outlining your relevant experience, the position(s) applied for, and contact details of two relevant referees to alex.brown at murdoch.edu.au by Friday 21 Feb 2014. Many thanks, Alex ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Alex Brown PhD Candidate Cetacean Research Unit (MUCRU) Centre for Fish, Fisheries and Aquatic Ecosystem Research Murdoch University, South Street, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia * Tel +61 (0)89360 6520 |* Mob +61 (0)487399861| * alex.brown at murdoch.edu.au [mucru-with-murdoch-WHITEBACKGROUND SMALL] Latest blog post: "Acoustic, genetic and visual sampling combine for exciting fourth season at Cygnet Bay" -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 4038 bytes Desc: image001.jpg URL: From pamtech.acoustics at gmail.com Tue Feb 11 09:02:09 2014 From: pamtech.acoustics at gmail.com (Jamie Macaulay) Date: Tue, 11 Feb 2014 17:02:09 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Introduction and Practical Acoustics courses Message-ID: Introduction and practical courses in Passive Acoustic Monitoring Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) is a key survey and mitigation tool in cetacean research. PAMTech (pamtech.eu) is offering introduction and practical courses in PAM, teaching the use of acoustic hardware and the leading research and industry software, PAMGuard (pamguard.org). We are a small UK-based company made up of PAMGuard developers and experienced field acousticians who can enable you to get the most out of PAM applications. A high tutor-to-student ratio on our courses ensures participants can get individual assistance with their training requirements. Our next courses are running on: 02/05/2014 Introduction to PAMGuard. This one-day classroom-based course provides the essentials you need to get going with PAMGuard. Cost: ?200 To book go to: http://pamguardintroduction.eventzilla.net/ 03/05/2014 and 04/05/2014 Practical PAM. This course spends the first day in the classroom building on your PAM knowledge, and the second day at sea applying practical PAM survey techniques including the deployment, use and troubleshooting of acoustic hardware and software. Cost: ?400 To book go to: http://practicalpam.eventzilla.net/ If you would like to do both courses (3 days), the cost is ?500 To book go to: http://pamintroductionpractical.eventzilla.net/ Courses will be run in Tobermory, Isle of Mull, on the west coast of Scotland, UK, and will use the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust's (hwdt.org) specialist research vessel, Silurian, as the at-sea teaching platform. It is not compulsory for participants on the Practical PAM course to have done the Introduction course, but an equivalent level of knowledge will be assumed. At the end of the Practical PAM course, there will be an informal Meet-the-Developers session where you can discuss your particular PAMGuard requirements. Participants need to bring their own laptops running Windows XP or above (see pamtech.eu for more information on specifications etc). Course costs do not include accommodation, travel or food. For more information about travel to the Isle of Mull see calmac.co.uk To find out more, contact: pamtech.acoustics at gmail.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From mhuelsenbeck at oceana.org Tue Feb 11 11:57:28 2014 From: mhuelsenbeck at oceana.org (Huelsenbeck, Matthew) Date: Tue, 11 Feb 2014 19:57:28 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Seeking Marine Scientists for Sign On Letter - Wednesday February 19th COB Message-ID: <4B212ABF28052C4D869EE9FC172A30CA287447CC@WDCEXCH01.ad.oceana.org> Hello all, Let me know by Wednesday February 19th COB if you are willing to sign on to the letter below. Please email me (mhuelsenbeck at oceana.org) with your name, degree, title and organization. We are seeking marine scientists and conservation biologists, particularly experts in underwater acoustics and/or marine mammals, to sign this letter. The purpose and wording of the letter is simple; require the use of NMFS' new Marine Mammal Acoustic Guidelines before finalizing a Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement for proposed seismic survey activity in the mid- and south Atlantic. Thanks! For more information, here is a link to NMFS' Marine Mammal Acoustic Guidelines; http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/acoustics/guidelines.htm And a link to BOEM's page about proposed geological and geophysical activities in the mid- and south Atlantic, referenced in the letter as the PEIS: http://www.boem.gov/oil-and-gas-energy-program/GOMR/GandG.aspx "Dear (President Obama, Secretary of DOI, Deputy Director of BOEM) CC (NMFS) On behalf of the following marine scientists and conservation biologists we urge you to use the best available science before permitting seismic surveys for offshore oil and gas in the mid- and south Atlantic. We recommend that you do not finalize the Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS) regarding seismic surveys in the mid- and south Atlantic until the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has completed new Marine Mammal Acoustic Guidelines. It is essential to incorporate these guidelines into this PEIS in order to accurately estimate auditory injuries and disturbances to marine mammals from proposed seismic surveys, so that this important information can guide the most appropriate mitigation measures. NMFS released the first phase of the acoustic guidelines on December 27th 2013 for public comment, and the agency will be releasing the second phase regarding behavioral disturbances to marine mammals soon. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has classified the first phase of these guidelines as a "Highly Influential Scientific Assessment"- the most stringent possible ranking under OMB's peer-review protocol. More than 15 years have passed since NMFS first began developing these criteria for auditory impacts, as well as criteria for acoustic disturbances. The newly published draft guidelines synthesize years of scientific research regarding the effects of anthropogenic sound on marine mammals. During the development of the guidelines NMFS has undergone a rigorous internal and external peer review process including consultation with issue experts, and the first phase is now undergoing public comment. If the PEIS moves forward without the newly established acoustic guidelines it will be scientifically deficient and quickly outdated. It will fail to accurately assess the true scope of marine mammal impacts from proposed seismic surveys, which is a primary purpose of the PEIS. The mid- and south Atlantic is home to a diversity and abundance of marine mammals, including the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale which could be impacted by proposed seismic survey activity. We implore you to take this opportunity to integrate NMFS' new Marine Mammal Acoustic Guidelines into the PEIS for proposed seismic survey activity in the mid- and south Atlantic." Sincerely, Name, Degree Title Organization Name, Degree Title Organization Name, Degree Title Organization Best, Matthew Huelsenbeck | Marine Scientist OCEANA | Protecting the World's Oceans 1350 Connecticut Ave. NW, 5th Floor | Washington, DC 20036 USA C +1.202.725.9560 | D +1.202.467.1924 | O +1.202.833.2070 E mhuelsenbeck at oceana.org | W www.oceana.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From cristina.brito at escolademar.pt Wed Feb 12 07:58:17 2014 From: cristina.brito at escolademar.pt (cristina.brito at escolademar.pt) Date: Wed, 12 Feb 2014 15:58:17 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] ECS Workshop | MARINE MAMMALS AS INDICATORS OF HISTORICAL CHANGES Message-ID: <20140212155817.Horde.aPYbJfYRo99S_5oZPgg0l0A@_> Dear colleagues, I would like to let you know that we organizing a workshop for the next ECS conference (http://liege.europeancetaceansociety.eu/content/scientific-programme) ? "Marine Mammals as Indicators of Historical Changes". It will take place on the afternoon of the 6th of april and if?you would like to offer a presentation or simply attend, please contact us. More information in attachment. ? Thanks and see you soon, ? Cristina Brito Investigadora Integrada no CHAM - FCSH, UNL http://www.cham.fcsh.unl.pt/ Investigadora da Escola de Mar http://www.escolademar.pt Lisboa, Portugal +351217500483 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: Abstract_MM Indicators Historical Changes.pdf Type: application/pdf Size: 277012 bytes Desc: not available URL: From cselfsullivan at sirenian.org Wed Feb 12 04:35:38 2014 From: cselfsullivan at sirenian.org (Caryn Self-Sullivan) Date: Wed, 12 Feb 2014 07:35:38 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] PDF Monitoring Wildlife in Amazonia (PDF in Spanish) References: Message-ID: To: Marmam, Sirenian Cc: S. Kendall, C. Taylor, N. Auil-Gomez, E. Quintana-Rizzo, J. Reynolds, D. Domning Sarita Kendall of Fundaci?n Nat?tama in Colombia asked me to share this new document (in Spanish) for Monitoring Wildlife in Amazonia. I've posted it on our website here: http://sirenian.org/library/F_Natutama_Caminos_Conservacion.pdf Cheers, Caryn > On Feb 11, 2014, at 5:38 PM, Sarita Kendall wrote: > >> Caryn, >> I'm attaching a document I wrote on monitoring wildlife with the community - it is written in very simple Spanish and I have tried it out on fishermen who didn't finish primary school...they understood it and found it easy to read...the idea is to distribute it to teachers, community leaders etc in the Amazon, but I thought you might know of people who would find it useful. The section on manatees is the longest for a single species and shows how we have accumulated a great many sightings etc! It focuses on doing things with people,low cost, minimal technology, maximum conservation....please send it on to anyone you think might benefit (I have sent it to Nataly and Benjamin, but no others north of Colombia). If you think it's appropriate to make it accessible on your web page,please do so... >> >> hope things go well with you... >> all best. >> sarita >> -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From erbe_c at yahoo.com Wed Feb 12 14:21:40 2014 From: erbe_c at yahoo.com (Christine Erbe) Date: Wed, 12 Feb 2014 14:21:40 -0800 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication: dose-response curve for killer whale behavioural responses to ships Message-ID: <8E79045F-7176-468E-BAFF-860EBC79C6E3@yahoo.com> Dear Colleagues, on behalf of the first author, I would like to announce a new publication. Williams, R., Erbe, C., Ashe, E., Beerman, A., and Smith, J. (2014). Severity of killer whale behavioural responses to ship noise: A dose-response study. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 79, 254-260. Critical habitats of at-risk populations of northeast Pacific ??resident?? killer whales can be heavily trafficked by large ships, with transits occurring on average once every hour in busy shipping lanes. We modeled behavioral responses of killer whales to ship transits during 35 ??natural experiments?? as a dose?response function of estimated received noise levels in both broadband and audiogram-weighted terms. Interpreting effects is contingent on a subjective and seemingly arbitrary decision about severity threshold indicating a response. Subtle responses were observed around broadband received levels of 130 dB re 1 uPa (rms); more severe responses are hypothesized to occur at received levels beyond 150 dB re 1 uPa, where our study lacked data. Avoidance responses are expected to carry minor energetic costs in terms of increased energy expenditure, but future research must assess the potential for reduced prey acquisition, and potential population consequences, under these noise levels. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0025326X13007376 Cheers, Rob & Christine Rob Williams Christine Erbe Director | Centre for Marine Science & Technology Curtin University GPO Box U1987, Western Australia 6845 Tel | +61 8 9266 7543 Mobile | 0407 0500 32 Email | C.Erbe at curtin.edu.au Web | http://cmst.curtin.edu.au -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From orcinus.orca.1758 at gmail.com Thu Feb 13 05:09:40 2014 From: orcinus.orca.1758 at gmail.com (A. Mel Cosentino) Date: Thu, 13 Feb 2014 13:09:40 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Information Request: Dolphin hunts - Human consumption/bait Message-ID: Dear MARMAMERS I am compiling information (in English and Spanish) on direct and opportunistic hunts of small cetaceans, both for human consumption and for bait, occurring in South and Central America. I would be very grateful if you can contact me if you have any published literature, news, or contact details of people/organisations that could provide me with further information. Thank you in advance, Mel -- A. Mel Cosentino orcinus.orca.1758 at gmail.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From sprendiville at une.edu Wed Feb 12 18:44:26 2014 From: sprendiville at une.edu (Shannon Prendiville) Date: Thu, 13 Feb 2014 02:44:26 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] UNE Marine Animal Rehabilitation and Conservation Program Summer Internships Message-ID: The University of New England's Marine Animal Rehabilitation and Conservation Program (UNE MARC) (www.une.edu/marc) is currently accepting applications for summer 2014 interns. We are looking for highly motivated, dynamic candidates who will work closely in a team setting with staff and volunteers to assist with all aspects of our program. We are currently accepting applications for summer 2014 for the following positions: Internship Opportunities[DSCN3204] Education/Outreach Internship Social Media/Marketing Internship Aquarist/Life Support Internship Animal Care Husbandry Internship Response/Rehabilitation Internship Necropsy Internship These positions are unpaid and interns are required to find their own housing and transportation. Interns should expect to be scheduled to cover a variety of shifts including weekday, nights, weekends and holidays. The ideal candidates should be mature and motivated, and possess a strong work ethic and excellent observational and communication skills. The deadline for summer applications is March 15, 2014 (deadline extended for 2014). Interested applicants can find all information and application materials on our website http://www.une.edu/research/msc/marc/getinvolved/internship.cfm Questions can be submitted directly to MARCinfo at une.edu Shannon Prendiville Interim Program Coordinator Senior Animal Care Technician & Program Marketing Specialist University of New England Marine Animal Rehabilitation and Conservation (p) 207.602.2750 (f) 207.602.5945 (fax) www.une.edu/marc -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From eddaem at gmail.com Fri Feb 14 02:03:50 2014 From: eddaem at gmail.com (=?ISO-8859-1?Q?Edda_El=EDsabet_Magn=FAsd=F3ttir?=) Date: Fri, 14 Feb 2014 10:03:50 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication: Humpback whale songs during winter in subarctic waters Message-ID: Dear MARMAMERS, We are proud to announce a publication of our paper on humpback whale songs during winter in subarctic waters: Magn?sd?ttir, E. E., Rasmussen, M. H., Lammers, M. O., & Svavarsson, J. Humpback whale songs during winter in subarctic waters. *Polar Biology*, 37:427 - 433. doi:10.1007/s00300-014-1448-3 The songs of the male humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) have traditionally been associated with mating at tropical and subtropical mating grounds during winter. However, songs also occur out of mating season, both on feeding grounds in spring, late summer and fall. This study provides the first report of humpback whale singing behaviour in the subarctic waters off Northeast Iceland (Skj?lfandi Bay) using long term bottom-moored acoustic recorders during September 2008-February 2009 and from April-September 2009. Singing started in late November and peaked in February, within the breeding season. No songs were detected from spring to fall, despite of visual detections of humpback whales. Non-song sound signals from humpback whales were detected during all recording months. Songs were partly composed of fundamental units common with other known mating grounds, and partly of song units likely unique to the study area. The variety of song unit types in the songs increased at the end of the winter recordings, indicating a gradual change in the songs throughout the winter season; as has been shown on traditional mating grounds. The relative proportion of songs compared to non-song signals was higher during dark hours than daylight hours. The short light periods of the winter, and where food is available, likely influence the daily occurrence of humpback whales' songs in the subarctic. The paper can be found at the Polar Biology website: http://download.springer.com/static/pdf/497/art%253A10.1007%252Fs00300-014-1448-3.pdf?auth66=1392543504_c9bae10107a800351ccea9d57cbdcaa8&ext=.pdf Best wishes, Edda Edda El?sabet Magn?sd?ttir (eem at hi.is) -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From cetonews at yahoo.it Thu Feb 13 14:09:15 2014 From: cetonews at yahoo.it (Ceto News) Date: Thu, 13 Feb 2014 22:09:15 +0000 (GMT) Subject: [MARMAM] Italo-Tunisian research project In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <1392329355.97613.YahooMailNeo@web28805.mail.ir2.yahoo.com> A pool of Italian and Tunisian research bodies has started a yearly joint project on monitoring cetacean in the Region between Sicily and Tunisia. In order to: systematically survey regularly the region throughout the years also in high sea areas; ?reduce reduces spatial heterogeneity; and to make more efficient the use of the budget resources the project, co-financed from ACCOBAMS, uses regular passengers ferries as platform of observations. http://itucre.blogspot.it/ ? Due to high productive values, the region between Sicily and Tunisia is considered one of the potential wintering grounds for fin whale. The area is also considered a critical habitat for cetacean species due to important anthropogenic pressures such as fishing, aquaculture, maritime traffic, oil and gas industry, communication cables and construction of wind-mill farms. Despite this, no systematic monitoring study has never been undertaken so far. In order to start a systematic cetacean monitoring of the area, a partnership of Tunisian and Italian research bodies participated with success to the ACCOBAMS 2012 open call for ?Monitoring, research, training and projects relating to the conservation of Cetaceans?. Main aim of the project was capacity building issues and, to reach this goal, a partnership within the scientific international network that monitors cetacean using ferries as platforms of observation was built. Moreover, two ferry companies were involved in the project allowing to monitor the area among Tunisia, Sicily and Sardinia. Collected data will allow to: assess cetacean presence and distribution in this poorly surveyed area; investigate seasonal trends in cetacean presence and distribution (sighting will be shared on OBIS Sea Map); investigate fin whale migration patterns. In addition, the project will contribute to assess the quantity of events of collision risks. Networking with the other partners that use the same monitoring protocol is an important added value that will allow a synoptic view of cetacean in the Western Mediterranean Sea Region. Overall, the project goal is also to enact policies, between Tunisia and Italy, so to strengthen the cooperation and dialogue between peoples through the sectors of scientific research, culture and friendship -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From cdmacleod at gisinecology.com Sun Feb 16 04:12:24 2014 From: cdmacleod at gisinecology.com (Colin D. MacLeod) Date: Sun, 16 Feb 2014 12:12:24 -0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New books on using GIS In Marine Biology Message-ID: <8FFFBE4FB0924C8FBA238D7A7B7774D4@House1> Dear Marmammers, The following books which I have authored about using GIS in marine biological research are now available (they were released between September 2013 and February 2014), and which I hope will be of interest to the marine mammal research community: 1. An Introduction To Using GIS In Marine Biology (2nd Edition) - RRP ?44.99: This book provides an introdution to using GIS in marine biological research, as well as a 'How To ...' guide for over 100 tasks which marine biologists are likely to need to be able to do on a regular basis, and it has now been updated for users of ArcGIS 10.1 and 10.2 software from ESRI. ISBN: 978-0-9568974-6-6. 2. An Introduction To Using GIS In Marine Biology Supplementary Workbook One - Making Maps Of Species Distribution (2nd Edition) - RRP ?19.99: This book provides five practical exercises based around mapping the distribution of species and it has now been updated for users of ArcGIS 10.1 and 10.2 software from ESRI. ISBN: 978-0-9568974-3-5. 3. An Introduction To Using GIS In Marine Biology Supplementary Workbook Two - Working With Raster Data Layers - RRP 19.99: This book provides five practical exercises based using raster data layers in marine biological research using ArcGIS 10.1 and 10.2 software from ESRI. ISBN: 978-0-9568974-2-8. 4. An Introduction To Using GIS In Marine Biology Supplementary Workbook Three - Integrating GIS And Species Distribution Modelling - RRP 19.99: This book provides five practical exercises which take the reader through all the steps required to conduct a successful species distribution modelling (SDM) project starting with processing the raw survey data through to linking it with environmental variables, exporting the information for analysis in a statistical package, creating a spatial visualisation of the predicted distribution from an SDM and validating its predictive ability. These exercises use ArcGIS 10.1/10.2 software from ESRI, and R statistical software. ISBN: 978-1-909832-02-2. NOTE: If you do one of the GIS In Ecology 'Introduction To Species Distribution Modelling In The Marine Environment' courses, you will receive a free copy of this book. 5. An Introduction To Using GIS In Marine Biology Supplementary Workbook Four - Analysing Home Ranges Of Individual Animals - RRP 19.99: This book provides five practical exercises based using examining the home ranges of individual animals, including creating minimum convex polygons (MCPs), and kernel density estimates (KDEs) in environments with and without barriers to movement using ArcGIS 10.1 and 10.2 software from ESRI. ISBN: 978-0-9568974-5-9. 6. An Introduction To Using GIS In Marine Biology Supplementary Workbook Five - Creating Maps For Reports And Publications - RRP 19.99: This book provides five practical exercises whicvh show how to make high quality maps for inclusion in reports, presentationns and publications using ArcGIS 10.1 and 10.2 software from ESRI. This includes creating maps with inserts, creating multipart maps, creating map templates for a specific project to allow you to quickly generate customised and consistent maps for a specific project, and creating style files to allow you to apply consistent legends across multiple data layers. ISBN: 978-1-909832-03-9. These books can be purchased from Amazon or directly from GIS In Ecology. All the best, Colin -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From castelblanco at oceanicsociety.org Sat Feb 15 15:28:12 2014 From: castelblanco at oceanicsociety.org (Nataly Castelblanco) Date: Sat, 15 Feb 2014 17:28:12 -0600 Subject: [MARMAM] Dolphin and Manatee Research Internships Available Immediately at Turneffe Atoll, Belize Message-ID: *Oceanic Society* *3, 6 and 12-month Dolphin and Manatee Research Internships Available Immediately to Qualified Candidates at Turneffe Atoll, Belize* The mission of Oceanic Society (OS) is to conserve marine wildlife and habitats by deepening connections between people and nature through research, community engagement, and first-hand experience. Interns are sought to assist with field surveys on two long-term projects: ?Social and behavioral ecology of bottlenose dolphins? and ?Monitoring and conservation of manatees" Both projects are based at Oceanic Society's Blackbird Caye Field Station on Turneffe Atoll, Belize. This is an extraordinary field experience for biologists interested in working with marine mammals as a career. Interns will learn and apply standard field methods, teach and lead volunteer groups, and develop his/her own short project. *Intern activities*: 1. *Learning*. The intern will be trained in marine mammal survey methods by an experienced marine biologist. 2 *Teaching*. The intern is expected to lead volunteer groups and to teach basic aspects of marine mammal biology and ecology to non biologist volunteers and students. 3. *Research. *We encourage the candidates to propose a scientific project in keeping with the framework of OS's long-term marine mammal research program. The intern will be mentored by OS marine scientists and staff to assure their adherence to safety and scientific protocols. This project is not mandatory but highly recommended, and candidates with demonstrated curiosity and innovative ideas will receive preference in the selection process. *The intern will be required to fulfill several key tasks:* ? Lead boat-based survey to observe and photograph bottlenose dolphins ? Take high-quality photos of dolphins for photo-ID ? Assist with manatee research ? Collect ecological data and perform habitat surveys ? Assist with data organization, processing and preliminary analysis. ? Prepare expedition reports ? Coordinate the activities of our volunteer groups (1 to 8) ? Prepare and present lectures on marine mammals and their habitats. *Requirements of Candidates*: ? Passion, optimism and a high degree of interest in conserving marine wildlife and habitats ? A degree in a related field (Biology, Ecology, Zoology, Marine Biology, Animal Behavior) ? English speaking ? A commitment of at least 3 months in Belize ? Broad knowledge of aquatic mammal biology and marine ecosystems and a willingness to learn and teach - Previous field experience with cetaceans and/or manatees ? Be organized and responsible, adaptable, patient and team-orientated ? Be physically fit, able to work in outdoor conditions and to swim and snorkel ? Be willing to live on a remote atoll with poor telephone and internet connectivity *Desirable Traits of Candidates: * ? Previous experience leading volunteer groups ? Public speaking experience ? Interest in proposing, designing and conducting individual research ? Willingness to collaborate on other OS projects (including coral reef, crocodile, sea turtle and/or lionfish monitoring) ? A commitment to one year of service starting February 2014 (field expeditions run year round, except during hurricane season, Sep-Nov) *Compensation* Monetary compensation cannot be provided. OS will cover round trip transport costs from the intern's home city and regularly scheduled shuttles to and from Turneffe Atoll . We will reimburse the selected candidate for the airfare after s/he has completed the third month in the field station. Accommodation and food at the Blackbird Field Station is also covered. Send a letter of application, CV and two references to Dr. Nataly Castelblanco, Research Coordinator of Oceanic Society ( castelblanco at oceanicsociety.org ) For more information about the Oceanic Society, visit: www.oceanicsociety.org ****************************************************************************************** *Nataly Castelblanco-Mart?nez, PhD* Research Coordinator - Oceanic Society -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From ingebjorg.h.nymo at uit.no Mon Feb 17 01:33:16 2014 From: ingebjorg.h.nymo at uit.no (=?iso-8859-1?Q?Nymo_Ingebj=F8rg_Helena?=) Date: Mon, 17 Feb 2014 09:33:16 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Brucella pinnipedialis hooded seal (Cystophora cristata) strain in the mouse model with concurrent exposure to PCB 153 Message-ID: New paper by Nymo and co-workers on "Brucella pinnipedialis hooded seal (Cystophora cristata) strain in the mouse model with concurrent exposure to PCB 153". Abstract Brucellosis, a worldwide zoonosis, is linked to reproductive problems in primary hosts. A high proportion of Brucella-positive hooded seals (Cystophora cristata) have been detected in the declined Northeast Atlantic stock. High concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) have also been discovered in top predators in the Arctic, including the hooded seal, PCB 153 being most abundant. The aim of this study was to assess the pathogenicity of Brucella pinnipedialis hooded seal strain in the mouse model and to evaluate the outcome of Brucella spp. infection after exposure of mice to PCB 153. BALB/c mice were infected with B. pinnipedialis hooded seal strain or Brucella suis 1330, and half from each group was exposed to PCB 153 through the diet. B. pinnipedialis showed a reduced pathogenicity in the mouse model as compared to B. suis 1330. Exposure to PCB 153 affected neither the immunological parameters, nor the outcome of the infection. Altogether this indicates that it is unlikely that B. pinnipedialis contribute to the decline of hooded seals in the Northeast Atlantic. Available online: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S014795711400006X# PDF request: ingebjorg.h.nymo at uit.no Ingebj?rg Helena Nymo, DVM PhD Post Doctoral Researcher University of Troms? - the Arctic University of Norway Faculty of Biosciences, Fisheries and Economics Department of Arctic and Marine Biology Research Group of Arctic Infection Biology Stakkevollveien 23, N-9010 Troms?, Norway Phone: +47 77 62 52 11 Mobile: +47 91 83 84 21 Skype: ingebjorg.helena.nymo -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From mmoore at whoi.edu Sat Feb 15 18:59:05 2014 From: mmoore at whoi.edu (Michael Moore) Date: Sat, 15 Feb 2014 21:59:05 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] How we all kill whales Message-ID: <53002979.7060202@whoi.edu> Food for Thought - Moore, M.J. How we all kill whales. -- ICES Journal of Marine Science, doi.10.1093/icesjms/fsu008. Today there is enormous popular interest in marine mammals. Western media tend to dwell on the ongoing debate about commercial whaling by Japan, Norway and Iceland. There is, however, relative silence as to how the shipping and fishing industries of many if not all maritime countries are also catching and sometimes killing whales, albeit unintentionally. Thus, western countries have, through the development and increase in fishing and shipping in continental shelf waters, essentially resumed whaling as vessel speeds and fishing gear strength have increased in recent decades. The ways in which these animals die, especially in fixed fishing gear that they become entangled in and swim off with, would raise substantial concern with consumers of seafood were they to be aware of what they were enabling. Available Open Access at http://icesjms.oxfordjournals.org/content/early/2014/02/12/icesjms.fsu008.abstract This is an early view online publication. There are no volume or page numbers available at this time. Michael Moore -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From marinebrit at gmail.com Mon Feb 17 10:36:37 2014 From: marinebrit at gmail.com (Andrew Wright) Date: Mon, 17 Feb 2014 11:36:37 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] Call for Nominations for the ECS Mandy McMath Conservation Award Message-ID: Dear Colleagues, Apologies for cross-posting. As a reminder, we are now accepting nominations for the ECS Conservation Award, which will be given for the fourth time during the 28th ECS conference in Liege, Belgium (7-9 April 2014). The award is for an outstanding contribution to the field of marine mammal conservation and/or welfare, with particular emphasis on contributions to environmental education and/or to conservation in practice (e.g. leading to improved legislation or management). The award will be judged on the basis of a proposal made using the format given below and related material as described. It will be decided upon by consensus, or a majority vote of the ECS Conservation Award Committee. The winner of the award will be announced during the ECS Conference. Self-nominations are strongly discouraged. The Committee reserves the right not to present the award if no appropriate nominations are received. The ECS Award Committee comprises: Andrew Wright (Chair) Aviad Scheinin Thierry Jauniaux Hanna Nuuttila Ayaka ?zt?rk Mark Simmonds Simon Berrow Nominations should conform to the following format: Name(s) of person(s)/institution/body nominated for award Address and contact details Description of the work/body of work proposed for the award (maximum length of proposal 250 words) Note that the award can be given for a single conservation-education tool (such as a book or for an entire body of work - i.e. a series of linked contributions) in the sphere of education relating to marine mammal conservation and or welfare. Full references for the material identified above and any relevant web-links. Name of nominator(s) Address and contact details The nomination, and any supporting material if deemed necessary, should be sent to the Chair of the Award Committee by 7th March, 2014. Andrew J. Wright, Ph.D. ECS Conservation Award Chair Email: marinebrit at gmail.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From kim.davies at Dal.Ca Tue Feb 18 01:24:59 2014 From: kim.davies at Dal.Ca (Kimberley Davies) Date: Tue, 18 Feb 2014 09:24:59 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New Publication: Critical Habitat of North Atlantic Right Whales in Canadian Waters Message-ID: <387623312a544a90b07c8bc0eaa84f41@BN1PR03MB071.namprd03.prod.outlook.com> Dear Colleagues, I would like to announce a new publication. Davies, KTA, Taggart, CT and Smedbol, RK. 2014. Water mass structure defines the diapausing copepod distribution in a right whale habitat on the Scotian Shelf. MEPS 497: 69 - 85 ABSTRACT: North Atlantic right whales Eubalaena glacialis aggregate in Roseway Basin on the western Scotian Shelf where their energy-rich food sources, diapausing copepods Calanus spp., are concentrated at depth. The Canadian Species at Risk Recovery Strategy for right whales pro- vides provisional Critical Habitat (CH) boundaries for Roseway Basin based on right whale occu- pancy, with the stipulation that the boundaries be refined using spatially explicit indicators of CH, specifically the environmental, oceanographic, and bathymetric conditions responsible for the copepod aggregations and distribution. We measured the concentration, energy density, spatial distribution, and extent of the right whale food base and the related oceanography at depth in the Basin during late-summer 2008 with the goal of refining the spatial extent of right whale CH. We show that the diapausing copepods were distributed throughout the Basin, with elevated concen- trations located at depth toward the northeast and along the southern Basin margin slope. The aggregations were associated with warm, salty, high-density (26.0 to 26.2 ? t, kg m ?3 ), continental slope-influenced water masses and not with cold, fresh, low-density (< 26.0 ? t ) water masses orig- inating on the Scotian Shelf. Tidally driven variation in the copepod aggregations across the southern slope was coincident with the movement of the 26.0 ? t isopycnal. We propose a mecha- nism, based on water mass density and advection, that explains the spatial and temporal (e.g. inter-annual) variation in diapausing Calanus energy density (joules per unit ocean volume) dis- tribution, and by proxy, variation in right whale occupancy of the Basin. We further propose that the provisional CH boundaries, partly conditioned on vessel-strike mitigation measures, be extended to better encompass the critical feeding habitat. This could be achieved without compro- mise regarding vessel traffic and existing vessel-strike mitigation. Cheers, Kimberley Davies Postdoctoral Fellow L'Institut Fran?ais de Recherche pour l'Exploitation de la Mer Plouzan?, France Contact: kimberley.davies at ifremer.fr -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From catarina.fonseca at aimm-portugal.org Tue Feb 18 09:31:06 2014 From: catarina.fonseca at aimm-portugal.org (Catarina Fonseca) Date: Tue, 18 Feb 2014 17:31:06 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] AIMM seeks interns - Summer 2014 - Portugal Message-ID: *INTERNSHIP APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR 2014 SEASON* *BACKGROUND:* The Marine Environment Research Association - AIMM - is running an ongoing study of cetaceans in the South of Portugal (Algarve). This project aims to obtain baseline information on species occurrence, behaviour and social structure of the local cetacean populations. The main species observed are short beaked common dolphin (*Delphinus delphis*), common bottlenose dolphin (*Tursiops truncates)* and harbour porpoise (*Phocoena phocoena*); although other species such as minke whale (*Balaenoptera acutorostrata*) and fin whale (*Balaenoptera physalus*) can also be sighted. *WHERE:* Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal *WHEN:* 1st June to 31st October 2014 *FIELDWORK & DATA ANALYSIS:* You will primarily be collecting the data on behaviour, group size, species, photo-identification, etc from platforms of opportunity (dolphin watching boats). You will also assist with desk work doing data entering and photo-identification. Fieldwork is dependent on weather and seat availability in the dolphin watching boats. Field days can be intense, especially in the peak of Summer but are fulfilling and good fun. It will give you field experience in data collection and photo-identification. Interns are *EXPECTED* to: - Be above the age of 16 - Have a mature attitude towards marine mammal research - Be autonomous and quickly operational - Be able to live and work with other members of an international team. All interns share everyday duties and chores with the other team members - Speak fluent Portuguese and/or English - Participate for minimum 1 week No previous experience is required, however *preference will be given* to those who have: - Relevant marine mammal field experience - Working experience on research vessels - Experience working from dolphin/whale watching platforms - Experience in photo-identification - Professional cameras that can be used for photo-ID - Availability to stay for longer periods of time *LIVING & COSTS:* Interns are required to pay a fee of 400 EURO per week to cover all living expenses (accommodation, transport to/from the marina and food). The intern is responsible for his own transportation to and from Albufeira. *DEADLINE AND APPLICANTIONS:* Applicants should send an e-mail with the subject "INTERNSHIP" with: - A small introduction, qualifications, previous experience and a brief explanation why they would like to work with AIMM - CV Applications will be accepted during all season, however, early application is recommended. *Contacts*: interns at aimm-portugal.org || *www.aimmpotugal.org * -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From charry at ifaw.org Tue Feb 18 09:13:24 2014 From: charry at ifaw.org (Harry, Charles) Date: Tue, 18 Feb 2014 17:13:24 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] internship posting Message-ID: <4A281105B1F2F94982E3F26DE28D38841B85CCF7@HQ00SM02.ifaw.net> Hello, I would like to post the below advertisement to the MARMAM list serve. Please feel free to contact if have any questions. Thank you for your efforts, -CT Marine Mammal Summer Internships on Cape Cod, MA The International Fund for Animal Welfare?s (IFAW) Marine Mammal Rescue & Research Program is currently accepting applications for Marine Mammal Stranding Response Internships for Summer 2014. Interns will be placed in one of two available tracks (Response or Necropsy), however all interns will receive cross-training in both areas. Background IFAW is an international non-profit organization with headquarters in Yarmouth Port, Massachusetts, USA. IFAW?s Marine Mammal Rescue and Research Program is a federally authorized response program dedicated to marine mammal stranding response on Cape Cod and southeastern Massachusetts. Our mission is to promote the conservation of marine mammal species and their habitat by improving the rescue and humane care of stranded marine mammals, advancing stranding science, and increasing public awareness through education. Cape Cod is a marine mammal stranding ?hot spot?, with over 230 strandings per year, including live and dead seals, large whales, porpoises and dolphins. This area is especially unique due to the high occurrence of live mass stranded dolphins. Internship Duties ? Response Track - Assist staff with all aspects of marine mammal stranding response including; live animal health assessment and triage, 24 hour hotline coverage, dispatch of volunteers, opportunistic public education, and biological data collection and sampling from dead stranded marine mammals. - Assist in maintaining preparedness for strandings including: cleaning, organizing, and maintaining stranding response gear and equipment - Assist in data entry of case files, call logs, and volunteer hour tracking data - Assist in organizing, cataloging, and archiving stranded marine mammal documentation including photos and video - General office duties and report and outreach/education material preparation Internship Duties - Necropsy Track - Assist the necropsy coordinator in performing post-mortem examinations in both field and laboratory settings - Assist in maintaining, cleaning, and organizing necropsy equipment and supplies - Assist in photo archiving and data entry - Assist in the archiving, shipping and tracking of biological samples - Assist in the preparation of necropsy reports - General office duties including training and outreach material preparation and organization Requirements - Candidates must be at least 18 years old - Must possess a valid driver?s license - Must be of good physical fitness and be able to lift/carry 40lbs - Able to follow directions and protocols effectively - Undergraduate study of biology, zoology, ecology, marine/environmental/animal science preferred - Experience handling animals and driving trucks, trailers and boats helpful - The ideal candidate will possess good communication skills, can work independently, and should have a working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Learning outcomes While hands-on experience is opportunistic and the number and type of responses will be variable, most interns have the opportunity to: - Develop skills in identifying species commonly stranded on Cape Cod - Acquire basic stranded cetacean and pinniped assessment and triage skills - Gain knowledge of response logistics and management including the use of the Incident Command System - Increase knowledge of biology and anatomy of species commonly stranded on Cape Cod - Gain knowledge of the stranding network structure and operation, and marine mammal policy as it relates to strandings - Acquire basic data collection and necropsy skills - Participate in active research projects as appropriate Additional Information This internship is unpaid. Housing and transportation are the responsibility of the intern. International applicants will be considered, but is the responsibility of the applicant to acquire necessary visas and documentation; including an international driver?s license. Internship start and end dates are flexible but the position requires a minimum 10 week continuous commitment sometime between May 15 through September 15. Interns are required to attend a minimum of 3 days per week, which may include weekends and holidays. Since strandings are unpredictable, applicants with flexible schedules are preferred. If the intern intends to receive academic credit, he/she will be responsible for making all arrangements with their educational institutions. Interns should be prepared to perform in a variety of settings on any given day including beach, on water, and laboratory. Specialized gear such as dry suits and life jackets will be provided. To apply please submit by March 15th: - Completed internship application with tentative start/end dates (http://www.ifaw.org//sites/default/files/webform/mmrr_internship_application.pdf) - Letter of recommendation from an employer or college professor - Resume * Applicant?s should note their preferred track (Response or Necropsy) however, final placement will be decided by the IFAW staff. All internship application materials and/or questions should be submitted to: rescue at ifaw.org (please include ?Internship Application? in the subject line) For more information about IFAW?s global animal welfare and conservation work, please visit www.ifaw.org C.T. Harry | Asst. Stranding Coordinator | Marine Mammal Rescue & Research __________________________________________________________ IFAW - International Fund for Animal Welfare World Headquarters 290 Summer Street - Yarmouth Port, MA 02675 tel.1.508.744.2272 email. charry at ifaw.org stranding hotline. 1.508.743.9548 Saving Animals in Crisis Around the World www.ifaw.org The content of this email is intended only for the use of the above-named addressee and may contain information that is confidential, proprietary, and/or legally privileged. Please notify the sender if you received this email in error. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From ECSconference2014 at ulg.ac.be Wed Feb 19 02:30:46 2014 From: ECSconference2014 at ulg.ac.be (ecs2014) Date: Wed, 19 Feb 2014 11:30:46 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] video night Message-ID: <5C26965B-D612-4A45-952C-FDFB3A7C5389@ulg.ac.be> Apologies for cross-posting Dear ECS and MARMAM colleague A video night is scheduled during the upcoming conference. If you are interested to present a video, could you please contact me (ECSconference2014 at ulg.ac.be) for video instructions (length, format,...) Looking forward to seeing you soon Thierry Thierry Jauniaux, DMV, PhD, ECS Conference 2014 Liege 5-9 April http://liege.europeancetaceansociety.eu/conference/28th-annual-conference -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From emmaforrester at hydenlyne.com Tue Feb 18 01:04:03 2014 From: emmaforrester at hydenlyne.com (Emma Forrester - Hydenlyne) Date: Tue, 18 Feb 2014 09:04:03 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Consultants Wanted for Angolan EIA Message-ID: Dear All, Hydenlyne is looking for consultants to undertake an Environmental Impact Assessment offshore Angola. You should have experience working offshore Angola and with writing EIAs, either contributing to the Marine Mammal section, or the full document. Ideally you will have written an EIA for an offshore area of Angola or have contributed to one. Please reply as soon as possible if you have the necessary experience to undertake this role. Kind regards, Emma Forrester Project Manager UK Mobile +44 (0)7730222001 Office +44 (0)1202 900078 Hydenlyne 1 Princes Court Princes Road Ferndown Dorset England BH22 9JG -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From liane.nakahara at navy.mil Tue Feb 18 10:50:00 2014 From: liane.nakahara at navy.mil (Nakahara, Liane L CIV Navy Region NW, N00P) Date: Tue, 18 Feb 2014 18:50:00 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Press Release: Navy holding public meetings for Northwest Training and Testing EIS Message-ID: <1334760E4C8BA546A988A8EC744A09A11774B6@NAWEBREMXM02V.nadsuswe.nads.navy.mil> Attached and pasted below is a Press Release for the Navy disseminated to news media this morning. Provided for your information and for sharing with your colleagues. The U.S. Navy his holding a series of public meetings in Washington, Oregon, Northern California, and Southeast Alaska to provide information on the Northwest Training and Testing (NWTT) Draft Environmental Impact Statement/Overseas Environmental Impact Statement (EIS/OEIS). These meetings are also being held to allow the public to ask questions and submit comments about the Draft EIS/OEIS. The Navy invites the public to submit comments on the NWTT Draft EIS/OEIS during the comment period, which ends on March 25. All comments received by the deadline will be considered in the development of the Final EIS/OEIS. People can comment in a few different ways: in person (oral and written) at a public meeting, by mail or online at the project website via the online comment form. The Draft EIS documents as well as the online comment form can be found on the NWTT EIS/OEIS project website: www.nwtteis.com Please let me know if you have any questions. There will be a media availability starting at 4:30 p.m. prior to each public meeting. Please let me know if you are interested in attending this media availability. We will have subject matter experts available to help answer questions about Navy training and testing and the Draft EIS. Very Respectfully, Liane Nakahara Public Affairs Specialist Navy Region Northwest Phone: (360) 396-1630 Cell: (360) 340-5372 Fax: (360) 396-7127 liane.nakahara [at] navy.mil ----------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Feb. 18, 2014 Release #14-002 NAVY TO HOLD PUBLIC MEETINGS FOR THE NORTHWEST TRAINING AND TESTING DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT/ OVERSEAS ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT SILVERDALE, Wash. - The U.S. Navy invites the public to attend public meetings for the Northwest Training and Testing (NWTT) Draft Environmental Impact Statement/Overseas Environmental Impact Statement (EIS/OEIS). The Navy has prepared the Draft EIS/OEIS to evaluate the potential environmental impacts of military readiness training and testing activities conducted primarily within existing range complexes, operating areas and testing ranges in the NWTT Study Area. The Navy invites you to comment on the NWTT Draft EIS/OEIS. Public Meetings Eight public meetings will be held to inform the public about the Navy's Proposed Action and findings in the Draft EIS/OEIS, and solicit public comments on the environmental analysis. The public meetings will include an open house information session starting at 5 p.m. During this time, Navy representatives will provide information and answer questions about the Proposed Action and Draft EIS/OEIS. A short presentation by the Navy will begin at 6:30 p.m. Comments will be accepted throughout the public meeting. The public meetings will be held at the following locations and times: Open House Information Sessions: 5-8 p.m. Navy Presentation: 6:30 p.m. Washington: Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2014 Oak Harbor High School Student Union Building 1 Wildcat Way Oak Harbor, WA Thursday, Feb. 27, 2014 Cascade High School Student Commons 801 E. Casino Road Everett, WA Friday, Feb. 28, 2014 North Kitsap High School Commons 1780 NE Hostmark St. Poulsbo, WA Oregon: Monday, March 3, 2014 Astoria High School Student Commons 1001 W. Marine Drive Astoria, OR Tuesday, March 4, 2014 Isaac Newton Magnet School Gym 825 NE 7th St. Newport, OR California: Thursday, March 6, 2014 Red Lion Hotel Redwood Ballroom 1929 4th St. Eureka, CA Friday, March 7, 2014 Redwood Coast Senior Center West Room 490 N. Harold St. Fort Bragg, CA Alaska: Tuesday, March 11, 2014 Southeast Alaska Discovery Center Lobby 50 Main St. Ketchikan, AK Individuals requiring reasonable accommodations, please contact Liane Nakahara, Navy Region Northwest Public Affairs Specialist, at 360-396-1630 or liane.nakahara [at] navy.mil. Availability of Draft EIS/OEIS and Public Comment Period: The Navy is seeking public input on the Proposed Action and alternatives, and the accuracy and adequacy of the Draft EIS/OEIS. The Draft EIS/OEIS is available for public review online at www.NWTTEIS.com and at the following locations: Washington: . Everett Main Library . Gig Harbor Library . Jefferson County Library - Port Hadlock . Kitsap Regional Library - Poulsbo . Kitsap Regional Library - Sylvan Way (Bremerton) . Oak Harbor Public Library . Port Angeles Main Library . Port Townsend Public Library . Timberland Regional Library - Aberdeen .Timberland Regional Library - Hoquiam Oregon: . Astoria Public Library . Driftwood Public Library . Newport Public Library . Tillamook Main Library Northern California: . Fort Bragg Branch Library . Humboldt County Public Library, Arcata Main Library . Humboldt County Public Library, Eureka Main Library Southeastern Alaska: . Juneau Public Library, Downtown Branch . Ketchikan Public Library The Navy is accepting comments throughout the 60-day public comment period, from Jan. 24, 2014, to March 25, 2014. All comments must be postmarked or received online by March 25, 2014, for consideration in the Final EIS/OEIS. Written comments may be submitted via the project website at www.NWTTEIS.com, in person at the public meetings or by mail to: Naval Facilities Engineering Command Northwest Attention: Ms. Kimberly Kler - NWTT EIS/OEIS Project Manager 1101 Tautog Circle, Suite 203 Silverdale, WA 98315-1101 Proposed Action The Navy proposes to conduct training and testing activities, to include the use of active sonar and explosives, within the NWTT Study Area. The Proposed Action also includes pierside sonar maintenance and testing within the NWTT Study Area. The purpose of the Proposed Action is to ensure that the Navy accomplishes its mission to maintain, train and equip combat-ready naval forces capable of winning wars, deterring aggression and maintaining freedom of the seas. This mission is achieved in part by training and testing within the NWTT Study Area. The NWTT EIS/OEIS also supports the renewal of federal regulatory permits and authorizations for current training and testing activities and future activities requiring environmental analysis. The NWTT Study Area is composed of Navy training and testing range complexes, operating areas, testing facilities, and select Navy pierside locations in the Pacific Northwest. Aircraft training and testing activities that take place on or within established Navy airfields at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash. or Naval Weapons Systems Training Facility Boardman, Ore. are not included in this NWTT EIS/OEIS. Visit the project website at www.NWTTEIS.com to download the Draft EIS/OEIS, view a map of the NWTT Study Area, learn more about the project and submit comments online. -USN- MEDIA AVAILABILITY: There is an opportunity for media to speak with project personnel at 4:30 p.m. before each meeting. Media interested in attending or seeking further information should contact: Liane Nakahara, Navy Region Northwest Public Affairs Specialist, 360-396-1630 (office) or 360-340-5372 (cell). -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: NWTT EIS_OEIS - NOPM Press Release - FINAL - 2014-01-10.docx Type: application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document Size: 79804 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: smime.p7s Type: application/pkcs7-signature Size: 5619 bytes Desc: not available URL: From mhuelsenbeck at oceana.org Tue Feb 18 08:18:34 2014 From: mhuelsenbeck at oceana.org (Huelsenbeck, Matthew) Date: Tue, 18 Feb 2014 16:18:34 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Closing Date February 19 - Seeking Marine Scientists for Sign On Letter Message-ID: <4B212ABF28052C4D869EE9FC172A30CA28745CE5@WDCEXCH01.ad.oceana.org> Circling back around about this. Thanks to those of you who have signed on already. Please let me know by Wednesday, February 19th COB if you can sign on to this important letter. Thanks again. Hello all, If you are willing to sign on to the letter below please email me (mhuelsenbeck at oceana.org) with your name, degree, title and organization. We are seeking marine scientists and conservation biologists, particularly experts in underwater acoustics and/or marine mammals, to sign this letter. The purpose and wording of the letter is simple; require the use of NMFS' new Marine Mammal Acoustic Guidelines before finalizing a Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement for proposed seismic survey activity in the mid- and south Atlantic. Thanks! For more information, here is a link to NMFS' Marine Mammal Acoustic Guidelines; http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/acoustics/guidelines.htm And a link to BOEM's page about proposed geological and geophysical activities in the mid- and south Atlantic, referenced in the letter as the PEIS: http://www.boem.gov/oil-and-gas-energy-program/GOMR/GandG.aspx "Dear (President Obama, Secretary of DOI, Deputy Director of BOEM) CC (NMFS) On behalf of the following marine scientists and conservation biologists we urge you to use the best available science before permitting seismic surveys for offshore oil and gas in the mid- and south Atlantic. We recommend that you do not finalize the Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS) regarding seismic surveys in the mid- and south Atlantic until the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has completed new Marine Mammal Acoustic Guidelines. It is essential to incorporate these guidelines into this PEIS in order to accurately estimate auditory injuries and disturbances to marine mammals from proposed seismic surveys, so that this important information can guide the most appropriate mitigation measures. NMFS released the first phase of the acoustic guidelines on December 27th 2013 for public comment, and the agency will be releasing the second phase regarding behavioral disturbances to marine mammals soon. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has classified the first phase of these guidelines as a "Highly Influential Scientific Assessment"- the most stringent possible ranking under OMB's peer-review protocol. More than 15 years have passed since NMFS first began developing these criteria for auditory impacts, as well as criteria for acoustic disturbances. The newly published draft guidelines synthesize years of scientific research regarding the effects of anthropogenic sound on marine mammals. During the development of the guidelines NMFS has undergone a rigorous internal and external peer review process including consultation with issue experts, and the first phase is now undergoing public comment. If the PEIS moves forward without the newly established acoustic guidelines it will be scientifically deficient and quickly outdated. It will fail to accurately assess the true scope of marine mammal impacts from proposed seismic surveys, which is a primary purpose of the PEIS. The mid- and south Atlantic is home to a diversity and abundance of marine mammals, including the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale which could be impacted by proposed seismic survey activity. We implore you to take this opportunity to integrate NMFS' new Marine Mammal Acoustic Guidelines into the PEIS for proposed seismic survey activity in the mid- and south Atlantic." Sincerely, Name, Degree Title Organization Name, Degree Title Organization Name, Degree Title Organization Best, Matthew Huelsenbeck | Marine Scientist OCEANA | Protecting the World's Oceans 1350 Connecticut Ave. NW, 5th Floor | Washington, DC 20036 USA C +1.202.725.9560 | D +1.202.467.1924 | O +1.202.833.2070 E mhuelsenbeck at oceana.org | W www.oceana.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From oasis.excurrent at gmail.com Sat Feb 15 04:20:13 2014 From: oasis.excurrent at gmail.com (Shambhu Paudel) Date: Sat, 15 Feb 2014 18:05:13 +0545 Subject: [MARMAM] Seeking ecological statistician support Message-ID: Dear all, I am seeking help from strong ecological statistician to address the issues of statistics for accepted journal paper on high impact factor, that is related to the factors (ecological and anthropological) affecting movement of dolphins and their presence. I need to work as soon as possible. Therefore, interested experts are request for their help. No doubt, he/she will be a co author for the article. With regards, shambhu paudel -- *Assistant Professor for Wildlife/GIS/RS * * ||*Kathmandu Forestry College ||Kathmandu, Nepal || www.kafcol.edu.np Cell: 977-9841-170723 *South Asia Representative for *World Cetacean Alliance www.worldcetaceanalliance.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From D.Chabanne at murdoch.edu.au Wed Feb 19 18:59:04 2014 From: D.Chabanne at murdoch.edu.au (Delphine Chabanne) Date: Thu, 20 Feb 2014 02:59:04 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Seeking field assistants for research on Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin in Perth, Western Australia Message-ID: <471C24C8B60AEF4995A8D064026BD83203AB14@Exch-AD-MBX4.ad.murdoch.edu.au> Seeking field assistants for research on Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin in Perth, Western Australia Due to last minute change, I am seeking field assistants from now (anytime as soon as possible) until late June 2014. Project title: Assessment of the population of bottlenose dolphins within the Perth metropolitan waters. This project aims to assess dolphin abundance, residency, ranging patterns and genetic connectivity within an area encompassing over a four-year period. Sampling effort is stratified across four zones (Cockburn Sound, Owen Anchorage, Gage Roads, and the Swan-Canning Estuary) and across all four austral seasons (spring, summer, autumn, winter). Location: Cetacean Research Unit, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia (www.mucru.org) Duties: - Assisting with boat-based photo-identification surveys of bottlenose dolphins, including operating small vessel during surveys, collecting environmental, location, and behavioural data for dolphin groups. Expect early starts, hot weather, up to 11 hours on the water for multiple consecutive days, and up to a week between days off; - Photo-identification of dolphins in the lab. Prerequisites: - Enthusiasm for field work on a boat is essential (long hours and natural environment conditions); - Experience of working on and driving a small boat (essential); - Experience of photo-ID survey techniques (highly desirable); - No history of debilitation seasickness (essential). Expenses: This is an unpaid position. Travel to/from, accommodation, and food for applicants will be at their own charges. Please submit resume and cover letter specifying when you could start and for how long you would like to commit to this project to D.Chabanne at murdoch.edu.au. Delphine Chabanne PhD candidate Murdoch University Cetacean Research Unit School of Veterinary and Life Sciences Murdoch University, Western Australia Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia http://mucru.org/group-members/delphine-chabanne/ http://mucru.org/research-projects/coastal-and-estuarine-dolphin-project/ [mucru-with-murdoch-WHITEBACKGROUND] -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 17388 bytes Desc: image001.png URL: From acucknell at mcr-team.co.uk Thu Feb 20 03:57:28 2014 From: acucknell at mcr-team.co.uk (Anna Cucknell) Date: Thu, 20 Feb 2014 11:57:28 -0000 Subject: [MARMAM] *ECS Workshop announcement: Estimating the probability of detection from passive acoustic data* Message-ID: <004401cf2e32$eff13a80$cfd3af80$@mcr-team.co.uk> Hello ECS and MARMAM readers Apologies for cross posting. On Saturday 5th April 2014 at the upcoming European Cetacean Society conference in Liege a discussion workshop on "Estimating the probability of detection from passive acoustic data" will be held in the Aquarium. The workshop will cost 10 Euros and will run from in the afternoon from 1400-1800. Background: Assessing the status of cetacean populations, and the impacts of and level of risk associated with anthropogenic activities is hampered by limited abundance estimates for many areas. While abundance estimation by visual means is possible for cetaceans, surveys are often limited by weather conditions, eye height of observers, availability bias, high cost and observer inconsistency. For those species that vocalise routinely, passive acoustic techniques have been proposed as a more accurate and efficient method of detection and can be utilised in poor weather conditions and at night time. Absolute abundance and population estimates from acoustic data have been derived for animals which vocalise loudly and predictably, such as sperm whales. However for animals which do not vocalise constantly or produce vocalisations that may be relatively quiet or highly directional, the probability of detection, needs to be determined empirically in order to calculate absolute abundance or density estimates from acoustic edata. Abundance estimation using acoustic techniques rely on deriving a probability of detection which not only accounts for the amount of time an animal vocalises, but also accounts for those times when vocalisations might not be detected when animals orientate away from the hydrophone, temporarily reduce the source level of vocalisations or when the depth of a vocalising animal may influence likelihood of detection. Several research groups have collected acoustic data sets utilising static recorders or line transect methodologies and due to weather constraints, logistical limitations, poor planning or suboptimal sighting conditions, were not able to collect visual and / or acoustic data which would allow the probability of detection and the level of responsive movement to be characterised. These data could substantially increase our knowledge on the seasonal and regional abundance of species and inform critical conservation and management actions. Objectives: For this workshop we aim to bring together interested scientists in order to discuss and brainstorm methodologies suitable for providing probabilities of detection in order to 'unlock' the previously collected datasets, albeit with some caveats. Additionally we would like to stimulate discussion on the development of best practise for estimating probability of detection when acoustic data are being collected, especially for those areas and species where visual techniques are significantly constrained. The workshop will discuss methods to estimate the probability of detection for towed and static passive acoustic studies with particular focus on discussing the challenges animal group size, vocalisation depth, background noise and behavioural adaptations to vocalisation rate and detectability add to estimating the probability of detection. If you would like to attend or offer to do a presentation at the workshop please contact: acuknell at mcr-team.org. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From intern at neaq.org Wed Feb 19 13:34:48 2014 From: intern at neaq.org (Intern) Date: Wed, 19 Feb 2014 16:34:48 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Marine Mammal Internships with the New England Aquarium! Message-ID: <8013BE5242117842AA8EF06961F0067E09EF62F5@rightwhale.neaq.org> Are you looking for research experience with Marine Mammals?? The New England Aquarium is recruiting individuals to participate in our most unique internships! Our Right Whale Field Research Intern will live and work with a dedicated team of researchers based out of Lubec, Maine for two months in late summer and early fall. The intern will have the opportunity to gain hands-on field research experience on this highly-endangered species. Please follow this link to be directed to the internship description. Our priority deadline for consideration is March 15th, 2014. Our second opportunity focuses on research of whale species in the Cape Cod Bay and Stellwagen Bank. Interns will participate in Whale Watches recording data on sightings and behavior while engaging the public in conservation activities surrounding these animals. The internship description can be found here . For a complete list of application instructions and requirements please visit our website . -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From j.luksenburg at yahoo.com Thu Feb 20 03:19:08 2014 From: j.luksenburg at yahoo.com (Jolanda Luksenburg) Date: Thu, 20 Feb 2014 03:19:08 -0800 (PST) Subject: [MARMAM] New publication on injuries in small cetaceans in the southern Caribbean Message-ID: <1392895148.31777.YahooMailNeo@web142703.mail.bf1.yahoo.com> Dear colleagues, I am happy to announce the publication of my paper on injuries in small cetaceans in the southern Caribbean:? Luksenburg JA (2014) Prevalence of External Injuries in Small Cetaceans in Aruban Waters, Southern Caribbean. PLoS ONE 9(2): e88988. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0088988 Aruba, located close to the coasts of Colombia and Venezuela, is one of the most densely populated islands in the Caribbean and supports a wide range of marine-related socio-economic activities. However, little is known about the impacts of human activities on the marine environment. Injuries in marine mammals can be used to examine interactions with human activities and identify potential threats to the survival of populations. The prevalence of external injuries and tooth rake marks were examined in Atlantic spotted dolphin (Stenella frontalis) (n = 179), bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) (n = 76) and false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens) (n = 71) in Aruban waters using photo identification techniques. Eleven injury categories were defined and linked to either human-related activities or natural causes. All injury categories were observed. In total, 18.7% of all individuals had at least one injury. Almost half (41.7%) of the injuries could be attributed to human interactions, of which fishing gear was the most common cause (53.3%) followed by propeller hits (13.3%). Major disfigurements were observed in all three species and could be attributed to interactions with fishing gear. The results of this study indicate that fishing gear and propeller hits may pose threats to small and medium-sized cetaceans in Aruban waters. Thus, long-term monitoring of population trends is warranted. Shark-inflicted bite wounds were observed in Atlantic spotted dolphin and bottlenose dolphin. Bite wounds of cookie cutter sharks (Isistius sp.) were recorded in all three species, and include the first documented record of a cookie cutter shark bite in Atlantic spotted dolphin. This is one of the few studies which investigates the prevalence of injuries in cetaceans in the Caribbean. Further study is necessary to determine to which extent the injuries observed in Aruba affect the health and survival of local populations. The paper can be downloaded here: http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0088988 Best wishes, Jolanda ? Jolanda Luksenburg, PhD Affiliate Professor George Mason University Department of Environmental Science and Policy E: j.luksenburg at yahoo.com W: http://www.researchgate.net/profile/Jolanda_Luksenburg/ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From victorgarcia120 at yahoo.es Wed Feb 19 09:58:15 2014 From: victorgarcia120 at yahoo.es (Victor Garcia Vergara) Date: Wed, 19 Feb 2014 17:58:15 +0000 (GMT) Subject: [MARMAM] Animal Welfare. Compiling information Message-ID: <1392832695.24209.YahooMailNeo@web171405.mail.ir2.yahoo.com> Dear MARMAMERS I am compiling information (in English and Spanish) on animal welfare in captivity but only for this animals:? ? Orca : Orcinus orca.? Indo-Pacific?Dolphin?or: Tursiops aduncus.? Belugas: Delphinapterus leucas.? California sea lion: Zalophus californianus.? Common seal or harbor seal: Phoca vitulina? Sea otter: Enhydra lutris? Manatee: Trichechus would be very grateful if you can contact me, if you have any published literature, news, or contact details of people/organisations that could provide me with further information.? Thank you in advance, ? ------------- ? ------------------ ?V?ctor Garc?a Vergara Fono: +56 9 9338 2859 ------------- ? ------------------- -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From Stephen_Trumble at baylor.edu Thu Feb 20 08:36:21 2014 From: Stephen_Trumble at baylor.edu (Trumble, Stephen J.) Date: Thu, 20 Feb 2014 16:36:21 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Postdoctoral opportunity in Texas Message-ID: Postdoctoral Research Opportunity Baylor University anticipates a postdoctoral researcher position starting summer 2014. Postdoctoral researcher will work under Dr. Sascha Usenko (analytical/environmental chemistry) and Dr. Stephen Trumble (integrative biology) to reconstruct lifetime chemical profiles in whale earplugs. Highly motivated candidates with a PhD degree in relevant science such as analytical/environmental chemistry and/or integrative biology will be considered. Successful applicants must possess a strong publication record and excellent English communication skills. Qualified applicant will be funded with competitive stipend, health benefits, and travel support to attend professional meetings. The duration of this position is anticipated to be one year, with the possibility of renewal, contingent upon performance. Prospective candidates are encouraged to visit www.baylor.edu/mediacommunications/whale. For more information, please contact Dr. Usenko (Sascha_Usenko at Baylor.edu) and/or Dr. Trumble (Stephen_Trumble at Baylor.edu). Please use "Usenko-Trumble Post-Doc" in the subject line. Review of applicants will continue until the position is filled. Please apply at https://jobs.baylor.edu under vacancy number S022642 Baylor is a Baptist university affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas. As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer, Baylor encourages minorities, women, veterans, and persons with disabilities to apply. Baylor University provides access and training to state-of-the art research facilities situated in the newly opened $103 million Baylor Sciences Building. The researcher will be part of a multidisciplinary team of environmental chemists and biologists. [Doc - Apr 16, 2012 14-09.jpg] -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 10252 bytes Desc: image001.jpg URL: From rosen at zoology.ubc.ca Wed Feb 19 15:48:29 2014 From: rosen at zoology.ubc.ca (David Rosen) Date: Wed, 19 Feb 2014 15:48:29 -0800 Subject: [MARMAM] Older reference sought Message-ID: <0F4553EC-965C-480A-83FB-56C734643672@zoology.ubc.ca> I am trying to track down a copy of a chapter by J Sweeney from the First Edition (1990) CRC Handbook of Marine Mammal Medicine entitled: Marine mammal behavioural diagnostics. It was dropped from the second edition. Thanks, Dave Rosen University of British Columbia From maja.nimak-wood at gardline.com Wed Feb 19 07:34:47 2014 From: maja.nimak-wood at gardline.com (Maja Nimak-Wood) Date: Wed, 19 Feb 2014 15:34:47 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Field based MMO training course, May 2014 Message-ID: [cid:image004.png at 01CF2D88.1EB40470] Pro-MMO Training Course 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 classroom element of the course will take place in Portsmouth (UK) while field part on a vessel sailing across the Bay of Biscay. The cost of the course is ?600 and it includes all course materials, ID guide book, handouts, accommodation while on board, experienced staff and support afterwards. The next available dates for this 3-day field based course will be 6th- 8th May 2014. Application forms can be obtained from http://www.gardlinemarinesciences.com/services/service/field-based-marine-mammal-observation/ and all queries directed to maja.nimak-wood at gardline.com Deadline for applications: 31st March 2014. Maja Nimak-Wood Marine Mammal Scientist Gardline Environmental Limited Endeavour House, Admiralty Road, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, NR30 3NG Tel: +44 (0)1493 845600 Fax: +44 (0)1493 852106 www.gardlinemarinesciences.com [cid:image003.jpg at 01CF2D84.1796B740] Gardline Environmental Limited is part of the Gardline Group of Companies Registered in England No.04589816 | VAT Registration No. 640 4800 66 Registered office: Endeavour House, Admiralty Road, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, NR30 3NG ________________________________ 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: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image003.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 6658 bytes Desc: image003.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image004.png Type: image/png Size: 7000 bytes Desc: image004.png URL: From shannondolphins at gmail.com Thu Feb 20 09:19:41 2014 From: shannondolphins at gmail.com (Shannon Dolphins) Date: Thu, 20 Feb 2014 17:19:41 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN RESEARCH ASSISTANTS REQUIRED IN THE SHANNON ESTUARY, IRELAND Message-ID: BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN RESEARCH ASSISTANTS REQUIRED IN THE SHANNON ESTUARY, IRELAND The Shannon Dolphin and Wildlife Foundation (SDWF) is seeking research assistants to conduct boat- and office-based bottlenose dolphin research June-September 2014 in Kilrush, Co. Clare, Ireland. For more information about the SDWF see www.shannondolphins.ie The SDWF is a registered charity dedicated to the conservation and research of dolphins and wildlife in the Shannon Estuary with offices based in the Shannon Dolphin and Wildlife Centre, an interpretive centre open to the public and used to promote educational awareness of the dolphins and wildlife in the Shannon region. The SDWF was established by Dr Simon Berrow in 2000 following pilot work carried out by the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG) from 1993. The SDWF has a strong research background and has collaborated with a number of Irish and international research groups. Long-term monitoring of the bottlenose dolphin population in the Shannon has been carried out using photo-id since 1993 and static acoustics since 2001. The Shannon River estuary is presently the only candidate Special Area of Conservation (SAC) for bottlenose dolphins in Ireland and is home to a resident population of dolphins living year-round in the estuary. The SDWF is seeking voluntary research assistants for the 2014 field season to carry out dolphin research and education. Research assistants will be required to conduct monitoring surveys from dolphin-watching tour boats, spend a considerable amount of time on bottlenose dolphin photo-identification and related office tasks, and assist in the management of the dolphin centre on a daily basis. Photo-id training will be provided on the boats and in the office. A subset of research assistants will also assist with a PhD project on bottlenose dolphin social and foraging behaviour on board the RV *Muc Mhara* when weather conditions allow for fieldwork. This research will consist of boat-based photo-ID and behavioural observations of bottlenose dolphins in the Shannon Estuary and presents an opportunity to gain experience in field techniques for small cetacean research, while contributing to a project with a strong scientific aim and a high conservation value. There may also be opportunities for assistants to help with research conducted on board the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group's RV *Celtic Mist* and to assist the IWDG with cetacean strandings should the opportunity arise. These positions provide an excellent opportunity to develop skills in cetacean research and education and to assist with one of the longest-running bottlenose dolphin population monitoring programs in the world. WORK PERIOD 1 June 2014 - 28 September 2014 We are seeking skilled research assistants to commence on 1 June 2014. Research assistants are required full-time for four months, finishing 28 September 2014. Because of the training required, preference will be given to applicants who can commit to three or four months. However, those available for a shorter period of time will also be considered. LOCATION Research assistants will be based in Kilrush, Co. Clare, Ireland, a small town located in west Clare on the northern shore of the Shannon Estuary. The Shannon Dolphin and Wildlife Centre is located less than 10 minutes' walk from the town centre. West Clare is a beautiful place to work, but applicants are asked to be aware that it is also somewhat geographically isolated with limited facilities and variable weather patterns. RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Conducting monitoring surveys from two dolphin-watching tour boats operating in the Shannon Estuary, collecting photo-id data and recording data on tour boat encounters with dolphin groups. Surveys involve one to four daily boat trips and are weather dependent - i.e. many days in a row if weather is good. 2. Photo-identification and database entry in the office, including fin identification, fin-matching, photo processing, sighting data entry and maintenance of our long-term photo-id catalogue. Research assistants should be prepared to work long days in the office entering data and analysing and organising photographs, including working with historic archived photographs and related data. 3. Dolphin centre duties, including general administrative tasks, receiving visitors to the dolphin centre, engaging with and educating members of the public, managing merchandise, updating websites and supporting and promoting SDWF, and raising awareness and membership participation. Also, general maintenance of research equipment and facilities. 4. PhD research assistance (1) Field duties include conducting surveys and focal follows of bottlenose dolphins in the Shannon Estuary. Searching for and spotting dolphins, taking photos, recording video, making and recording field observations, photo-identification, driving the boat, equipment cleaning and basic maintenance, data entry. Expect early starts, cold weather, up to 12 hours on the water for multiple consecutive days, and up to a week between days off. (2) Office duties include photo-identification and database entry, including fin identification, fin-matching, photo processing, sighting data entry and maintenance of our long-term photo-id catalogue. Computer programs used for data are: FinBase, IMatch, Microsoft Access, Excel and Word. As boat-based research is highly weather dependent, it can vary between weekdays and weekends. Assistants need to be available full-time including weekends and be prepared to work long, consecutive days, in the office during bad weather and in the field during good weather. Research assistants should be prepared to spend weeks at a time in the office when the weather is bad and many consecutive days on the boat when the weather is good. All volunteers will be given training in boat-based work and office tasks including observation and photo-identification of bottlenose dolphins, photo processing and database entry. REQUIREMENTS Essential - Genuine interest in marine mammal biology, the marine environment and conservation - Basic computer proficiency in MS Office - Previous photo-identification experience or a strong desire to learn photo-id skills - Excellent verbal and communication skills - Enthusiastic with a positive attitude to hard work and long hours - Sociable and team-oriented with the ability to get on well with others in a small team (3-4 people) - Work well both in a team and independently - A detail-oriented work ethic with an ability to work in a meticulous manner - Conscientious, reliable, hard-working, and self-motivated - Flexible and patient as fieldwork is highly weather dependent - Prepared to work long days in the field or office - Comfortable working on boats - No history of debilitating seasickness - Good English language skills - Must be 18 years or older Preferred but not essential - Enrolled in or completed a degree in Biology, Marine Biology, Environmental Science, Animal Behaviour, Ecology, Zoology or related fields - Previous field research experience, especially in marine mammal research - Prior experience working on boats - A strong interest and knowledge of bottlenose dolphins and/or Irish cetaceans - Experience in interacting with the public - Familiarity with DSLR cameras and GPS equipment and software - Prior experience with MS Access and IMatch - Driving Licence (and possibility to bring your own car) - Possibility to bring your own laptop for data entry APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS Research assistants will be based in Kilrush, Co. Clare, Ireland and will be expected to work and live as part of a team with shared cooking and cleaning duties. Unfortunately, there is no monetary compensation for these positions and a contribution towards accommodation and utilities is required. Accommodation is in a shared house within walking distance of the dolphin centre and town of Kilrush. Research assistants are responsible for their own food costs and travel expenses to and from Kilrush, Ireland. To apply, please send your CV (including two relevant referees and their contact information) and a covering letter with a brief description of yourself and what you hope to gain from this experience, details of why you would like to work on this specific project and any relevant experience you have to Isabel Baker (shannondolphins at gmail.com) by 6 March 2014. Please also specify the dates you expect to be able to join the project. Please put "SDWF Research Assistant" in the subject line of your email. APPLICATION DEADLINE 6 March 2014 The closing date for applications is 6 March 2014. However, early application is recommended. Shortlisted candidates will be required to undertake a Skype interview in March. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From esierra at becarios.ulpgc.es Thu Feb 20 09:36:43 2014 From: esierra at becarios.ulpgc.es (Eva =?utf-8?b?TWFyw61h?= Sierra Pulpillo) Date: Thu, 20 Feb 2014 17:36:43 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication on Muscle histopathology provides evidence of ante-mortem injuries in a series of cetaceans with sharp trauma from ship strikes as the cause of death Message-ID: <20140220173643.51453g790kqir22o@correo.ulpgc.es> Dear MARMAM subscribers: We are pleased to announce the publication of the following paper in PLoS ONE, on February 13, 2014: Sierra E, Fern?ndez A, Espinosa de los Monteros A, Arbelo M, D?az-Delgado J, et al. (2014) Histopathological Muscle Findings May Be Essential for a Definitive Diagnosis of Suspected Sharp Trauma Associated with Ship Strikes in Stranded Cetaceans. PLoS ONE 9(2): e88780. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0088780 ABSTRACT: Ship strikes are a major issue for the conservation of may cetacean species. Certain gross and microscopic criteria have been previously reported for establishing a diagnosis of death due to ship strikes in these animals. However, some ship-strike injuries may be masked by advanced carcass decomposition and may be undetectable due to restricted access to the animals. In this report we describe histopathological muscular findings in 13 cetaceans with sharp trauma from ship strikes as the cause of death. Skeletal muscle samples were taken from the incision site and from the main locomotor muscle, the longissimus dorsi, in areas not directly affected by the sharp injury. The microscopic findings in tissues from both sites mainly consisted of haemorrhages; oedema; flocculent, granular or/and hyalinised segmentary degeneration; contraction band necrosis; and discoid degeneration or fragmentation of myofibres. We propose that skeletal muscle histopathology provides evidence of ante-mortem injuries even if the sample was taken elsewhere in the carcass and not only within or adjacent to the sharp trauma site and despite the advanced decomposition of some of the carcasses. This method helps to establish the diagnosis of ship strike as the cause of death. Full text is available at: is available online at: http://dx.plos.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0088780 or alternatively, a pdf can be requested at: esierra at becarios.ulpgc.es[1] Best regards, Eva Sierra Laboratorio de Patolog?a Molecular y Forense Unit of Histology and Pathology Instituto Universitario de Sanidad Animal y Seguridad Alimentaria (IUSA) Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC) C/ Trasmonta?a s/n 35413 Arucas (Las Palmas) Espa?a V?nculos: --------- [1] /hw123/imp/XSSCleanedpopup_imp('/hw123/imp/compose.php',700,650,'to=esierra at becarios.ulpgc.es'); -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From alban.lemasson at univ-rennes1.fr Fri Feb 21 00:19:01 2014 From: alban.lemasson at univ-rennes1.fr (Alban Lemasson) Date: Fri, 21 Feb 2014 09:19:01 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] PhD Announcement Message-ID: <53070BF5.5030000@univ-rennes1.fr> Dear colleagues, We are planning to submit shortly an application to a French PhD grant program (CIFRE) in collaboration with Planete Sauvage dolphinarium, and we are looking for a candidate interested in dolphin communication. You can find attached the PhD announcement. Best regards, Alban Lemasson /EthoS - Ethologie animale et humaine Universit? de Rennes 1 - CNRS/ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: PhD Announcement.doc Type: application/msword Size: 53760 bytes Desc: not available URL: From dpn3 at duke.edu Fri Feb 21 12:56:52 2014 From: dpn3 at duke.edu (Doug Nowacek) Date: Fri, 21 Feb 2014 15:56:52 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Duke - Marine Conservation Summer Institute Message-ID: We would like to announce a new program - Duke University Marine Conservation Summer Institute July 7- August 8, 2014 Duke University Marine Laboratory Beaufort, NC The Marine Conservation Summer Institute will immerse students in the world of marine conservation biology and policy, giving them a set of basic tools for addressing and understanding issues of conserving marine biodiversity in the context of 21st Century society and the ?anthropocene? epoch. The Institute is set in the vibrant educational and research setting of the Duke University Marine Laboratory in Beaufort, North Carolina. The five-week course consists of three weeks of plenary lectures, field trips and activities, and two intensive week-long modules intertwined in weeks two and four and led by experts in the field. Plenary weeks and modules will be focused on hands-on, team-based, experiential learning with meaningful faculty-student engagement that are hallmarks of the educational environment at the Marine Laboratory. Students will be in the field and at the discussion table, learning the basic tools of conservation biology and policy in the plenary weeks and delving deeply into special topics with experts during the module weeks. 2014 Themes: ? Human Dimensions and the Marine Environment ? Deep-Sea Conservation & International Ocean Governance ? Invasive Species ? Marine Vertebrate Conservation & US Oceans Law Duke Faculty Instructors: Doug Nowacek, Conservation Technology (Institute Director) James Kraska, International Law Andy Read, Conservation Biology, Marine Vertebrates Steve Roady, Environmental Law Cindy Van Dover, Deep Sea Ecology & Conservation Eligibility: Open to national and international practitioners, graduate students, advanced undergraduates. Credits: 7 credits, 2 course equivalents Tuition: $7,028 Room & Board: $2,340 Fees: $180.75 Books: $200 Questions? Contact mcsi at duke.edu Click here to enroll: Duke?s Marine Conservation Summer Institute www.nicholas.duke.edu/marinelab/programs/mcsi -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From emmaforrester at hydenlyne.com Fri Feb 21 01:57:53 2014 From: emmaforrester at hydenlyne.com (Emma Forrester - Hydenlyne) Date: Fri, 21 Feb 2014 09:57:53 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Colombia MMO & PAM wanted Message-ID: Good morning all, Hydenlyne is currently looking for Colombian MMOs & PAM operators. If you are Colombian or have experience as an MMO/PAM offshore Colombia (and speak Spanish) please reply with you CV asap. You must have valid offshore safety (BOSIET) and medical certificates and preferably seismic experience. Kind regards, Emma Forrester Project Manager UK Mobile +44 (0)7730222001 Office +44 (0)1202 900078 Hydenlyne 1 Princes Court Princes Road Ferndown Dorset England BH22 9JG -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From helene.marsh at jcu.edu.au Mon Feb 24 00:12:36 2014 From: helene.marsh at jcu.edu.au (Marsh, Helene) Date: Mon, 24 Feb 2014 08:12:36 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Overview of science of killer whales in captivity from SMM meeting in Dunedin Message-ID: <8179fb03ce7c49a0aa9545b3f04c159a@HKNPR06MB177.apcprd06.prod.outlook.com> The conference program stated that the panel discussion would be on "scientific studies of captive and free-living killer whales." The science was summarized in the opening presentation which has been posted on the SMM website. see http://www.marinemammalscience.org/images/stories/smm-2014-killer-whale-panel-outline-aspects-of-killer-whale-science-DeMaster-et-al.pdf Helene Marsh, President, Society for Marine Mammalogy Doug Wartzok, Chair, Committee of Scientific Advisors -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From hlabach at yahoo.fr Mon Feb 24 04:51:09 2014 From: hlabach at yahoo.fr (=?ISO-8859-1?Q?H=E9l=E8ne_Labach?=) Date: Mon, 24 Feb 2014 13:51:09 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] ECS workshop Scientific progress on cetaceans and perspectives in the Pelagos Sanctuary Message-ID: Dear All, In the framework of the 28th ECS Conference (Li?ge, 2014), Pelagos Sanctuary plans a workshop entitled "*Scientific progress on cetaceans and perspectives in the Pelagos Sanctuary*" that will run on the 5th of April 2014 during the all day. The Pelagos Sanctuary is an international agreement between France, Italy and the Principality of Monaco signed in 1999 and entered into force in 2002, for conciliating social and economic activities development with marine mammals and habitat protection, in compliance with a management plan. With about 87,500 sq. km, most of which lie in high Seas, the Pelagos Sanctuary is registered as a Special Protected Area of Mediterranean Importance (SPAMI). The aim of this workshop is to implement an assessment of the scientific activities on marine mammals conducted in the Pelagos area since its creation, identify the gaps and perspectives to be developed. Focus will be devoted on the following topics: - knowledge of cetacean populations - monitoring study methodologies and research technologies - impact of human activities - identification of critical habitats and key areas The focus of the workshop is to discuss and propose a series of recommendations on future studies and conservation of species at the population scale. The contributions will be collected in a special issue of a peer review journal, still to be selected. If you like to propose a presentation, please read and fill the call of participation, which has been published online http://www.sanctuaire-pelagos .org/actus-sanctuaire-pelagos/toutes-les-news and could also be directly downloaded by clicking here http://www.sanctuaire-pelagos .org/sensibilisation/bulletins-de-liaison-annuel/doc_download/266-ecs- workshop-dedicated-to-the-pelagos-sanctuary-call-of-participation and return it to secretariat at sanctuaire-pelagos.org If you would like to simply attend please contact: secretariat at sanctuaire- pelagos.org Thank you for your kind attention. Feel free to contact the Permanent Secretariat should you need any further information. Best regards, The Permanent Secretariat --- *Permanent Secretariat * PELAGOS SANCTUARY Palazzo Ducale - Piazza Matteotti, 9 16123 Genova (ITALIA) *Tel*: +39 010 570 22 01 / *Fax*: +39 010 319 84 36 *Email*: secretariat at sanctuaire-pelagos.org *Website*: www.sanctuaire-pelagos.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From rhadlockseeley at cornell.edu Sun Feb 23 19:20:48 2014 From: rhadlockseeley at cornell.edu (Robin Hadlock Seeley) Date: Mon, 24 Feb 2014 03:20:48 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] High school course - marine mammals in Maine (USA) Message-ID: <679ED24F-0894-4F81-A743-EE4648F1FB74@cornell.edu> Join us for Marine Environmental Science -2 (BioSM 1620) this summer at the Shoals Marine Laboratory on Appledore Island, Maine. http://www.sml.cornell.edu/sml_cc_mes2.html Dates: June 23 - July 7, 2014 University credits: - 3 (Cornell University) Location: Appledore Island, Shoals Marine Laboratory, Isles of Shoals, Maine http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Appledore_Island Students: high school students who have completed grade 10 Faculty: Dr. Nadine Lysiak, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute/Marine Studies Consortium Shoals Marine Lab is a residential island campus run by the University of New Hampshire and Cornell University since 1966 where students are immersed in the study of marine science. Register today! https://www.apply.sml.cornell.edu/registerwho/rwho_login.php We expect this class to fill quickly. Financial aid is available to all students. www.sml.cornell.edu - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Robin Hadlock Seeley, Ph.D. Assistant Director for Academic Programs Shoals Marine Laboratory Appledore Island, Maine Winter: 106A Kennedy Hall Cornell University Ithaca, NY 14850 E-Mail: rhs4 at cornell.edu Mobile: 207-956-0815 www.sml.cornell.edu -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From T.Jauniaux at ulg.ac.be Tue Feb 25 00:54:36 2014 From: T.Jauniaux at ulg.ac.be (Thierry Jauniaux) Date: Tue, 25 Feb 2014 09:54:36 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] ECS late registration Message-ID: <974C60B6-982B-4EDE-9FDD-6208AE4406E8@ulg.ac.be> Apologies for cross-posting Dear ECS and MARMAM member The late registration deadline for the upcoming ECS conference is next Friday (Feb. 28, http://liege.europeancetaceansociety.eu/conference/registration). After only on site registration will be possible. All (early and late) registered participants will receive a specific username and password to be connected on the internet system (Wifi) of the university during the conference (for security reason, individual identification only). Programme of workshops and oral presentation titles are available on the website. This year the ECS put Hoddies sweat up for sale. A unique dark blue color in three sizes will be available, S/M/XL. The sale price amounts to 35 ?, even less according to the number of ordersAll information: order.sweat.ecs2014 at gmail.com Only the orders sent to the address order.sweat.ecs2014 at gmail.com before March 10th will be taken into account. Regards Thierry Jauniaux -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From biodiversityofficer at hwdt.org Wed Feb 26 04:21:17 2014 From: biodiversityofficer at hwdt.org (Kerry Froud) Date: Wed, 26 Feb 2014 12:21:17 -0000 Subject: [MARMAM] HWDT Education Internship Message-ID: <001b01cf32ed$409665f0$c1c331d0$@hwdt.org> HWDT Education Internship Dear All, The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust are seeking to recruit an intern to assist with its Education and Outreach Programme in 2013. This is a unique opportunity for the right candidate to gain invaluable experience working within a well-established charitable organisation and to contribute to HWDT's innovative project work. Working with the Sightings and Strandings Officer and other members of the HWDT team, the intern will be fully supported and encouraged to develop their knowledge and skills to enhance career aspirations and employability. Tasks will include: * Make visits to schools to deliver classroom-based and outdoor learning workshops; * Engage with the general public at local events, including Highland games, local shows, beach cleans, cetacean watches, etc.; * Develop teaching resources and learning materials; * Create promotional materials; * Write articles for the newsletter, Wave, and news items for the website; * Assist within HWDT's Visitor Centre and Shop, to include designing and updating interpretive exhibitions and window displays; * Deliver educational touch tank sessions; * Update and monitor social networks; * Work on-board the floating classroom, Silurian, for educational visits and open boats (timetable and funding dependent); * Undertake other tasks as directed. It may also be possible to develop personal interests and skills (where they can be supported) and there may be a chance to work within the other departments at HWDT. Candidate Requirements Essential: * An excellent communicator; * Efficiently organised and self-motivated; * Hard working and eager to learn; * Able to bring their own ideas and personality to the role; * Comfortable living and working for the duration of the internship in the relatively remote island community of Mull. Desirable * Educational qualifications, preferably in an educational and/or scientific discipline; * Relevant experience, ideally working with young people and/or the general public; * A proven interest in the environment, especially marine biodiversity. * Interest and knowledge of British cetaceans HWDT expect this opportunity to appeal to candidates with an interest in education, outdoor learning, interpreting the marine environment in new and exciting ways and a general passion for marine biodiversity. Recruitment dates Placements are for the period of June- September, and preference will be given to those candidates who can stay for the entire period, although HWDT may recruit several interns if it is not possible to cover the whole period with one intern. Please indicate your availability in your application. Expenses The successful candidate will have the opportunity to gain income through working in HWDTs Shop and Visitor Centre on the Main Street in Tobermory. A wage will be provided for days worked in the centre. Volunteers will be based in Tobermory on the Isle of Mull and are responsible for their own travel, accommodation and living expenses. How to Apply Please send your C.V., a covering letter detailing any relevant experience and contact information of two referees, to: Mark Whitaker HWDT Clydesdale Bank Buildings, Main Street, Tobermory Isle of Mull PA75 6NU Tel: +44 (0)1688 302620 Email: volunteercoordinator at hwdt.org Closing date is 30th of March. Shortlisted candidates will be required to undertake a Skype interview with the HWDT team sometime late April. Please note: candidates will only be contacted if short-listed. HWDT BACKGROUND The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust (www.whaledolphintrust.co.uk) is dedicated to enhancing knowledge and understanding of Scotland's whales, porpoises and dolphins (cetaceans) and the Hebridean marine environment through education, research and working within Hebridean communities as a basis for the lasting conservation of local species and habitats. Established in 1994, it is a registered Scottish charity based in Tobermory, on the Hebridean Isle of Mull where it has its main, education and research offices and visitor centre and shop. The Silurian, the Trust's motor sailing ketch, which provides the platform for long-term monitoring work and acts as a floating classroom for educational work, is also based in Tobermory. ----- Kerry Froud Marine Biodiversity Officer Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust Clydesdale Bank Buildings Tobermory Isle of Mull PA75 6NU Tel: 01688 302620 biodiversityofficer at hwdt.org www.hwdt.org ----- The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust is dedicated to enhancing knowledge and understanding of Scotland's whales, dolphins and porpoises (cetaceans) and the Hebridean marine environment through education, research and working within Hebridean communities as a basis for the lasting conservation of local species and habitats. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From biodiversityofficer at hwdt.org Wed Feb 26 04:19:01 2014 From: biodiversityofficer at hwdt.org (Kerry Froud) Date: Wed, 26 Feb 2014 12:19:01 -0000 Subject: [MARMAM] HWDT Sightings and Strandings Officer Internship, Summer 2014 Message-ID: <001601cf32ec$ef7f4600$ce7dd200$@hwdt.org> HWDT Sightings and Strandings Officer Internship Dear All, The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust (HWDT) is looking for an intern to join its small team in Tobermory, on the Isle of Mull, for a period of minimum 2 months to undertake a variety of research and education orientated tasks. HWDT are keen to update their photo identification catalogues, improve the information displayed on our website and enhance relationships with local wildlife tour operators and sighting and stranding reporters. This is a great opportunity for someone to develop their skills further and improve the HWDT monitoring and outreach programme. Tasks will include: Community sightings/strandings and Photo-ID * Assist with image matching and strandings ID * Update databases with recent sightings and strandings * Update website with recent sightings/strandings on each individual profile (http://www.whaledolphintrust.co.uk/research-photo-identification-gallery.as p?gallery_id=12) * Keep regular contact with sighting and stranding reporters. Wildlife Operator Relations * Implement a scheme that was developed in 2012, encouraging more cooperation and involvement from local wildlife tour operators * Provide resources to wildlife operators * Meet with wildlife operators to discuss recent research findings and maintain good communications for the season ahead Candidate Requirements Essential: * An ability to work in a conscientious and reliable manner * Enthusiastic, hard-working and self-motivated * A strong commitment to volunteer work * Excellent verbal and communication skills (engaging with the public is central to the role) * IT skills (Office package, including Access) * An ability to get on well with others in a small team. Desirable: * A background in marine biology/environmental science or similar * Previous experience with Photo-ID analysis * A strong interest and knowledge of British cetaceans * Prior experience in boat-based survey work * Experience in interacting with the public All volunteers will be given an introduction into the placement on arriving. Full training will also be provided for all other tasks that you will be expected to undertake. The selected candidate will be sent a pack of introductory materials and provided with a recommended reading list. Recruitment dates Placements are full-time (minimum 30 hours per week) for the period of June - September. If candidate is not available for full 4 month, sharing options could be discussed. Please indicate your availability in your application. Expenses The successful candidate will have the opportunity to gain income through working in HWDTs Shop and Visitor Centre on the Main Street in Tobermory. A wage will be provided for days worked in the centre. Volunteers will be based in Tobermory on the Isle of Mull and are responsible for their own travel, accommodation and living expenses. How to Apply Please send your C.V., a covering letter detailing any relevant experience and contact information of two referees, to: Mark Whitaker HWDT Clydesdale Bank Buildings, Main Street, Tobermory Isle of Mull PA75 6NU Tel: +44 (0)1688 302620 Email: volunteercoordinator at hwdt.org Closing date is 30th of March. Shortlisted candidates will be required to undertake a Skype interview with the HWDT team sometime in late April. Please note: candidates will only be contacted if short-listed. HWDT BACKGROUND The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust (www.whaledolphintrust.co.uk) is dedicated to enhancing knowledge and understanding of Scotland's whales, porpoises and dolphins (cetaceans) and the Hebridean marine environment through education, research and working within Hebridean communities as a basis for the lasting conservation of local species and habitats. Established in 1994, it is a registered Scottish charity based in Tobermory, on the Hebridean Isle of Mull where it has its main, education and research offices and visitor centre and shop. The Silurian, the Trust's motor sailing ketch, which provides the platform for long-term monitoring work and acts as a floating classroom for educational work, is also based in Tobermory. ----- Kerry Froud Marine Biodiversity Officer Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust Clydesdale Bank Buildings Tobermory Isle of Mull PA75 6NU Tel: 01688 302620 biodiversityofficer at hwdt.org www.hwdt.org ----- The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust is dedicated to enhancing knowledge and understanding of Scotland's whales, dolphins and porpoises (cetaceans) and the Hebridean marine environment through education, research and working within Hebridean communities as a basis for the lasting conservation of local species and habitats. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From boto at live.co.uk Wed Feb 26 05:48:53 2014 From: boto at live.co.uk (Tony) Date: Wed, 26 Feb 2014 13:48:53 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] River dolphin internships in Brazil Message-ID: RIVER DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIPS IN BRAZIL STARTING SOON Once again, Projeto Boto is recruiting for 9-month internships in the Mamirau? Reserve, Brazil. We require fit, enthusiastic, hard-working fieldworkers who will carry forward our long-term study of botos (Amazon river dolphins). Due to close involvement with local communities, interns are required to have at least moderate Portuguese language skills, or to speak fluent Spanish, in addition to English. There can be no exceptions. In previous years we have received many applications from people who do not fulfil these language criteria. Please only apply if you have the necessary skills. Projeto boto was established in 1994. To date it has hosted more than 50 interns of many different nationalities. The Project's objective is to conserve the boto, and the sympatric tucuxi, through research leading to greater understanding of the biology and ecology of these dolphins. In recent years we have also spent considerable time investigating the impacts of fisheries on these species, and especially the relatively new harpoon hunt, in which thousands of botos are killed each year for fish bait. We are seeking one person to commence work in early April 2014 and we would also like to hear from people available later in 2014 or early 2015. Our work is centred on a floating lab/accommodation base, moored in the flooded forest. The research team comprises 3-5 people, who maintain daily observational boat-based research effort year-round. The basis of the work is the piecing together of the lives of over 500 individually recognisable dolphins, to provide publishable information on such diverse topics as growth, reproduction, habitat use, social system, seasonal movements, survival rates, causes of mortality etc. Interns are provided with free accommodation and food, and receive a small monthly stipend (approx $150 US). Transportation to the fieldsite (near the town of Tef?, Amazonas) from Manaus is provided, but interns must arrange and pay for their own transportation to Manaus. Please do not apply unless you know that you can obtain the airfare to reach Manaus. All necessary training is provided on site. Successful applicants will: be aged 21-35 speak at least moderate Portuguese or fluent Spanish, in addition to English be available for 9-12 months have completed a university degree, preferably in zoology or biology preferably have some fieldwork experience Applicants should please provide: Full CV, complete with age, nationality, linguistic skills, educational and fieldwork experience A letter explaining why you are prepared to dedicate 9 months of your life to this study. The names and email addresses of 3 referees who are familiar with you and your work. The date on which you would be available to start work in the Amazon. Send this information by email to both of the Project co-ordinators, Prof. Tony Martin (boto at live.co.uk) and Dr Vera da Silva (vmfdasilva at gmail.com). Closing date is 10 March 2014. Applications fulfilling the above criteria will be acknowledged within 3 days of the closing date, but there will be no further communication unless the applicant is short-listed. Short-listed applicants will be notified by 13 March latest. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From kdudzinski at dolphincommunicationproject.org Wed Feb 26 06:22:58 2014 From: kdudzinski at dolphincommunicationproject.org (Kathleen M. Dudzinski) Date: Wed, 26 Feb 2014 09:22:58 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Aquatic Mammals Journal Issue 40.1 is available online Message-ID: <0A0E4F3C-CB0B-460B-B8F7-76F12B76EE0E@dolphincommunicationproject.org> Dear MARMAM and ECS-talk subscribers, Apologies to those of you who will receive duplicate emails due to cross-posting. The following titles represent the contents of the most recent issue (Volume 40, issue 1, 2014) of Aquatic Mammals. The online issue is now available. Volume 40 represents the 40th anniversary for Aquatic Mammals! For individuals with a print subscription, the joint hard copy of 40.1/40.2 will be mailed in late June. Aquatic Mammals is the longest running peer-reviewed journal dedicated to research on aquatic mammals and is published quarterly with manuscripts available as published PDFs in real time. Further information about the journal can be found at: http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/ Instructions for authors and formatting guidelines can be found in the first volume of each issue and at this link: http://tinyurl.com/AMauthorinstructions To submit a manuscript for publication consideration, please visit: http://am.expressacademic.org/actions/author.php If you subscribe to Aquatic Mammals online, you can visit the journal web site and sign in to download all articles from this volume:http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/ Please do not contact the listserve editors for PDFs or copies of the articles. To obtain a PDF, please subscribe to Aquatic Mammals http://tinyurl.com/AMsubscribe or contact the corresponding author for reprints. Links to a purchase page for each article are also included below. Please see list below for Volume 40, issue 1 contents. Thank you for your continued interest in the journal and abstract postings. With regards, Kathleen Dudzinski, Ph.D. Editor, Aquatic Mammals aquaticmammals at gmail.com ******************* Dudzinski, K.M., Thomas, J.A., Nachtigall, P.E., Manton, V. 2014. Letters from the Editors. Aquatic Mammals 40(1): 1-4. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1578/AM.40.1.2014.1 Research Articles Peijun Zhang, P., Jiabo Han, J., Zhichuang Lu, Z., and Rujun Chen, R. 2014. Molecular Evidence of a Captive-Born Intergeneric Hybridization Between Bottlenose and Risso?s Dolphins: Tursiops truncatus x Grampus griseus. Aquatic Mammals 40(1): 5-8. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1578/AM.40.1.2014.5 Higdon, J.W., Ferguson, S.H. 2014. Inuit Recollections of a 1950s Killer Whale (Orcinus orca) Ice Entrapment in Foxe Basin, Nunavut, Canada. Aquatic Mammals 40(1): 9-19. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1578/AM.40.1.2014.9 Lowry, M.S., Condit, R., Hatfield, B., Allen, S.G., Berger, R., Morris, P.A., et al. 2014. Abundance, Distribution, and Population Growth of the Northern Elephant Seal (Mirounga angustirostris) in the United States from 1991 to 2010. Aquatic Mammals 40(1): 20-31. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1578/AM.40.1.2014.20 Smultea, M.A., Thomas A. Jefferson, T.A. 2014. Changes in Relative Occurrence of Cetaceans in the Southern California Bight: A Comparison of Recent Aerial Survey Results with Historical Data Sources. Aquatic Mammals 40(1): 32-43. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1578/AM.40.1.2014.32 Zoidis, A.M., Lomac-MacNair, K.S., Chomos-Betz, A.E., Day, A.J., McFarland, A.S. 2014. Effects of Sex, Seasonal Period, and Sea State on Calf Behavior in Hawaiian Humpback Whales (Megaptera novaeangliae). Aquatic Mammals 40(1): 44-58. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1578/AM.40.1.2014.44 Carlini, R., de Francesco, M.C., Della Libera, S. 2014. Biometric Measures Indicating Sexual Dimorphism in Stenella coeruleoalba (Meyen, 1833) (Delphinidae) in the North-Central Tyrrhenian Sea. Aquatic Mammals 40(1): 59-68. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1578/AM.40.1.2014.59 Kleen, J.M., Breland, A.D. 2014. Increases in Seasonal Manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris) Abundance Within Citrus County, Florida. Aquatic Mammals 40(1): 69-80. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1578/AM.40.1.2014.69 Kovacs, C., Cox, T. 2014. Quantification of Interactions Between Common Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and a Commercial Shrimp Trawler near Savannah, Georgia. Aquatic Mammals 40(1): 81-94. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1578/AM.40.1.2014.81 Short Note Mercado, III, E. 2014. Tubercles: What Sense Is There? Aquatic Mammals 40(1): 95-103. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1578/AM.40.1.2014.95 Historical Perspectives Pryor, K. 2015. Historical Perspectives: A Dolphin Journey Aquatic Mammals 40(1): 104-115. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1578/AM.40.1.2014.104 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From kimberly.skrupky at boem.gov Tue Feb 25 13:31:10 2014 From: kimberly.skrupky at boem.gov (Skrupky Warshaw, Kimberly) Date: Tue, 25 Feb 2014 15:31:10 -0600 Subject: [MARMAM] Upcoming BOEM Requirement M14PS00024 - Acoustic Propagation and Marine Mammal Exposure Modeling of Geophysical Sources in the Gulf of Mexico Message-ID: The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) within the Department of the Interior has issued Synopses of Proposed Contract Actions in accordance with FAR 5.201. If you are interested in this opportunity please review the requirements posted on FedBizzOpps (FBO) website. The link to the synopsis is https://www.fbo.gov/spg/DOI/MMS/PO/M14PS00024/listing.html. The purpose of this project is to perform acoustic propagation and marine mammal exposure modeling using specified models. This study will help BOEM and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) complete the analysis of impacts to marine mammals in the GOM G&G EIS. This modeling will also be used in a petition for rulemaking under 101(a)(5)(A) of the Marine Mammal Protection Act and will aid in the analysis that NMFS will need to make a determination on permit issuance. If you are interested in receiving copy of the solicitation, please follow the guidelines posted on the FBO notice and submit your interest before March 5, 2014. -- Kimberly Skrupky Marine Biologist Division of Environmental Assessment Bureau of Ocean Energy Management Office Phone- (703) 787-1807 Cell- (571) 359-5217 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From nikki.zanardo at flinders.edu.au Tue Feb 25 16:31:41 2014 From: nikki.zanardo at flinders.edu.au (Nikki Zanardo) Date: Wed, 26 Feb 2014 00:31:41 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] SEEKING FIELD ASSISTANTS FOR RESEARCH ON AUSTRALIAN BOTTLENOSE DOLPHINS IN ADELAIDE, SOUTH AUSTRALIA Message-ID: <58a1ed2e1136478b84f0e73490183945@SINPR03MB233.apcprd03.prod.outlook.com> SEEKING FIELD ASSISTANTS FOR RESEARCH ON SOUTHERN AUSTRALIAN BOTTLENOSE DOLPHINS IN METROPOLITAN ADELAIDE, SOUTH AUSTRALIA Fieldwork dates: Volunteers are needed beginning the 1st May 2014 until the 31st of August 2014. Application deadline: 14th March 2014 Project title: Ecology of the endemic southern Australian bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops australis) in metropolitan Adelaide, South Australia. Institution: Cetacean Ecology, Behaviour and Evolution Lab (CEBEL); Flinders University; South Australia www.cebel.org.au / www.facebook.com/CEBELresearch Overview: I am seeking experienced field assistants to assist with boat-based photo-ID and biopsy sampling of bottlenose dolphins in metropolitan Adelaide in South Australia, beginning the 1st of May 2014 until the 31st of August 2014. * Commitment to the full duration, or large periods, of this time will be highly favoured. This project aims to collect baseline information on the abundance, habitat use and social structure of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops australis) in metropolitan Adelaide to improve the scientific basis for their conservation and management. This is an opportunity to gain experience in field techniques for small cetacean research and contribute to a project with very high conservation and management value. Duties: Searching for dolphins, driving of the boat, photo identification, assistance in biopsy sampling, recording field observations, equipment cleaning and, data entry (incl. fin matching). Expectations: Field assistants need to be adaptable and patient as weather is highly dependent. Field work will vary between weekdays and weekends, and assistants will need to be prepared for early morning departures (6-7AM) and long days (6-8 hours) on the water for multiple consecutive days. Expect up to a week between days off, as field work is weather dependent. If the weather isn't right we will NOT be conducting the surveys and will be postponed. Between field days there will be the opportunity for data entry and fin matching of identified individuals. Prerequisites: * Experience of working on a small boat (highly desirable, Coxswain certificate will be highly favoured); * Experience of photo-ID survey techniques (highly desirable); * Experience of field research on small cetaceans (highly desirable); * Enrolled in or completed a degree in biology, marine science, animal behaviour or a related field (desirable) * No history of debilitating seasickness (essential); * Be team-oriented, patient, and have an enthusiastic attitude to hard work, long hours and collecting data on the natural environment (essential); * Fluent in English (highly desirable). Unfortunately, we are unable to provide monetary compensation or living provisions, and research assistants will be responsible for their own travel to South Australia and their living expenses. If you are interested, please send a CV, a brief covering letter outlining your relevant experience, and contact details of two relevant referees (with subject header "Field Assistant Application") to nikki.zanardo at flinders.edu.au by Friday 14th March 2014. Kind Regards, Nikki ------------------------------------------------------------------- Nikki Zanardo PhD Candidate Cetacean, Ecology, Behaviour and Evolution Lab & Molecular Ecology Lab School of Biological Sciences Flinders University * Tel +61 8 8201 2357 | * nikki.zanardo at flinders.edu.au * www.cebel.org.au | * www.molecularecology.flinders.edu.au My Page: http://www.flinders.edu.au/people/nikki.zanardo [ZA102637861] [ZA102637858] -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.gif Type: image/gif Size: 1317 bytes Desc: image001.gif URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image002.gif Type: image/gif Size: 1351 bytes Desc: image002.gif URL: From sparks at syr.edu Tue Feb 25 12:55:28 2014 From: sparks at syr.edu (Susan E Parks) Date: Tue, 25 Feb 2014 20:55:28 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Deadline for Applications for Marine Bioacoustics Summer School Approaching Message-ID: Applications are due on February 28th!! Announcing the 3rd Marine Bioacoustics Summer School (SeaBASS), June 15-20, 2014 - a one week intensive graduate Marine Bioacoustics Summer School WHAT: SeaBASS provides the opportunity for graduate students interested in pursuing careers in marine bioacoustics to develop a strong foundation of both marine animal biology and acoustics from distinguished lecturers in the field. The goals of SeaBASS are to discuss important topics in marine bioacoustics, foster technical communication across disciplines, and promote mentoring and collaboration. SeaBASS gives students an opportunity to learn from experts who will discuss a suite of topics not often offered at any one university and to meet international peers in their fields. WHEN: June 15-20, 2014 WHERE: National Conference Center, Leesburg, VA (Washington, DC area) COSTS: The basic costs of student attendance (room and board, based on double occupancy for students) will be funded from sponsor support. There is no registration fee. Full-time participation of all is required. Transportation costs are the responsibility of the student, but financial assistance for travel costs can be requested during the application process. APPLICATION: The on-line application is available at http://www.arl.psu.edu/education_seabass.php . Applications are due on February 28, 2014. Please direct questions to Dr. Jennifer Miksis-Olds (jlm91 at psu.edu) or Dr. Susan Parks (sparks at syr.edu) via email. COURSE TOPICS:Introduction to Underwater Sound, Sound Propagation, Marine Mammal Biology & Behavior, Sound Production, Fisheries Acoustics/Fish Behavior, Hearing and Masking, Marine Animal Acoustic Communication, Echolocation, Hot Topic: Passive Acoustic Monitoring, Hot Topic: Effects of Noise From lludwig at coastalstudies.org Wed Feb 26 12:15:02 2014 From: lludwig at coastalstudies.org (Laura Ludwig) Date: Wed, 26 Feb 2014 15:15:02 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Education Intern opportunity at the Center for Coastal Studies, Provincetown, Massachusetts Message-ID: *Summer 2014 Internship Opportunity* The 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. CCS has been conducting research and marine and coastal educational programs on Cape Cod for over 37 years. *Education Responsibilities*-Intern will assist with environmental education programs, including on-site programs, off-site programs, marine debris research project and festivals, including CCS'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 CCS, marine mammals and ocean conservation issues, and other general duties. Intern may assist with creation of displays for the CCS'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. Interns must have their own transportation, and housing is not provided. A small stipend is 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. - Intern should demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills. - Intern should be a self-starter able to take responsibility for completing projects. - 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. - Must be comfortable working with and handling marine species. - Interns must be able to commit to at least two-three months; preferred start date-end date beginning June to mid August, but dates are flexible based on school schedules. - Interns must work a minimum of 20 hours per week. - Schedule is flexible but intern may have to work some weekends and evenings. - Preference will be given to students with secured housing on Cape Cod. To Apply- Send your resume, cover letter, and one letter of reference to Laura Ludwig at lludwig at coastalstudies.org or 115 Bradford St, Provincetown, Massachusetts 02567. Applications must be received by April 4th, 2014. -- Laura Ludwig, Program Coordinator Provincetown Center for Coastal Studies 115 Bradford Street (Office) 5 Holway Avenue (Lab) Provincetown MA 02657 (207) 263-5300 mobile -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: 2014 Summer Intern Announcement_2.doc Type: application/msword Size: 225792 bytes Desc: not available URL: From oceanwatch at gmail.com Wed Feb 26 05:40:07 2014 From: oceanwatch at gmail.com (Nova Atlantis) Date: Wed, 26 Feb 2014 14:40:07 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] Post for a Request for data Grampus griseus Message-ID: Dear Marman members, I am trying to create a table for my PhD thesis combining long term research projects on *Grampus griseus* worldwide. In the table items such as: Work Area/Time span field research/period of research done/ Research objectives/ Methods/* N* of identified Gg/ /Results/Research group/ Peer-reviewed and Non-peer reviewed Literature will be included. I would be keen to receive any contribution for this overview. Thanks very much! Karin Hartman Departamento de Biologia Universidade dos A?ores Rua da M?e de Deus 9501-801 Ponta Delgada S?o Miguel - A?ores - Portugal Nova Atlantis Foundation Risso's Dolphin Research Center Rua Dr. Freitas Pimentel 11 9930-309 Santa Cruz das Ribeiras Lajes do Pico Azores -Portugal www.nova-atlantis.org - -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From koakley at usgs.gov Thu Feb 27 08:22:48 2014 From: koakley at usgs.gov (Oakley, Karen) Date: Thu, 27 Feb 2014 07:22:48 -0900 Subject: [MARMAM] Vacancy Announcement for USGS Pacific Walrus Research Position Message-ID: U.S. CITIZENS ONLY U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center, Anchorage, AK, USA, is currently recruiting for a post-doctoral researcher to lead analyses of Pacific walrus habitat use. The position is now open, advertised as a GS-12 Research Wildlife Biologist or Research Ecologist, term position, on USAJOBS. http://www.usajobs.gov/ The announcement # is *PAC-2014-0266* Closing date: Midnight, EASTERN time on Tuesday, 3-11-2014 Interested candidates are strongly encouraged to contact Karen Oakley, Branch Chief, at koakley at usgs.gov or Chad Jay, Walrus Project Leader, at cjay at usgs.gov to learn more about the position. -- Karen Oakley Branch Chief, Marine & Freshwater Ecology U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center 4210 University Dr. Anchorage, AK 99508 907-786-7076 koakley at usgs.gov -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From stonesbrett at hotmail.com Tue Feb 25 14:34:24 2014 From: stonesbrett at hotmail.com (Stones Brett) Date: Tue, 25 Feb 2014 22:34:24 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Volunteer Wildlife Guides Required Message-ID: Two Volunteer Positions offered to a marine biology enthusiast with a passenger boat trip company to assist with wildlife guiding activities. SeaM?r Wildlife Tours is looking for enthusiastic and hardworking boat crew to fill a position offered during the period of May to September 2014. The position requires working on the wildlife watching boat as crew and wildlife guide and also assisting with sales and marketing of the trips. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn some great skills such as boat handling and general seamanship, and also boost your public speaking skills. The trips run from the beautiful towns of New Quay and Abaereron in Cardigan Bay, which is home to the largest population of bottlenose dolphins in the UK. Harbour porpoises, grey seals and a variety of sea birds are also amongst the many animals that can be viewed on the trips. WHAT SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE YOU WILL GAIN:Public speaking and guiding experienceCrewing on a commercial passenger boatBoat handlingCustomer service and team workScientific data collection using JNCC approved methods for boat surveys ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS:Fluent spoken English, Welsh a definite bonus,Interest in marine wildlife and boating,Flexibility and the ability to work outdoors,Good communication skillsGood customer service skills,Experience of working in a small team. DESIRABLE:Marine biology (or similar) qualification,RYA powerboat license,Interest in marketing,Website editing and design,EU driving licence. Other info:This is an unpaid post, however, there will be an element of paid work available, and free accommodation is provided. How to apply:If you are interested in this position, email your CV by 15th March, 2014 to Brett Stones, info at seamor.org, or call us on 07795242445. Website www.seamor.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From PyensonN at si.edu Thu Feb 27 08:45:07 2014 From: PyensonN at si.edu (Pyenson, Nicholas) Date: Thu, 27 Feb 2014 16:45:07 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New paper on repeated mass strandings of Miocene marine mammals from Chile In-Reply-To: <94705ACFF3B22D46B78BF400D757A23E2BF70D7C@si-msedag04.US.SINET.SI.EDU> References: <94705ACFF3B22D46B78BF400D757A23E2BF70D7C@si-msedag04.US.SINET.SI.EDU> Message-ID: <94705ACFF3B22D46B78BF400D757A23E2BF7104E@si-msedag04.US.SINET.SI.EDU> MARMAM subscribers, On behalf of my colleagues from South America, I am pleased to share an open-access paper recently published on a fossil marine mammal site in Atacama Region, Chile. This work will interest anyone working on marine mammal strandings, their taphonomy, and their paleoecology. Also, it was the result of a great collaboration over the course of nearly four years: 14 co-authors, from students to professors to curators, and across museums and universities internationally. We especially thank our Chilean partner institutions at Museo Nacional de Historia Natural, Chile; Consejo de Monumentos Nacionales; and Universidad de Chile. Pyenson ND, Gutstein CS, Parham JF, Le Roux JP, Chavarr?a CC, Little H, Metallo A, Rossi V, Valenzuela-Toro AM, Velez-Juarbe J, Santelli CM, Rubilar Rogers D, Cozzuol MA, Su?rez ME. 2014. Repeated mass strandings of Miocene marine mammals from Atacama Region of Chile point to sudden death at sea. Proc. R. Soc. B. 2014 281 20133316. doi:10.1098/rspb.2013.3316 Available via Open Access at: http://rspb.royalsocietypublishing.org/content/281/1781/20133316.full Abstract: Marine mammal mass strandings have occurred for millions of years, but their origins defy singular explanations. Beyond human causes, mass strandings have been attributed to herding behaviour, large-scale oceanographic fronts and harmful algal blooms (HABs). Because algal toxins cause organ failure in marine mammals, HABs are the most common mass stranding agent with broad geographical and widespread taxonomic impact. Toxin-mediated mortalities in marine food webs have the potential to occur over geological timescales, but direct evidence for their antiquity has been lacking. Here, we describe an unusually dense accumulation of fossil marine vertebrates from Cerro Ballena, a Late Miocene locality in Atacama Region of Chile, preserving over 40 skeletons of rorqual whales, sperm whales, seals, aquatic sloths, walrus-whales and predatory bony fish. Marine mammal skeletons are distributed in four discrete horizons at the site, representing a recurring accumulation mechanism. Taphonomic analysis points to strong spatial focusing with a rapid death mechanism at sea, before being buried on a barrier-protected supratidal flat. In modern settings, HABs are the only known natural cause for such repeated, multispecies accumulations. This proposed agent suggests that upwelling zones elsewhere in the world should preserve fossil marine vertebrate accumulations in similar modes and densities Also, we have built an open-access website where anyone can download or interact with 3D models of the fossil baleen whale skeletons; use GoogleEarth maps of the excavation quarries; look at a vast collection of high-resolution field photos and videos; or take 360 degree tours of the site. Open Access Smithsonian Website: http://cerroballena.si.edu Sincerely, Nicholas D. Pyenson, Ph.D. Curator of Fossil Marine Mammals Department of Paleobiology National Museum of Natural History Smithsonian Institution NHB, MRC 121, PO Box 37012 10th & Constitution NW Washington, DC 20013-7012 USA Tel: 202-633-1366 Fax: 202-786-2832 Email: PyensonN at si.edu Twitter: @PyensonLab Lab blog: http://nmnh.typepad.com/pyenson_lab/ Staff page: http://paleobiology.si.edu/staff/individuals/pyenson.cfm -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: