From marinebrit at gmail.com Sat Aug 1 01:31:26 2015 From: marinebrit at gmail.com (Andrew Wright) Date: Sat, 1 Aug 2015 20:31:26 +1200 Subject: [MARMAM] Call for ECS papers for the JMBA Special Issue Message-ID: Dear Members, This is the first Call for Submissions to the next ECS-JMBA special issue. Submissions are open to all, however we are, as always, particularly keen to get submissions that follow on from presentations made at the conference in Malta. To build upon the growing success of the ongoing collaboration, please consider submitting to JMBA when polishing off your manuscripts. The date for submissions is 20th November, 2015. Please submit directly to JMBA, but note that the submission is for the ECS Special Issue. Review and responses for the current JMBA-ECS special issue are progressing and I hope that more information will be available soon. Best, Andrew -- Andrew Wright, Ph.D. ECS Editor (Outgoing) -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From siddiqui at hawaii.edu Sat Aug 1 18:07:17 2015 From: siddiqui at hawaii.edu (Sabena Siddiqui) Date: Sat, 1 Aug 2015 18:07:17 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] Call for new student leaders for the American Cetacean Society Student Coalition Message-ID: Dear MARMAM subscribers, The American Cetacean Society Student Coalition(ACSSC) is the student chapter of the American Cetacean Society (http://acsonline.org/), the world's oldest whale conservation organization. After 44 years, ACS continues to be a leader in the field of cetacean education, conservation, policy, and education. In a time where advocacy can be characterized by extreme rhetoric that is often counterproductive, we use science and reason based action to effectively protect cetaceans and their habitats. The ACSSC believes that there is a need for an open and productive dialogue between marine mammal researchers and those who engage in advocacy. The Coalition aims to provide a much-needed niche within the world of cetacean conservation, research, education, and policy for students with the support of the American Cetacean Society. The ACSSC works to provide students everywhere with an opportunity to feel inspired, engaged, and empowered among an active community. We aim to create this community through a web of regional student groups across the country. One of the benefits of joining the ACS National Student Coalition is the ability to network and collaborate with your peers in different disciplines, backgrounds, and institutions to address the challenges that whales, dolphins, and porpoises face in today?s complex world. Leading your own ACS student coalition group can be very rewarding and fun. ACSSC groups activities have included: water quality testing, cetacean research, oyster reef restoration, beach clean ups, guest speakers, panel discussions, documentary screenings, lobbying, fundraisers, and many social events. ACSSC groups have implemented campaigns focusing upon issues such as sustainable seafood and its impacts upon cetaceans, marine debris and entanglement, captivity, and more. ACSSC groups have successfully engaged with their local communities on region specific issues as well. We invite US university students to lead their own coastal or landlocked groups. For more information regarding what is involved in starting your own student coalition check out our website: ACSSC website Like us on facebook to see our latest updates and campaign activities: ACSSC facebook If you are interested and would like assistance in starting your own group, email us at: acssc.national at gmail.com Please refer interested students that you may know. *Sabena Siddiqui * *MSc student University of Hawaii* President American Cetacean Society National Student Coalition (ACSSC) *"P**rotecting whales, dolphins, porpoises, and their habitats through public education, research grants, and conservation actions.*" ACSSC facebook page ACSSC website -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From georgina.wildoceans at gmail.com Sun Aug 2 08:06:09 2015 From: georgina.wildoceans at gmail.com (Georgina L Gemmell) Date: Sun, 2 Aug 2015 16:06:09 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] A Regional Killer Whale Photo ID Catalogue for the Northern Indian Ocean (including Persian Gulf and Red Sea). Message-ID: Dear Marmamers, Myself (Georgina Gemmell- Orca Project Sri Lanka) and Tim Collins (Wildlife Conservation Society) are currently in the early stages of a new and exciting collaborative project- to compile a regional Photo ID catalogue of killer whales sighted in the Northern Indian Ocean (including the Persian Gulf and Red Sea). The populations of killer whales that inhabit this area remain some the most mysterious and under studied in the world. Due to their offshore nature, sighting records are often few and far between with much of the research effort relying on a citizen science based network. In order to advance our understanding of these populations and for local studies to mutually benefit from a wider network of information, we would like to propose an alliance (tentatively the Northern Indian Ocean Killer Whale Alliance) between the cetacean study groups and researchers across the region, where images of killer whale sightings are contributed to a regional Photo ID catalogue. Already the project is showing great potential, with several contributions from citizen science based sources and researchers. Even at this early stage, the catalogue has revealed some interesting localized ID matches. In time, it may also reveal information regarding population numbers, ecotypes, site fidelity and movements between countries. All images and data shared are fully credited to the photographer(s)/and or research study. The catalogue will also credit the local research in each area to ensure that it remains an inclusive effort. Any existing local killer whale catalogues will be acknowledged, with the corresponding catalogue codes included for each individual. We are currently requesting images and records of killer whales from the Northern Indian Ocean, Persian Gulf and Red Sea. Any researchers or study groups interested in joining the alliance, please contact georgina.wildoceans at gmail.com. All the best Georgina Gemmell -- *Georgina Gemmell* Lead Administrator, Orca Project Sri Lanka -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From rberger at pointblue.org Sat Aug 1 07:59:09 2015 From: rberger at pointblue.org (Ryan Berger) Date: Sat, 1 Aug 2015 14:59:09 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Volunteer Announcement: Point Blue Conservation Science Winter Farallon Program 2015-2016 Message-ID: THIS IS A VOLUNTEER POSITION. AS A REQUIREMENT YOU MUST HAVE PRIOR FIELD EXPERIENCE WITH MARINE MAMMALS. IF YOU DO NOT PLEASE DO NOT APPLY. Overview Point Blue Conservation Science (formerly PRBO Conservation Science and Point Reyes Bird Observatory) of Petaluma, CA is seeking applications for 3-4 volunteer research assistants for our Farallon Islands Program. Point Blue is an independent, scientific research non-profit whose mission is to conserve birds, other wildlife and ecosystems through innovative scientific research, partnership and outreach. Under co-operative agreement with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), Point Blue has conducted continuous research and stewardship of the unique natural resources of the Farallon National Wildlife Refuge since 1968. The Farallon Islands are just a few miles from the continental shelf and lie in the rich coastal upwelling region of Central California. The islands host globally significant breeding seabird populations (over 300,000 individuals of 13 species), are a major haul out and breeding site for 5 species of pinnipeds, a feeding ground for many cetaceans, and a key feeding site for White Sharks. The islands also host a variety of migrant landbirds and an endemic salamander and cricket population. Point Blue is seeking volunteers to assist with its winter activities on the Farallones. Research during this period focuses primarily on breeding elephant seals, but there are a variety of other biological studies conducted. Accommodations are in restored lighthouse keeper's housing, with a fully equipped field station to accommodate year-round occupancy. On Island Work Duties The field season is early December to mid-March on Southeast Farallon Island, a rugged 120-acre island National Wildlife Refuge 30 miles offshore from San Francisco, California. Responsibilities include: continuing the long term demographic studies of northern elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris) which includes tag resighting of breeding animals (adult males and females), pelage dye marking of individuals, flipper tag application of animals and weaned pup restraint for tag application; conducting surveys for arboreal salamanders (Aneides lugubris farallonensis), Farallon camel cricket (Farallonophilus cavernicolus), birds, other pinnipeds and cetaceans (using new technology with an Apple iPad and custom made Spotter App). There is also opportunities to aid in burrowing owl surveys, removal of invasive plant species, Cassin's Auklet breeding checks, Common Murre band resighting and assist with routine maintenance of island equipment. Research assistants will also aid in standardized data collection, entry, and proofing, and management of long term datasets (Access, Excel and other Microsoft programs, Photo-ID, paper filing). Applicants must be able to live and work effectively in a remote setting with a small crew under difficult weather conditions for an extended field season (approximately 3 months without leaving the island). On island work is conducted 7 days a week throughout the entire field season, often for extended hours with no time off. Research assistants must participate in cleaning and maintaining housing facilities as well as rotating cooking duties for dinner each evening. Online media Video of winter season: http://openroad.tv/video.php?vid=37 (copy and paste into url) Blog of biologist's work on island and video link on left: http://losfarallones.blogspot.com/ Live webcam of islands: http://www.calacademy.org/webcams/farallones/ Overview of all research projects on island through Point Blue: http://www.pointblue.org/our-science-and-services/conservation-science/oceans-and-coasts/farallon-islands-research/ Compensation This is a volunteer position and no compensation will be awarded. Point Blue does not pay for travel costs to San Francisco/Petaluma, CA where research assistants will meet to make the trip to the island. However, once on the island all food and housing costs will be provided. Reliable phone and internet services are available. Start - End Date Early December to middle of March. Application Send a cover letter, CV, and list of 3-5 references to Ryan Berger, Farallon Program Biologist: rberger at pointblue.org. Interview process will begin the last week in September for top candidates. Position selections will be made by the second to third week in October. Ryan Berger, M. Sc., Farallon Program Biologist Point Blue Conservation Science 3820 Cypress Drive, Suite 11, Petaluma, CA 94954 707-781-2555 Fax: 707-765-1685 www.pointblue.org | Follow Point Blue on Facebook! Point Blue-Conservation science for a healthy planet. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From VollmerN at si.edu Mon Aug 3 07:55:32 2015 From: VollmerN at si.edu (Vollmer, Nicole (Nikki)) Date: Mon, 3 Aug 2015 14:55:32 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Travel Funding/Lagenorhynchus Workshop Reminder! Message-ID: <81A7ACEDF921E54C9427CF1CF71B0464316822FB@si-msedag04.US.SINET.SI.EDU> Hi! We just wanted to send out a reminder that for those interested in attending the "Rethinking Lagenorhynchus" workshop (especially undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral students) that there is travel funding available to get you to and from San Francisco for the workshop and meeting. Please see below for the original workshop announcement and details about how to apply for the funding. Please send any questions/comments/concerns our way! Thanks, Nikki and Erin ---------- We are happy to announce we will be running a full-day workshop entitled "Rethinking Lagenorhynchus: advancing our knowledge on taxonomy, genetics, acoustics, morphology, and population structure to make conservation gains" at the Biennial in San Francisco on Sunday, December 13th. We would like to encourage anyone working on any of the species within this genus, and close relatives (Lissodelphis, Cephalorhynchus), to attend. See full description of the workshop below or on the SMM conference website. Speakers will be invited, however if anyone has particular interest in presenting their work at this workshop please let us know. Registration Registration for the workshop should be done through the conference website:https://www.marinemammalscience.org/conference/conference-registration/. The registration fee is US $80.00 if registered prior to September 15, 2015. If you register after the 15th the registration fee increases to US $90.00, so make sure to sign up early. Travel Funding Thanks to a successful grant application, we are thrilled to be able to offer some funding to help cover costs of travel for undergraduate, graduate and postdoctoral students that are planning on attending, and possibly presenting their work at the workshop (presenting at the workshop is not required to be eligible to receive the funding). Preference will be given to students involved in molecular genetics work, although all interested in attending the workshop will be considered. If you are interested in receiving travel funds to attend the workshop, please respond to the following: 1) Provide name of institution, level of education, current advisor. 2) What is your most relevant experience related to this workshop? 3) What is your main interest in attending this workshop? 4) How will attending this workshop contribute to your current work and/or career? * Incomplete responses will not be considered. Please limit submissions to no more than 1 page, 12pt font, single-spaced. Responses should be emailed to Erin Ashe (ea84 at st-andrews.ac.uk) and Nikki Vollmer (vollmern at si.edu) no later than August 7th, 2015 to be considered for funding. Please let us know if you have any questions, and see you in December! Thank you, Nikki and Erin Rethinking Lagenorhynchus: advancing our knowledge on taxonomy, genetics, acoustics, morphology, and population structure to make conservation gains Research and management efforts in marine mammal conservation often hinge on a definition of the biological unit to conserve, whether that is a population, subspecies, or species. However, for some groups, such as the diverse genusLagenorhynchus, information on demographics, general biology, and intra-/inter-specific relationships is often lacking, and our statistical power to detect declines in these species is generally poor. In recent years, acousticians and geneticists have been developing independent lines of evidence suggesting it may be time to consider reclassification of Lagenorhynchusspecies, and the relationships among Lagenorhynchus, Cephalorhynchus and Lissodelphis are currently under debate. To better understand the current state of the field regarding the complex classification of species within these groups, there is a need to bring together researchers investigating taxonomy, genetics, acoustics, morphology, and conservation status of Lagenorhynchus and close relatives. The Society for Marine Mammalogy Biennial Meeting in San Francisco provides an invaluable opportunity for a workshop focused on integrating Lagenorhynchus scientists for this purpose. This workshop will provide a platform for researchers to compare lessons learned and to build new collaborations with international colleagues who have experience studying Lagenorhynchus. Our target audience includes researchers working at all academic levels (principle investigators, postdocs, graduate students, etc.) on Lagenorhynchus, Cephalorhynchus, andLissodelphis, and specifically scientists with expertise in taxonomy, molecular genetics, conservation, demography, and acoustics. Main goals of this endeavor are to identify partnerships and expertise, where genetic samples are held, and potential funding sources to conduct analyses where needed. We also aim to submit a review paper formulated from workshop discussions to a peer-reviewed journal (potential journals: Conservation Biology, Biological Reviews, Marine Mammal Science) that will summarize the current knowledge of Lagenorhynchus species and suggest avenues for future funding and research. This workshop will initiate and promote correspondence among people working on these species, build productive collaborations at a global scale, and combine resources and lessons learned to allow us to study, collectively, these dolphins at ecologically meaningful spatial scales. Finally, if consensus is reached through workshop activities, the workshop chairs will make a taxonomic recommendation to the SMM Taxonomy Committee for reclassification of the species currently within the genus Lagenorhynchus. The format for this workshop is a full day (8 hrs.) meeting. The morning will be allocated to approximately 5 speakers who will each give a brief (15-20 min.) presentation to share the current state of knowledge on the key themes (genetics, acoustics, morphology, taxonomy, stock structure, and conservation) and include time for questions from participants. The afternoon will be dedicated to discussion identifying research questions, next steps, partnerships/collaborations, and assess topics worthy of publication that have emerged from the workshop. We will also identify regional experts who could benefit from guidance from international colleagues in these disciplines, and ultimately aim to conceptualize and develop a global research plan to reevaluate Lagenorhynchus using multiple lines of evidence. Nicole Vollmer, Ph.D. Postdoctoral Fellow NOAA/NMFS/National Systematics Laboratory Smithsonian Institution Natural History Museum PO Box 37012, MRC 0153 Washington, DC 20013-7012 202-633-2137 vollmern at si.edu -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From lahuckst at ucsc.edu Mon Aug 3 17:04:41 2015 From: lahuckst at ucsc.edu (Luis Huckstadt) Date: Mon, 3 Aug 2015 17:04:41 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] Stable Isotopes workshop at SMM San Francisco Message-ID: Dear all, We are pleased to announce we will be running hosting a one day workshop on "The use of stable isotope analysis to study the trophic ecology, movement patterns and life history of marine mammals" at the upcoming 21st Biennial Conference of the Marine Mammal Society on Saturday, December 12th from 8:30 am - 5:30 pm, at the Hilton San Francisco We would like to encourage anyone interested in the use of stable isotopes to study the biology of marine mammals to attend. Students and researchers that are new to the field are particularly welcome, as this workshop is intended to help expanding their knowledge on the subject, as well as to promote the interaction and scientific discussion with other investigators in the field. We welcome abstract submissions for posters.A poster session where workshop attendees can present results from their own research, will be held at the end of the workshop. Workshop Organizers:Luis Huckstadt and Seth Newsome Workshop Description: This full day workshop will be dedicated to marine mammal researchers currently working or interested in using Stable Isotopes Analysis (SIA) to study ecological, physiological and movement patterns of marine mammals. SIA is a powerful tool in biological studies of cryptic species such as marine mammals, and their use is increasing in our field. However, there is a great potential for expansion and new studies, while we also need to address the limitations and best practices when using this methodologies. This workshop will cover (1) basics aspects about SIA (with special focus on students and researches with limited knowledge on the field), (2) SIA in diet studies (including trophic fractionation and turnover rates, use of mixing models, and tools available to analyze data), (3) compound specific SIA, where researchers we will address the potential of this novel technique and present data on amino acid d15N and d13C, and (4) a session on use of SIA to study life history and maternal strategies. The workshop will also include a poster session, where students can display their research on SIA and interact with colleagues and other students. Registration for the workshop should be done through the conference website (https://www.marinemammalscience.org/conference/workshops/) Cost: $80 (Before Sept. 15th) $90 (After Sept. 15th) For more information, please visit https://www.marinemammalscience.org/conference/workshops/#isotope Kind regards, Luis Huckstadt and Seth Newsome -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From monica.pepe at whales.org Mon Aug 3 14:30:24 2015 From: monica.pepe at whales.org (Monica Pepe) Date: Mon, 3 Aug 2015 21:30:24 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Field Research Interns needed for the fall- Plymouth, MA, USA Message-ID: <0B82DCA9D7826C4E8F27B482571768A4BDC74961@WDCS-CRIMSON.wdcs-net.wdcs.org> Whale and Dolphin Conservation, North America (NA), located in Plymouth, Massachusetts, offers internships and field volunteer positions, providing research, policy, education and administration experience in working for an international non-profit organization. We are currently accepting applications for fall 2015 positions, beginning as soon as possible. The deadline to submit an application is Thursday, August 13th. Background to the program The focus of the WDC internship/volunteer program is to give participants exposure to all aspects of working with a conservation non-profit organization. Successful candidates are tasked with everything from field research to office administration. All interns gain experience with public speaking by interacting with passengers aboard whale watching vessels, participating in school talks and other public outreach events. Other potential opportunities include writing blogs, water sampling, attending workshops/conferences, and responding to stranded animals, though these are not guaranteed opportunities. This program exposes interns to real world experiences that will help them develop the skills and understanding needed to succeed in the field of marine mammal conversation and research. Participants will gain an in-depth perspective of this field and a better understanding of where their interests lie. Through this internship, a number of skills are developed including analytical, organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills. As part of the field work experience, interns will learn species identification, behavioral sequencing, data collection and photo identification research techniques on marine mammals in the Gulf of Maine. They will also have the opportunity to go out on commercial whale watching boats several times a week (field season is April through October) to photograph and record sightings of humpback, finback, and minke whales, as well as other notable marine wildlife. The frequency of fieldwork is weather dependent. Days not in the field will be spent at the office uploading photos and data into our photo identification database or working on any projects that might be assigned. Interns are likely to gain experience in all or some portion of the following: Education and Outreach * Outreach to local schools and the general public * Assisting with and learning about the importance of ecotourism and best practices * Writing blogs about work conducted or current events while interning with WDC * Attendance at conferences and meetings Research * Cataloging individually identifiable humpback and finback whales * Collection of marine mammal sightings and distributional data in the Southern Gulf of Maine * Analyzing body condition of marine mammals through scarring and skin condition * Preparing a report of the previous season's whale sightings with historical analysis, risk issues and the impact of cumulative developmental threats * Attendance and participation in stranding training and events Conservation * Supporting WDC personnel at key conservation meetings * Literature research for written and oral comments submitted to federal agencies At the end of the program our hope is that interns will be able to leave with a comprehensive understanding of both the exciting and routine aspects of what it takes to research and conserve marine mammals. More information can be found at whales.org There is no fee or compensation for the internship/volunteer positions. Participants must arrange for their own transportation to and from Plymouth and provide their own food. Limited housing with a shared bedroom is available on site for a monthly fee of $300, which is strictly to offset the cost of housing. WDC is willing to help qualified students obtain credits for the program through their college or university. The program requires a minimum commitment of 3 months, with the possibility of extending the term on a case-by-case basis. International applicants interested in the internship program must be able to secure their own travel Visa and other required documentation. Candidate Requirements * Fluency in English. * Must be 18 years or older (preference given to students matriculated in or recently graduated from appropriate graduate or under graduate degree programs.) * Be able to show proof of valid health insurance. * Act effectively as a member of a close-knit team. * Be open to long days in the field or office. * Ability to work on sea going vessels for long hours that may require physical labor. * Good computer skills - familiarity with operating PCs and MACs. * Excellent verbal and written communications skills. * Familiar with literature research protocols is beneficial. * Ability to function well under pressure. * Must be comfortable speaking in front of groups of people of all ages and able to handle unanticipated situations. * Familiarity with DSLR camera, GPS equipment is beneficial. * Ability to impart information in an understandable way to the public under a variety of conditions. NOTE: You need not be a marine biology student/graduate to apply. How to Apply Please submit the following via e-mail to monica.pepe at whales.org: * Cover letter and Resume (no more than 3 pages) * Contact information for two references including e-mail and phone numbers We are currently accepting applications for fall 2015 positions, beginning ASAP. The deadline to submit an application is Thursday August 13th. Applicants should make sure they clearly indicate their availability (specific dates, if possible) in their cover letter. Successful applicants will be contacted after the application deadline to set up an interview. Any additional questions should be directed to Monica Pepe via email at monica.pepe at whales.org or by calling the office at (508) 746-2522. WDC, Whale and Dolphin Conservation, is the leading international charity dedicated solely to the worldwide conservation and welfare of all whales, dolphins, and porpoises. WDC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin. [WDC - Whale and Dolphin Conservation] Monica Pepe Conservation and Education Manager Telephone: +1 508 746 2522 Skype monica.c.pepe WDC, Whale and Dolphin Conservation 7 Nelson Street Plymouth MA 02360-4044 United States 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/USAddYourSignature.png] ________________________________ Whale and Dolphin Conservation ("WDC"), Inc. is an IRS recognized 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Your contributions are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. WDC, 7 Nelson Street, Plymouth, MA 02360-4044 Tel: +1 (508) 746-2522 This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager. Please note that any views or opinions presented in this email are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the company. Finally, the recipient should check this email and any attachments for the presence of viruses. The company accepts no liability for any damage caused by any virus transmitted by this email. ________________________________ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 8240 bytes Desc: image001.png URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image002.png Type: image/png Size: 1189 bytes Desc: image002.png URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... 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Rice) Date: Mon, 3 Aug 2015 13:09:11 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Job Posting: Cornell Lab of Ornithology Postdoctoral Fellowship Program Message-ID: Annual Cornell Lab of Ornithology Postdoctoral Competition The Cornell Lab of Ornithology encourages applications to our competitive postdoctoral program (www.birds.cornell.edu/postdoc) that supports innovative, independent research by early career scholars of exceptional promise. Two or more named positions are available annually, with applications due on September 8. These postdoctoral opportunities support individuals pursuing cutting-edge scholarship, while fostering intellectual interaction with two or more of the Lab's programs. Any area of inquiry related to the Lab's mission "to interpret and conserve the earth's biological diversity through research, education, and citizen science focused on birds" may be appropriate. Potential applicants are encouraged to learn more about our activities and opportunities, including our formal programs in Bioacoustics, Bird Population Studies (avian ecology), Citizen Science, Conservation Science, Communication, Education, Evolutionary Biology, Information Science, Macaulay Library (animal behavior), Multimedia Productions, and Public Engagement in Science. Research or activities involving several of these areas are particularly appropriate, and therefore each postdoctoral scholar may be co-mentored by two senior Cornell scholars. Potential applicants are encouraged to contact relevant faculty and staff at the Lab to brainstorm about areas of mutual interest and synergistic projects. We are especially interested in supporting the independent research of individuals who can bring new ideas and approaches to the Lab, while simultaneously leveraging our existing tools, data, and expertise in science, education, and communication. Each Postdoctoral Scholar will be a one year, renewable appointment for up to two years at the Lab. Located at the Imogene Powers Johnson Center for Birds and Biodiversity in the 220-acre Sapsucker Woods sanctuary, the Cornell Lab of Ornithology is a vibrant unit within Cornell's University's College of Agriculture & Life Sciences. More than 200 faculty and staff work at the Lab within our 10 mission-driven programs. Our management and staff are committed to the highest standards of ethics and excellence in all areas of our work, and our Board leadership includes faculty from Cornell and other universities, successful entrepreneurs and managers from the business and non-profit sectors, and conservation-minded citizens from the United States and beyond. These appointments provide a competitive salary, standard Cornell health and other benefits, and funds to help support the Scholar's research and professional travel needs. Start dates are flexible between February and September of the year following the application. The application package consists of a cover letter, CV, two-page research proposal, pdfs of up to three representative publications, and names and contact information for three references. Postdoctoral Scholars must have received their PhD before beginning their postdoctoral appointment at Cornell. Application materials should be sent as a single pdf file to the attention of Sue Taggart (SET2 at cornell.edu). Applications for the two positions available in 2016 will be accepted until September 8, 2015. The selection committee is chaired by Dr. Irby Lovette (IJL2 at cornell.edu), Fuller Professor of Ornithology and Associate Director for Academic Affairs at the Lab. Cornell University is an innovative Ivy League university and a great place to work. Our inclusive community of scholars, students and staff impart an uncommon sense of larger purpose and contribute creative ideas to further the university's mission of teaching, discovery and engagement. Located in Ithaca, NY, Cornell's far-flung global presence includes the medical college's campuses on the Upper East Side of Manhattan and in Doha, Qatar, as well as the new Cornell Tech campus to be built on Roosevelt Island in the heart of New York City. Diversity and inclusion are a part of Cornell University's heritage. We're an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and individuals with Disabilities. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From interns at aimm-portugal.org Mon Aug 3 07:42:46 2015 From: interns at aimm-portugal.org (AIMM Internships) Date: Mon, 3 Aug 2015 15:42:46 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] Fwd: Internship at AIMM Portugal In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: *MARINE MAMMAL INTERNSHIP APPLICATIONS STILL OPEN FOR 2015 SEASON* *BACKGROUND:* The Marine Environment Research Association ? AIMM Portugal ? is a non-for profit, non-governmental organization focussed on the research and conservation of marine species that inhabit the Atlantic Ocean, running an ongoing study of cetaceans in the South of Portugal (Algarve). This project aims to obtain baseline information on species occurrence, behavior and social structure of the local cetacean populations in order to obtain scientific data to support conservation measures and adequate policies to marine management. The main species observed are short beaked common dolphin (*Delphinus delphis*), common bottlenose dolphin (*Tursiops truncatus)* and harbour porpoise (*Phocoena phocoena*), although other species such as minke whale (*Balaenoptera acutorostrata*) and fin whale (*Balaenoptera physalus*) can also be sighted. The participants in our internships are young hard working individuals, who are willing to contribute to the association and support on-going activities, while experiencing fieldwork at sea, learn data collection and processing methodologies and be part of AIMM team of researchers and marine biologists for a period of time. All team members and participants share accommodation, house tasks, knowledge and experience in an environmental friendly and multicultural environment. *WHERE:* Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal *WHEN:* Field season starts in the 1st May and ends in 31st October 2015, the minimum internship attendance is 7 days starting preferably on Mondays. *COST:* 500? per 7 day period. If you stay for more than 4 or 8 weeks, we are able to make a discount (10 or 25% respectively). In the fee it's included accommodation, main meals, field work transport costs and mentoring. *FIELDWORK *(at sea in opportunity & dedicated platforms) 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. The interns will be train to: ? On-board surveys of marine species occurrence. ? Record track on GPS ? Collect data on behavior, group size, species, etc. ? Photo-identification. *DATA ANALYSIS *(in the accommodation and marina) will be in a daily basis and related to: ? Entry data on databases and spread cheats. ? Photo-identification processing. ? Preliminary data interpretation. Interns are *EXPECTED* to: ? Be above the age of 16. ? Have a mature attitude towards marine mammal research and environment. ? Be autonomous and quickly operational. ? Be able to live and work in an international team and mainly outdoors at sea. ? Speak English. ? Participate for minimum 7 days. *Preference in internship dates availability 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 *INTERNSHIP APPLICATION:* Applicants should fill up the online application form in our website at: http://www.aimmportugal.org/#!join-us/cw7b After the confirmation e-mail, send your CV with updated photo and personal statement on which are your expectations and why do you want to work with AIMM to: interns at aimm-portugal.org with the subject ?Internship 2015?. Applicants will be contact to arrange internship dates and details. Applications will be accepted during all season, however, early application is recommended due to limited vacancies. ?*We hope you can join us in Algarve, Portugal, for an enriching and unforgettable experience with AIMM. *? *Contacts*: interns at aimm-portugal.org | www.aimmportugal.org | *facebook*: AIMM -- Ana Catarina Henriques Bi?loga & Coordenadora de Estagi?rios Biologist & Interns Coordinator ? Associa??o para Investiga??o do Meio Marinho *Marine Environment Research Association* ? w ww.aimmportugal.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: AIMM_Multilingue_PT_EN_CN.png Type: image/png Size: 72341 bytes Desc: not available URL: From S.Allen at murdoch.edu.au Mon Aug 3 08:43:15 2015 From: S.Allen at murdoch.edu.au (Simon Allen) Date: Mon, 3 Aug 2015 15:43:15 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] SharkBayDolphins.org Message-ID: G'day folks, Have you heard of "alliances of alliances" in wild animals? What about "sponging", "shelling" or "kerplunking"? Do you know if dolphins possess material culture? The Shark Bay Dolphin Research Alliance encompasses the Dolphin Alliance Project and the Dolphin Innovation Project, and we're very pleased to (somewhat belatedly) let you know that our new website is finally online: http://www.sharkbaydolphins.org Here is an excerpt from the home page (our ?abstract? of sorts): The famous dolphins of Shark Bay, Western Australia, have been studied in great detail since the early 1980s. Over 30 years of scientific research into one of our planet?s most fascinating populations of wild animals has provided insight into their behaviour, genetics and ecology, including the daily challenges they face to find mates and food, and to avoid predators. Vast seagrass meadows in Shark Bay provide forage for turtles and dugongs, and nursery areas for fish; shallow sand flats and mangrove patches are home to countless invertebrates, rays and small sharks; deeper channels support sponge gardens and rocky reefs, providing habitat and hunting grounds for sea snakes, large sharks and, of course, dolphins. With this myriad of niches to exploit, but so much competition for food and mating opportunities, we find a population of dolphins with incredibly complex social lives and an intriguing repertoire of foraging specialisations, including tool use. Please visit the site to see more, and continue to do so to stay abreast of our research. Best regards, Simon Allen, Richard Connor and Michael Kr?tzen P.S. For the artists/design nerds, our logos embody the colours and the shapes of Shark Bay, dolphin behaviour, sponges, shells, the double helix, and a chart of our study sites in the two gulfs, as well as some important data points (for the eagle-eyed). This is all reflected in a way that pays homage to the original custodians of ?Gutharraguda? (or ?two bays?), the Malgana people. This deft design was by http://www.wolfdesignltd.co.uk/ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Simon Allen, PhD Murdoch University Cetacean Research Unit School of Veterinary and Life Sciences Murdoch University 90 South St, Murdoch Western Australia 6150 Mob: (61-0) 416 083 653 Email: s.allen at murdoch.edu.au Web: http://www.sharkbaydolphins.org [cid:36CE4812-5407-4E19-BB7F-7DDBB4AEBBE9] Latest paper: http://www.tandfonline.com/eprint/3kKaKmus6dBgUj28dfG4/full -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: Alliance Banner[3].png Type: image/png Size: 23871 bytes Desc: Alliance Banner[3].png URL: From L.L.IJsseldijk at uu.nl Tue Aug 4 09:03:04 2015 From: L.L.IJsseldijk at uu.nl (IJsseldijk, L.L. (Lonneke)) Date: Tue, 4 Aug 2015 16:03:04 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New paper: Tidal influence on the occurrence of the harbour porpoise in the Marsdiep area, The Netherlands Message-ID: <6BC1BCED8C004745BF5CE50DD7366CEA29D93963@WP0045.soliscom.uu.nl> Dear all, I am pleased to announce the following publication: ?Going with the flow: Tidal influence on the occurrence of the harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) in the Marsdiep area, The Netherlands?. Lonneke L. IJsseldijk, Kees C.J. Camphuysen, Janine J. Nauw, & Geert Aarts. Journal of Sea Research, to be downloaded from: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.seares.2015.07.010 Abstract: One of the most important factors explaining the distribution and behaviour of coastal marine mammals are tides. Tidal forces drive a large number of primary and secondary processes, such as changes in water depth, salinity, temperature, current velocity and direction. Unravelling which tidal process is most influential for a certain species is often challenging, due to a lack of observations of all tide related covariates, strong correlation between them, and the elusive nature of most marine organisms which often hampers their detection. In the Marsdiep area, a tidal inlet between the North Sea and the Dutch Wadden Sea, the presence of harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) was studied as a function of tide related covariates. Observations were carried out in early spring from a ferry crossing the inlet on a half hourly basis. Environmental and sightings data were collected by one observer, while an on-board Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP) and temperature sensor continuously recorded current velocity profiles and temperature, respectively. Sea surface temperature and salinity were measured at a nearby jetty. Sightings (n=134) were linked to tidal elevation, geographical position, local depth-averaged current velocity, water temperature (with and without trend correction) and salinity. Variation in sighting rate was best described by salinity, with highest sighting rate at high levels of salinity (>30 g kg-1), indicating that porpoises enter the area in bodies of (more saline) North Sea water. Second best variable was time of day, with the highest sighting rate early morning, and decreasing during the day. However, surveys in the morning happened to coincide more often with high water and hence, the apparent time of day effect could be due to collinearity. Most porpoises were present in the northern part of the Marsdiep, particularly during high tide. Tide dependent sighting rates confirmed that porpoises reside in the North Sea, and enter the western Wadden Sea during the flood and leave during ebb. This tidal influx is most likely related to prey availability, which corresponds to other recent studies in this area showing higher fish abundance during high tide. Documenting information on tide related patterns could be used in practice, when e.g. planning anthropogenic activities or assessing critical habitats for this species. Alternatively, pdf requests can be addressed to l.l.ijsseldijk at uu.nl Kind regards, Lonneke IJsseldijk Lonneke L. IJsseldijk, BSc Project co?rdinator Cetaceans Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University Department of Pathobiology T +31 30 253 5312, M +31 6 244 556 98 L.L.IJsseldijk at uu.nl Yalelaan 1, PO Box 80158, 3508 TD Utrecht The Netherlands -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From bc.morehead at comcast.net Wed Aug 5 11:05:34 2015 From: bc.morehead at comcast.net (bc.morehead at comcast.net) Date: Wed, 5 Aug 2015 18:05:34 +0000 (UTC) Subject: [MARMAM] Job Postings In-Reply-To: <450365347.369535.1438797609149.JavaMail.zimbra@comcast.net> Message-ID: <179769716.376991.1438797934673.JavaMail.zimbra@comcast.net> ? ? Hello, ? Please post the following job announcements on your website. ? Principal Scientist: Marine Mammal Conservation and Recovery Specialist Ocean Associates, Inc. (OAI) is seeking a senior analyst to support the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Office of Protected Resources (OPR) in Seattle, Washington. This position will be responsible to assist OPR in carrying out some of its required functions related to the conservation and recovery of marine mammals under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) and/or the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The specialist will assist existing OPR staff in developing analyses required to comply with NMFS? National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) obligations regarding marine mammal management actions and will assist in the implementation of MMPA and ESA-related activities. The salary is $42.66 per hour. The contract is for full-time work, 40hrs/week. Excellent employee benefits are provided including paid medical insurance, and holiday, vacation and sick leave, and more. The work location will be at the NMFS Alaska Fisheries Science Center in Seattle, Washington or the NMFS Office of Protected Resources in Silver Spring Maryland. For more information: Principal Scientist: Marine Mammal Conservation and Recovery Specialist ? Senior Analyst: Endangered Species Act Consultation Biologist Ocean Associates, Inc. (OAI) is seeking Senior Analysts to support the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Office of Protected Resources (OPR) in the conduct of Endangered Species Act (ESA) section 7 consultations on proposed issuances of scientific research permits for sea turtles, corals, and other species under NOAA Fisheries jurisdiction. For more information: Senior Analyst: Endangered Species Act Consultation Biologists Analyst II: ESA/MMPA Scientific Research Support Services Ocean Associates, Inc. (OAI) is seeking an Analyst to support the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Office of Protected Resources (OPR) in the conduct of research activities under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) and the Endangered Species Act (ESA). For more information: Analyst II: ESA/MMPA Scientific Research Support Services ? ? ? ? Regards, ? Bruce Morehead Ocean Associates Inc. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From haydeecunha at yahoo.com.br Wed Aug 5 12:13:11 2015 From: haydeecunha at yahoo.com.br (Haydee Cunha) Date: Wed, 5 Aug 2015 19:13:11 +0000 (UTC) Subject: [MARMAM] New paper: DNA can help ending the illegal killing of river dolphins to be used as bait in Brazil Message-ID: <953022086.628176.1438801991192.JavaMail.yahoo@mail.yahoo.com> Dear Marmammers,?my co-authors and I are pleased toannounce the following publication:?When You Get What You Haven?t Paid for: MolecularIdentification of ?Douradinha? Fish Fillets Can Help End the Illegal Use of River Dolphinsas Bait in BrazilHayd?e A. Cunha, Vera M. F. da Silva, Teresa E.C. Santos, Stella M. Moreira, Nivia A. S. do Carmo andAntonio M. Sol?-CavaJournal of Heredity 106: 565-572?This study provided scientific proofused by the Amazon State prosecutor to recommend a ban on the fishing andfraudulent selling of piracatinga as ?douradinha?, later issued by the BrazilianMinistries of the Environment and Fisheries. This measure was considered as afirst, much needed action to end the illegal use of river dolphins as bait inBrazil.?To learn more about the ?boto-bait?issue and to help, please visit http://www.alertavermelho.org.br/en/.?AbstractThe fishery for Calophysus macropterus, an Amazonian necrophagous catfish, ishighly detrimental to river dolphins and caimans, which are deliberately killedfor use as bait. In the Brazilian Amazon, this fishery has increased over thelast decade, in spite of the rejection of scavenger fishes by Brazilianconsumers. It was suspected that C.macropterus fillets were being sold in Brazilian markets, disguised as afictitious fish (the ?douradinha?). We collected 62 fillets from ?douradinha? andother suspiciously named fish from 4 fish-processing plants sold at 6 marketsin Manaus, in the Brazilian Amazon, and sequenced the cytochrome b gene toidentify fillets to species. Sixty percent of fillets labeled ?douradinha? orwith other deceptive names were actually C.macropterus. Six other fish species of low commercial value were alsofound. The presence of dolphin tissue in the stomach contents of C. macropterus was confirmed by mtDNAcontrol region sequencing. Our results formed the scientific basis for amoratorium on the fishing and fraudulent selling of C. macropterus, issued by the Brazilian Ministries of theEnvironment and Fisheries. Exposure of this fraud via the mass media can helpend the illegal use of dolphins as bait in Brazil.?The pdf is freely available from the Journal ofHeredity site:http://jhered.oxfordjournals.org/content/106/S1/565.full?keytype=ref&ijkey=kPkuf4c2J2RON0S?Alternatively, pdf requests can be addressed tohaydeecunha at yahoo.com.br.?Cheers, ?Hayd?e?~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Hayd?e A. Cunha, PhD MAQUA - Laborat?rio de Mam?feros Aqu?ticos e Bioindicadores (UERJ) Faculdade de Oceanografia Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro Rua S?o Francisco Xavier, 524 / Sl. 4002-E Maracan?, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, Brasil CEP 20.550-013 Tel: +55 (21) 2334-0065 / 99981-8382 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From k at kpetunia.com Tue Aug 4 15:41:22 2015 From: k at kpetunia.com (Katherina Audley) Date: Tue, 04 Aug 2015 15:41:22 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] Whales of Guerrero Research Project Internship Announcement Message-ID: Whales of Guerrero Research Project Internship Winter 2016 - Deadline September 1st, 2015 (Find the full job description and announcement in Spanish and English HERE: http://www.whalesinmexico.com/internships-2016.htm) Background The Whales of Guerrero Research Project (WGRP) is a privately funded field research and community outreach project located in the state of Guerrero, Mexico, near the twin cities of Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo on the Pacific Ocean coast. This project is the first to investigate humpback whales and other marine mammals in depth in the state of Guerrero. There is an absence of information and awareness about whales and other cetaceans among boat operators, tour guides, residents and visitors to the region. Project Goals The two primary goals of the Whales of Guerrero Research Project?s are: ? Contribute to a better understanding of the structure, abundance, distribution and dynamics of the migratory humpback whales and other marine mammals which visit and inhabit the region. ? Raise awareness about responsible whale watching and ecotourism practices and humpback whale behavior and biology among boat operators, tour guides, educators, residents and visitors. We will accomplish our research goals by conducting on-water and land-based field studies in the area from January through March annually for the next 4 years (winters 2015-2018). The 2016 study will include two concurrent on-water efforts to locate, photo-identify and record the songs of humpback whales and collect occurrence data on other marine mammals including four dolphin species (Tursiops truncatus, Stenella attenuata, Steno bredanensis and Delphinus delphis). The research boats will be 6-meter long fiberglass fishing pangas, driven by local fishermen, who will be participating in the project as regional experts, citizen scientists and ecotour guides in training. In addition, one land-based field study will record marine mammal occurrence and activity relative to all boats in the area. Fluke identification photos will contribute to our local fluke identification catalog as well as larger existing fluke identification catalogs maintained by research colleagues elsewhere in Mexico and the US. We will record humpback whale vocalizations to note presence/absence and also share these data with researchers elsewhere in Mexico and the US. Data we collect will (1) help the region to become a SEMARNAT-acknowledged marine mammal site, which will garner further resources to study and protect the whales, (2) identify potentially sensitive regions for humpback whales relative to shrimp boat activity, gillnet fishing and other potentially harmful anthropogenic activities, and (3) contribute to the larger scientific community?s understanding of the Northeastern Pacific Humpback Whale stock. We will raise awareness regarding whale watching practices and humpback whale behavior by hosting and facilitating workshops and training sessions geared toward boat operators, fishermen, tourist-oriented business owners, residents and visitors. These efforts will be led by early career and established scientists and educators from Mexico and the United States. A number of marine mammalogists and marine biology educators will spend short periods of time on the study with us throughout the season to participate in our outreach efforts, provide expertise and support to our research efforts, and strengthen the scientific community?s understanding of marine mammals in the state of Guerrero as they relate to the larger stocks. Website For more information about the Whales of Guerrero Research Project, please visit: Our project website at: http://www.whalesinmexico.com and on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/whalesinmexico Volunteer Intern Positions The WGRP is in the process of selecting volunteer interns for our Winter 2016 internship program. A minimum of 10 weeks of participation is required during 4 January - 20 March. Applications are due by September 1st. Please note that we are only seeking 4-6 interns this session and that we receive many more applications than we have openings. Successful candidates will participate in the following research projects: 1) Humpback whale field monitoring and photo-identification. This study will continue monitoring the migratory community of humpback whales in Barra de Potosi, Zihuatanejo, Ixtapa and the surrounding waters. Duties in the field will consist of assisting with boat-based photographic identification surveys for humpback whales five days per week, six hours per day. Behavioral, location, individual, and environmental data will be recorded for each marine mammal group. Interns can expect to rotate between land-based field studies and on-water studies for the duration of the season and spend an average of 30% of their field data collection time on-land (in a lighthouse) and 70% on-water (in a 6-meter fishing panga). 2) Data organization and analysis. In addition to field duties, intern responsibilities will include office-based photo-identification of humpback whales and rough-toothed dolphin fins, computer data entry, video logging, fluke identification catalog maintenance, equipment repair, upkeep and maintenance and other duties. In addition to spending 3-4 days per week on water, interns should be prepared to spend an average of 1-2 days per week organizing, matching and maintaining the fluke and fin identification catalogs, importing and compressing recorded sound, maintaining and repairing equipment and attending to other field duties as needed. 3) Safe boat operation workshops and community events. Interns will be expected to serve as continuous ambassadors for the project and be available to field questions on humpback whale behavior and biology whenever they are in the public. In addition, they will be expected to serve as educators and naturalists to project supporters and local guides who join us on the boat to work with us as citizen scientists on our project. Interns will also be expected to participate in and conduct humpback whale and marine mammal workshops in schools, libraries, hotels and other venues, as needed, a minimum of one time per week. Interns should expect to spend about 60% of their time in the field (a minimum of five days per week, at least 6 hours per day), and about 40% of their time working with data, performing equipment maintenance and participating in community outreach and education efforts. There is no compensation for these internship positions. However, the project will provide for living accommodations (homestays with local hosts in the village) during the time of the internship, and a $250 travel stipend will be provided to support transportation to and from the region. Interns must cover the expense of their own food, local transportation, internet, telephone and miscellaneous personal expenses during the course of their internship. Intern Qualifications Applicants will ideally have the following qualifications: * Minimum of 24 years of age and engaged in or recently completed graduate studies or comparable marine biology field experience * A demonstrated commitment to and passion for marine mammals, education and community outreach and the development of responsible marine ecotourism * Bilingual (Spanish 90-100%/English 75-100%) * Proven ability to work within a range of cultures including: rural Mexican fishing village culture, North American tourists and foreign residents and educated Mexican bureaucrats * A background or degree in Biology, Marine Biology, Ecology, Zoology or a related field or comparable experience * Basic computer proficiency in Microsoft Office programs (especially Excel) * Knowledge of Lightroom and Mysticetus are a plus; photo and video editing skills also a plus * Proficient photo ID skills with a DSLR camera * Some field research experience * Must be able to swim * Not prone to seasickness * Enthusiasm and desire to learn a variety of field and lab based research methods * Demonstrated teamwork, rigor, strong organizational and problem solving skills, attention to detail, stamina, self-motivated * Independence, as in able to perform operations without supervision and ability to anticipate a problem and formulate a solution on one?s own and the ability to work independently * A willingness to spend a minimum of 10-12 weeks working full-time (5-6 days/week) as a volunteer with our program. * Flexible and resourceful; adaptable to changes in study plans, cultural sensitivity Intern Application Instructions To apply for a Whales of Guerrero Research Project internship, interested persons should complete and provide to WGRP the following application materials: 1. Your name, birthdate, gender, permanent mailing address, phone number, e-mail address, the college or university you are currently attending or most recently attended, your year of study at the time of the internship, your major field of study, the highest degree you have received, the year you expect to graduate, other colleges or universities you have attended and the dates you are available to participate in the internship. 2. A one- to two-page Statement of Interest that describes: a) your interests in the program(s) you choose and your career goals, b) your reasons for applying for a WGRP internship, and c) why you should be selected for a WGRP internship. (This can be sent as a Word document or a PDF.) 3. An unofficial copy of your most recent college transcript that lists all college-level courses you have taken to-date and the grades you have received. Both unofficial and official copies are accepted. If your school's grading scale differs from the 4.0 scale, please include an explanation of that scale. (Sent as a PDF file, saved from your school's website as a jpg or png image or an html file, copy-and-pasted into a Word document.) 4. Two letters of recommendation from individuals capable of commenting on your research skills and qualifications. 5. A resume or curriculum vitae 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. (This can be sent as a Word document or PDF file.) 6. Send an email to WGRP Project Director (Katherina Audley, k at kpetunia.com stating your name, contact information, exact dates and duration of availability, where you learned about the internship opportunity (e.g., SOMEMMA, MarMam, Facebook (and if so which page), Whalefish, colleague, advisor, etc.), and that you have provided all application materials to us, as detailed above. All applications will be reviewed; those received by the application deadline of September 1st will be given first priority. Successful applications will be contacted by November 1, 2015. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From maja.nimak-wood at gardline.com Wed Aug 5 06:12:35 2015 From: maja.nimak-wood at gardline.com (Maja Nimak-Wood) Date: Wed, 5 Aug 2015 14:12:35 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] Pro-MMO training course Message-ID: [cid:image001.png at 01D0CF88.C7442C20] 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 ?650 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 29th September - 1st October 2015 Application forms can be obtained from and all queries directed to maja.nimak-wood at gardline.com Deadline for applications: 17th August 2015 Maja Nimak-Wood Senior 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:image002.jpg at 01D0CF88.C7442C20] 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 [cid:image003.jpg at 01D0CF88.C7442C20] ________________________________ 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: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 7000 bytes Desc: image001.png URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image002.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 6658 bytes Desc: image002.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image003.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 5528 bytes Desc: image003.jpg URL: From sclymene at aol.com Wed Aug 5 12:16:27 2015 From: sclymene at aol.com (Thomas Jefferson) Date: Wed, 5 Aug 2015 15:16:27 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] MARINE MAMMAL BOOKS AND REPRINTS SOUGHT Message-ID: <14eff4b1511-c83-3d689@webstg-m02.mail.aol.com> MARINEMAMMAL BOOKS AND REPRINTS SOUGHT ?VIVAVaquita! (a non-profit organization) is seeking marinemammal books, reprints, monographs, and journals. Literature can be donated or we can purchasesets of books, reprints, and journals. We compile and then make the literature available to colleagues workingon marine mammals, getting it into hands where it will be actively used, and inthe process help to raise funds for research and conservation work on thevaquita (Phocoena sinus), the World?smost endangered marine mammal species. Donations are tax-deductible, and we maybe able to arrange pick-up of large libraries (and possibly even to providesome payment for more valuable items). We are interested in issues of Marine Mammal Science only from vol. 27(2011) onwards. As you may haveheard, the global population of this species now numbers about 50-80individuals and is decling at about 30%/year. We are currently collecting literature as part of our efforts to helpfund our education and public awareness work, in a last-ditch effort to avoidthe extinction of this species in the next couple of years! Visit our website at www.vivavaquita.orgfor more details. If you have any marinemammal literature you would be interested in donating or ?selling? to us,please contact Tom Jefferson at sclymene at aol.com. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From AJohnson at mbayaq.org Wed Aug 5 14:42:05 2015 From: AJohnson at mbayaq.org (Andrew Johnson) Date: Wed, 5 Aug 2015 14:42:05 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] Monterey Bay Aquarium Sea Otter Research and Conservation-Research Intern Message-ID: Sea Otter Research and Conservation-Research Intern The Monterey Bay Aquarium's Sea Otter Research and Conservation program is seeking enthusiastic and motivated individuals to assist staff with field observations and data collection of wild sea otters in the Monterey Peninsula, Elkhorn Slough and Moss Landing areas of coastal California. Project responsibilities include, but are not limited to, data collection in the field from shore and on a small boat using radio telemetry equipment and making visual observations with spotting scopes. Interns will record re-sights, movement patterns and forage activity budget data on marked individual wild sea otters. Qualified applicants must be able to work in a team environment, must be able to work independently without direct supervision, and must have good communication skills. Required * At least 18 years of age * Current undergraduate or graduate student at an accredited college or university * Must be a student during the term immediately preceding the internship * Must submit a resume of courses and/or experience related to position applying * Must provide a minimum of 2 letters of recommendation from college/university professors or faculty staff * 3.0 Minimum cumulative GPA * 3-month commitment of 24 hours each week. (Extension beyond the first 3 months dependent upon performance review by SORAC staff: 6-month potential max internship) * Valid driver's license * Personal vehicle to use while in the field * Cell phone * Willingness to perform project task assignments on a flexible schedule, including weekends and late nights Desired Skills * Strong Interest in and awareness of animal husbandry and marine science/ecology * Willingness to get wet and dirty * Attention to detail * Able to lift up to 50 pounds * Ability to multi-task * Demonstrable research, writing, academic literature and organizational skills * Interpersonal skills and proven ability to work effectively with colleagues * Proficiency with SharePoint a plus * Boat handling skills appreciated but not necessary * Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, PPT and Microsoft Access software All internship opportunities are Unpaid or STEM Internships (STEM may include funding provided through your educational institution). College credit may be available. Please refer to your College/University's student services division. To apply, please navigate to https://montereybayaquarium.snaphire.com/jobdetails?ajid=3eMP7. Andrew Johnson Sea Otter Research and Conservation Manager P 831-648-7934 M 831-402-1851 [cid:image001.gif at 01D0CF8C.E5D113C0] Monterey Bay Aquarium 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940 www.montereybayaquarium.org Our mission is to inspire conservation of the oceans. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.gif Type: image/gif Size: 1079 bytes Desc: image001.gif URL: From AJohnson at mbayaq.org Wed Aug 5 14:42:03 2015 From: AJohnson at mbayaq.org (Andrew Johnson) Date: Wed, 5 Aug 2015 14:42:03 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] Monterey Bay Aquarium Sea Otter Research and Conservation-Animal Care Intern Message-ID: Sea Otter Research and Conservation-Animal Care Intern The Monterey Bay Aquarium's Sea Otter Research and Conservation program is seeking enthusiastic and motivated individuals to assist SORAC staff with the care and release of live-stranded sea otters. Project responsibilities include, but are not limited to, daily care and feeding of ill, injured and orphaned sea otters, maintenance and cleaning of animal tanks and enclosures- and computer data entry. Interns may also assist with rescues of live-stranded otters, tracking of released otters, administration of medication to sick otters, and managing otters in research projects. Qualified applicants must be able to work in a team environment, must be able to work independently without direct supervision, and must have good communication skills. Required * At least 18 years of age * Current undergraduate or graduate student at an accredited college or university * Must be a student during the term immediately preceding the internship * Must submit a resume of courses and/or experience related to position applying * Must provide a minimum of 2 letters of recommendation from college/university professors or faculty staff * 3.0 minimum cumulative GPA * 3-month commitment of 24 hours each week. (Extension beyond the first 3 months dependent upon performance review by SORAC staff: 6-month potential max internship) * Proof of current tetanus vaccination * Valid driver's license * Project task assignments may include weekends and holidays as assigned Desired Skills * Strong Interest in and awareness of animal husbandry and marine science/ecology * Willingness to get wet and dirty * Attention to detail * Ability to handle live animals and plants * Able to lift up to 50 pounds * Ability to multi-task * Demonstrable research, writing, academic literature and organizational skills * Interpersonal skills and proven ability to work effectively with colleagues * Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PPT * Proficiency with SharePoint a plus All internship opportunities are Unpaid or STEM Internships (STEM may include funding provided through your educational institution). College credit may be available. Please refer to your College/University's student services division. To apply, please navigate to https://montereybayaquarium.snaphire.com/jobdetails?ajid=igMP7. Andrew Johnson Sea Otter Research and Conservation Manager P 831-648-7934 M 831-402-1851 [cid:image001.gif at 01D0CF8C.E4E30A40] Monterey Bay Aquarium 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940 www.montereybayaquarium.org Our mission is to inspire conservation of the oceans. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.gif Type: image/gif Size: 1079 bytes Desc: image001.gif URL: From maja.nimak-wood at gardline.com Thu Aug 6 01:20:25 2015 From: maja.nimak-wood at gardline.com (Maja Nimak-Wood) Date: Thu, 6 Aug 2015 09:20:25 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] Pro-MMO NZ Training Course Message-ID: Few places still available: [cid:image001.jpg at 01D0C3C1.7920EDD0] Pro-MMO NZ Training Course Gardline Environmental Ltd is a MMO training course provider for New Zealand approved by New Zealand's Department of Conservation (DOC). The Pro-MMO NZ entirely meets the requirements of the curriculum outlined in the '2013 Code of Conduct for Minimising Acoustic Disturbance to Marine Mammals from Seismic Survey Operations'. This dedicated training programme is devoted to producing competent, professional marine mammal observers, capable of implementing the requirements of the Code, in terms of mitigation as well as scientific data collection, during seismic operations within New Zealand waters. MMO training for New Zealand is the most comprehensive and stringent in the world with extensive theoretical and practical requirements. The course consists of a series of extensive modules which are available through interactive distance learning prior to the practical component. Candidates will need to be able to complete the theory modules during the time frame outlined below and be available for the practical field days in New Zealand. The course is designed to be of benefit to both experienced and inexperienced MMOs. Candidates who successfully complete this course will be certified as 'trained' observers as per standards in the Code. After gaining a minimum of 12 weeks of experience working on seismic surveys in New Zealand, trained observers will then advance to the status of 'qualified' observers. The course dates and place: a) Distance learning 1st- 27th September 2015 b) Field based 28th - 30th September 2015 Auckland, New Zealand The course cost: NZD $2810 The course fee includes both distance learning and field based component, lecture and handout material and ID book. Application: Application forms and more information about the course can be obtained by contacting Maja Nimak-Wood maja.nimak-wood at gardline.com Deadline for applications: 14th August 2015 Maja Nimak-Wood Senior 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:image002.jpg at 01D0C3C1.7920EDD0] 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 [cid:image003.jpg at 01D0C3C1.7920EDD0] ________________________________ 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 _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 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 _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 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: image001.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 7678 bytes Desc: image001.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image002.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 6658 bytes Desc: image002.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image003.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 5528 bytes Desc: image003.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- An embedded and charset-unspecified text was scrubbed... Name: ATT00001.txt URL: From Anete.BERZINA at iucn.org Thu Aug 6 06:14:53 2015 From: Anete.BERZINA at iucn.org (BERZINA Anete) Date: Thu, 6 Aug 2015 13:14:53 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Reminder: Opportunity for independent whale experts, due 20th Aug 2015 Message-ID: Dear Marine Mammals Research and Conservation community, Further to my earlier message, there are still two more weeks to apply to serve on the IUCN's Western Gray Whale Advisory Panel (WGWAP). More information and links to the application form is available below. Kind regards, Anete From: BERZINA Anete Sent: 06 July 2015 10:27 To: 'marmam at lists.uvic.ca' Subject: Opportunity: IUCN call for applications to serve on independent whale panel, due 20th Aug 2015 Dear Marine Mammals Research and Conservation community, I am writing to share IUCN's Call for Applications from independent experts to serve on the IUCN's Western Gray Whale Advisory Panel (WGWAP). The Panel has provided independent scientific and technical advice and recommendations on ways to minimize impacts on western gray whales from oil and gas development offshore Russia's Sakhalin Island, just north of Japan, for the last 10 years. IUCN is now seeking to recruit between 6-10 experts to serve on the Panel for a 15-month period from 1 October 2015 to 31 December 2016. The expertise required ranges from general cetacean biology, population assessment and modelling to bio-acoustics and environmental monitoring. IUCN is also looking for expertise related to marine mammal response to disturbance and mitigation measures, especially but not exclusively with respect to oil and gas activities, as well as experience interpreting relevant Performance Standards of the International Finance Corporation / World Bank Group on environmental and social sustainability. The application form, along with some background information, details concerning the open positions, specific expertise requirements and the general TORs are available online via http://iucn.org/wgwap/?21582 or https://hrms.iucn.org/iresy/index.cfm?event=vac.showOpenList (see at the bottom of the list). Applications and requests for further information should be sent by email to anete.berzina at iucn.org no later than 20th August 2015. For more details on the WGWAP process, please see: http://www.iucn.org/wgwap. Please do feel free to share the Call for Applications further within your networks, as appropriate. Kind regards, Anete Anete Berzina Manager - Western Gray Whale / SEIC Project Global Marine & Polar Programme & Global Business & Biodiversity Programme IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) 28 rue Mauverney, CH-1196 Gland, Switzerland Tel. +41 22 999 0703; Fax +41 22 999 0002; www.iucn.org [cid:image001.jpg at 01CDB8EB.7E9742C0] [cid:image002.jpg at 01CDB8EB.7E9742C0] [cid:image003.jpg at 01CDB8EB.7E9742C0] [cid:image009.jpg at 01D00AF8.4C6E5250] SUPPORT THE IUCN RED LIST 50 CAMPAIGN [cid:image010.jpg at 01D00AF8.4C6E5250] 50.iucnredlist.org ________________________________ This communication, together with any attachment, may contain confidential information and/or copyright material and is intended only for the person(s) to whom it is addressed only. If you are not the intended recipient of this communication, or if you received it in error, you are asked to kindly delete it and promptly notify us. Any review, copying, use, disclosure or distribution of any part of this communication, unless duly authorized by or on behalf of IUCN, is strictly forbidden. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 3719 bytes Desc: image001.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image002.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 1573 bytes Desc: image002.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image003.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 1627 bytes Desc: image003.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image004.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 1766 bytes Desc: image004.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image005.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 999 bytes Desc: image005.jpg URL: From line.hermannsen at gmail.com Thu Aug 6 07:00:40 2015 From: line.hermannsen at gmail.com (Line Hermannsen) Date: Thu, 6 Aug 2015 16:00:40 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] New Publication: Airgun Pulses in Shallow Water with Implications for Effects on Small Marine Mammals Message-ID: Dear MARMAMers, We are pleased to announce the publication of the following paper in PLOS ONE: *"Characteristics and Propagation of Airgun Pulses in Shallow Water with Implications for Effects on Small Marine Mammals"* Hermannsen, L., Tougaard, J., Beedholm, K., Nabe-Nielsen, J. and Madsen P.T. PLOS ONE, July 27, 2015.URL: http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0133436 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0133436 AbstractAirguns used in seismic surveys are among the most prevalent and powerful anthropogenic noise sources in marine habitats. They are designed to produce most energy below 100 Hz, but the pulses have also been reported to contain medium-to-high frequency components with the potential to affect small marine mammals, which have their best hearing sensitivity at higher frequencies. In shallow water environments, inhabited by many of such species, the impact of airgun noise may be particularly challenging to assess due to complex propagation conditions. To alleviate the current lack of knowledge on the characteristics and propagation of airgun pulses in shallow water with implications for effects on small marine mammals, we recorded pulses from a single airgun with three operating volumes (10 in3, 25 in3 and 40 in3) at six ranges (6, 120, 200, 400, 800 and 1300 m) in a uniform shallow water habitat using two calibrated Reson 4014 hydrophones and four DSG-Ocean acoustic data recorders. We show that airgun pulses in this shallow habitat propagated out to 1300 meters in a way that can be approximated by a 18log(r) geometric transmission loss model, but with a high pass filter effect from the shallow water depth. Source levels were back-calculated to 192 dB re ?Pa2s (sound exposure level) and 200 dB re 1 ?Pa dB Leq-fast (rms over 125 ms duration), and the pulses contained substantial energy up to 10 kHz, even at the furthest recording station at 1300 meters. We conclude that the risk of causing hearing damage when using single airguns in shallow waters is small for both pinnipeds and porpoises. However, there is substantial potential for significant behavioral responses out to several km from the airgun, well beyond the commonly used shut-down zone of 500 meters. For those interested in reading more, this paper and other interesting papers from our Marine Bioacoustics Lab can be downloaded from: www.marinebioacoustics.com/pub.php Best regards,Line Hermannsen -- *Line Hermannsen* *Department of Bioscience* *Aarhus University* *mail: line.hermannsen at gmail.com or lihe at bios.au.dk * *telephone: +45 22 82 56 61 <%2B45%2022%2082%2056%2061>* -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From fkershaw at nrdc.org Thu Aug 6 07:23:56 2015 From: fkershaw at nrdc.org (Kershaw, Francine) Date: Thu, 6 Aug 2015 14:23:56 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] SMM 2015 Workshop: Integrating Genetics into the Important Marine Mammal Area (IMMA) Identification Process Message-ID: Greetings all, We are pleased to announce that we will be running a full-day workshop entitled "Integrating Genetics into the Important Marine Mammal Area (IMMA) Identification Process" at the Biennial in San Francisco on Sunday, December 13th. We would like to encourage anyone working in the fields of marine mammal genetics, spatial ecology, or marine spatial planning to attend. Please see an overview of the workshop below or the full description on the SMM conference website. This workshop will be very hands-on with only a small number of invited speakers, however if you are interested in presenting your work please get in touch. Registration: You can register for the workshop through the conference website: https://www.marinemammalscience.org/conference/conference-registration/. The registration fee is US $80.00 prior to September 15th and US $90.00 thereafter. Please don't hesitate to contact us via email at fkershaw at nrdc.org and hrosenbaum at wcs.org or by phone at +1-212-727-4564 if you have any questions. Thank you and looking forward to seeing you in December! Francine Kershaw & Howard C. Rosenbaum Integrating genetics into the Important Marine Mammal Area (IMMA) identification process This workshop aims to address the following question: How can we integrate genetic information into spatial planning tools to support the identification of IMMAs? Genetic information has the potential to be highly informative in the application of the criteria employed to identify Important Marine Mammal Areas (IMMAs) in a manner that complements and enhances existing approaches based in biodiversity metrics, habitat maps, satellite telemetry studies, and expert opinion. Therefore, there is a significant need to ensure this data is considered in a systematic way during the IMMA identification process. It is the goal of this workshop to examine how genetic data for marine mammals can be visualized geospatially to support the identification of IMMAs using the marine spatial planning tool SeaSketch. Developing an approach for integrating genetics into spatial planning for marine mammals also poses a series of unique considerations. For example, many species are highly mobile, are often only sampled in parts of their geographic range, and display a range of life history behaviors that may result in complex genetic population patterns. The second part of this workshop will focus on developing recommendations on how these issues can be clearly communicated to planners to ensure that genetic data are correctly interpreted when being used for IMMA identification. FRANCINE KERSHAW, PH.D. Marine Mammals Science Fellow NATURAL RESOURCES DEFENSE COUNCIL 40 W 20TH STREET NEW YORK, NY 10011 T 212.727.4564 c 917.450.0994 FKERSHAW at NRDC.ORG NRDC.ORG https://columbia.academia.edu/francinekershaw Howard C. Rosenbaum, Ph.D. Director Ocean Giants Program Global Conservation Programs Wildlife Conservation Society 2300 Southern Blvd. Bronx, New York 10460 USA Phone: 718-220-5184 FAX: 718-364-4275 email: hrosenbaum at wcs.org web: http://www.wcs.org/saving-wildlife/ocean-giants.aspx -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From abarreto at univali.br Thu Aug 6 11:00:26 2015 From: abarreto at univali.br (Andre Silva Barreto) Date: Thu, 6 Aug 2015 18:00:26 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication: Evidence of Positive Selection of Aquaporins Genes from Pontoporia blainvillei during the Evolutionary Process of Cetaceans Message-ID: <5DA9ED3B13606E4BAC729B39EC4F7C2601525598@SIAIMAIL11.univali.br> Dear MARMAMers, We are pleased to announce the following publication: Evidence of Positive Selection of Aquaporins Genes from Pontoporia blainvillei during the Evolutionary Process of Cetaceans S?o Pedro SL, Alves JMP, Barreto AS, Lima AOdS (2015) Evidence of Positive Selection of Aquaporins Genes from Pontoporia blainvillei during the Evolutionary Process of Cetaceans. PLoS ONE 10(7): e0134516. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0134516 Published: July 30, 2015 Abstract Marine mammals are well adapted to their hyperosmotic environment. Several morphological and physiological adaptations for water conservation and salt excretion are known to be present in cetaceans, being responsible for regulating salt balance. However, most previous studies have focused on the unique renal physiology of marine mammals, but the molecular bases of these mechanisms remain poorly explored. Many genes have been identified to be involved in osmotic regulation, including the aquaporins. Considering that aquaporin genes were potentially subject to strong selective pressure, the aim of this study was to analyze the molecular evolution of seven aquaporin genes (AQP1, AQP2, AQP3, AQP4, AQP6, AQP7, and AQP9) comparing the lineages of cetaceans and terrestrial mammals. Our results demonstrated strong positive selection in cetacean-specific lineages acting only in the gene for AQP2 (amino acids 23, 83, 107,179, 180, 181, 182), whereas no selection was observed in terrestrial mammalian lineages. We also analyzed the changes in the 3D structure of the aquaporin 2 protein. Signs of strong positive selection in AQP2 sites 179, 180, 181, and 182 were unexpectedly identified only in the baiji lineage, which was the only river dolphin examined in this study. Positive selection in aquaporins AQP1 (45), AQP4 (74), AQP7 (342, 343, 356) was detected in cetaceans and artiodactyls, suggesting that these events are not related to maintaining water and electrolyte homeostasis in seawater. Our results suggest that the AQP2 gene might reflect different selective pressures in maintaining water balance in cetaceans, contributing to the passage from the terrestrial environment to the aquatic. Further studies are necessary, especially those including other freshwater dolphins, who exhibit osmoregulatory mechanisms different from those of marine cetaceans for the same essential task of maintaining serum electrolyte balance. The paper is open access at the link above. Sincerely, Andr? Barreto ________________________________ Dr. Andr? S. Barreto Website: http://libgeo.acad.univali.br Google Scholar Profile / ResearchID Lab. de Inform?tica da Biodiversidade e Geoprocessamento Setor D6, Sala 215 / CTTMar, UNIVALI R. Uruguai, 458 - CEP 88302-901 - Itaja?/SC - Brasil Fone: 47-33417960 - FAX: 47-33417715 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From Arnaud.Mosnier at dfo-mpo.gc.ca Fri Aug 7 08:31:56 2015 From: Arnaud.Mosnier at dfo-mpo.gc.ca (Mosnier, Arnaud) Date: Fri, 7 Aug 2015 15:31:56 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication: beluga population dynamics and Bayesian integrated model Message-ID: <690D6AE9A1CBE64CB3BF4345465EC5A417C7A827@SVONKENMBX03.ENT.dfo-mpo.ca> Dear MARMAM members, My co-authors and I would like to announce the publication of a paper describing population dynamics of St Lawrence beluga using a Bayesian integrated model. A. Mosnier, T. Doniol-Valcroze, J.-F. Gosselin, V. Lesage, L.N. Measures, M.O. Hammill. 2015. Insights into processes of population decline using an integrated population model: The case of the St. Lawrence Estuary beluga (Delphinapterus leucas). Ecological Modelling 314, 15-31. Abstract: Integrated population models combine data from several sources into a single model to allow the simultaneous estimation of demographic parameters and the prediction of population trajectories. They are especially useful when survey data alone are insufficient to estimate precise vital rates and abundance, and to understand mechanisms of population growth and decline. The St. Lawrence Estuary (SLE) beluga population was depleted by intensive hunting over the past century, and had declined to 1000 individuals or less when it was afforded protection in 1979. Despite protective measures, the SLE population has shown no signs of recovery. Low abundance estimates and high calf mortalities observed in recent years have raised concerns as to its current status. An age-structured Bayesian model was used to describe population dynamics by integrating information from two different monitoring programs. The model included information on population size and proportion of young (<2 years-old) obtained from seven photographic aerial surveys flown between 1990 and 2009, and mortalities documented annually by a carcass monitoring program maintained from 1983 to 2012. Results suggest that the population was stable or slightly increasing from the end of the 1960s until the early 2000s when it numbered approximately 1000 belugas. The population then declined to 889 individuals (95%CI 672?1167) in 2012. Although neither dataset on its own could explain this decline, the integrated model was able to shed light on the internal processes involved. Results suggest substantial changes in population dynamics and age structure, moving from a stable period (1984?1998) characterized by a 3-year calving cycle and a population composed of 7.5% newborns and 42% immature individuals, to an unstable state (1999?2012) characterized by a 2-year calving cycle, high newborn mortality and a declining proportion of newborns and immatures (respectively, 6 and 33% in 2012). Independent indices of abundance, population age structure and calf production match model predictions, thus increasing our confidence in its conclusions. The lack of recovery, high adult mortality (6%) and highly variable newborn survival further increase concerns about this population. The article is available in Open Access at: http://authors.elsevier.com/sd/article/S0304380015003129 Best regards, ------------------------- Arnaud Mosnier Biologiste / Biologist, Ph.D. Biologie et conservation des mammif?res marins / Marine mammal biology and conservation T?l : (418) 775-0651 arnaud.mosnier at dfo-mpo.gc.ca P?ches et Oc?ans 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 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From caceres.saez at gmail.com Fri Aug 7 10:00:15 2015 From: caceres.saez at gmail.com (=?UTF-8?B?SXJpcyBDw6FjZXJlcy1TYWV6?=) Date: Fri, 7 Aug 2015 14:00:15 -0300 Subject: [MARMAM] New paper on Mercury and Selenium in Commerson's dolphins Message-ID: Dear Colleagues, We finally be able to share our new paper with you (published in *Chemosphere*): *The skin of Commerson's dolphins (Cephalorhynchus commersonii**) as a biomonitor of mercury and selenium in Subantarctic waters.* C?CERES-SAEZ I, GOODALL RNP, DELLABIANCA NA, CAPPOZZO HL, RIBEIRO GUEVARA S. 2015. *Chemosphere* 138: 735-743. *Abstract:* The skin of bycaught Commerson?s dolphins was tested for mercury (Hg) and selenium (Se) biomonitoring in Subantarctic environments. The correlation of levels detected in the skin with those found in internal tissues ? lung, liver, kidney and muscle ? was assessed to evaluate how skin represents internal Hg and Se distribution for monitoring purposes. Mercury in skin had a concentration range of 0.68?3.11 ?g g?1 dry weight (DW), while Se had a higher concentration range of 74.3?124.5 ?g g?1 DW. There was no significant correlation between selenium levels in any of the analyzed tissues. Thus, the skin selenium concentration did not reflect the tissular Se levels and did not provide information for biomonitoring. The lack of correlation is explained by the biological role of Se, provided that each tissue regulates Se levels according to physiological needs. However, the skin Hg level had significant positive correlation with the levels in internal tissues (ANOVA p < 0.05), particularly with that of muscle (R2 = 0.79; ANOVA p = 0.0008). Thus, this correlation permits the estimation of Hg content in muscle based on the multiplication of skin biopsy levels by a factor of 1.85. Mercury bioindication using skin biopsies is a non-lethal approach that allows screening of a large number of specimens with little disturbance and makes possible an adequate sampling strategy that produces statistically valid results in populations and study areas. The correlation between Hg levels in the skin and internal tissues supports the use of the epidermis of Commerson?s dolphins for Hg biomonitoring in the waters of the Subantarctic, which is a poorly studied region regarding Hg levels, sources and processes. Please, contact with us if you like further information and/or a pdf copy. *I would like to dedicate this work to the memory of my advisor RNP Goodall, for her valuable contribution to my studies, and even more to our lives.* Best wishes, Iris -- Dra. C?ceres-Saez Iris Laboratorio de Ecolog?a, Comportamiento y Mam?feros Marinos Divisi?n Mastozoolog?a, ?rea Zoolog?a de Vertebrados Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales "Bernardino Rivadavia" - CONICET Av. ?ngel Gallardo 470 C1405DJR Buenos Aires, ARGENTINA TEL: +54-11-4982-9410 / 6670 (Int. 211) FAX: +54-11-4982-5243 / 4494 *caceres-saez at macn.gov.ar * Museo Acatush?n de Aves y Mam?feros Australes Ea. Harberton, Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, ARGENTINA -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From Hannah.Lloyd at environment.nsw.gov.au Thu Aug 6 18:19:49 2015 From: Hannah.Lloyd at environment.nsw.gov.au (Hannah Lloyd) Date: Fri, 7 Aug 2015 01:19:49 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New Publication: Long-term trends in cetacean incidents in NSW, Australia (Hannah Lloyd) Message-ID: <3B45D1D1BC958F42A43BEAAA9C772E6DBAF69ED8@LIDCOEX03.dec.int> Dear MARMAM, We are pleased to announce the following publication on long-term trends in cetacean incidents in NSW: Hannah Lloyd & Geoffrey Ross. 2015. Long-term trends in cetacean incidents in New South Wales, Australia. Australian Zoologist. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/280734003_Long-term_trends_in_cetacean_incidents_in_New_South_Wales_Australia Abstract: This study provides an account of cetacean incidents in New South Wales, Australia. Incidents comprise reports of carcasses, injured and debilitated animals found stranded onshore, entrapped in shallow water, entangled or floating offshore. Marine mammal incidents were reported to the New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service (NSW NPWS) and recorded into the NSW NPWS Marine Fauna Events Database. Cetacean incident data was used to look for trends in cetacean mortality and debilitation, and baseline information on population dynamics including age and sex ratios. The database contains 891 cetacean records between 1790 and 2013. There were 33 cetacean species reported into the database, consistent with the known species richness of cetaceans in NSW waters. Incidents were categorised into one of 14 types. The cause of mortality or morbidity could not be established for the majority of cases. However, more incidents were related to anthropogenic causes (e.g. entanglements, vessel strike) than natural causes (e.g. disease, calf mortality). The largest known cause of incidents was entangled cetaceans (134 individuals), most of which were Humpback Whales caught in fishing gear. The results of this study highlight the utility of cetacean incident data for monitoring changing population dynamics and quantifying the magnitude of key threatening processes. Improved consistency in reporting over time has greatly improved the value of the database as a conservation monitoring tool. Kind Regards, Hannah Lloyd Biodiversity and Wildlife | NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service | Office of Environment and Heritage E: h.lloyd.30 at gmail.com ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- This email is intended for the addressee(s) named and may contain confidential and/or privileged information. If you are not the intended recipient, please notify the sender and then delete it immediately. Any views expressed in this email are those of the individual sender except where the sender expressly and with authority states them to be the views of the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage. PLEASE CONSIDER THE ENVIRONMENT BEFORE PRINTING THIS EMAIL -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From kev.robinson at crru.org.uk Fri Aug 7 08:41:00 2015 From: kev.robinson at crru.org.uk (Dr Kevin Robinson) Date: Fri, 7 Aug 2015 16:41:00 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] Places still remaining on our Sep field teams with the CRRU in Scotland Message-ID: <004b01d0d127$78a45630$69ed0290$@robinson@crru.org.uk> "Whales and dolphins of the Moray Firth" field training programme We still have several unfilled places available on the following September field teams this summer: ? Team IX: 7 Sep - 17 Sep ? Team X: 21 Sep - 1 Oct The CRRU courses are run in the form of a training / educational internship in cetacean research and conservation, with formal lectures, seminars and presentations by the research team and practical training in field methodologies and data collection at sea and tools used in the analysis of long-term field datasets. To find out more about our courses, please visit www.crru.org.uk/join_the_team.asp for further details (scroll to the foot of this page for video links about volunteering). To view/download our publications and reports, please visit www.crru.org.uk/publications.asp The cost for an 11 day internship in 2015 is 895 GBP, and this will cover you for full board (all your accommodation and food costs), your full equipment needs and ALL associated field costs during your stay with us in the heritage fishing village of Gardenstown in Banff. You'll simply need to arrange your own travel itinerary to us in Banffshire, northeast Scotland (nearest airport Dyce, Aberdeen, approx. 1? hours from the field base by coach) plus any personal spending money. To receive our full project briefing and application/booking form or if you have any questions or inquiries, please email us at info at crru.org.uk with the subject CRRU Summer Internship Enquiry" and we will get back to you at our very soonest convenience We look forward to hearing from you On behalf of the CRRU team, with all best wishes Dr. Kevin Robinson Director, CRRU kev.robinson at crru.org.uk Cetacean Research & Rescue Unit, PO Box 11307, Banff, AB45 3WB, Scotland, UK | ( +44 (0)1261 851696 | www.crru.org.uk Whale and Dolphin Research | Environmental Educational Outreach | Marine Wildlife Rescue | Consultancy | MMO Services WDC on Facebook WDC on Twitter http://static.wixstatic.com/media/f81288cef4de8223015ce3dabe23a0c4.png_srz_p _50_50_75_22_0.50_1.20_0.00_png_srz Recognised Scottish Charity No. SC 035473 _________________________________________________________________________ Homepage www.jiscmail.ac.uk/ECS-TALK How to join/leave the ECS-TALK list, how to obtain a Listserv Password, how to post a message to the list, what to do when going on Holiday? http://www.jiscmail.ac.uk/help/using/quickuser.htm gives the answers to these and more questions! -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 1189 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image002.png Type: image/png Size: 1919 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image005.png Type: image/png Size: 977 bytes Desc: not available URL: From lkloepper at saintmarys.edu Fri Aug 7 09:59:24 2015 From: lkloepper at saintmarys.edu (Laura Kloepper) Date: Fri, 7 Aug 2015 12:59:24 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] New Publication: Support for the beam focusing hypothesis in the false killer whale Message-ID: Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to announce the publication of the following in The Journal of Experimental Biology: "Support for the beam focusing hypothesis in the false killer whale" by Laura N. Kloepper, John R. Buck, Adam B. Smith, Alexander Ya. Supin, Jason E. Gaudette and Paul E. Nachtigall, J Exp Biol, 218, 2455-2462. This publication is a follow-up to our 2012 JEB paper in which we demonstrated active focusing in the false killer whale, and provides further support to the focusing hypothesis we proposed in that paper. In our 2012 paper we demonstrated the false killer whale narrowed its sonar beam when the target was further away, and we are pleased to see that many of our colleagues have recently documented this in other odontocete species. This new paper in JEB provides further insight into this focusing hypothesis, demonstrating that the sonar beam has a narrower beamwidth and higher intensity at distance that what would be predicted by spreading losses alone. The abstract is listed below, but for pdf requests please contact lkloepper at saintmarys.edu. Abstract: The odontocete sound production system is complex and composed of tissues, air sacs and a fatty melon. Previous studies suggested that the emitted sonar beam might be actively focused, narrowing depending on target distance. In this study, we further tested this beam focusing hypothesis in a false killer whale. Using three linear arrays of hydrophones, we recorded the same emitted click at 2, 4 and 7 m distance and calculated the beamwidth, intensity, center frequency and bandwidth as recorded on each array at every distance. If the whale did not focus her beam, acoustics predicts the intensity would decay with range as a function of spherical spreading and the angular beamwidth would remain constant. On the contrary, our results show that as the distance from the whale to the array increases, the beamwidth is narrower and the received click intensity is higher than that predicted by a spherical spreading function. Each of these measurements is consistent with the animal focusing her beam on a target at a given range. These results support the hypothesis that the false killer whale is ?focusing? its sonar beam, producing a narrower and more intense signal than that predicted by spherical spreading. -- Dr. Laura Kloepper Assistant Professor Department of Biology Saint Mary's College Notre Dame, IN 46556 lkloepper at saintmarys.edu -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From pjndebruyn at zoology.up.ac.za Fri Aug 7 03:35:52 2015 From: pjndebruyn at zoology.up.ac.za (Nico de Bruyn) Date: Fri, 7 Aug 2015 12:35:52 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] Original Art & Killer whale research collaboration Message-ID: Following the success of our earlier seal related collaboration (http://www.marionseals.com/art), renowned and award winning wildlife artist, Vincent Reid, is again collaborating with the Marion Island Marine Mammal Programme (MIMMP) to create awareness and support for killer whale research and conservation efforts. He has sponsored a large proportion of the proceeds of this magnificent killer whale original artwork to be auctioned for these purposes. http://www.marionkillerwhales.com/news/2015/8/3/own-stunning-original-killer-whale-art-by-renowned-artist Own this unique art and help the wild killer whales in an isolated pocket of our great Southern Ocean! Don't miss this opportunity, place your bid now - bidding closes at midnight SAST on 30 August 2015. Kind wishes, Nico -- P.J.N. (Nico) de Bruyn, PhD Mammal Research Institute Department of Zoology & Entomology University of Pretoria South Africa Tel (w): +27 (0)12 420 2058 Fax (w): +27 (0)12 420 2534 Cell: +27 (0)827461203 www.marionseals.com http://www.up.ac.za/zoology/?q=user/137/research ** --Calvin: You can't just turn on creativity like a faucet. You have to be in the right mood. --Hobbes: What mood is that? --Calvin: Last-minute panic. (Calvin & Hobbes by Bill Watterson) ** --------------------------------------------------------------------- This message and attachments are subject to a disclaimer. Please refer to http://www.it.up.ac.za/documentation/governance/disclaimer/ for full details. / Hierdie boodskap en aanhangsels is aan 'n vrywaringsklousule onderhewig. Volledige besonderhede is by http://www.it.up.ac.za/documentation/governance/disclaimer/ beskikbaar. From theoni.photopoulou at gmail.com Thu Aug 6 00:51:38 2015 From: theoni.photopoulou at gmail.com (Theoni Photopoulou) Date: Thu, 6 Aug 2015 08:51:38 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication Message-ID: Dear all, We are pleased to announce the publication of our review paper in Animal Biotelemetry. Theoni Photopoulou, Michael A. Fedak, Jason Matthiopoulos, Bernie McConnell and ? ? Phil Lovell ?.? 2015. The generalized data management and collection protocol for Conductivity-Temperature-Depth Satellite Relay Data Loggers ? . Animal Biotelemetry? 3:21 Abstract The software routines for data sampling and processing that are implemented on-board telemetry devices (tags) called Conductivity-Temperature-Depth Satellite Relay Data Loggers (CTD-SRDLs) enable the simultaneous collection of biological and in-situ environmental data by animal-platforms over periods of weeks to months, despite severe energy and bandwidth limitations imposed by their relatively small size. This extended operational lifetime is made possible by the use of software protocols on-board the tags that manage sensors, data collection, storage, compression and transmission to ensure that the most useful data are sent at appropriate resolution while minimizing redundancy. While tag software is tailored to the particular species under study and the questions being addressed with a given field deployment, the philosophy behind Sea Mammal Research Unit Instrumentation Group (SMRU-IG) software protocols is to adopt a general set of principles to achieve the best results within the energy and bandwidth constraints. Here, we discuss these and review the general protocol that is used to simultaneously collect information on geographical movements, diving behaviour and in-situ oceanographic information from marine mammals. ?The article is open access and available online or from me. Kind regards, Theoni? -- Theoni Photopoulou, Postdoctoral Fellow Centre for Statistics in Ecology, Environment and Conservation (SEEC ) Department of Statistical Sciences, University of Cape Town, South Africa skype. theoni_p // email // personal webpage " Be silly. Be honest. Be kind " Ralph Waldo Emerson -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From volunteercoordinator at hwdt.org Fri Aug 7 07:58:20 2015 From: volunteercoordinator at hwdt.org (Volunteer Coordinator) Date: Fri, 7 Aug 2015 15:58:20 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] Exclusive Offer for Sept Cetacean Research Survey in the Hebrides Message-ID: <003d01d0d121$802f3dd0$808db970$@hwdt.org> *SEEKING VOLUNTEERS* Dear All, The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust (HWDT) conducts cetacean surveys throughout our field season from aboard our research yacht (http://www.whaledolphintrust.co.uk/research-Silurian.asp) Silurian. Every year we welcome aboard enthusiastic volunteers who are willing to contribute directly to our research work. Volunteers, in effect, become marine mammal scientists for the duration of the survey; living and working aboard Silurian, assisting with day-to-day running, as well as working together as a team to carry out visual and acoustic surveys. To find out more about the research onboard please follow the link (http://www.whaledolphintrust.co.uk/research-on-silurian.asp). We have produced a short a short video about joining us aboard, please follow the link to watch (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_3r-GKfh8o) Volunteers will assist fully in the collection of data, with mega-fauna and sea bird identification training provided. Acoustic and visual methods are combined to produce comprehensive data sets. During encounters photographs are taken of dorsal fins to try and identify the individual, gaining a better understanding of species movements and interactions with each other. The data collected, and subsequent information produced is essential when monitoring the distribution, relative abundance and habitat preference of cetacean species in the Hebrides. Only with coherent data can effective conservation and management strategies be designed to enable long-term protection of the amazing species found in Hebridean waters. As a volunteer onboard Silurian, you will have the opportunity to see first-hand the amazing variety of marine wildlife the UK has to offer including whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals, sharks and seabirds. You will explore some of the remotest, wildest parts of the British Isles - anchoring each night in a different secluded bay off one of the many Hebridean islands, venturing ashore to explore if you wish. The opportunity to gain sailing experience is also available, although no certificates are issued. Rendezvous location is in Tobermory on the Isle of Mull, where HWDT is based. More information on specific surveys will be provided on request. There is a monetary value attached to participating which includes accommodation (aboard) and food throughout the duration. The income generated allows HWDT to continue this well established research programme, you can be assured that without your contribution the research couldn't be undertaken. 2015 Survey Dates: * 1st - 12th September; ?877.50 (35% off to fill remaining berths) * 22nd - 30th September; ?1,050 ? 5th - 13th October**; ?950 ** Joint Warrior Military Exercise Monitoring Survey (http://www.whaledolphintrust.co.uk/stand_alone.asp?page=militarysurvey.asp) For further information about our surveys please go online to: http://www.whaledolphintrust.co.uk/get-involved-join-us-onboard.asp For Further information about HWDT please go online to: www.hwdt.org Or contact HWDT?s volunteer coordinator Morven Russell Email: volunteercoordinator at hwdt.org Telephone: 01688 302620 Thank you, and hope to see you aboard this season! Morven Russell Volunteer Coordinator Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust 28 Main Street Tobermory Isle of Mull PA75 6NU Tel: 01688 302620 volunteercoordinator at hwdt.org www.hwdt.org Please note my standard working days are Monday, Wednesday and Friday 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 cdmacleod at gisinecology.com Sun Aug 9 11:40:26 2015 From: cdmacleod at gisinecology.com (Colin D. MacLeod) Date: Sun, 9 Aug 2015 19:40:26 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] Upcoming Training Course: QGIS For Biologists, September 2015 Message-ID: <66EB0939A9E342FDA53B04C44757AFA0@House1> Training Course - A Introduction To Using QGIS In Biological Research GIS In Ecology will be holding an introductory training course for those who wish to learn how to use the free, open-source GIS software QGIS (also known as Quantum GIS) in all aspects of biological research. The course will be held in Glasgow on the 28th and 29th of Sepember 2015, and it will be taught by Dr. Colin D. MacLeod, who has more than 15 years experience in using GIS for a wide variety of biological purposes. This course is aimed at those just starting to use GIS in their research and who have little or no existing knowledge of this subject area, those who are looking for a free, open source GIS solution for their biological research, and at existing users of commercial GIS software, such as ArcGIS, who wish to learn how to do GIS using QGIS software. Attendance will be limited to a maximum of 15 people, and the course will cost ?295 per person (?200 for students, the unwaged and those working for registered charities). To book a place, or for more information, contact info at GISinEcology.com. To attend this course, you must bring your own laptop computer and have a working copy of QGIS 2.6 pre-installed on it. You can find information about how to get this software package by searching QGIS in any web browser. At the end of the course, all attendees will receive a certificate of attendance and completion. Glasgow has great transport links and is within half a days travel by car or by fast train links from most cities in the UK. For example, it can be reached in as little as 4h 30mins from London by train. It can also be reached by direct flights from many European cities and the flight time is generally under four hours. The course will be held in central Glasgow at the IET Glasgow Teacher Building (14 St Enoch Square, Glasgow, G1 4DB, UK). Attendees will be responsible for their own accommodation. However, Glasgow provides a wide range of accommodation options to fit most budgets. ================================================================================== GIS IN ECOLOGY - Providing Training, Advice And Consultancy On The Use Of GIS In Ecology Web: www.GISinEcology.com Email: info at GISinEcology.com Need to ask a question about using GIS? Try the GIS In Ecology Forum: www.GISinEcology.com/GIS_in_Ecology_forum.htm Books From GIS In Ecology Staff: An Introduction To Using GIS In Marine Biology; RRP: ?44.99 An Introduction To Using GIS In Marine Biology: Supplementary Workbook One - Creating Maps Of Species Distribution; RRP: ?19:99 An Introduction To Using GIS In Marine Biology: Supplementary Workbook Two - Working With Raster Data Layers; RRP: ?19.99 If you wish to purchase these books, visit: http://www.gisinecology.com/Book_Shop.htm To help the environment, please do not print out this email unless it is unavoidable. ================================================================================== --- This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. https://www.avast.com/antivirus -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From hlgis3m at gmail.com Mon Aug 10 02:21:16 2015 From: hlgis3m at gmail.com (=?UTF-8?B?SMOpbMOobmUgTGFiYWNo?=) Date: Mon, 10 Aug 2015 11:21:16 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] Registration for the international Workshop on Bottlenose dolphin in the NW Mediterranean Sea Message-ID: Dear all, Registration is now opened for the international workshop on "Bottlenose dolphin conservation and monitoring in the North-Western Mediterranean Sea" that will be held on the *01 & 02 December 2015* at the Villa M?diterran?e, in *Marseille *(France). Experts, scientists, managers, institutional bodies are welcomed to share and discuss expertise, knowledge, issues, and challenges on: Ecology and monitoring ; Strategies of conservation ; Measures of conservation and Networking. Cost for the two days workshop : 50? *To register* go to http://www.gdegem.org/registration Remember *abstracts *submission deadline is the* 31st of August 2015*. For more information please visit http://www.gdegem.org/international- workshop or contact us at workshop at gis3m.org We look forward to seeing you in Marseille! -- H?l?ne LABACH Coordinatrice, Charg?e de projets / Coordinator, Project manager GIS3M - Groupement d'Int?r?t Scientifique pour les Mammif?res Marins de M?diterran?e et leur environnement www.gis3m.org / www.facebook.com/GISMMM Le Kalliste B?t B4, 1 avenue Cl?ment Monnier, 13960 Sausset-les-pins, France Tel : +33(0)953929263, Mob :+33 (0)6.36.50.03.03 Email : *hlgis3m at gmail.com* , Skype : labhel13 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From Kate.Smith at cyfoethnaturiolcymru.gov.uk Mon Aug 10 02:10:00 2015 From: Kate.Smith at cyfoethnaturiolcymru.gov.uk (Smith, Kate) Date: Mon, 10 Aug 2015 09:10:00 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New NRW report on guidance for marine mammal surveying requirements at wave and tidal stream energy sites in Wales Message-ID: Sent on behalf of Ceri Morris, Marine Mammal Specialist, Natural Resources Wales Dear Colleagues, We would like to announce the recent publication: Sparling C, Smith K, Benjamins S, Wilson B, Gordon J, Stringell T, Morris C, Hastie G, Thompson D & Pomeroy P 2015: Guidance to inform marine mammal site characterisation requirements at wave and tidal stream energy sites in Wales NRW Evidence Report Series Report No: 82, 87pp, Natural Resources Wales, Bangor. Natural Resources Wales working with SMRU Consulting, Sea Mammal Research Unit and the Scottish Association of Marine Sciences have recently published a new set of guidance on marine mammal surveying requirements at wave and tidal stream energy sites in Wales. This report now provides a framework for assessing risk to marine mammals from wave and tidal stream developments and provides guidance on how to tailor surveys to provide better information for impact assessments. The report can be downloaded free here: http://www.naturalresources.wales/our-evidence-and-reports/guidance-to-inform-marine-mammal-site-characterisation-requirements-at-wave-and-tidal-stream-energy-sites-in-wales/?lang=en Best wishes, Kate ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Dr Kate Smith Ymgynghorydd Ynni Adnewyddadwy Morol / Marine Renewable Energy Advisor Cyfoeth Naturiol Cymru / Natural Resources Wales Tel: 0300 065 4894 Mob: 07990 571 433 kate.smith at cyfoethnaturiolcymru.gov.uk / kate.smith at naturalresourceswales.gov.uk www.cyfoethnaturiolcymru.gov.uk / www.naturalresourceswales.gov.uk Ein debin yw sicrhau bod adnoddau naturiol Cymru yn cael eu cynnal, eu gwella a'u defnyddio yn gynaliadwy, yn awr ac yn y dyfodol Our purpose is to ensure that the natural resources of Wales are sustainably maintained, enhanced and used, now and in the future -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From hpeltier at univ-lr.fr Mon Aug 10 04:24:22 2015 From: hpeltier at univ-lr.fr (=?UTF-8?B?SMOpbMOobmUgUGVsdGllcg==?=) Date: Mon, 10 Aug 2015 13:24:22 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] new article on stranding interpretation Message-ID: <55C889E6.2010101@univ-lr.fr> Dear colleagues, We are glad to inform you that following article was recently published in Environmental Science and Policy. Peltier & Ridoux, 2015. MARINE MEGAVERTEBRATES ADRIFT: A FRAMEWORK FOR THE INTERPRETATION OF STRANDING DATA IN PERSPECTIVE OF THE EUROPEAN MARINE STRATEGY FRAMEWORK DIRECTIVE AND OTHER REGIONAL AGREEMENTS. Abstract: For many species of marine megafauna, strandings remain the most important source of biological samples. Because of their opportunistic nature however, strandings data have long been under- or misused in the assessment of population conservation status. Even if many national and international regulations promote the use of strandings in monitoring strategies, the interpretation of strandings remains controversial. The aim of this study is to provide a context for the interpretation of marine megafauna stranding data, in order to assess the achievement of specific objectives against Good Environmental Status criteria in the context of the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive or other regional agreements. The first step is to construct an a priori spatial distribution under a null hypothesis H0. The a priori spatial distribution of theoretical dead animals can either be set uniformly, consistent with current knowledge on abundance of marine vertebrates, or based on management objectives. The drift prediction of these theoretical carcasses would provide a time series of strandings expected under the null hypothesis. The reverse drift of observed strandings would highlight mortality areas of stranded animals. The correction of these areas by the probability of getting stranded according to drift conditions would provide an estimated distribution of dead animals inferred from strandings. The differences between expected and observed situations constitute anomalies and highlight cases where inferred distribution departs from the a priori spatial distribution. This work proposes several population indicators that can be used anywhere in the world and can be applied for all large marine vertebrates found stranded. The integration of these indicators in MSFD and various regional agreements could provide cost-effective and relevant information on protected species. In the context of impaired ecological situations, the complementary use of several population indicators could strengthen the diagnosis made regarding conservation status and hence conservation strategies. King regards, Helene Peltier Marine megavertebrates adrift: A framework for the interpretation of stranding data in perspective of the European Marine Strategy Framework Directive and other regional agreements -- Helene PELTIER, phD Observatoire PELAGIS, UMS 3462 CNRS/Universit? La Rochelle 5 all?es de l'oc?an 17000 LA ROCHELLE, FRANCE office: +33 5 16 49 67 82 cell phone: +33 6 82 74 08 41 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From ivlarkin at ufl.edu Mon Aug 10 06:03:42 2015 From: ivlarkin at ufl.edu (Larkin,Iskande (Iske)) Date: Mon, 10 Aug 2015 13:03:42 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Reminder: UF - Fall Aquatic Animal Conservation Issues Course Message-ID: <35fe70003dec428e9911f775d9032c18@AHC-EXCH08.ad.ufl.edu> Hi All, Just a reminder that the University of Florida, College of Veterinary Medicine, Aquatic Animal Health Program is offering an exciting online course in the upcoming Fall semester that is specifically geared towards those interested in Aquatic Animal Health. This course has registration options for undergraduate students, graduate students and as continuing education for the professional or practitioner. Fall class (2015) Aquatic Animal Conservation Issues is an online course (3 credits) that runs August 24 - December 9, 2015 and is designed to introduce students (upper level undergraduate and graduate) and professionals (with an AA or higher degree) to the controversial issues surrounding aquatic animal species ranging from invertebrates to marine mammals, with an emphasis on marine mammals, but also including sea turtles, fisheries, and marine ecosystems. More information can be found here: (http://aquatic.vetmed.ufl.edu/education/courses/distance-learning-courses/aquatic-animal-conservation-issues/ ) For questions about the class or enrollment, contact Jeffrey Hendel (hendelj at ufl.edu) or Dr Iske Larkin (ivlarkin at ufl.edu ) if you are interested in taking one of the classes, registration is now open for the Fall term (2015). Best, Jeffrey Hendel Distance Education Program Assistant University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine [Description: AAH logo blue E-Mail Sig] Iske V. Larkin, PhD Lecturer & Education Coordinator Aquatic Animal Health Program Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine University of Florida PO Box 100136 2015 SW 16th Ave Gainesville, Florida 32610 For packages 32608 Office phone - 352-294-4095 Work cell - 352-494-1742 Fax - 352-392-8289 Program web page: http://aquatic.vetmed.ufl.edu/ ________________________________ Please note that Florida has a broad public records law, and that all correspondence to or from University of Florida employees via email may be subject to disclosure. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 5062 bytes Desc: image001.jpg URL: From stephanie at marine-med.com Tue Aug 11 16:05:50 2015 From: stephanie at marine-med.com (Stephanie Norman) Date: Tue, 11 Aug 2015 16:05:50 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] SMM conference travel grants for Pacific Northwest students Message-ID: The American Cetacean Society-Puget Sound Chapter (ACS/PS) would like to encourage local student participation in the Society for Marine Mammalogy's *21st Biennial Conference on the Biology of Marine Mammals* (San Francisco, California, 13-18 December 2015) by offering travel grants for ACS Student Members. *Three* student travel grants ($500 each) will be selected by *lottery system* from all eligible applications received by the *Friday, 28 August 2015 *deadline. *One (1) grant will be restricted to research related to acoustics or hearing in cetacean populations occurring within the waters of Alaska, Oregon, Washington, or British Columbia* *Two (2) grants will be open for any type of research in cetaceans within the waters of Alaska, Oregon, Washington, or British Columbia* *To qualify for this grant, you need to:* 1. Make sure you are a current ACS member at the time of submission. Application for membership to ACS may be completed at the following website: http://acsonline.org/support-acs/become-member/ 1. Be currently enrolled as a student at a recognized academic institution. 2. Be first author on an accepted oral or poster presentation. 3. Register for the conference by the early registration deadline ( www.marinemammalscience.org). 4. Currently reside and study within the *Pacific Northwest* region of the US or Canada (WA, OR, AK, or British Columbia). *To apply:* 1. Submit a title and abstract (as submitted and accepted by the Society for Marine Mammalogy). 2. Give your name and school affiliation. 3. E-mail your application to: acspsgrants at acspugetsound.org Note: As an awardee, you will be asked to present your poster or oral talk at a future ACS/PS general meeting in Seattle, or provide a summary report of your poster/spoken presentation for possible inclusion in future ACS publications. *The student travel grant application period closes Friday 28 August 2015 (11:59pm PST)!* Notification of the student travel grant awards will be made by Friday, 4 September 2015. IMPORTANT: If you are selected for an award, you will need to make sure you register for the conference by the end of the early registration period (30 September 2015) or the award will be given to someone else. For questions or to submit your application, contact Dr. Stephanie Norman, ACS/PS Grants Chair: acspsgrants at acspugetsound.org Thank you, Stephanie Stephanie A. Norman, DVM, MS, PhD Marine-Med: Marine Research, Epidemiology, and Veterinary Medicine 206-321-0249 Web: www.marine-med.com E-mail: stephanie at marine-med.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From bmcgovern100 at gmail.com Tue Aug 11 06:48:09 2015 From: bmcgovern100 at gmail.com (Barry McGovern) Date: Tue, 11 Aug 2015 14:48:09 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] Namibian Dolphin Project Message-ID: The Namibian Dolphin Project (NDP) is looking for volunteers from September to November/December 2015 to help conduct cetacean research in Walvis Bay, Namibia. Walvis Bay is home to two resident populations of dolphin; Heaviside?s and bottlenose, other cetacean species regularly occur in the bay but the majority of data collected concerns these two species. Volunteers are expected to work ~ 30 hours per week and will help conduct vessel-based cetacean surveys (1 per week), strandings surveys and land based bird surveys. The option to conduct surveys on dolphin watching tour boats also occurs on occasion. The majority of time will also be spent in the office processing/analysing photo-ID and acoustic data while manning the public education centre. Requirements: Applicants should be enrolled in, or hold, a bachelor?s degree, or have sufficient work experience in a related field (biology, zoology, oceanography, marine biology, environmental sciences, animal sciences, veterinary medicine, etc.). Volunteers must be experienced in MS Office, be self-motivated and responsible, able to work independently, have good organizational and communication skills and perform as part of a team. The position is a great opportunity for students or recent graduates to join dedicated scientists who are conducting cetacean research in a dynamic and poorly studied area. As part of this program, volunteers are extremely important members of the team and will be immersed in all aspects of the project. They will gain experience in a range of field and analytical techniques relevant to marine mammal research. To cover accommodation, food and training costs, there is a monthly cost associated with this position. To apply, or for further information, please send a CV and a cover letter outlining why you are interested, your relevant experience and your dates of availability to Barry McGovern on nam.dolphin.edu at gmail.com. Please include ?NDP Volunteer? in the subject heading. Places are limited so preference will be given to volunteers who can commit to longer time periods. Thanks, Barry McGovern -- Barry McGovern Namibian Dolphin Project, PO Box 5209, Walvis Bay, Namibia Phone: +264 81 236 0858 (Mob Namibia) +353 85 826 8786 (Mob Ireland) www.namibiandolphinproject.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From ocrab at rcn.com Wed Aug 12 08:03:55 2015 From: ocrab at rcn.com (Susan Barco) Date: Wed, 12 Aug 2015 11:03:55 -0400 (EDT) Subject: [MARMAM] Job Announcement - Stranding Response Coordinator please post Message-ID: <1816674956.32228757.1439391835943.JavaMail.root@rcn.com> The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is seeking a full-time Stranding Response Coordinator for its nationally recognized Stranding Response Program. Program staff and volunteers respond to approximately 100 marine mammal stranding events and 200-250 sea turtle stranding events each year in Virginia. Most of the responses involve dead strandings and necropsy investigations, but the Aquarium's Marine Animal Care center is an active rehabilitation center for?sea turtles and can rehabilitate pinnipeds.?On occasion,?we have also provided triage for small cetaceans. The Stranding Response Coordinator will supervise four full time and one or more hourly staff as well as volunteers, fellows?and interns and will be responsible for managing budgets for?grants and contracts associated with the Program. Funding for the program is primarily through donations, grants and contracts and the Stranding Response Coordinator will be expected to apply for grants, seek contractual agreements?and participate in fundraising efforts. The Stranding Response Coordinator is supervised by the director of Research?& Conservation and works closely with the Research Coordinator. Interested parties please apply through the City of Virginia Beach's WAVE application portal. The formal job title is Senior Curator-Stranding Response Coordinator. If applying, please make sure that you include all pertinent information on the application and not rely on attachments such as CVs and resumes. A link is provided below.?This is a City of Virginia Beach position and benefits are provided. If you have questions about the position, please contact Sue Barco at sgbarco at virginiaaquarium.com . ? https://www.vbcareers4gov.com/applicants/jsp/shared/frameset/Frameset.jsp?time=1439295380690 ? -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From desray.reeb at boem.gov Wed Aug 12 05:48:06 2015 From: desray.reeb at boem.gov (Reeb, Desray) Date: Wed, 12 Aug 2015 08:48:06 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] Job Vacancy Announcement: Biologist (Marine), GS-0401-12/13 for BOEM's Renewable Energy Program Message-ID: This is a courtesy notice to announce that the following Delegated Examining Unit (DEU) and Merit Promotion (MP) announcement has been posted on USAJOBS: *Biologist (Marine)* GS-0401-12/13 BOEM, Office of Renewable Energy Programs Duty Location: Sterling, VA *BOEM-MMEE-15-EGRD-061 DEU* Hyperlink to USAJOBS: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/412052200 *BOEM-MMEE-15-EGRD-062 MP* Hyperlink to USAJOBS: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/412623400 *Closing Date:* Tuesday, September 1st *APPLICATION INFORMATION:* Applications must be submitted online using the "Apply Online" link from the job announcement in USAJOBS; please follow the "How to Apply" instructions in the announcement. *STATUS APPLICANTS MUST INCLUDE A NOTIFICATION OF PERSONNEL ACTION (SF-50) THAT REFLECTS CAREER OR CAREER CONDITIONAL TENURE. IF YOU FAIL TO INCLUDE A SF-50, YOU WILL BE FOUND INELIGIBLE UNDER MERIT PROMOTION ANNOUNCEMENTS.* Remember to thoroughly review the vacancy announcement and carefully read and follow all instructions. *IMPORTANT:* It is strongly recommended that you use the USAJobs Resume Builder because it was designed to ensure that your resume includes the standard information needed. The Resume Builder is available at https://help.usajobs.gov/index.php/Resume_Builder. *Please note that it is still your responsibility as an applicant to do your primary job searches through USAJOBS, because that is the only official Department if the Interior vacancy distribution system. While we will do our best to send out courtesy e-mail messages in a timely manner, we will not extend vacancy announcements if an employee does not receive/read this message; e.g., employee is on leave, in travel status, etc.* *Randi E. Dean* *Human Resources Specialist* *Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement* *45600 Woodland Road* *Mail Stop: VAE-HRD* *Sterling, VA 20166* *Phone: (703) 787-1426* *Fax: (703) 787-1447* -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From mmsc at verizon.net Wed Aug 12 12:40:22 2015 From: mmsc at verizon.net (MMSC Tech) Date: Wed, 12 Aug 2015 15:40:22 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] Job Posting-Field Stranding Technician Message-ID: <005a01d0d536$bb05bc90$311135b0$@verizon.net> About the MMSC The Marine Mammal Stranding Center is a private non-profit organization in Brigantine, New Jersey that rescues and rehabilitates marine mammals and sea turtles. We are currently the only organization of its kind in NJ, and we cover approximately 1800 miles of coastline. The MMSC was founded by Robert Schoelkopf in 1978, and he and his wife Sheila Dean still act as Director and Co-Director to this day. In 37 years, the MMSC has responded to over 4600 whales, dolphins, seals, and sea turtles. About the Position The MMSC is looking for a full-time Field Stranding Technician. The position involves the daily coordination of the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine mammals and sea turtles. This is a salaried position, and the hours vary. The MMSC responds to strandings 24 hours per day, 365 days per year. Strandings can occur at any time, so applicants must be flexible with their time. Technicians are required to live within a reasonable distance of the MMSC facility in order to respond to strandings quickly and efficiently, and should be prepared to work in all weather conditions. An ideal candidate would be in good physical condition and should be able to lift 50 pounds. A degree in Marine Science or a related field, as well as experience working in an animal care environment is preferred. Applicants must have a valid NJ driver's license or be able to obtain one within 90 days, and keep a clean driving record. The job involves driving a variety of vehicles including vans, pick-up trucks, and box trucks, as well as driving on the beach. Completion of a Boating Safety Course is required, but may be completed after acquiring the position. The ability to multi-task and work well with others is a must! The candidate will be required to collaborate with government agencies and local law enforcement, as well as supervise interns, volunteers, and community service workers. Description of Duties: . Respond to stranding calls and facilitate the transport of both live and deceased animals . Assist in necropsies when necessary including proper documentation and sampling . Prepare fish, perform daily feedings, and distribute medication . Maintain the cleanliness of the facility and equipment . Assist the veterinarian with animal restraint and medical procedures . Complete all required paperwork in a timely manner . Maintain a professional appearance at all times . Interact with the public at stranding locations, while promoting the MMSC mission Please send resume and cover letter to bobschoelkopf at yahoo.com with "Field Stranding Technician Position" in the subject line. For additional information please send an email or contact 609-266-0538. Robert Schoelkopf Founding Director Marine Mammal Stranding Center PO Box 773 3625 Brigantine Blvd. Brigantine, NJ 08203 Phone: 609-266-0538 Fax: 609-266-6300 Web: www.MMSC.org Email: mmsc at verizon.net -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From kraumsuryan at charter.net Thu Aug 13 09:11:37 2015 From: kraumsuryan at charter.net (Kim Raum-Suryan) Date: Thu, 13 Aug 2015 09:11:37 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] SMM2015 Workshop: Lose the Loop: Pinniped Disentanglement and Prevention Message-ID: <000f01d0d5e2$bdcbf550$3963dff0$@charter.net> Hello All, We are pleased to announce that we will be holding a full-day workshop entitled "Lose the Loop: Pinniped Disentanglement and Prevention" at the Biennial Conference in San Francisco on Sunday, December 13th. We encourage anyone working with pinniped entanglement issues to attend. We will start the workshop with individual presentations from a select group of geographically diverse experts. Panelists will present the problem and provide some background, but will focus on attempted disentanglement methods and discuss success/failures/lessons learned. In the afternoon, we will have open group discussions for attendees to share experiences. The primary goal of this workshop will be to discuss methods of pinniped prevention and disentanglement, and to develop strategies to coordinate efforts as we move forward. Please see an overview of the workshop below or on the SMM conference website. Registration: You can register for the workshop through the conference website: https://www.marinemammalscience.org/conference/conference-registration/. The registration fee is US $80.00 prior to September 15th and US $90.00 thereafter. If you have any questions about the workshop, please contact Elizabeth Hogan ehogan at worldanimalprotection.org or Kim Raum-Suryan kraumsuryan at charter.net. Thank you for your consideration and we hope to see you in December! Kim Raum-Suryan and Elizabeth Hogan Lose the Loop: Pinniped Disentanglement and Prevention Subject: Pinniped disentanglement: identifying the problem, methods of prevention, and pinniped rescue/removal of entanglement Date/Time: Sunday, December 13, 2015; 8:30 AM ? 5:30 PM Organizer and contact email: Elizabeth Hogan ( ehogan at worldanimalprotection.org) Description of Proposed Workshop The entanglement of marine mammals in all forms of marine litter, particularly fixed and passive fishing gear, is increasingly recognized as a serious source of human-caused mortality for marine mammal populations. Recent estimates have determined that over 300,000 marine mammals die entangled in fishing gear annually. Recognizing this, the 88 member countries of the International Whaling Commission recently recommended the development of global capacity for understanding, responding to, and ultimately preventing these events, for species conservation and animal welfare as well as human safety and economics. However, there is no comparable global body to organize such response protocols for pinnipeds. Pinniped entanglements take many forms and impact many different species. This workshop will assemble a global group of experts to discuss this issue in order to gain a broad understanding of pinniped entanglement issues around the world, discuss methods of prevention and disentanglement, and develop a strategy to coordinate efforts moving forward. Proposed Panel (depending on availability): Michael Williams (Alaska; fur seals), Marty Haulena/Wendy Szaniszlo (BC Canada; Steller & California sea lions), Kate Savage/Lauri Jemison (Alaska; Steller sea lions), Kim Raum-Suryan (Oregon; California & Steller sea lions), Shawn Johnson (California; Marine Mammal Center), Sue Sayer (Cornwall, United Kingdom; Grey seals), Michelle Barbieri (Hawaii; Hawaiian monk seals), TBA (Australia; Australian fur seals), TBA (South Africa), Elizabeth Hogan (Packing bands). Elizabeth Hogan Campaign Manager for Oceans & Wildlife World Animal Protection Direct: 202-374-7068 Skype: hogan.elizabeth Email: ehogan at worldanimalprotection.org ? Twitter: https://twitter.com/EHHogan -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From lsayigh at whoi.edu Thu Aug 13 11:50:13 2015 From: lsayigh at whoi.edu (Laela Sayigh) Date: Thu, 13 Aug 2015 14:50:13 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] volunteer position In-Reply-To: <54BB34A4.2010409@whoi.edu> References: <5391A084.3030506@st-and.ac.uk> <5395DABD.8040900@whoi.edu> <5436DFE3.8000808@whoi.edu> <54A84B78.2020809@whoi.edu> <54BB34A4.2010409@whoi.edu> Message-ID: <55CCE6E5.9040904@whoi.edu> A position is open for an intern/guest student to work at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution for 4-9 months, starting in the fall and potentially continuing through May. Hours are flexible, and can be part time. Some support is available for travel, but the position is unpaid and the volunteer would need to make their own living arrangements. Responsibilities would include screening of acoustic recordings for marine mammal sounds and data analyses. Applicants with some acoustic analysis experience, and particularly with Matlab and Raven, are especially encouraged. If interested, please email Laela Sayigh (lsayigh at whoi.edu) with your CV, unofficial transcript and the names of two references by September 1. From eagg at uabcs.mx Fri Aug 14 13:46:49 2015 From: eagg at uabcs.mx (=?UTF-8?Q?Enrique_Alejandro_G=C3=B3mez_Gallardo_Unzueta?=) Date: Fri, 14 Aug 2015 14:46:49 -0600 Subject: [MARMAM] SOMEMMA meeting at La Paz MEX May 2016 Message-ID: Dear all We are pleased to aannounce that the XXXV Reuni?n Internacional para el Estudio de los Mam?feros Marinos will be held at the Universidad Aut?noma de Baja California Sur, La Paz, B.C.S., M?XICO from May 1st to 5th of 2016. The theme of our XXXV SOMEMMA Meeting will be "The Acoustics in the Study of Marine Mammals" Organizing Committee Jorge Urb?n R- President Alejandro G?mez Gallardo U. - Secretary Lorena Viloria G. - Executive Secretary Fernando Elorriaga V. - Vocal Fabiola Guerrero - Treasurer Armando Jaramillo L. - Academic Program Aurora Paniagua M. - Students Important Dates Start - Sunday May 1st (ice break & register) ?S essions - Monday 2nd to Thursday 5th of May Closing Dinner - Thursday 5th of May The Organizing Committee is pleased to host this meeting again in La Paz, iconic venue for the study of marine mammals and port that gave birth to our SOMEMMA ?. We hope to provide an event worth our community. More information soon - ?-? Saludos Alejandro G?mez Gallardo U. Programa de Mam?feros Marinos PRIMMA-UABCS Depto. de Biolog?a Marina, Universidad Aut?noma de BCS Carr. al Sur km 5.5 Col. Mezquitito, La Paz, B.C.S. 23080 M?XICO 52 (612) 123 8800 ext. 4120 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From elizabethatchoi at gmail.com Fri Aug 14 01:44:46 2015 From: elizabethatchoi at gmail.com (Elizabeth Atchoi) Date: Fri, 14 Aug 2015 11:44:46 +0300 Subject: [MARMAM] Seeking Volunteers for Marine Mammal Reserach at DMAD Message-ID: ***Seeking Volunteers*** There are new positions available on marine mammal research in the Antalya Bay, Turkey *The Project: Marine Mammals Research Association (DMAD) founded for the purpose of contributing to the scientific knowledge on marine mammals for the conservation and sustainable management of marine biodiversity and increasing the public awareness in the area. Despite the large cetacean biodiversity, there haven?t been any long-term studies on this region. Therefore, the project aims to fulfil the gaps of missing long-term studies in the area by collecting data on cetacean abundance, distribution, behaviour and site fidelity. This project provides an excellent opportunity for post-grads, students and individuals interested in getting more experience and knowledge in the field of marine mammal research. *Requirements: We are looking for enthusiastic, motivated and hard-working individuals to join our team. Minimum commitment is one month, although for a fuller experience we recommend two or more. A biology background is not mandatory but advantageous, as well as an ability to dedicate yourselves to the study. We will be on the field early in the morning or until late in the afternoon, boat trips can be a day long, and there is much data to process and enter. A good level of endurance is necessary as well as the ability to live and work in a multicultural team, sharing the same home. *Your Duties include: Collecting sighting and behavioural data (using binoculars, theodolite and different software?s) both during land and boat surveys Organizing photo-ID catalogue Entering data House cleaning and up keeping duties *Conditions: This position is unpaid and requires a contribution from the volunteers which covers the accommodation and project related activities. Food will be at each one?s responsibility, although in Turkey food isn?t expensive and should be around 75Euro per month or less. The required contribution is of 700euros/month, for people staying longer than 3 months there is a discount price. We have positions available from September onwards. There are only two positions left for September and October, so apply soon if you wish to come in these months. Expect long working days in the field (from 6 to 12 hours per day), and to wake up very early (around 4:30 a.m.). The work will be carried under adverse weather conditions, in the summer: under the sun with very high temperatures (up to 45celcius), in the winter: windy and cold days. The typical week is divided in 3 days of fieldwork 1-2 days of office work and 1-2 days for you to enjoy the lovely Turkish Riviera and the city of Antalya. You will learn about different software?s used in cetacean research, techniques and tools for spotting dolphins/whales, identify individuals, amongst other things. There will also be space and opportunity for you to suggest and create your own project, as well as contribute to publications we might be working on. There may be opportunities to join into offshore surveys or other projects while you are here. *How to apply Please send a cover letter and CV to info at dmad.org.tr. For more information please visit www.dmad.org.tr or email us. Have a good day, Aylin Akkaya Bas -- Elizabeth Atchoi Project Supervisor at DMAD Website // Facebook -- Elizabeth Atchoi Project Supervisor at DMAD Website // Facebook -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From emchuron at ucsc.edu Fri Aug 14 15:02:21 2015 From: emchuron at ucsc.edu (Elizabeth McHuron) Date: Fri, 14 Aug 2015 15:02:21 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] New Articles: Mercury in pinnipeds Message-ID: Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to announce the publication of two articles on mercury in pinnipeds that will be published in an upcoming issue of Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology. The full text of both articles can be found in the Online First section on the journal website ( http://link.springer.com/journal/244/onlineFirst/page/1). If you do not have access to this journal, please email either Sarah (sarahpeterson23@ gmail.com) or myself (emchuron at ucsc.edu) if you would like a pdf of either article. Peterson SP, McHuron EA, Kennedy SN, Ackerman JT, Rea LD, Castellini JM, O'Hara TM, and Costa DP (2015) Evaluating hair as a predictor of blood mercury: the influence of ontogentic phase and life history in pinnipeds. Arch Environ Contam Toxicol DOI 10.1007/s00244-015-0174-3 *Abstract* Mercury (Hg) biomonitoring of pinnipeds increasingly utilizes nonlethally collected tissues such as hair and blood. The relationship between total Hg concentrations ([THg]) in these tissues is not well understood for marine mammals, but it can be important for interpretation of tissue concentrations with respect to ecotoxicology and biomonitoring. We examined [THg] in blood and hair in multiple age classes of four pinniped species. For each species, we used paired blood and hair samples to quantify the ability of [THg] in hair to predict [THg] in blood at the time of sampling and examined the influence of varying ontogenetic phases and life history of the sampled animals. Overall, we found that the relationship between [THg] in hair and blood was affected by factors including age class, weaning status, growth, and the time difference between hair growth and sample collection. Hair [THg] was moderately to strongly predictive of current blood [THg] for adult female Steller sea lions (*Eumetopias jubatus*), adult female California sea lions (*Zalophus californianus*), and adult harbor seals (*Phoca vitulina*), whereas hair [THg] was poorly predictive or not predictive (different times of year) of blood [THg] for adult northern elephant seals (*Mirounga angustirostris*). Within species, except for very young pups, hair [THg] was a weaker predictor of blood [THg] for prereproductive animals than for adults likely due to growth, variability in foraging behavior, and transitions between ontogenetic phases. Our results indicate that the relationship between hair [THg] and blood [THg] in pinnipeds is variable and that ontogenetic phase and life history should be considered when interpreting [THg] in these tissues. McHuron EA, Peterson SP, Ackerman JT, Melin SR, Harris JD, Costa DP (2015). Effects of age, colony, and sex on mercury concentrations in California sea lions. Arch Environ Contam Toxicol DOI 10.1007/s00244-015-0201-4. *Abstract* We measured total mercury (THg) concentrations in California sea lions (*Zalophus californianus*) and examined how concentrations varied with age class, colony, and sex. Because Hg exposure is primarily via diet, we used nitrogen (*?*15N) and carbon (*?*13C) stable isotopes to determine if intraspecific differences in THg concentrations could be explained by feeding ecology. Blood and hair were collected from 21 adult females and 57 juveniles from three colonies in central and southern California (San Nicolas, San Miguel, and A?o Nuevo Islands). Total Hg concentrations ranged from 0.01 to 0.31 ?g g-1 wet weight (ww) in blood and 0.74 to 21.00 ?g g-1 dry weight (dw) in hair. Adult females had greater mean THg concentrations than juveniles in blood (0.15 vs. 0.03 ?g g-1ww) and hair (10.10 vs 3.25 ?g g-1 dw). Age class differences in THg concentrations did not appear to be driven by trophic level or habitat type because there were no differences in *?*15N or *?*13C values between adults and juveniles. Total Hg concentrations in adult females were 54% (blood) and 24% (hair) greater in females from San Miguel than San Nicolas Island, which may have been because sea lions from the two islands foraged in different areas. For juveniles, we detected some differences in THg concentrations with colony and sex, although these were likely due to sampling effects and not ecological differences. Overall, THg concentrations in California sea lions were within the range documented for other marine mammals and were generally below toxicity benchmarks for fish-eating wildlife. Best Regards, Liz McHuron and Sarah Peterson -- Elizabeth McHuron, PhD Student Ecology & Evolutionary Biology Center for Ocean Health, Long Marine Lab 100 Shaffer Rd. University of California Santa Cruz, CA 95060 emchuron at ucsc.edu -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From bruno at thebdri.com Sun Aug 16 05:00:28 2015 From: bruno at thebdri.com (Bruno Diaz Lopez) Date: Sun, 16 Aug 2015 12:00:28 +0000 (UTC) Subject: [MARMAM] THESIS PROJECTS IN DOLPHIN COMMUNICATION OFFERED AT THE BDRI (SPAIN) Message-ID: <28073203.5440974.1439726428973.JavaMail.yahoo@mail.yahoo.com> THESIS PROJECTS IN DOLPHIN COMMUNICATION OFFERED AT THE BDRI (SPAIN) Are you looking for an MSc project in dolphins communication??The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI) invites applications for dissertation/thesis projects in a dynamic, international, and competitive research environment. The main research topics of the BDRI include cetacean?s ecology, ethology, ecological modeling and bioacoustics, with data collected in different parts of the world (Mediterranean Sea, Atlantic waters, and Persian Gulf). Highly motivated students in the fields of zoology, marine biology, veterinary and related disciplines are invited to apply for a thesis project at the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI). These projects will include analysis of bioacoustical and behavioural data recorded from two study areas characterized by different levels of anthropogenic impact (Mediterranean Sea from 2005 to 2013 and Atlantic waters from 2014 to 2016). Students will explore the use of social vocalizations in different geographic populations and different contexts (feeding, socializing, travelling) looking for geographic and contextual similarities in social sound use. Outcomes of these studies will provide more information on the function of specific social vocalisations and influence of the environment. Applicants should have a strong interest in bioacoustics, and previous experience in acoustic analysis techniques (preferred). 1. Population variation in bottlenose dolphin social communication.? 2. Population variation in signature whistles production and characteristics in resident bottlenose dolphins.? 3. Acoustic communication and associated behaviour of the common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). Many other projects can also be developed dealing with such things as mark-recapture techniques, impact of aquaculture, dolphins? society, and ecological modeling. Consult with the BDRI Director to explore the possibilities. ABOUT YOU We look for persons who are highly motivated, eager to learn, and have a positive attitude. WORKING PLACE The BDRI is located in a pleasant, recently renovated research center sited at O Grove, Galicia (Spain). The institute and research vessel are equipped with the state-of-the-art technology, and the study area has especially good conditions for bottlenose dolphin research due to the existence of a resident population. The BDRI is a very international environment, and the everyday working language is English. Students will participate in an on-going, long-term research program dealing with marine mammals? research in the Arousa Firth (NW Spain). You will collect data in the field and analyse and interpret data in the lab. You will during all the work be under direct supervision of the chief biologist Bruno Diaz Lopez. APPLICATION 1. Download and read the internships information package from 2.The application written in English should include a cover letter explaining the applicant?s motivations, CV, and if possible reference letter.? The application labeled ?Application Thesis Project? should be submitted via email at the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (education at thebdri.com).? ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: The projects are intended to start January 2016 but dates are flexible year round. Start and end dates are flexible but the position requires a minimum of 120 days (Masters) or 60 days (Bachelors) continuous commitment sometime between January through to November 2016. If the student intends to receive academic credit, he/she will be responsible for making all arrangements with their educational institutions. The BDRI is a private and self-funded centre, hence, there is no compensation for the internship positions. There is a tuition fee including the tuition, training, accommodation in an apartment, and other expenses derived of both the thesis project and your participation (housing, use of equipment, field trips by car, use of research vessel).? Successful applicants will be responsible for their own transportation expenses to and from the research centre (O Grove, Galicia, Spain).? There is no deadline to apply. However, approved applications are accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. Apply early!? More information can be obtained directly from Bruno Diaz LopezChief Biologist / DirectorBottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRIAv. Beiramar 192, O Grove 36980, Spaintel. + 34 605 52 1441 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From lklifeart at sbcglobal.net Sat Aug 15 11:20:01 2015 From: lklifeart at sbcglobal.net (Lynette Koftinow) Date: Sat, 15 Aug 2015 18:20:01 +0000 (UTC) Subject: [MARMAM] New Listing: 2015 Student Travel Grants for Society for Marine Mammalogy's 21st Biennial Conference on the Biology of Marine Mammals Message-ID: <1319202752.5150510.1439662801308.JavaMail.yahoo@mail.yahoo.com> San Francisco Bay?American Cetacean Society Chapter would like to encourage Student participation in the Society for Marine Mammalogy's?21st Biennial Conference on the Biology of Marine Mammals?(San Francisco, California, 13-18 December 2015) by offering travel grants for ACS Student Members. Three?student travel grants ($500 each) will be selected from all eligible applications whose posters are accepted for the conference. Applications must be received by the?Monday, 28 Septenber 2015?deadline. 1 grant will be open for any type of research in Cetaceans?within the waters of California.?2 grants will be open for any type of research in Cetaceans?within the waters of ?West coast of ?North America. ??To qualify for this grant, you need to:? - Make sure you are a current SF Bay Area ACS member at the time of submission. Application for membership to SF Bay Area ACS may be completed at the following website:? http://acsonline.org/support-acs/become-member/ - Be currently enrolled as a student at a recognized academic institution. - Be first author on an accepted oral or poster presentation. - Register for the conference by the early registration deadline (www.marinemammalscience.org). - Currently reside and study within the?Western?region of the US, Canada or Mexico. To apply: - Submit a title and abstract (as submitted and accepted by the Society for Marine Mammalogy). - Give your name and school affiliation. - E-mail your application to:?acs.sfbay at gmail.com Note: As an awardee, you will be asked to present your poster or oral talk at a future ACS/SF Bay presentation event in San Francisco, or provide a summary report of your poster/spoken presentation for possible inclusion in future ACS publications.?The student travel grant application period closes?Monday, 28 Septenber 2015?Notification of the student travel grant awards will be made by Friday, 16 October ?2015.? For questions or to submit your application, contact Lynette R. Koftinow: ?acs.sfbay at gmail.com PLEASE NOTE we also have a CALL for 2015 SF Bay ACS Student Research Grant Proposals.?? ? ?For full details go to our website:?http://acs-sfbay.org/?Look under tab Research and Education: Call for 2015 SF Bay ACS Student Research Grant Proposals | ? | | ? | | ? | ? | ? | ? | ? | | Call for 2015 SF Bay ACS Student Research Grant Proposal...Dear colleagues, The American Cetacean Society-San Francisco Bay Chapter (ACS-SF Bay) would like to encourage students to apply for our upcoming 2015 Student R... | | | | View on acs-sfbay.org | Preview by Yahoo | | | | ? | Respectfully Lynette R.?Koftinow ?President San Francisco Bay Area ChapterAmerican Cetacean Society http://www.acs-sfbay.org/http://www.facebook.com/SFACS Protecting whales and dolphins since 1967 American Cetacean Society (ACS) is the oldest whale conservation group in the world.? Founded in 1967, it is a non-profit, volunteer membership organization with regional U.S. chapters and members in 22 countries. ACS?is dedicated to the protection of whales, dolphins, porpoises, and their habitats through education and outreach, conservation advocacy, and facilitating research. We believe the best way to protect cetaceans is by educating the public about these remarkable animals and the problems they face in their increasingly threatened habitats. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From krillcarson at me.com Sun Aug 16 15:26:18 2015 From: krillcarson at me.com (Carol Carson) Date: Sun, 16 Aug 2015 18:26:18 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] Fall Internship with NECWA Message-ID: <4F3A7AA5-D7F7-4A7B-AAAB-1F766E50BA22@me.com> Marine Wildlife Internship Program - 2015 Fall Season Sponsored by the New England Coastal Wildlife Alliance (NECWA) at www.necwa.org The New England Coastal Wildlife Alliance (NECWA), based in southeastern Massachusetts, is now accepting applicants for our fall Marine Wildlife Internship Program. NECWA accepts upper level high school, college, and graduate students who have an interest in the field of marine biology. NECWA interns work alongside staff members to conduct a variety of educational programs, research projects, and conservation activities. Fall internships begin in August/September and continue into the fall to early winter. Most internships require a 3-month commitment, but flexibility can be built into the program if requested. Interns must commit to a minimum of 20 hours a week. Internship positions are non-paid and can be coordinated privately or through a school or university program. Interns must provide their own transportation to and from work areas and housing is not provided. The NECWA office is based in Middleboro, MA and the majority of field activities associated with the nonprofit are conducted in Plymouth as well as Cape Cod. To learn more about our internship program, go to our Marine Wildlife Internship webpage at http://necwa.org/internships.html. Internship activities can include: ? Working as a research assistant aboard commercial whale watching boats operating out of Plymouth Harbor. (April through the end of October) ? Inputting sighting data into Excel and FileMaker Pro ? Learning photo-identification techniques that utilize Adobe PhotoShop to process photographic images of individual whales, sharks and ocean sunfish. ? Assisting with strandings and necropsies of ocean sunfish and basking sharks on Cape Cod beaches. ? Assisting with sea turtles strandings and rescues. ? Assisting with sea turtle and torpedo ray necropsies in early winter. The New England Coastal Wildlife Alliance (NECWA) is a non-profit organization based in southeastern MA. We are dedicated to the protection and conservation of the unique coastal marine wildlife off New England. We conduct field research on a number of species of marine animals in an effort to advance our understandings of their biology and ecology as well as support conservation efforts on their behalf. Information collected through our research activities is also used to form the basis of our educational outreach activities within the New England community. To learn more about NECWA, visit us at: ? our website at www.necwa.org ? our blog at www.necwanews.blogspot.com ? and at NEBShark at www.nebshark.org For more information on NECWA's Internship Program, contact our Internship Coordinator, Mary Nash, at mcnash at capecod.net. From tihana.vucur at blue-world.org Mon Aug 17 05:25:07 2015 From: tihana.vucur at blue-world.org (=?UTF-8?Q?tihana_vu=C4=8Dur?=) Date: Mon, 17 Aug 2015 14:25:07 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] Blue World Institute of Marine Research and Conservation- Eco-volunteering and internship program Message-ID: Adriatic Dolphin Project Blue World Institute of Marine Research and Conservation Island of Lo?inj, northeastern Adriatic Sea, Croatia The Adriatic Dolphin project is the main scientific project of the Blue World Institute of Marine Research and Conservation, a non - profit organization dedicated to research and conservation of the Adriatic bottlenose dolphins. On Lo?inj island, the Adriatic Dolphin project has a long tradition with eco ? volunteering and internship program that offers a unique opportunity to experience encounters with dolphins in their natural surroundings actively participating in the research. This includes boat - based surveying, gaining knowledge in data collection at sea, data entry and participation in preliminary analysis of collected data. Eco-volunteering stage is available for the period 7.9.2015-18.9.2015 with discount of 10% on total price and applications for Internship program are open. For more information check Blue World Institute web site: http://www.blue-world.org/en/get-involved/ or send an e-mail on tihana.vucur at blue-world.org Tihana Vu?ur Blue World Institute of Marine Research and Conservation Kastel 24 Veli Lo?inj Croatia *tihana.vucur at blue-world.org * www.blue-world.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From lmaycollado at gmail.com Mon Aug 17 08:00:37 2015 From: lmaycollado at gmail.com (Laura J. May-Collado) Date: Mon, 17 Aug 2015 11:00:37 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] RIEMMCA WORKSHOP EXTENSION OF ABSTRACT SUBMISSION Message-ID: Hi everyone we are extending the abstract submission deadline to *September 2, 2015*. We encourage all scientists from Central America and the Caribbean to participate. This is a great opportunity to learn what is happening in our countries and also a great opportunity to establish regional collaboration. *Symposium Agenda: *RIEMMCCA Network of Aquatic Mammal Specialists of Central America and the Caribbean *Date: DECEMBER 12,* *? 2015 at the San Francisco Biennial (all day)* *Cost*: ?$45 *Overview*: The intent of this symposium is to review the state-of-knowledge of the aquatic mammals of *Central America* and the *Caribbean* and to enhance collaboration and communication between scientists in the region. The symposium will consist of presentations (oral and poster) and a discussion session to identify gaps in knowledge and conservation issues, importance of communicating our science (public and in peer reviewed journals) and future research directions for the region. We invite national and international scientists working in the region to present their work by submitting a 300 word abstract (English and Spanish abstracts are welcome) to the following email address riemmcca.smm2015 at gmail.com. Abstract submission will close on *SEPTEMBER 2, 2015*. We are currently seeking for funding to lower the cost of the symposia, thus final costs will be provided in the next couple of weeks. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From a.murray5 at uq.edu.au Mon Aug 17 18:54:00 2015 From: a.murray5 at uq.edu.au (Anita Murray) Date: Tue, 18 Aug 2015 01:54:00 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Abstracts Due 31st August for Australian/New Zealand Student Chapter Meeting 5-7th November 2015 Message-ID: <1439862839958.76843@uq.edu.au> Hello Australian and New Zealand Students! Just a friendly reminder that abstracts (300 words max) are due on the 31st August 2015 for the 2nd Biennial Meeting of the ANZ Student Chapter of the Society for Marine Mammology. The chapter meeting will be held from the 5th-7th November 2015 at Macquarie University in Sydney, Australia. This conference will provide ANZ students with the opportunity to present and discuss their research in a relaxed environment while meeting and networking with other marine mammalogy students and researchers. As well, if you are planning to present at the SMM conference in San Francisco the chapter meeting would be a great opportunity to practice and get feedback before the conference in December. The two day conference will consist of student oral and poster presentations along with several guest speakers. We are also looking for four PhD students to take over the ANZ student chapter after the November meeting. If you are interested in attending the chapter meeting and/or running the student chapter please send an email to anzscsmm at gmail.com. In your email please indicate: 1. If you would like to give an oral presentation or present a poster (If you are unsure which one you would like to do because you are waiting to hear back from the SMM conference then just indicate this in your email and you can decide later) 2. For non-Sydney students please indicate if you will require accommodation (we have limited funding for out-of-state students to stay on campus at Macquarie) 3. For Sydney students please indicate whether or not you would like to volunteer. 4. Please also indicate if you are interested in running the ANZ student chapter after the November meeting. Additionally, if you are not yet a member of the student chapter please fill out a membership registration from (https://www.marinemammalscience.org/for-students/chapters/australianew-zealand-smm-student-chapter/) and return the form with your abstract submission. For any questions regarding the chapter meeting and/or tasks involved in running the student chapter please contact Anita Murray at anita.murray1 at uqconnect.edu.au, and for questions about volunteering for the chapter meeting please contact Monique Ladds at anzscsmm at gmail.com. Regards, Anita Murray, Monique Ladds,? David Hocking, and Krista Rankmore Australia/New Zealand Student Chapter for the Society of Marine Mammalogy (ANZSCSMM) anzscsmm at gmail.com ANZSCSMM Facebook Page ANZSCSMM Website -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From bruno at thebdri.com Tue Aug 18 01:28:47 2015 From: bruno at thebdri.com (Bruno Diaz Lopez) Date: Tue, 18 Aug 2015 08:28:47 +0000 (UTC) Subject: [MARMAM] INTERN COORDINATOR AT THE BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN RESEARCH INSTITUTE IN SPAIN Message-ID: <633506479.3030938.1439886527948.JavaMail.yahoo@mail.yahoo.com> The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI) , is a marine science centre dedicated to promote the conservation of marine mammal species and their habitat through education and research. On behalf of the BDRI, I am pleased to announce that we are currently accepting applications for the following: INTERN COORDINATOR along the North-western coast of Spain.? This position is responsible for assisting the BDRI biologists in the running of the "Marine Mammals Research Project in Galician waters" ? " and coordinating the project interns.? The project is based in O Grove, North-western coast of Spain, and offers the participants the chance to work during many steps of the field research and data analysis. The main purpose of this program is to contribute towards a more detailed understanding of the ecology and behaviour of bottlenose dolphins and harbour porpoises, with a focus on ethology, social structure, habitat use and communication. Furthermore, as the Galician coastline is known for frequent strandings of various marine mammals species, the BDRI is part of an important network for rescue and data collection from these stranded animals.? Start Date: January 2016 ? ? ?End Date: October 31st 2016 (start and end dates could be flexible) Responsibilities will include but are not limited to: * ? ?Assisting the BDRI's biologists in all phases of the research and organization.* ? ?Coordinate between the Chief Biologist/Director and the project interns - in charge of the intern shared house.* ? ?Assisting the BDRI's biologists in intern basic training of land- and boat based surveys, photo ID studies, Database entry, Bioacoustical analysis, GIS and more.* ? ?Undertaking a personal research project supervised by the Chief Biologist / Director - research topic will be chosen according to BDRI requirements and applicants' interests. Requirements: An academic background in biology, veterinary or natural science, coupled with motivation, willingness to work hard and interest in marine mammals research make the most qualified individuals. The successful applicant is expected to have a BSc degree (or higher) and able to demonstrate previous experience in marine mammal research.? The preferred candidate should have a proven track record as a team player as the project will involve working closely with other researchers but also must be able to supervise small groups of people as they will be coordinating up to 8 interns. They must also be self-motivated with the drive and determination to work independently and responsibly. There will be one day off per week.? This post brings the opportunity to be trained by the BDRI' Chief Biologist and to submit work for scientific publication at the end of the year. This position is unpaid but accommodation in the intern shared house will be covered. Successful applicants will be responsible for their own transportation expenses to and from the research centre in O Grove, Galicia, Spain. To apply: Send a cover letter, resume and recommendation letters by email to: info at thebdri.comPlease specify BDRI INTERN COORDINATOR into your subject title. For more information about BDRI's research and conservation work, please visit www.thebdri.com and our Facebook page. Deadline: 18th November 2015. Interviews (via Skype) will be arranged for selected candidates after this deadline. Applicants will be notified of the outcomes by the 1st December 2015. Regards, Bruno Diaz LopezChief Biologist and DirectorBottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI)Av. Beiramar 192, O Grove CP. 36980Pontevedra-Spaintel. 00 34 605 521441 This email is confidential to the intended recipient(s) and the contents may be legally privileged or contain proprietary and private information. It is intended solely for the person to whom it is addressed. If you are not an intended recipient, you may not review, copy or distribute this email. If received in error, please notify the sender and delete the message from your system immediately. Please note that neither the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI nor the sender accept any responsibility for any viruses and it is your responsibility to scan the email and the attachments (if any). -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From eferguson at bio-waves.net Mon Aug 17 18:29:24 2015 From: eferguson at bio-waves.net (Elizabeth Ferguson) Date: Mon, 17 Aug 2015 18:29:24 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] SMM 2015 Workshop: Passive Acoustic Data Analysis & Acoustic-Based Density Estimation Message-ID: Dear MARMAMers, We are pleased to announce that Bio-Waves, Inc. and the Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling at the University of St. Andrews will be conducting the ?Analysis of Passive Acoustic Data & Acoustic-Based Density Estimation? workshop at the 2015 Society for Marine Mammology?s 21st Biennial Conference in San Francisco, CA! This event will be a two day workshop on Saturday December 12th and Sunday December 13th the weekend prior to the SMM conference. Due to limited space at the main conference venue, it will be held nearby at the downtown SFSU campus (at the Westfield San Francisco Center), which is within easy walking distance of the Hilton. This workshop set is intended to provide experience in analysis of passive acoustic monitoring data and demonstrate methods for estimating population density and abundance of marine mammals using these data. The two workshop days are complementary and are designed to supplement one another. As such, participants are encouraged to register for both days; however if an individual is experienced in one of subject areas, they are allowed to register for only one of the two days offered. Registering prior to September 15th, 2015 allows participants to be eligible for the early registration fee of US $160 for both days or US$80/day; beginning September 16th, 2015 registration fees will increase to US$180 for both days or US$90/day. Participants are required to bring their own Windows laptop for this workshop, specifically as PAMGuard does not support the Mac operating system. For Mac users wishing to participate in the distance sampling workshop only, information relating to running the software is available at http://distancesampling.org/distanceextras.html. If you do not have a Windows laptop available, please email workshop organizers who may be able to provide a computer. Space is limited so be sure to sign up early! To register for this workshop, visit the conference registration site at: https://www.marinemammalscience.org/conference/conference-registration. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ *Description* The University of St. Andrews and Bio-Waves, Inc. are partnering to conduct two, one-day workshops at the 2015 Biennial Marine Mammal Conference. These workshops are intended to demonstrate methods for estimating population density and abundance using passive acoustic data. The workshops will provide training in methods for both passive acoustic data analysis (day 1) and density and abundance estimation using passive acoustic data (day 2). The workshops are designed to be complementary, but are offered as two separate workshops so that participants can opt to attend one day only (should they already be familiar with the concepts from the other day). Participants will register for each course separately, but are encouraged to attend both. The workshops will include a practical case study that will be used to provide hands-on experience with passive acoustic data analysis and density estimation. The first day of the workshop will be focused on passive acoustic data collection and analysis and will include both lectures and hands-on analysis exercises. In the practical sessions, participants will use PAMGuard (www.pamguard.org) to post-process acoustic data collected during a line transect survey, learning how to obtain localizations to individual sperm whales. Participants will also learn how to obtain measurements from echolocation clicks selected during post-processing analysis. The result of this exercise will consist of a dataset of perpendicular distances to individual sperm whales that can then be used to estimate density and abundance using Distance software. Participants will be taught how to format these data and import it into Distance. The second day of the workshop will include an overview of methods for estimating density and abundance using passive acoustic data collected from both fixed and towed hydrophone arrays. Participants will analyze the sperm whale dataset from day one using Distance and R software, and will generate density and abundance estimates. Any participants already familiar with Distance will be able to conduct the same analyses in R, a statistical software program. Participants will leave the workshop with an understanding of how to process passive acoustic data for density and abundance estimation and how density and abundance can be estimated from acoustic data. Cheers, *Liz Ferguson* *Chief Operating Officer* *Marine Ecologist* www.bio-waves.com (619) 459-2242 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From mortenmojo at hotmail.com Tue Aug 18 07:48:04 2015 From: mortenmojo at hotmail.com (morten joergensen) Date: Tue, 18 Aug 2015 14:48:04 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New book on polar bear management and threat In-Reply-To: <1439908341390.71102@uvic.ca> References: , , <1439563355865.39104@uvic.ca>, , <1439908341390.71102@uvic.ca> Message-ID: Dear MARMAMers, We are drawing your attention to a newly published book on Polar Bears. The book is in English and published by Spitsbergen-Svalbard.com. The book is titled: Polar Bears on the Edge ? Heading for Extinction while Management Fails. It spans 218 pages and includes a number of fine colour photographs as well as maps, bars and tables. The book contains six chapters that analyze past and current global populations estimates, the string of factors that threaten polar bear survival, the national and international protection status? of the species, management of the species in the light of commercial interests, the relationships between various stakeholders and their influence on management decisions, and the future plight of the species under various management scenarios. Interested people may find the book for sale at the following sites: http://www.nhbs.com http://www.amazon.com https://www.naturbutikken.dk Best regards, Morten Joergensen Broagergade 1, 3.th. 1672 Copenhagen V. Dk ? Denmark Tel. +45 ? 22902811 Email: mortenmojo at hotmail.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From julie.jourdan at gecem.org Tue Aug 18 07:42:45 2015 From: julie.jourdan at gecem.org (Julie Jourdan) Date: Tue, 18 Aug 2015 16:42:45 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] "Rare sighting of an anomalously white sperm whale in the north western mediterranean sea Message-ID: Dear Marmamers, A white sperm whale (*Physeter macrocephalus*) was spotted from an helicopter off Toulon, France, on the 6th of August 2015. The animal, completely white, was probably a leucistic individual. Pictures of the sighting are available on the following link: *http://www.gecem.org/actualite/cachalot-blanc-vu-mediterranee * Interestingly, two others sightings of white sperm whales have been made this year in the italian waters, near Sardinia. GECEM - Groupe d??tude des C?tac?s de M?diterran?e contact at gecem.org"? -- Julie Jourdan Charg?e de mission / Project leader Groupe d'Etude des C?tac?s de M?diterran?e (www.gecem.org) Le Kalliste B?t B4, 1 avenue Cl?ment Monnier, 13960 Sausset-les-Pins, France Contact : Mob : *07.81.98.71.71* Bureau: *09.53.92.92.63* Courriel : *julie.jourdan at gecem.org * -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From B.Outhwaite at massey.ac.nz Wed Aug 19 15:20:34 2015 From: B.Outhwaite at massey.ac.nz (Outhwaite, Blair) Date: Wed, 19 Aug 2015 22:20:34 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Volunteers needed for bottlenose dolphin project, New Zealand Message-ID: Bottlenose Dolphin Behavioural Volunteer Position at Great Barrier Island, New Zealand A volunteer is required to assist with a MSc study investigating the behaviour of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) at Great Barrier Island (GBI) and part of the Auckland coastline, New Zealand. This MSc project is part of the ongoing research of the Coastal-Marine Research Group (C-MRG) at Massey University Albany, Auckland. (http://cmrg.massey.ac.nz). The primary aim of this study is to assess the behaviour and acoustic repertoire of nationally endangered bottlenose dolphins in an area of zero tourism pressure. DATES: While the field season runs year round, currently volunteers are needed from September - December 2015. A minimum commitment of three 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 bottlenose dolphin behavioural videos and photo-identification (photo-id). The successful applicant will gain valuable experience in conducting marine mammal field research, identifying individuals based on dorsal fin characteristics, and the use of 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-id, behavioural observations, and improve practical skills. Fieldwork can vary between weekdays and weekends. Assistants therefore need to be available full-time including weekends and be prepared to work long hours with early starts. During GBI trips, we will be based on the island for an average of 4 days, once a month. Coastal surveys will be conducted over 4 non-consecutive days of each month. Both GBI trips and coastal surveys are weather dependent. All surveys will be conducted from a 4.8m Stabicraft vessel. RESPONSIBILITIES: . Assisting with; boat-based photo-id surveys from a small vessel and collecting environmental/video based behavioural data (25% of the time). DISCLAIMER: while the best efforts will be made to ensure that the participant gains field work experience, due to the nature of the project, time in the field cannot be guaranteed. . Analysis of photo-id and behavioural video data in the lab; including assistance with photo sorting, grading, and matching of photos, maintenance of a long-term photo-id catalogue, identifying behavioural events on video, and data entry. 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. Accommodation and travel expenses to/from GBI will be covered. PREREQUISITES: . Be reliable, adaptable, hardworking and patient as fieldwork is highly weather dependent . 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 small boats . Participants must be comfortable living out of a small backpack (with the exception of food) for several days (during GBI trips) 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) Preferred qualifications but not required: . Prior experience working on small vessels . Field research including photo-id experience . Previous experience in survey techniques and especially in marine mammal research . First AID/CPR certification APPLICATION PROCESS: Applicants should send a short email to B.Outhwaite at massey.ac.nz, using "volunteer 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, Blair ---------------------------------- Blair Outhwaite MSc 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: 43791(office) Cell: +64 (0)21 062 2794 Email: B.Outhwaite at massey.ac.nz Web: http://cmrg.massey.ac.nz/ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From rachel.sprague at noaa.gov Wed Aug 19 18:02:38 2015 From: rachel.sprague at noaa.gov (Rachel Sprague - NOAA Federal) Date: Wed, 19 Aug 2015 15:02:38 -1000 Subject: [MARMAM] New Human-Wildlife Conflict Book Message-ID: Aloha colleagues, I wanted to let you know about a new book on human-wildlife conflict in marine ecosystems that has just been published by Oxford University Press. You can find it on OUP's website: http://ukcatalogue.oup.com/product/9780199687152.do and it will eventually be available on Amazon here: http://www.amazon.com/Human-Wildlife-Conflict-Complexity-Marine-Environment/dp/0199687153 This is the full table of contents: *Human-Wildlife Conflict**: Complexity in the Marine Environment* Megan M. Draheim, Francine Madden, Julie-Beth McCarthy, and E.C.M. Parsons: *Introduction* * Section 1: Introduction to the Levels of Conflict* 1. Francine Madden and Brian McQuinn: *Understanding Social Conflict and Complexity in the Marine Environment* *Section 2: Policy and Human-Wildlife Conflict* 2. Catherine Booker and d'Shan Maycock: *Conservation on island time: Stakeholder participation and conflict in marine resource management* 3. Jill Lewandowski: *Transforming wicked environmental problems in the government arena: A case study of the effects of marine sound on marine mammals* 4. Christine Gleason: *Conservation in conflict: An overview of humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) management in Saman?, Dominican Republic* 5. E.C.M. Parsons: *Levels of marine human-wildlife conflict: A whaling case study* 6. Sarah Wise: *Conflict and collaboration in marine conservation work: Transcending boundaries and encountering flamingos* *Section 3: Narratives and Human-Wildlife Conflict* 7. Rachel S. Sprague and Megan M. Draheim: *Hawaiian monk seals: Labels, names, and stories in conflict* 8. Carlie Wiener: *Flipper fallout: Dolphins as cultural workers and the human conflicts that ensue* 9. Julie-Beth McCarthy: *Examining identity-level conflict: The role of religion* Megan M. Draheim, Julie-Beth McCarthy, E.C.M. Parsons: *Conclusion* Thanks! Warm regards, Rachel -- Rachel S. Sprague, Ph.D. Hawaiian Monk Seal Recovery Coordinator Pacific Islands Regional Office NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service 808.725.5163 rachel.sprague at noaa.gov http://www.fpir.noaa.gov/PRD/prd_hms_index.html -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From cjsbarton at tiscali.co.uk Thu Aug 20 02:45:48 2015 From: cjsbarton at tiscali.co.uk (Carolyn Barton) Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2015 10:45:48 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] MMO and PSO training courses, Inverness, UK Message-ID: <44BEC4A1888A441FB56477CFEAF2E5D5@carridell> A few spaces left on MMO and PSO training courses in Inverness, Scotland, 5-6 September 2015 JNCC-recognised MMO course for UK waters, 5 September 2015, GBP 125 PSO course for the Gulf of Mexico, meets BOEM/ BSEE requirements, 6 September 2015, GBP 55 (when taken in conjunction with the MMO course). For details of course content and to download a booking form, see www.carolynbarton.co.uk or e-mail info at carolynbarton.co.uk . Carolyn Barton info at carolynbarton.co.uk www.carolynbarton.co.uk -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From brenda.lewis at noaa.gov Thu Aug 20 05:07:29 2015 From: brenda.lewis at noaa.gov (Brenda Lewis - NOAA Affiliate) Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2015 07:07:29 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Protected Species Aerial Survey Openings Message-ID: IAP Worldwide services is recruiting for Aerial Surveyors for a short term (Sept 13 - 26, 2015) survey based out of Destin, FL. Contractors will perform duties of marine mammal and sea turtle observer during aerial surveys to be conducted aboard a NOAA aircraft. Responsibilities include rotation through observer and data recorder positions, assisting with photographic and video data collection and data entry. HUET training is required. Previous aerial experience preferred. Travel and lodging furnished. Apply at www.iapws.com/careers Job requisition number 16702. -- Brenda Lewis Site Manager IAP World Services Contractor NOAA/NMFS Project 228-549-1659 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From dgrosse at terraqua.org Thu Aug 20 09:29:30 2015 From: dgrosse at terraqua.org (Daniel Grosse) Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2015 12:29:30 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] Cetacean Photo-ID & Logistics Coordinator, Honolulu, HI Message-ID: <0D5D5223-7A25-4022-8FFB-967322A2D402@terraqua.org> Cetacean Photo-ID & Logistics Coordinator (Apologies for the short turn-around time: The deadline for responses is Friday, Aug 21 @ 9 AM EDT) Ocean Associates, Inc. (OAI) is seeking a Cetacean Photo-ID & Logistics Coordinator to support the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Office of Protected Resources at the Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center in Honolulu, HI. The coordinator will assist NMFS with: Logistic Coordination: 1. Assist Project Leader with field project planning and preparation, including, but not limited to: identification of appropriate field staff, drafting research permit applications or reports, drafting Project Instructions and Reports, preparing survey gear for field missions. 2. Maintain equipment inventory and alert Project Leader when supplies are required for upcoming field projects 3. Assist with preparation of field manuals 4. Participate as necessary in meetings or training activities concerning projects assigned. Photo-Identification: 5. Evaluate distinctiveness and quality of each photograph and provide standardized ratings for use in data quality control for future studies employing the catalogs 6. Match all photographs within and between encounters and build species-specific catalogs of unique individuals based on fin markings 7. Maintain photo metadata as appropriate 8. Participate in reporting and authoring manuscripts or presenting results in public forums as requested 9. Participate in monthly Program meetings 10. Participate in field work as photographer for collection of identification photographs, as needed Selected individual must have the following qualifications: Bachelor's degree and three (3) years? experience or Master?s degree from an accredited college or university in biology or field of study relating and two (2) years? experience relating to specific task order. Additional minimum qualifications and requirements: 1. Demonstrated experience working with a team on a complex project, including a coordinated approach to outline and accomplish required tasks, meet project deadlines, and successfully conclude the project. 2. Demonstrated experience managing photographic or similar datasets to allow for coordinated work between staff. 3. Working knowledge of photo management software standard photo processing protocols, modification of photo metadata, and photographic quality grading. 4. One year of experience participating in field projects on marine mammals, including collection of occurrence, group size, and behavior data, and identification photographs. Additional preferred qualifications: 1. Exceptional organizational capabilities and comfort with managing paperwork, projects, and team members Salary DOE Please contact me at DanGrosse at oceanassoc.com Regards, Daniel Grosse, Ph.D. Senior Associate Ocean Associates, Incorporated 4007 N. Abingdon Street Arlington, Virginia USA 22207 DanGrosse at oceanassoc.com http://www.OceanAssoc.com From Jack.Lawson at dfo-mpo.gc.ca Thu Aug 20 10:19:07 2015 From: Jack.Lawson at dfo-mpo.gc.ca (Lawson, Jack) Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2015 14:49:07 -0230 Subject: [MARMAM] Anouncement: SMM Workshop - Unmanned Aerial Systems: Powerful and Cost-Effective Tools for Marine Science and Conservation Message-ID: <1257AF89E3C565479D0453323BAA98A22635FA@SVNLNEWEX01.ENT.dfo-mpo.ca> Good morning everyone, we are organizing a workshop on hardware, applications, and issues associated with using unmanned aerial systems (UAS) at the Biennial conference in San Francisco. UAS offer a very capable and dynamic platform to study a growing variety of marine issues, and marine mammal researchers have been quick to seize new opportunities to utilize autonomous or remotely-controlled platforms in their research. While opening up new avenues for our studies, this hardware is evolving quickly, and faces varied (and at times unpredictable) regulatory regimes. This workshop will offer attendees the opportunity to learn what others have been doing with UAS systems, where UAS development is headed in the (near) future, and what regulations we are do, or might, face in different countries and contexts. Not to mention we will see some amazing marine mammal and sea turtle imagery from vantage points heretofore unavailable to researchers! If you are attending the conference please consider participating in this workshop (which is filling up fast!): Title: Unmanned Aerial Systems: Powerful and Cost-Effective Tools for Marine Science and Conservation Overview: The intent of this workshop is to review the state-of-the-art for regulations, hardware, software, and data management in studies of marine species using various types of remotely-controlled or autonomous aerial platforms. Date/Time: Sunday, December 13, 2015; 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM Organizers and contact emails: Jack Lawson (jack.lawson at dfo-mpo.gc.ca), Dave Johnston (david.johnston at duke.edu), Eric A. Ramos (eramos at gradcenter.cuny.edu), Laura May-Collado (lmaycollado at gmail.com), Diana Reiss (dlr28 at columbia.edu), Marcelo O. Magnasco (mgnsclb at mail.rockefeller.edu) General Description and Agenda: The intent of this workshop is to review the state-of-the-art for regulations, hardware, software, and data management in studies of marine mammals using various types of remotely-controlled platforms. In this full-day meeting we will present and discuss four main topics: (1) regulatory updates (U.S., Canada, Europe, Others) - an overview of existing and proposed operating regulations, legal initiatives, and outstanding issues - including permitting. No-fly zones and software/hardware solutions to automate Class A and B airspace protection. "Common sense" operational guidelines. (2) Brief presentations on emerging applications; perhaps coupled with discussions on sensors. (3) platform features, uses, costs, and limits - a discussion, highlighted by specific examples, of each type of platform detailing its demonstrated applications, advantages, limits, and future. We would include fixed-wing and rotary-winged UAVs. (4) workflow, data management, and operational best practices - a discussion, highlighted by specific examples, of how best to utilize these platforms and integrate multiple data flows (e.g., video, imagery, GPS, topographic information) for post-operation analyses. In addition to a number of presentations, a product from this workshop will be a "best practices guide" manuscript to submit to Marine Mammal Science. We are currently creating a more detailed agenda, and will forward this to participants in the near future. Cost: $80 (Early Bird); $90 (After September 15, 2015) You can follow a link to register for this, and other, workshops: https://www.marinemammalscience.org/conference/workshops/ On behalf of this workshop's organizers, we look forward to seeing participants at the Biennial! Dr. Jack Lawson Research Scientist / Chercheur scientifique Marine Mammals Section / Section de mammif?res marins Fisheries and Oceans Canada / P?ches et Oc?ans Canada NAFC, 80 East White Hills Rd. St. John's, NL / Terre-Neuve et Labrador Canada A1C 5X1 (709) 772-2285 (709) 772-4105 (FAX) jack.lawson at dfo-mpo.gc.ca -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From VCornish at mmc.gov Thu Aug 20 10:50:37 2015 From: VCornish at mmc.gov (Vicki Cornish) Date: Thu, 20 Aug 2015 17:50:37 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Large Marine Vertebrate Session at the 2016 GoMRI Oil Spill and Ecosystem Science Conference, February 1-4, 2016 Message-ID: Abstracts are now being accepted for the 2016 Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill and Ecosystem Science Conference. The 2016 conference theme, "One Gulf: healthy ecosystems, healthy communities," will focus on opportunities to promote and sustain a healthy Gulf environment, communities, and economy, including new discoveries, innovations, technologies and policies. Building on the success of the special session on large marine vertebrates at the 2015 conference, the 2016 conference will include a session on "Gulf of Mexico's Large Marine Vertebrates as Indicators of Ecosystem Recovery, Resilience and Restoration." Please consider submitting an abstract for this session, as it will be an excellent opportunity to highlight research involving Gulf of Mexico marine mammals at this multi-disciplinary forum. Details regarding this and other sessions can be found at the conference Session Details website (scroll down to Session 006 for information about the large marine vertebrate session). The deadline for submittal of abstracts is 18 September 2015. To submit an abstract, please go to abstract submittals. The 2016 Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill and Ecosystem Science Conference will take place from 1-4 February 2016, at the Marriott Tampa Waterside in Tampa, Fla. For more information about the conference, please visit http://www.cvent.com/events/2016-oil-spill-and-ecosystem-science-conference/event-summary-52ad0b225ba54cf0960090070e6f8073.aspx. Best, Vicki Cornish [mmc_logo - USE THIS FOR WORD DOCS OR WEB_reduced to 15 percent] Marine Mammal Commission 4340 East-West Highway, Suite 700 Bethesda, MD 20814-4498 301-504-0087 main 301-504-0300 direct www.mmc.gov The Marine Mammal Commission is an independent agency of the U.S. Government. Follow us on Twitter: @MarineMammalCom. Click here to sign up for our newsletter! -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image002.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 1636 bytes Desc: image002.jpg URL: From niki at archipelago.gr Tue Aug 18 06:04:50 2015 From: niki at archipelago.gr (Niki Karagouni) Date: Tue, 18 Aug 2015 16:04:50 +0300 Subject: [MARMAM] Call for Autumn Marine Mammal Internship Opportunities Message-ID: Dear all, We would like to inform you about internship, study abroad and research opportunities we are offering in Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation in the Aegean Sea islands. Please see the information below and feel free to ask us for any further information you may need. Thank you for your time, Best regards, Niki Karagouni ---------------------------------- *Niki Karagouni* MSc Environmental Scientist, Research Assistant and Marine Mammal Team Coordinator *Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation* Marine Research Base: P.O. Box 42, Pythagorio, Samos 83103 *niki at archipelago.gr ; ** www.archipelago.gr * Marine Mammal Internships & Research Opportunities in the Aegean Sea We are excited to announce internship opportunities in marine mammal research. S [image: header 03 04] Marine Mammal Internships & Research Opportunities in the Aegean Sea [image: dolphin3 logo] *We are excited to announce internship opportunities in marine mammal research. Students, recent graduates and scientists can join Archipelagos' research and conservation efforts in Eastern Aegean.* Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation is a Greek non-profit, non-governmental organization committed to researching and defending the rich biodiversity of the Greek seas and islands, as well as of the NE Mediterranean region overall. This region of rare biodiversity is in desperate need of protection as is being increasing threatened by harmful anthropogenic activities! [image: physeter copy] The Eastern Aegean region is home many rare and endangered species, including some of the *most important remaining populations* in the Mediterranean of several marine mammals.Research surveys can focus on: - Dolphin populations, including: D. delphis (common dolphin), T. truncatus (bottlenose dolphin), S.coeruleoalba (striped dolphin) and G. griseus (Risso?s dolphin); - Whale populations, including: P. macrocephalus (sperm whale), Ziphius cavirostris (Cuvier?s beaked whale) and occasional visitors B. physalus (fin whale); - The Mediterranean monk seal (M. monachus), an important and critically endangered marine mammal specie found in the region. [image: dolphin2 logo] *Aims* ? Efficient conservation of the marine mammal populations from anthropogenic threats ? Monitoring of habitat use, abundance and distribution ? Study of population structure and dynamics ? Study of behavioural ecology & communication ? Study of factors of impact (with a focus on interactions with fisheries). [image: IMG 2900] *Responsibilities:* ? Boat-based surveys (weather dependent) ? Photo-identification and matching techniques ? Collecting environmental and anthropogenic data ? Gathering acoustic data ? Data entry and analysis ? Raising awareness ? Utilizing ArcGIS to map populations ? Questionaire-based surveys ? First aid of stranded animals (e.g., cetaceans, seals and sea turtles) For more information please click here [image: surveys] Other *internship/ research topics*: *Marine/ Fisheries Research & Management *Research & Conservation of Island Flora and Fauna *GIS Mapping of Biodiversity *Laboratory Assessment of Environmental Impacts *Illustration, Graphic & Animation Design *Environmental Photography & Film Production Environmental Education , and many more Click here for more information . *Placement details*: *Duration*: 3-12 months (shorter duration is consider on a case-by-case basis) *Location:* Archipelagos? research bases and stations in the eastern Aegean Sea (Samos, Lipsi, Ikaria, Arki, Marathi islands). Placements may also include working on board one of the two small research boats. *Costs:* Placement fee of 650euros/month *Covers:* accommodation, full board and all placement costs. *(frequently placement fee and travel etc expenses are covered by grants such as Erasmus+, or other equivalent)* [image: unnamed] *Extras*: Participants have the option to obtain (at no further cost): a) Sailing certificate b) PADI Open Water scuba diving certification ? seasonally available, excluding PADI fees c) Greek language lessons [image: dolphin1 logo] *Please pass this along to faculty members and students who may be interested in this opportunity.* For further information you can contact admissions at archipelago.gr We hope to see you in the Aegean islands! [image: 1px] ?2015 Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation | Pythagorio Samos, 83103 Web Version Forward Unsubscribe Powered by *Mad Mimi*?A GoDaddy? company -- *Niki Karagouni* MSc Environmental Scientist, Research Assistant and Marine Mammal Team Coordinator *Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation* Marine Research Base: P.O. Box 42, Pythagorio, Samos 83103 *niki at archipelago.gr ; ** www.archipelago.gr * -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From ctaylor at sea2shore.org Fri Aug 21 07:20:34 2015 From: ctaylor at sea2shore.org (Cynthia Taylor) Date: Fri, 21 Aug 2015 10:20:34 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] Job Opportunity - Right Whale Aerial Survey Observers Message-ID: <003401d0dc1c$8b53bbe0$a1fb33a0$@org> Sea to Shore Alliance Right Whale Aerial Survey Observers Job Announcement Sea to Shore Alliance, a non-profit international research and conservation organization, is seeking temporary, seasonal aerial observers for marine mammal surveys from December 2015 through March 2016. These positions are in anticipation of research activities to be conducted in the southeastern United States, contingent upon funding. Responsibilities will include participating in aerial flights up to four days per week, data processing, and photo analysis. Observers are required to complete an aviation and marine safety/survival training course. Housing is provided and will be located in St. Simon's Island, Georgia. Qualifications: Previous aerial or marine mammal survey experience, as well as experience in photo-identification of large cetaceans, is strongly desired. Applicants should be skilled in database entry and other computer applications including photo processing software. The ability to live and work well in a team environment and work in a small aircraft up to eight hours per day is required. We are currently accepting applications from U.S. citizens and permanent residents. Please submit a cover letter, resume, and three references to ctaylor at sea2shore.org by September 4, 2015. Cynthia R. Taylor Assistant Director/Research Scientist HI RES S2S LOGO 4411 Bee Ridge Rd. #490 Sarasota, FL 34233 USA 941.232.4587; ctaylor at sea2shore.org www.sea2shore.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 2049 bytes Desc: not available URL: From lauriekimallen at gmail.com Sat Aug 22 09:11:42 2015 From: lauriekimallen at gmail.com (Laurie Allen) Date: Sat, 22 Aug 2015 12:11:42 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] Joesph Geraci, VMD, PhD Message-ID: In case any of you in the marine mammal world of Joe's friends and colleagues have not already heard, Joe Geraci has been very ill since July of 2014. I have set up a website that you can visit to hear some thoughts from Joe and post your own comments or pictures. Emails and phone calls are hard to keep up with as you can imagine. Visit www.caringbridge.org, sign up and then search Joseph Geraci. -- Laurie K. Allen & Co. Environmental Science and Policy Applications 38166 Hunts End Place Leesburg, VA 20175 Office 540-338-2071 Mobile 860-271-1662 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From K.Sprogis at murdoch.edu.au Sun Aug 23 01:41:45 2015 From: K.Sprogis at murdoch.edu.au (Kate Sprogis) Date: Sun, 23 Aug 2015 08:41:45 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New paper: Sex-specific home ranges of bottlenose dolphins Message-ID: Dear MARMAM Colleagues, We are pleased to announce the following publication in Marine Mammal Science: Kate R. Sprogis, Holly C. Raudino (nee Smith), Robert Rankin, Colin D. MacLeod and Lars Bejder. Home range size of adult Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) in a coastal and estuarine system is habitat and sex-specific. Marine Mammal Science. DOI: 10.1111/mms.12260 Abstract: This study examined sex-specific differences in home range size of adult Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins off Bunbury, Western Australia. We applied a new kernel density estimation approach that accounted for physical barriers to movements. A Bayesian mixture model was developed to estimate a sex effect in home range size with latent group partitioning constrained by association data. A post hoc analysis investigated group partitioning relating to the proportion of time spent in open vs. sheltered waters. From 2007-2013, photographic-identification data were collected along boat-based systematic transect lines (n= 586). Analyses focused on adult dolphins of known sex (sighted ? 30; n= 22 males and 34 females). The 95% utilization distributions of males varied between 27-187 km2 (x? ? SD; 94.8 ? 48.15) and for females between 20-133 km2 (65.6 ? 30.9). The mixture model indicated a 99% probability that males had larger home ranges than females. Dolphins mostly sighted in open waters had larger home ranges than those in sheltered waters. Home ranges of dolphins sighted in sheltered waters overlapped with areas of highest human activity. We suggest that sex differences in home ranges are driven by male mating strategies, and home range size differences between habitats may be influenced by prey availability and predation risk. The article can be downloaded from: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/mms.12260/abstract Alternatively, if you are unable to download the article please email me for a pdf at k.sprogis at murdoch.edu.au. Kind regards, Kate Sprogis PhD Cetacean Research Unit | School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, 90 South St, Murdoch WA 6150, Australia k.sprogis at murdoch.edu.au | MUCRU Kate Sprogis | Kate Sprogis Photography [cid:10ACA7D6-201E-4C35-B63C-552D5764DF27] -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: B0312E04-5F9C-4E4E-B78C-50BD272246A6[1].png Type: image/png Size: 18347 bytes Desc: B0312E04-5F9C-4E4E-B78C-50BD272246A6[1].png URL: From dylan at planetwhale.com Sun Aug 23 15:06:57 2015 From: dylan at planetwhale.com (Dylan Walker) Date: Sun, 23 Aug 2015 23:06:57 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] ANNOUNCEMENT: Initiative launched to create Whale Heritage Sites around the World Message-ID: Dear Marmamers, The World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) is pleased to announce the launch of a new initiative ? Whale Heritage Sites ? to recognise those destinations worldwide which champion responsible whale and dolphin watching and celebrate the cultural importance of the cetaceans living in the waters around them. Due to be launched on 28-29 October 2015, Whale Heritage Sites will be a globally recognised way to identify destinations that implement and celebrate responsible and sustainable whale and dolphin watching. Whale Heritage Site accreditation will be awarded to destinations leading the way in sustainability and responsible management of whale and dolphin watching, and generating an appreciation of the culture and heritage surrounding cetaceans and their habitats. They will provide the travel industry with a clear marker to identify and support sustainable practice, and create a platform for destinations to promote their whale related culture, heritage and biodiversity. Whale Heritage Sites will give tourists a clear way to select responsible whale and dolphin watching holiday destinations, encouraging them to experience these incredible animals in their natural habitat in a sustainable and responsible way. Whale Heritage Site status will be designated to destinations that: 1. Maintain the highest standards of responsible whale and dolphin watching; 2. Celebrate the cultural importance of whales and dolphins by engaging communities and tourists with the arts, science, music, education and events Designation of a destination as a Whale Heritage Site will facilitate marketing and promotion, boost visitor numbers and the incomes of tourism providers, enable sustainable management of marine resources and celebrate history, the environment, and cultural identity. Twelve destinations are currently being analysed to understand how their frameworks could be adapted as 'best practice models' for Whale Heritage Sites. These are: Azores, Portugal; Silver Bank, Dominican Republic; El Vizcaino Biosphere Reserve, Mexico; Hervey Bay, Australia; Iceland; Kaikoura, New Zealand; Massachusetts, USA; Outer Barrier Reef, Australia; Washington State / British Columbia (USA/Canada); Peninsula Valdez, Argentina; South Africa; and Tonga. NEXT STEPS The first Whale Heritage Sites Summit will be held 28-30 October in the Azores Islands, reflecting the islands? long standing position as a mecca for whale and dolphin enthusiasts, for its contribution to cetacean research, and its close cultural links with cetaceans. For more information about Whale Heritage Sites: http://whaleheritagesites.org/ For more information about the Whale Heritage Sites Summit to be held on Faial in the Azores on 28 ? 30 October 2015: http://worldcetaceanalliance.org/conference-programme/ Please contact me if you require further information about Whale Heritage Sites or the Summit. Regards, Dylan Walker *WCA Secretariat* *Without collaboration we will achieve nothing more than a drop in the ocean. ~ Jean-Michel Cousteau, Honorary President, WCA* *WCA, Studio 3, Lower Promenade, Madeira Drive, Brighton, BN2 1ET, UK * *Office: +44(0)1273 355011 <%2B44%280%291273%20355011>. Mob: +44(0)7900 471490 <%2B44%280%297900%20471490> * *www.worldcetaceanalliance.org * -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From dylan at planetwhale.com Sun Aug 23 15:36:23 2015 From: dylan at planetwhale.com (Dylan Walker) Date: Sun, 23 Aug 2015 23:36:23 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] Call for short presentations: World Whale Conference Message-ID: Dear Marmamers, The programme for the WCA World Whale Conference and Whale Heritage Sites Summit, to be held in Faial, Azores, Portugal, 26-30 October, is now available here: http://worldcetaceanalliance.org/conference-programme/ The Conference will include the following four symposia, each of which will begin with a series of short presentations to inspire discussion and debate. If you would like to submit a proposal to give a short presentation at the conference (five minutes plus questions) please email Lauren Horncastle at: lauren at worldcetaceanalliance.org The four symposia for which presentations are requested are: 1. CETACEAN CAPTIVITY: BUILDING AN EFFECTIVE GLOBAL NETWORK 2. GHOST NETS / PORPOISE ENTANGLEMENT 3. BEAKED WHALE RESEARCH AND CONSERVATION 4. RESPONSIBLE WHALE AND DOLPHIN WATCHING ? WITH A FOCUS ON THE AZORES We look forward to hearing from presenters. Regards, Dylan Walker *WCA Secretariat* *Without collaboration we will achieve nothing more than a drop in the ocean. ~ Jean-Michel Cousteau, Honorary President, WCA* *WCA, Studio 3, Lower Promenade, Madeira Drive, Brighton, BN2 1ET, UK * *Office: +44(0)1273 355011 <%2B44%280%291273%20355011>. Mob: +44(0)7900 471490 <%2B44%280%297900%20471490> * *www.worldcetaceanalliance.org * -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From info at maresconference.eu Mon Aug 24 01:39:57 2015 From: info at maresconference.eu (Mares Conference Coordination Office) Date: Mon, 24 Aug 2015 10:39:57 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] Second Mares Conference on Marine Ecosystems Health and Conservation References: <007901d0de47$f32e0c70$d98a2550$@maresconference.eu> Message-ID: <00aa01d0de48$75011080$5f033180$@maresconference.eu> Dear all, The MARES Consortium and EuroMarine Network are pleased to invite you to participate in the second Mares Conference on Marine Ecosystems Health and Conservation. Call for abstracts is open until the 7th September 2015 at www.maresconference.eu/submit/abstract Early bird registration is open until the 29th October 2015 at www.maresconference.eu/registration The second Mares Conference will be held from 1st- 5th February, 2016 in Olh?o, Portugal and is expected to attract around 200 attendees from across the world. It presents a unique opportunity to bring together marine researchers, scientists, educators and policymakers to address the key issues regarding marine ecosystems health and conservation. The conference will be dynamic and innovative, by providing a mixture of oral presentations, scientific exhibitions and training workshops. Throughout the conference scientific sessions and exhibitions, the following six thematic subjects will be explored and keynote speakers will present on each theme: ? Future oceans: temperature changes - hypoxia - acidification - Professor Jean-Pierre Gattuso ? Understanding biodiversity effects on the functioning of marine ecosystems - Professor Steve Widdicombe ? Biological invasions - Professor Anna Occhipinti Ambrogi ? Natural resources: overexploitation, fisheries and aquaculture - Dr Jake Rice ? Ocean noise pollution - Ren? Dekeling ? Habitat loss, urban development, coastal infrastructures and marine spatial planning - Dr Tundi Agardy Further details regarding the conference venue, keynote speakers, scientific programme and training workshops are available on the Mares Conference webpage or visit the conference Facebook page. We look forward to seeing you in Olh?o. Kind regards, On behalf of the organising committee, Katherine Brownlie Mares Conference Coordination Office Ghent University Marine Biology Research Group Krijgslaan 281/S8 B-9000 Gent, Belgium Phone: +32 9 264 85 26 info at maresconference.eu www.maresconference.eu -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 3754 bytes Desc: not available URL: From Tom.Reinert at MyFWC.com Mon Aug 24 08:32:33 2015 From: Tom.Reinert at MyFWC.com (Reinert, Tom) Date: Mon, 24 Aug 2015 15:32:33 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] JOB ANNOUNCEMENT: Manatee Field Biologist, Melbourne, FL Message-ID: Wildlife Research - Marine Mammals (Manatees) TITLE: OPS Biological Scientist I POSITION #: 77902141 LOCATION: Melbourne, FL (Brevard County) RATE OF PAY: $13.00/hour, 40 hours/week DESCRIPTION OF JOB DUTIES: Duties include but are not limited to recovery of manatee carcasses from a six county area on the central East Coast of Florida (Brevard, Indian River, southern Volusia, Seminole, Orange and Osceola). Conduct necropsies on badly decomposed manatee carcasses and transport fresh to moderately decomposed manatee carcasses to the necropsy facility in St. Petersburg. Participate in manatee rescues, including coordination of capture and transportation of injured manatees to the appropriate rehabilitation facility. Conduct aerial surveys of manatees, track radio-tagged manatees and photograph manatees for photo identification purposes. Participate in aerial verification and/or documentation flights for the North Atlantic right whale. Participate in data entry, office work, cleaning of equipment, maintenance of vehicles, vessels, and trailers, and public outreach including working with the media. Work long, unscheduled hours on short notice that include some evenings, weekends and holidays. Regular schedule may include weekends. Overnight trips within the state also may be required. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: A bachelor's degree with a major in one of the biological sciences. REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Applicant must obtain boater safety certification within the first six months of employment. Applicant must be able to swim proficiently. Field work is highly physical and applicant must be willing and able to lift 50 lbs on a regular basis. Must have the ability to work both as a team member as well as independently in various field situations. Must be able to work under adverse field conditions, potentially nights, on weekends and holidays. Must be able to establish and maintain effective and cooperative working relationships; think logically and apply problem-solving techniques; effectively communicate verbally and in writing; and maintain a valid driver's License. Must have a clean record to pass a required Homeland Security clearance for some areas within our coverage. Applicants must be detail oriented, have a strong work ethic, and be self-motivated. PREFERRED EXPERIENCE: Marine mammal stranding-response experience is preferred. Knowledge and the ability to use personal computers, field gear, and cameras are highly desired. Demonstrable ability to safely operate and trailer boats less than 30 feet in length is also highly desired. WHAT IS OPS EMPLOYMENT? Other Personal Services (OPS) employment is a temporary employer/employee relationship used solely for accomplishing short term or intermittent tasks. OPS employees do not fill established positions and may not be assigned the duties of any vacant authorized position. OPS employees are at-will employees and are subject to actions such as pay changes, changes to work assignment, and terminations at the pleasure of the agency head or designee. WHAT BENEFITS ARE APPLICABLE TO OPS EMPLOYEES? * State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan* - mandatory * Workers' Compensation - mandatory * Reemployment Assistance (Unemployment Compensation) - mandatory * Participation in state group insurance (upon availability and you must meet eligibility requirements) * Deferred Compensation - voluntary * Employee Assistance Program - voluntary APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: Please submit a current resume, three references, and a cover letter along with your State of Florida Employment Application electronically in People First: http://peoplefirst.myflorida.com Applicants are required to submit a complete, up-to-date, State of Florida Employment Application Form electronically in People First (http://peoplefirst.myflorida.com) or faxed to 1-888-403-2110 by the closing date listed. Resumes and supporting documentation may be submitted in People First, but do not replace the requirement for a completed State of Florida Employment Application Form. If you experience technical difficulties during the application process or when attaching documents, call People First staffing at 1-877-562-7287. If unable to attach supporting documents to your application, they may be faxed to the People First Service Center at 1-888-403-2110. Be sure to include the Requisition number for the position to which you are applying on each page of your faxed documents. The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or the People First Service Center (1-877-562-7287). Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation. The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act. The State of Florida hires only U.S. citizens and lawfully authorized alien workers. An Employment Eligibility Verification Check will be conducted in the E-Verify System which is a federal government electronic database that confirms the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From kfreeman at mysticaquarium.org Mon Aug 24 11:54:40 2015 From: kfreeman at mysticaquarium.org (Freeman, Kathleen) Date: Mon, 24 Aug 2015 18:54:40 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Mystic Aquarium Internship Postings Message-ID: <272F8F681534B94DBFD15780C30D026813487CBD@EX2010.searesearch.local> Would it be possible to please post the following internship positions? Thank you, Kathy Animal Husbandry Internships Mystic Aquarium's intern program is designed to provide college students and recent college graduates with a dynamic educational opportunity while simultaneously providing career experience. Our unique program combines independent project research, public educational outreach, and work experience in the department of choice; all under the guidance of an aquarium supervisor. We accept 1-3 interns per semester in each department, allowing a close working relationship between intern and accomplished aquarium staff. Internships are available in departments working with Fish and Invertebrates, Steller Sea Lions, Beluga Whales, California Sea Lions, African Penguins, reptiles, and more! Application deadlines are: Spring Semester-September 30; Summer Semester-January 31; Fall Semester-May 31. For complete application instructions go to our website, http://www.mysticaquarium.org/get-involved/internships. Research Internships Mystic Aquarium has a long history of conducting high quality research. Much of this research has contributed to the advancement of husbandry techniques for animals in an aquarium setting as well as improvements in aquatic animal medicine. Internships are available within our Research department involving detailed analysis of behavior, specimens, data records and a combination of field, in-house, and laboratory-based research projects that focus on animal behavior, ecology, infectious disease, neuro-immunology, and physiology. Application deadlines are: Spring Semester-September 30; Summer Semester-January 31; Fall Semester-May 31. For complete application instructions go to our website, http://www.mysticaquarium.org/get-involved/internships. Education, Water Quality, Life Support and More! Mystic Aquarium's intern program is designed to provide college students and recent college graduates with a dynamic educational opportunity while simultaneously providing career experience. Our unique program combines independent project research, public educational outreach, and work experience in the department of choice; all under the guidance of an aquarium supervisor. We accept 1-3 interns per semester in each department, allowing a close working relationship between intern and accomplished aquarium staff. Internships are available in various departments including Education, Water Quality, Life Support, Media & Public Relations, Marketing, and more! Application deadlines are: Spring Semester-September 30; Summer Semester-January 31; Fall Semester- May 31. Complete application instructions may be found on our website, http://www.mysticaquarium.org/get-involved/internships. Kathleen Freeman Internship Coordinator & Mission Programs Administrator Human Resources Department / Mission Programs Phone | 860-572-5955 Ext 306 kfreeman at mysticaquarium.org www.mysticaquarium.org [cid:image001.jpg at 01D06AE5.5079F7D0] [Description: Description: Description: Description: Description: Description: FBicon][Description: Description: Description: Description: Description: Description: twitterlogo][Description: cid:image007.png at 01CBE934.31FFF3E0] -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 4239 bytes Desc: image001.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image002.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 947 bytes Desc: image002.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image003.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 940 bytes Desc: image003.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image004.png Type: image/png Size: 2212 bytes Desc: image004.png URL: From Thomas.Pitchford at MyFWC.com Mon Aug 24 13:09:20 2015 From: Thomas.Pitchford at MyFWC.com (Pitchford, Tom) Date: Mon, 24 Aug 2015 20:09:20 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] =?windows-1252?q?Job_Announcement=3A_Right_Whale_Observe?= =?windows-1252?q?rs_=96_Florida=2C_USA?= Message-ID: North Atlantic Right Whale Aerial Observer Positions (Seasonal) Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI) Section: Wildlife Research ? Marine Mammals Job Title: OPS Biological Scientist I Job Location: St. Augustine, FL (St. Johns County) Rate of Pay: $16.00; 40 hrs/week including weekends and holidays Closing Date: 9/6/2015 Observer positions are temporary/seasonal, contingent upon funding, and will not be eligible for participation in State Group insurance benefits. Anticipated end date for this position is 4/1/2015. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF JOB DUTIES: FWC?s FWRI conducts research and monitoring activities for right whales in the southeastern United States. Projects focus on vessel-strike mitigation and data collection for federal assessment of the status and recovery of the North Atlantic right whale population. Aerial surveys are flown daily, weather permitting, from December 1st through March 31st. Observers collect in-flight survey data and right whale photo-documentation and assist with photo-identification and data entry, analyses, and archival tasks. Observers also provide ground support for the aerial survey crew and must communicate effectively with partner state and federal agencies and NGO representatives, as well as the general public. Observers may also assist with vessel based photo-identification, multi-agency genetic sampling effort, field necropsies of right whales, and disentanglement. Prior to the start of surveys on December 1st (dates TBA), applicants will be required to attend and satisfactorily complete aircraft and marine safety and survival training as well as training to introduce the skills and responsibilities of an observer with FWC?s North Atlantic right whale program. Applicants must be willing to work weekends, holidays, and evenings. Observer positions are temporary/seasonal and contingent upon funding. QUALIFICATIONS: A bachelor?s degree in one of the biological sciences from an accredited university is required. Applicant must be able to: work and share accommodations in a team environment, utilize problem solving techniques, excel under adverse field conditions, endure a full day in a small aircraft, and understand and correctly utilize applicable rules, regulations, and procedures. Previous aerial and/or marine mammal survey experience and photo-identification knowledge and skills are strongly desired. Applicants should also have experience in database entry and photographic management software as well as familiarity and knowledge of digital cameras and zoom lenses. TO APPLY: Applicants are required to submit a complete, up-to-date, State of Florida Employment Application Form electronically in People First, by midnight on the closing date listed. Go to: http://peoplefirst.myflorida.com . Applicants are strongly encouraged to attach a cover letter highlighting their qualifications for this position along with a copy of their resume or CV with professional references. If you experience technical difficulties during the application process or when attaching documents, please call People First staffing at 1-877-562-7287. (TTY applicants call 1-866-221-0268). If unable to attach supporting documents to your application, they may be faxed to the People First Service Center at 1-888-403-2110. Be sure to include the Requisition number for the position to which you are applying on each page of your faxed documents. The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or the People First Service Center (1-877-562-7287). Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation. The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act. The State of Florida hires only U.S. citizens and lawfully authorized alien workers. If a conditional offer of employment is made, you will be required to provide identification and proof of citizenship or authorization to work in the United States for the hiring authority to which application is made. E-Verify will be used to verify work authorization and identity. WHAT IS OPS EMPLOYMENT? Other Personal Services (OPS) employment is a temporary employer/employee relationship used solely for accomplishing short term or intermittent tasks. OPS employees do not fill established positions and may not be assigned the duties of any vacant authorized position. OPS employees are at-will employees and are subject to actions such as pay changes, changes to work assignment, and terminations at the pleasure of the agency head or designee. WHAT BENEFITS ARE APPLICABLE TO OPS EMPLOYEES? * State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan -mandatory * Workers? Compensation - mandatory * Reemployment Assistance (Unemployment Compensation) - mandatory * Participation in state group insurance (upon meeting eligibility requirements) * Deferred Compensation - voluntary * Employee Assistance Program ? voluntary WHAT BENEFITS ARE NOT APPLICABLE TO OPS EMPLOYEES? * Any form of paid leave * Paid holidays * Participation in the Florida Retirement System * Reinstatement rights or retention rights -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From jon.kurland at noaa.gov Mon Aug 24 16:13:33 2015 From: jon.kurland at noaa.gov (Jon Kurland - NOAA Federal) Date: Mon, 24 Aug 2015 15:13:33 -0800 Subject: [MARMAM] NMFS Alaska Job Posting Message-ID: Please post the following. Thank you! The NMFS Alaska Region, Protected Resources Division, currently has two job opportunities available. The division is responsible for management of a variety of protected species including whales, fur seals, ice seals, harbor seals, and Steller sea lions. Both positions will be located in Juneau. Marine Mammal Specialist, ZP 401 band III (GS 11/12 equivalent) Resource Management Specialist, ZP 401 band III (GS 11/12 equivalent) The people hired for these two positions both will work in a team environment to conduct analyses and implement conservation actions to promote the management and recovery of protected species under the ESA and MMPA. The duties for the two jobs will be similar, including tasks such as such as ESA section 7 consultations, status reviews, responses to petitions for listing, and co-management with Alaska Native organizations under the MMPA. The Marine Mammal Specialist's duties will include working with stakeholders to avoid or minimize harassment of marine mammals due to vessel disturbance and other human activities. The Resource Management Specialist's duties will include conducting analyses regarding the impacts of commercial fisheries on marine mammals. For both jobs we're looking for people with excellent project management, analytical, writing, and verbal communication skills, and hopefully having experience with the MMPA and ESA. Both of these positions are being advertised for status and non-status applicants. These announcements will be open from August 25 through September 1. Here are the links: Marine Mammal Specialist, ZP-401-03: http://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ ViewDetails/408075200 Resource Management Specialist, ZP-401-03: http://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/408833600 Please share with anyone who may be interested. Anyone with questions, please feel free to contact Aleria Jensen (aleria.jensen at noaa.gov, 907-586-7248) or me (jon.kurland at noaa.gov, 907-586-7638). Thanks! Jon Kurland Assistant Regional Administrator for Protected Resources NOAA Fisheries, Alaska Region -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From gariboldi.constanza at maimonides.edu Mon Aug 24 18:32:31 2015 From: gariboldi.constanza at maimonides.edu (Lic. Maria Constanza Gariboldi) Date: Mon, 24 Aug 2015 22:32:31 -0300 Subject: [MARMAM] New Article: Population Genetics of Franciscana Dolphins (Pontoporia blainvillei): Introducing a New Population from the Southern Edge of Their Distribution Message-ID: Dear Colleagues, We would like to announce the recent publication: Gariboldi MC, T?nez JI, Dejean CB, Failla M, Vitullo AD, Negri MF, Cappozzo HL. 2015. Population Genetics of Franciscana Dolphins (*Pontoporia blainvillei*): Introducing a New Population from the Southern Edge of Their Distribution. PLoS ONE 10(7):e0132854. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0132854. Abstract: Due to anthropogenic factors, the franciscana dolphin, *Pontoporia blainvillei*, is the most threatened small cetacean on the Atlantic coast of South America. Four Franciscana Management Areas have been proposed: Espiritu Santo to Rio de Janeiro (FMA I), S?o Paulo to Santa Catarina (FMA II), Rio Grande do Sul to Uruguay (FMA III), and Argentina (FMA IV). Further genetic studies distinguished additional populations within these FMAs. We analyzed the population structure, phylogeography, and demographic history in the southernmost portion of the species range. From the analysis of mitochondrial DNA control region sequences, 5 novel haplotypes were found, totalizing 60 haplotypes for the entire distribution range. The haplotype network did not show an apparent phylogeographical signal for the southern FMAs. Two populations were identified: Monte Hermoso (MH) and Necochea (NC)+Claromec? (CL)+R?o Negro (RN). The low levels of genetic variability, the relative constant size over time, and the low levels of gene flow may indicate that MH has been colonized by a few maternal lineages and became isolated from geographically close populations. The apparent increase in NC+CL+RN size would be consistent with the higher genetic variability found, since genetic diversity is generally higher in older and expanding populations. Additionally, RN may have experienced a recent split from CL and NC; current high levels of gene flow may be occurring between the latter ones. FMA IV would comprise four franciscana dolphin populations: Samboromb?n West+Samboromb?n South, Cabo San Antonio+Buenos Aires East, NC+CL+Buenos Aires Southwest+RN and MH. Results achieved in this study need to be taken into account in order to ensure the long-term survival of the species. The article can be downloaded from: http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0132854 Kind regards, Constanza -- Lic. Mar?a Constanza Gariboldi Centro de Estudios Biom?dicos, Biotecnol?gicos, Ambientales y Diagn?stico - CEBBAD Universidad Maim?nides Hidalgo 775 6to piso (1405) Tel: 4905 1197 Fax: 4905 1133 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From elsvermeulen5 at gmail.com Tue Aug 25 08:48:32 2015 From: elsvermeulen5 at gmail.com (Els Vermeulen) Date: Tue, 25 Aug 2015 17:48:32 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication on bottlenose dolphin behaviour in Argentina Message-ID: Dear all, We are pleased to announce the recent publication of the following article: Vermeulen, E., Holsbeek, L., Das, K. 2015. Diurnal and Seasonal Variation in the Behaviour of Bottlenose Dolphins (*Tursiops truncatus*) in Bah?a San Antonio, Patagonia, Argentina. Aquatic Mammals 41(3), 272-283. DOI 10.1578/AM.41.3.2015.272 ABSTRACT: Diurnal and seasonal patterns in the behaviour of a small population of bottlenose dolphins were assessed in Bah?a San Antonio (BSA), Patagonia, Argentina, between 2006 and 2011. Results indicated that dolphins used the study area mainly to rest, travel, and forage, with a marked diurnal and seasonal pattern in their activity. During the early morning, most dolphin groups were resting, while towards the afternoon and evening, surface feeding and social activities peaked. During winter, social activities and surface feeding increased notably; during summer, diving behaviour reached its peak, presumably associated with a tail-out/peduncle-dive foraging strategy. The observed seasonal variation in foraging strategies is hypothesised to be related to the seasonal behavioural changes of prey species in the area that are linked to spawning. The variation in group size further appears to reflect the regulation of feeding competition while reconfirming the low predation risk within the study area. Results of this study indicate the behavioural and social flexibility of bottlenose dolphins in BSA and suggest a link to the seasonal variations in prey availability. Considering the general bottlenose dolphin population declines in Argentina presumably related to prey depletion, it could be argued that the temporal occurrence of spawning shoals and a general low presence of other top predators directly and indirectly make this a favourable area for this population. Additional information is required to more comprehensively address this hypothesis. The information presented herein serves as vital baseline data for future conservation management protocols. This article can be downloaded from www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org or requested by email: elsvermeulen5 at gmail.com or els at whalefish.org Kind regards, Els ---------------------------------------- Els Vermeulen, PhD Marine Mammal Biologist SANCOR Post-doctoral fellow - University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa Co-director, Sea Search, Cape Town, South Africa - www.seasearch.co.za Co-director, Whalefish - www.whalefish.org Cell: +27 (0)60 9714301 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From kmchugh at mote.org Tue Aug 25 09:46:59 2015 From: kmchugh at mote.org (Katie McHugh) Date: Tue, 25 Aug 2015 12:46:59 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] Sarasota Dolphin Research Program Internships - Winter 2016 Message-ID: <55DC9C03.7090705@mote.org> *Sarasota Dolphin Research Program Internships Winter 2016 - Deadline September 1st* The Sarasota Dolphin Research Program (SDRP), a partnership led by the Chicago Zoological Society and based at Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, Florida, conducts the world?s longest-running study of a dolphin population. The program?s primary goal is to contribute to a better understanding of the structure and dynamics of populations of small cetaceans, as well as the natural and anthropogenic factors that impact them. The SDRP uses an interdisciplinary and collaborative approach in conducting studies of bottlenose dolphins within Sarasota Bay, Tampa Bay, Charlotte Harbor, and the Gulf of Mexico coastal waters. For more information about the SDRP, please visit:www.sarasotadolphin.org . The SDRP selects volunteer interns during three seasons each year: * Winter/Spring (positions January to April, applications due to Mote by September 1st); * Summer (positions mid-May to August, applications due to Mote by March 1st); * Fall (positions September to December, applications due to Mote by June 1st). All internships must be a minimum of 10 weeks of participation, but ideally will run for 12-16 weeks. Please note that we typically only seek 2-4 interns for each session and that we receive many more applications than we have openings ? the selection process is very competitive.Successful candidates will participate in the following research projects: 1)*Dolphin population monitoring project**:*(/YEAR ROUND/) This study continues to monitor the resident bottlenose dolphin community in Sarasota Bay and vicinity. Duties in the field will include assisting with boat-based photographic identification surveys for dolphin groups during one to two weeks per month. Behavioral, location, individual, and environmental data will be recorded for each dolphin group, and additional data related to human-dolphin interactions will also be collected in conjunction with this project. While in the lab (at least 2 weeks per month), work will generally involve photo-identification of dolphins, computer data entry and double-checking, logging of videos into database and archives, dolphin dorsal fin identification catalog updates, boat and field equipment maintenance, and other duties. 2) *Dolphin prey and habitat use project**:* (/JAN-MAR & JUN-SEPT ONLY/) This study uses the Sarasota dolphin community and fish populations to study relationships between distributions of dolphins and their prey and factors that affect fish community ecology, such as red tide. While in the field, work will involve sampling of fish communities through purse seining techniques and collection of other environmental data. Interns typically participate in this project 2-3 days per month. 3)*Other projects* (/TBD/)Interns may participate in other research projects, depending on availability and timing of grant funding for specific projects.Interns may also be asked to assist with dolphin rescues. Interns should expect to spend about 20% of their time in the field, and about 80% of their time in the lab working with data, or performing equipment maintenance. There is no financial compensation for these internship positions, and successful applicants will be responsible for their own living and transportation expenses. Shared housing opportunities near Mote Marine Laboratory may be available (cost: $95/week). A few scholarships may be available from Mote Marine Laboratory through a competitive application process (US citizens only). Applicants would ideally have the following qualifications: * Minimum of 18 years of age and engaged in or recently completed undergraduate or graduate studies; * A background or degree in marine biology, biology, ecology, zoology, wildlife, fisheries, or a related field; * Basic computer proficiency in Microsoft Office programs (especially Excel and Access); * Excellent verbal communication skills, fluent in English; * Must be physically fit and able to swim; * Must be able to work effectively as part of a team; * Some prior field research experience preferred but not required; * Enthusiasm and desire to learn a variety of field and lab based research methods; * A willingness to spend a minimum of 10-12 weeks working full time as a volunteer with our program. ** ** *To apply for a Sarasota Dolphin Research Program internship, interested persons should:* 1) Fill out an application form at Mote Marine Laboratory?s website (http://mote.org/research/internships) and be sure to select ?Sarasota Dolphin Research Program? as your first choice; 2) Complete and provide to Mote?s intern office all other application materials including: a statement of interest, current college transcript, letter of recommendation, and /curriculum vitae /(incomplete applications will not be considered); 3) Send an email to SDRP Intern Coordinator (Katie McHugh, PhD, _kmchugh at mote.org_) stating your name, contact information, exact dates and duration of availability, where you learned about the internship opportunity (/e.g. /Mote, SDRP, Chicago Zoological Society, MARMAM, etc.), and that you have provided all application materials to the Mote intern office, as detailed above. All applications will be reviewed; those received by the application deadline will be given first priority. Applicants may contact Dr. Katie McHugh (941-388-4441 ext. 450, kmchugh at mote.org ) in the SDRP with any questions. Applicants applying because of an interest in engaging in graduate studies with the SDRP should discuss their interests with Program Director Randall Wells, PhD, upon acceptance into the program.There is no assurance that participation as an intern with the SDRP will lead to graduate research program opportunities. -- ************************************ Katherine McHugh Staff Scientist Sarasota Dolphin Research Program Chicago Zoological Society c/o Mote Marine Laboratory 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy Sarasota, FL 34236 (941) 388-4441 x450 office (650) 400-2776 cell kmchugh at mote.org ************************************ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From kristine.petersen at noaa.gov Tue Aug 25 11:57:24 2015 From: kristine.petersen at noaa.gov (Kristine Petersen - NOAA Federal) Date: Tue, 25 Aug 2015 14:57:24 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] ZP-3 Vacancies in HQ Office of Protected Resources Message-ID: Greetings! Our ZP-3 Biologist (Endangered Species) vacancy announcement has published on USAJobs. We currently have two vacancies that will be filled from this recruitment. https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/411874300 Job Announcement Number: PH-15-LH-1473694 (DE/MP)Control Number: 411874300 *It is open until September 7, 2015 **to merit promotion candidates as well as U.S. Citizens and Nationals.* *Please help us distribute this announcement widely!* ?Regards, Kris? -- *Kristine Petersen* Deputy Chief, ESA Interagency Cooperation Division Office of Protected Resources NOAA Fisheries U.S. Department of Commerce Office: (301) 427-8453 Mobile: (240) 595-1963 kristine.petersen at noaa.gov -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From eva.schwanke at yahoo.de Wed Aug 26 04:43:01 2015 From: eva.schwanke at yahoo.de (Eva Schwanke) Date: Wed, 26 Aug 2015 12:43:01 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] New Publication Message-ID: <1440589381.13178.YahooMailBasic@web172903.mail.ir2.yahoo.com> Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to announce publication of the following article: Lehnert, K., Schwanke, E., Hahn, K., Wohlsein, P., & Siebert, U. (2015). Heartworm (Acanthocheilonema spirocauda) and seal louse (Echinophthirius horridus) infections in harbour seals (Phoca vitulina) from the North and Baltic Seas. Journal of Sea Research. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1385110115300150 *Abstract* The seal louse (Echinophthirius [E.] horridus) and the heartworm (Acanthocheilonema [A.] spirocauda) are parasites of harbour seal (Phoca vitulina). Little is known about the role of the seal louse as a potential vector and its role for the development and transmission of heartworm larvae to their final host, the harbour seal. The life-cycle of the heartworm is still not fully understood. For the presented study, findings of 1191 stranded harbour seals collected along the North- and Baltic Sea coast between 1996 and 2013 were examined. 4.4% (n = 53), of these harbour seals were infected with adult heartworms and 3.4% (n = 40) harbour seals carried seal lice. The highest prevalence and level of infection with adult heartworms (A. spirocauda) (9.3%) and seal lice (E. horridus) (8.9%) were found on yearling harbour seals (7?18 months) compared to neonate and adult seals. Investigating seal lice (n = 35) for larval heartworm stages one larvae was encountered in an ethanol-fixated seal louse. During a health monitoring survey of live harbour seals, 109 animals were captured and examined during spring and autumn between 2008 and 2014. Blood samples were taken and microfilariae were discovered in blood smears in 41% (n = 45) of the examined harbour seals. Yearling seals (n = 21) showed higher prevalence (86%) and level of infection with microfilariae than adults. Microfilariae were identified as A. spirocauda by sequencing the species-specific COI gene in 24 blood samples. The high prevalence of microfilariae of A. spirocauda in blood samples (41%) is in contrast to the low prevalence of mature infections/adult specimens in stranded seals (4.4%) investigated. Although rare parasites of seals, the recent increase in prevalence of heartworm and seal lice in stranded seals and the relatively high occurrence of microfilaria in the free-ranging population underscore the importance of further studies investigating the immunology of infections and their transmission pathways, as well as the epidemiology of both species. Please contact us if you do not have access to this article and you would like a pdf (Kristina.Lehnert at tiho-hannover.de; eva.schwanke at yahoo.de). Best regards, Eva From lisa.bonacci at dec.ny.gov Wed Aug 26 06:15:39 2015 From: lisa.bonacci at dec.ny.gov (Bonacci, Lisa A (DEC)) Date: Wed, 26 Aug 2015 13:15:39 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New York State, Department of Environmental Conservation is Soliciting Bids for contractors to Conduct Three Years of Whale Monitoring in the New York Bight using aerial surveys, shipboard surveys and passive acoustics Message-ID: Dear Colleagues, The New York State, Department of Environmental Conservation, Bureau of Marine Resources is currently soliciting bids for contractors to conduct a three year monitoring program for large whales in the New York Bight. This monitoring program will be conducted using three methods of monitoring: Passive acoustics, Aerial surveys and Shipboard surveys. The Invitations for Bids (IFBs) for each of these methods is being solicited separately. However, you may bid for more than one if appropriate. The bid period closes on 9/29/15. Bids must be received on that date by 1 pm. The Invitations for Bids can be found in the New York State Contract Reporter: https://www.nyscr.ny.gov/adsOpen.cfm. On the left hand side of the screen select Consulting & Other Services and you will see the IFBs. Please note that they are listed separately so you will have to scroll through. You may also request copies of the Invitations for Bids by email: lisa.bonacci at dec.ny.gov. Requests for information pertinent to the preparation and submission of the bid and procurement process should be made no later than close of business on September 8, 2015 in writing to: Lisa Bonacci New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Division of Fish, Wildlife and Marine Resources Bureau of Marine Resources 205 N Belle Meade Rd, Suite 1 East Setauket, NY 117363 Phone: 631-444-0462 Email: Lisa.Bonacci at dec.ny.gov Thank you very much, Lisa Bonacci -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From shane.gero at bios.au.dk Thu Aug 27 02:09:41 2015 From: shane.gero at bios.au.dk (Shane Gero) Date: Thu, 27 Aug 2015 09:09:41 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] WIKIPEDIA WORKSHOP at Biennial Message-ID: <2161B95135EBEF45B719AA3529C0F7EB36197B98@SRVUNIMBX01.uni.au.dk> To all Biennial Attendees, Now that everyone has heard about their abstract assignments for the SMM conference in San Francisco, I know everyone is frantically looking over the list of amazing workshops ? WELL LOOK NO FURTHER! You want to attend this one: Wikipedia as a tool for outreach, open access science, and in the classroom This biennial workshop is presented by the Society?s Education Committee and Wiki Education Foundation. It has been sponsored by the Society for Marine Mammalogy to reduce the cost of the ? day workshop to only $20! This is a great workshop for: 1) Faculty wanting a new pedagogic approach, 2) Early-career scientists looking for new tools to distinguish themselves, 3) Those interested in outreach and public access to science, and 4) Those looking to increase their digital literacy in new media. Workshop Description: Wikipedia is viewed over 5 billion times a day and is the 7th most visited site on the internet globally. In most searches, Wikipedia is the #1 result returned for most marine mammal common and latin binomial names, and for the term marine mammal. As a result the public accesses content on Wikipedia about diverse topics from Whaling to the effects of climate change on marine mammals on a daily basis. For example, the article on blue whales has been viewed over 66,000 times in the last 30 days! A common complaint of many scientists is that Wikipedia is not a well-grounded reference for information. Nonetheless, the people; including students, the media, and government officials; accesses information about marine mammal behavior, species facts, conservation issues, and taxonomy online every day. This issue is that contemporary knowledge about marine mammal species and conservation issues in the primary research literature is disparate, difficult to read and access, and not always free or open access. As the premier international society for understanding marine mammals and their interactions with their environment and humans, the Society for Marine Mammalogy is committed to providing the most up-to-date information about these species to the public. This workshop run in conjunction by the Wiki Education Foundation and the SMM Education Committee will will demonstrate how Wikipedia can be used as a teaching tool in the classroom, as a method for building digital literacy, and as a method to increase the free access to accurate scientific information. Wiki in your classroom: The Wiki Education Foundation was established to serves as the bridge between academia and Wikipedia. Since 2010, educators participating in the program have assigned their students to add content to course-related articles on Wikipedia. Students gain key 21st century skills like media literacy, writing and research development, and critical thinking, while content gaps on Wikipedia get filled thanks to students? efforts. Wiki as a tool for Digital Literacy: The internet, and Wikipedia itself, is by far the first source of knowledge accessed by the public. Evaluating this quality and content of this information is critical competency for this generation of students. Furthermore, contributing content allows students to evaluate and assess articles online, a central part of learning to be a scientist. As contributors, they learn to summarize and concisely communicate information from reliable primarily literature sources. A key to being a clear scientific communicator is the ability to communicate complex ideas at a lay level. Wiki as a tool for Open Access: Wikipedia pages are viewed thousands of times a day by the public. Expert edits on Wikipedia increase the free access to current information about scientific fields, controversies in popular perception, and increases the level of public understanding. Expert content links primary scientific literature with the public. The workshop will cover: 1) The basic functions, coding, and use of Wikipedia itself 2) The specific course content and support available from Wiki Education Foundation to educators who use Wikipedia 3) As a practical exercise, the attendees will participate in the 3rd SMM Wikisprint to update, correct and improve the content on Wikipedia about marine mammal science. See you all there, The Organizers Shane Gero (shane.gero at bios.au.dk) and Jami Mathewson (WikiEd) **************************** Shane Gero, Ph.D. FNU Research Fellow Marine Bioacoustics Lab Institute for Bioscience Aarhus University Denmark [home-icon20] [Twitter_2012_bird_icon 20] [linkedin_logo20] Learn more about The Dominica Sperm Whale Project at http://www.thespermwhaleproject.org Find us on Facebook or Follow @DomWhale -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 3172 bytes Desc: image001.png URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image003.png Type: image/png Size: 2981 bytes Desc: image003.png URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image005.png Type: image/png Size: 2835 bytes Desc: image005.png URL: From SSimmons at mmc.gov Thu Aug 27 06:06:09 2015 From: SSimmons at mmc.gov (Samantha Simmons) Date: Thu, 27 Aug 2015 13:06:09 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Invitation: Career-Life balance workshop at SMM BIennial in December Message-ID: Dear Colleagues, We would like to invite you to a half-day workshop entitled "Career-Life balance and how to make a successful career in marine mammal science" in association with the SMM Biennial Conference on Sunday, December 13th from 8:30am - 12:30. Below is a brief description of the workshop. More information can be found at the SMM conference website. Career-Life balance and how to make a successful career in marine mammal science Workshop Summary: Globally, there is increasing recognition that family and care giving responsibilities are driving women away from STEM fields. However, this issue is not unique to gender, and other minorities or those (of either gender) with additional caring responsibilities can face similar difficulties. In particular, marine mammalogy is a challenging career in this respect because of the fieldwork and travel obligations necessary to excel in the field. This workshop aims to bring awareness to this issue within our community, and examine whether there is more that the Society for Marine Mammalogy could do to retain and maximize talent and diversity across its members. Before the workshop we will be distributing a brief on-line survey to Society members. We will use the results of the survey at the workshop to highlight potential challenges and biases as they apply specifically to our community. Date and Time: December 13th, 2015, 8:30 am - 12:30 pm For further information and to register please go to the Society's website: https://www.marinemammalscience.org/conference/workshops/#career REGISTRATION DISCOUNTS: We are seeking sponsorship for the workshop and have received support from ATS, Loggerhead Instruments and Teledyne-Reson. We will pass on this support as a reduction in fees, and are currently able to offer a $20 discount to the first 30 registrants for this workshop. (If you have registered already a refund will be issued through the SMM system). If you have any questions about the workshop please contact one of the co-organizers: Samantha Simmons (ssimmons at mmc.gov), Sascha Hooker (sh43 at st-andrews.ac.uk), Gitte McDonald (gmcdonald at mlml.calstate.edu), Alison Stimpert (astimpert at mlml.calstate.edu) We hope to see you in San Francisco in December! Sam, Sascha, Gitte and Alison. _______________________________________________________________ Samantha Simmons, PhD. Assistant Scientific Program Director Marine Mammal Commission, 4340 East-West Highway, Suite 700 Bethesda, MD 20814 (w) 301-504-0087 web: www.mmc.gov The Marine Mammal Commission is an independent agency of the U.S. Government Follow us on Twitter: @MarineMammalCom -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From melannie.bachman at noaa.gov Thu Aug 27 13:04:28 2015 From: melannie.bachman at noaa.gov (Melannie Bachman - NOAA Affiliate) Date: Thu, 27 Aug 2015 16:04:28 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] New Publication: CYP1A1 as POP Biomarker in Stranded Pacific Island Cetaceans Message-ID: Dear Colleagues, On behalf of my co-authors, I am pleased to inform you of our recent publication in *Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry*. Bachman MJ, Foltz KM, Lynch JM, West KL, Jensen BA. Using Cytochrome P4501A1 Expression in Liver and Blubber to Understand Effects of Persistent Organic Pollutant Exposure in Stranded Pacific Island Cetaceans. Environ Toxicol Chem 2015; 34: 1989-1995. Abstract: Elevated levels of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) have been reported in tropical Pacific Island cetaceans and their environment. In addition, recent health concerns in cetacean populations have warranted investigation into potential physiological effects from POP exposure for this region. Cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1) is a candidate for examining such effects. This well-studied biomarker of exposure and effect was examined in stranded cetacean liver using immunoblot (n=39, 16 species) and blubber using immunohistochemistry (n=23, 10 species). Paired tissue samples allowed for CYP1A1 comparisons not only between species but also within each individual animal to examine differences between tissue types. Liver CYP1A1 expression correlated positively and significantly with blubber concentrations of all POP categories (n=39, p < 0.050) except octachlorostyrene and pentachlorobenzene (p > 0.100). Among Stenella species, liver CYP1A1 tissue expression was correlated negatively with the sum of all blubber layer endothelial cell CYP1A1 expression (n=14, p=0.049). Overall, elevated expression of liver CYP1A1 confirms its use as a biomarker of POP exposure to cetaceans stranded in the tropical Pacific basin. Environ Toxicol Chem 2015;34:1989?1995. This article is available online ( http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/etc.3018/abstract). Please send pdf requests to Melannie Bachman (melannie.bachman at noaa.gov). Sincerely, Melannie Bachman -- Melannie J. Bachman, MSc Biologist National Institute of Standards & Technology Hollings Marine Laboratory 331 Fort Johnson Road Charleston, SC 29412 O: 843-762-8951 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From kylie.scales at noaa.gov Thu Aug 27 17:00:42 2015 From: kylie.scales at noaa.gov (Kylie Scales - NOAA Affiliate) Date: Thu, 27 Aug 2015 17:00:42 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] Ocean Sciences 2016 session, 'Physical-biological interactions at ocean fronts: from processes to predators' Message-ID: Are you interested in how marine mammals interact with their oceanic environment? Does your work investigate (sub-)mesoscale oceanographic influence on at-sea habitat use? Does your study species associate with ocean fronts, or are they ecologically significant features of your study system? If so, we need you! We are seeking abstracts for an Ocean Sciences (New Orleans, Feb 2016) session, 'Physical-biological interactions at ocean fronts: from processes to predators'. Further details are given below. We aim to make this an engaging session with an interdisciplinary, cross-taxon focus and opportunities for discussion with experts from across the fields of marine ecology, biologging, physical oceanography, remote sensing and oceanographic modelling. Abstracts can be submitted at https://agu.confex.com/agu/os16/preliminaryview.cgi/Session9323 The submission deadline is 23 September 2015, 23:59EDT. Session info: Ocean fronts are sharp horizontal gradients in physical properties such as temperature, salinity and density. Fronts manifest throughout the oceans over a range of spatio-temporal scales, from ephemeral sub-mesoscale features in shelf seas to persistent basin-scale water mass boundaries in the open oceans. Under certain conditions, bio-physical coupling along fronts can lead to enhanced primary productivity and the aggregation of zooplankton and micronekton. This low trophic level enhancement is known to attract marine predators including seabirds, cetaceans, turtles, pinnipeds, sharks and tuna to front-associated foraging and migration habitats. However, key questions remain regarding the mechanisms through which the physical properties of fronts interact with prey field dynamics and the foraging ecology of marine predators to influence associations. A better understanding of the physical-biological interactions that occur at fronts, and the influence of spatial scale, frontal persistence and wider regional oceanography is required to ascertain their ecological importance, and predict future shifts in critical predator habitats. This session seeks to gather researchers to share new insights into physical-biological interactions at fronts in pelagic systems. We particularly encourage inter-disciplinary presentations that integrate model-derived or remotely-sensed oceanographic data with biological indices to elucidate the mechanistic links between physical processes, predators and prey. *Dr. Kylie L. Scales | *Assistant Project Scientist Environmental Research Division NOAA Southwest Fisheries Science Center 99 Pacific Street, Suite #255A Monterey, CA 93940, USA kylie.scales at noaa.gov | +1 (831) 648-8516 ?@KylieScales? -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From jeremy.kiszka at gmail.com Fri Aug 28 07:56:39 2015 From: jeremy.kiszka at gmail.com (Jeremy Kiszka) Date: Fri, 28 Aug 2015 10:56:39 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] Call for abstract: SMM 2015 Workshop: Ecological roles and importance of marine mammals Message-ID: <55E076A7.8020605@gmail.com> Dear colleagues, Apologies for cross posting! _*SMM WORKSHOP*_*: ECOLOGICAL ROLES OF MARINE MAMMALS IN AQUATIC ECOSYSTEMS**(Saturday, December 12, 2015; 830am to 530pm) * Those interested in presenting should submit an abstract (300 word limit) for talks only by email to Jeremy Kiszka (jeremy.kiszka at gmail.com) and Peter Corkeron (peter.corkeron at noaa.gov) by September 15th (extended deadline). Please indicate in your abstract which length you prefer (no more than 15 or 20 minutes + 5 minutes for questions). See you in SF! On behalf of the organizing committee, J Kiszka -- Jeremy Kiszka (PhD) Marine Sciences Program, Florida International University 3000 NE 151 St., FL-33181, North Miami, USA. Tel office (direct): (305)-919-4104 Cell: (786)-717-9797 Skype: jeremy.kiszka The Heithaus lab: http://www2.fiu.edu/~heithaus/ --- L'absence de virus dans ce courrier ?lectronique a ?t? v?rifi?e par le logiciel antivirus Avast. http://www.avast.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From lajam.editors at gmail.com Thu Aug 27 16:12:43 2015 From: lajam.editors at gmail.com (Lajam Editors) Date: Thu, 27 Aug 2015 19:12:43 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] Fwd: [lajam] New Issue Published In-Reply-To: <20150827230726.42E5A702A2@lib-ojs3.lib.sfu.ca> References: <20150827230726.42E5A702A2@lib-ojs3.lib.sfu.ca> Message-ID: Dear Readers: We are happy to let you know that Latin American Journal of Aquatic Mammals has just published its latest issue at http://lajamjournal.org/index.php/lajam. We invite you to review the Table of Contents here and then visit our web site to review articles and items of interest. Thanks for the continuing interest in our work, Dr. Miriam Marmontel Instituto de Desenvolvimento Sustent?vel Mamirau? lajam.editors at gmail.com LAJAM, Editor-in-Chief Latin American Journal of Aquatic Mammals Vol 10, No 1 (2015) Table of Contents http://lajamjournal.org/index.php/lajam/issue/view/26 Editorial -------- Editorial (1) Miriam Marmontel, Daniel M. Palacios Articles -------- Cetaceans observed in Suriname and adjacent waters (2-19) Marijke Nita de Boer Epidemiological characteristics of skin disorders in cetaceans from South American waters (20-32) Marie-Francoise Elisabeth Van Bressem, Leonardo Flach, Julio C?sar Reyes, M?nica Echegaray, Marcos Santos, Francisco Viddi, Fernando F?lix, Liliane Lodi, Koen Van Waerebeek Notes -------- Strand-feeding by coastal bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the Gulf of Guayaquil, Ecuador (33-37) Pedro Jose Jim?nez, Juan Jos? Alava Occurrence of Cuvier?s beaked whales (Ziphius cavirostris) at Guadalupe Island, Mexico, from 2006 to 2009 (38-47) Gustavo C?rdenas-Hinojosa, Mauricio Hoyos-Padilla, Lorenzo Rojas-Bracho South American sea lions (Otaria flavescens) and killer whales (Orcinus orca) attending chub mackerel (Scomber japonicus) commercial trawl fisheries over the Patagonian Shelf: a first report (48-51) Juan Pablo Seco Pon, Marco Favero First successful capture and satellite tracking of a West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus) in Panama: feasibility of capture and telemetry techniques (52-57) Daniel Gonzalez-Socoloske, Leon D. Olivera-G?mez, James P. Reid, Carlos Espinoza-Marin, Kherson E. Ruiz, Kenneth E. Glander Detection of infection with Leptospira spp. in manatees (Trichechus inunguis) of the Peruvian Amazon (58-61) Patrick Mathews Delgado, Nofre Sanchez Perea, Claudia Biffi Garcia, Carmen Rosa Garc?a Davila Short Communications -------- First record of the pygmy killer whale (Feresa attenuata) in Trinidad and Tobago waters (62-64) Al?sha Rachel Naranjit, Howard P. Nelson, Angela P. Ramsey Finding of a skull of Pseudorca crassidens in Caleta de Los Loros, Rio Negro Province, Argentina (65-67) Raimundo Lucas Bustos, Maria Fernanda Negri, Gustavo Adolfo Daneri, Esperanza Amalia Varela, Marcos Luna In Memoriam -------- Rae Natalie Prosser de Goodall 1935-2015 (68-69) Adri?n Schiavini ________________________________________________________________________ Latin American Journal of Aquatic Mammals http://www.lajamjournal.org/ -- Miriam Marmontel Editor-in-Chief Latin American Journal of Aquatic Mammals http://www.lajamjournal.org/ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From k at kpetunia.com Fri Aug 28 09:14:31 2015 From: k at kpetunia.com (Katherina Audley) Date: Fri, 28 Aug 2015 09:14:31 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] Whales of Guerrero (Humpback whales in Mexico) Winter 2016 Internship Opening Message-ID: Hello there - The deadline to apply for a winter 2016 internship with the Whales of Guerrero Research Project is fast approaching! The job description can be found in Spanish in the link below. Thank you! *** Whales of Guerrero Research Project Internship Winter 2016 - Deadline September 1st, 2015 (Find the full job description and announcement in Spanish and English HERE: http://www.whalesinmexico.com/internships-2016.htm) Background The Whales of Guerrero Research Project (WGRP) is a field research and community outreach project located in the southwestern state of Guerrero, Mexico, near the twin cities of Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo on the Pacific Ocean coast. This project is the first to investigate humpback whales and other marine mammals in depth in the state of Guerrero. There is an absence of information and awareness about whales and other cetaceans among boat operators, tour guides, residents and visitors to the region. Project Goals The two primary goals of the Whales of Guerrero Research Project?s are: ? Contribute to a better understanding of the structure, abundance, distribution and dynamics of the migratory humpback whales and other marine mammals which visit and inhabit the region. ? Raise awareness about responsible whale watching and ecotourism practices and humpback whale behavior and biology among boat operators, tour guides, educators, residents and visitors. We will accomplish our research goals by conducting on-water and land-based field studies in the area from January through March annually for the next 4 years (winters 2015-2018). The 2016 study will include two concurrent on-water efforts to locate, photo-identify and record the songs of humpback whales and collect occurrence data on other marine mammals including four dolphin species (Tursiops truncatus, Stenella attenuata, Steno bredanensis and Delphinus delphis). The research boats will be 6-meter long fiberglass fishing pangas, driven by local fishermen, who will be participating in the project as regional experts, citizen scientists and ecotour guides in training. In addition, one land-based field study will record marine mammal occurrence and activity relative to all boats in the area. Fluke identification photos will contribute to our local fluke identification catalog as well as larger existing fluke identification catalogs maintained by research colleagues elsewhere in Mexico and the US. We will record humpback whale vocalizations to note presence/absence and also share these data with researchers elsewhere in Mexico and the US. Data we collect will (1) help the region to become a SEMARNAT-acknowledged marine mammal site, which will garner further resources to study and protect the whales, (2) identify potentially sensitive regions for humpback whales relative to shrimp boat activity, gillnet fishing and other potentially harmful anthropogenic activities, and (3) contribute to the larger scientific community?s understanding of the Northeastern Pacific Humpback Whale stock. We will raise awareness regarding whale watching practices and humpback whale behavior by hosting and facilitating workshops and training sessions geared toward boat operators, fishermen, tourist-oriented business owners, residents and visitors. These efforts will be led by early career and established scientists and educators from Mexico and the United States. A number of marine mammalogists and marine biology educators will spend short periods of time on the study with us throughout the season to participate in our outreach efforts, provide expertise and support to our research efforts, and strengthen the scientific community?s understanding of marine mammals in the state of Guerrero as they relate to the larger stocks. Website For more information about the Whales of Guerrero Research Project, please visit: Our project website at: http://www.whalesinmexico.com and on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/whalesinmexico Volunteer Intern Positions The WGRP is in the process of selecting volunteer interns for our Winter 2016 internship program. A minimum of 10 weeks of participation is required during 4 January - 20 March. Applications are due by September 1st. Please note that we are only seeking 4-6 interns this session and that we receive many more applications than we have openings. Successful candidates will participate in the following research projects: 1) Humpback whale field monitoring and photo-identification. This study will continue monitoring the migratory community of humpback whales in Barra de Potosi, Zihuatanejo, Ixtapa and the surrounding waters. Duties in the field will consist of assisting with boat-based photographic identification surveys for humpback whales five days per week, six hours per day. Behavioral, location, individual, and environmental data will be recorded for each marine mammal group. Interns can expect to rotate between land-based field studies and on-water studies for the duration of the season and spend an average of 30% of their field data collection time on-land (in a lighthouse) and 70% on-water (in a 6-meter fishing panga). 2) Data organization and analysis. In addition to field duties, intern responsibilities will include office-based photo-identification of humpback whales and rough-toothed dolphin fins, computer data entry, video logging, fluke identification catalog maintenance, equipment repair, upkeep and maintenance and other duties. In addition to spending 3-4 days per week on water, interns should be prepared to spend an average of 1-2 days per week organizing, matching and maintaining the fluke and fin identification catalogs, importing and compressing recorded sound, maintaining and repairing equipment and attending to other field duties as needed. 3) Safe boat operation workshops and community events. Interns will be expected to serve as continuous ambassadors for the project and be available to field questions on humpback whale behavior and biology whenever they are in the public. In addition, they will be expected to serve as educators and naturalists to project supporters and local guides who join us on the boat to work with us as citizen scientists on our project. Interns will also be expected to participate in and conduct humpback whale and marine mammal workshops in schools, libraries, hotels and other venues, as needed, a minimum of one time per week. Interns should expect to spend about 60% of their time in the field (a minimum of five days per week, at least 6 hours per day), and about 40% of their time working with data, performing equipment maintenance and participating in community outreach and education efforts. There is no compensation for these internship positions. However, the project will provide for living accommodations (homestays with local hosts in the village) during the time of the internship, and a $250 travel stipend will be provided to support transportation to and from the region. Interns must cover the expense of their own food, local transportation, internet, telephone and miscellaneous personal expenses during the course of their internship. Intern Qualifications Applicants will ideally have the following qualifications: * Minimum of 24 years of age and engaged in or recently completed graduate studies or comparable marine biology field experience * A demonstrated commitment to and passion for marine mammals, education and community outreach and the development of responsible marine ecotourism * Bilingual (Spanish 90-100%/English 75-100%) * Proven ability to work within a range of cultures including: rural Mexican fishing village culture, North American tourists and foreign residents and educated Mexican bureaucrats * A background or degree in Biology, Marine Biology, Ecology, Zoology or a related field or comparable experience * Basic computer proficiency in Microsoft Office programs (especially Excel) * Knowledge of Lightroom and Mysticetus are a plus; photo and video editing skills also a plus * Proficient photo ID skills with a DSLR camera * Some field research experience * Must be able to swim * Not prone to seasickness * Enthusiasm and desire to learn a variety of field and lab based research methods * Demonstrated teamwork, rigor, strong organizational and problem solving skills, attention to detail, stamina, self-motivated * Independence, as in able to perform operations without supervision and ability to anticipate a problem and formulate a solution on one?s own and the ability to work independently * A willingness to spend a minimum of 10-12 weeks working full-time (5-6 days/week) as a volunteer with our program. * Flexible and resourceful; adaptable to changes in study plans, cultural sensitivity Intern Application Instructions To apply for a Whales of Guerrero Research Project internship, interested persons should complete and provide to WGRP the following application materials: 1. Your name, birthdate, gender, permanent mailing address, phone number, e-mail address, the college or university you are currently attending or most recently attended, your year of study at the time of the internship, your major field of study, the highest degree you have received, the year you expect to graduate, other colleges or universities you have attended and the dates you are available to participate in the internship. 2. A one- to two-page Statement of Interest that describes: a) your interests in the program(s) you choose and your career goals, b) your reasons for applying for a WGRP internship, and c) why you should be selected for a WGRP internship. (This can be sent as a Word document or a PDF.) 3. An unofficial copy of your most recent college transcript that lists all college-level courses you have taken to-date and the grades you have received. Both unofficial and official copies are accepted. If your school's grading scale differs from the 4.0 scale, please include an explanation of that scale. (Sent as a PDF file, saved from your school's website as a jpg or png image or an html file, copy-and-pasted into a Word document.) 4. Two letters of recommendation from individuals capable of commenting on your research skills and qualifications. 5. A resume or curriculum vitae 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. (This can be sent as a Word document or PDF file.) 6. Send an email to WGRP Project Director (Katherina Audley, k at kpetunia.com stating your name, contact information, exact dates and duration of availability, where you learned about the internship opportunity (e.g., SOMEMMA, MarMam, Facebook (and if so which page), Whalefish, colleague, advisor, etc.), and that you have provided all application materials to us, as detailed above. All applications will be reviewed; those received by the application deadline of September 1st will be given first priority. Successful applications will be contacted by November 1, 2015. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From kdudzinski at dolphincommunicationproject.org Sat Aug 29 15:14:27 2015 From: kdudzinski at dolphincommunicationproject.org (Kathleen M. Dudzinski) Date: Sun, 30 Aug 2015 08:14:27 +1000 Subject: [MARMAM] Aquatic Mammals Issue 41.3 available online Message-ID: <85C98D0F-A1EF-4CBA-86F1-3A1FC4FA4281@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 41, issue 3, 2015) of Aquatic Mammals. The online issue is now available at this link: http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&id=60&Itemid=157 For individuals with a print subscription, the joint hard copy of 41.3/41.4 will be mailed in December. 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 41, issue 3 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 ******* K. Melillo-Sweeting, D. Yeater, and K. M. Dudzinski. 2015. Short Note: Dolphin Sightings Near the Coast of Bimini, The Bahamas, 2003-2013. Aquatic Mammals 41.3, 245-251. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1578/AM.41.3.2015.245 A. D. Whitt, M. A. Baran, M. Bryson, and L. E. Rendell. 2015. Short Note: First Report of Killer Whales Harassing Sperm Whales in the Gulf of Mexico. Aquatic Mammals 41.3, 252-255. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1578/AM.41.3.2015.252 M. H. Rasmussen, J. C. Koblitz, and K. L. Laidre. 2015. Buzzes and High-Frequency Clicks Recorded from Narwhals (Monodon monoceros) at Their Wintering Ground. Aquatic Mammals 41.3, 256-264. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1578/AM.41.3.2015.256 G. L. Gemmell, J. D. McInnes, S. J. Heinrichs, and G. de Silva Wijeyeratne. 2015. Short Note: Killer Whale (Orcinus orca) Predation on Whales in Sri Lankan Waters. Aquatic Mammals 41.3, 265-271. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1578/AM.41.3.2015.265 E. Vermeulen, L. Holsbeek, and K. Das2015. Diurnal and Seasonal Variation in the Behaviour of Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in Bah?a San Antonio, Patagonia, Argentina. Aquatic Mammals 41.3, 272-283. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1578/AM.41.3.2015.272 L. Fiorucci, D. Garcia-Parraga, R. Macrelli, F. Grande, C. Flanagan, F. Rueca, S. Busechian, B. Bianchi, M. Arbelo, and P. Saviano. 2015. Determination of the Main Reference Values in Ultrasound Examination of the Gastrointestinal Tract in Clinically Healthy Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). Aquatic Mammals 41.3, 284-294. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1578/AM.41.3.2015.284 M. F. Blasi, A. Giuliani, and L. Boitani. 2015. Influence of Trammel Nets on the Behaviour and Spatial Distribution of Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the Aeolian Archipelago, Southern Italy. Aquatic Mammals 41.3, 295-310. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1578/AM.41.3.2015.295 R. A. Kastelein, I. van den Belt, L. Helder-Hoek, R. Gransier, and T. Johansson. 2015. Behavioral Responses of a Harbor Porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) to 25-kHz FM Sonar Signals. Aquatic Mammals 41.3, 311-326. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1578/AM.41.3.2015.311 W. Xianyan, X. Min, Wu Fuxing, D. W. Weller, M. Xing, A. R. Lang, and Z. Qian. 2015. Short Note: Insights from a Gray Whale (Eschrichtius robustus) Bycaught in the Taiwan Strait Off China in 2011. Aquatic Mammals 41.3, 327-332. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1578/AM.41.3.2015.327 E. J. Ferrari, Z. A. Schakner, C. A. Villafana, L. S. Enriquez, and D. D. Lawson. 2015. Short Note: Pilot Study of Underwater Observations of Interactions Between Harbor Seals, California Sea Lions, and Cormorants with Halibut Trawl Fisheries in Southern California. Aquatic Mammals 41.3, 333-340. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.1578/AM.41.3.2015.333 E. Saulitis, L. A. Holmes, C. Matkin, K. Wynne, D. Ellifrit, and C. St-Amand. 2015. Short Note: Biggs Killer Whale (Orcinus orca) Predation on Subadult Humpback Whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in Lower Cook Inlet and Kodiak, Alaska. Aquatic Mammals 41.3, 341-344. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.1578/AM.41.3.2015.341 L. Fiorucci, F. Grande, C. Flanagan, J. Silva, N. Urbani, J. Sampayo, and R. Macrelli. 2015. Reference Baseline Data for Gastric Cytology in Healthy Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) Under Human Care. Aquatic Mammals 41.3, 345-350. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1578/AM.41.3.2015.345 J. Haelters, F. Kerckhof, A. van Neer, and M. Leopold. 2015. Letter to the Editor. Aquatic Mammals 41.3, 351-353. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.1578/AM.41.3.2015.351 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From mithriel.mackay at gmail.com Thu Aug 27 15:31:35 2015 From: mithriel.mackay at gmail.com (Mithriel MacKay) Date: Thu, 27 Aug 2015 15:31:35 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] Marine Mammal Field Techniques Message-ID: ? Marine Mammal Field Techniques Participants in this program will spend 5 days in the field learning skills important to marine mammal research and two days snorkeling near shore reefs. Each day we will focus on a different skill and include a round table discussion in the evening. This program is meant to be low stress and enjoyable! A maximum of 8 students (and 2 MCERC faculty members) will cover the following: ? Passive acoustic monitoring data collection ? Acoustic analysis software Theodolite tracking and theory ? Marine Mammal identification ? Capture-recapture studies (fluke and fin matching) Bring your own snorkel gear and a camera because we will be working from beautiful cliffs and swimming/snorkeling from Puerto Rico?s Caribbean beaches. Cost of this program is $900.00USD and includes the instruction fee, a bunk at the field house, all meals (we cook together), and transportation to all field sites and beaches. The program fee does not include transportation to and from San German, Puerto Rico. To join us in this program; Go to www.Marine-Eco.org/mcerc-moodle and fill out the Simple Application Form. You can find the form and detailed instructions on the left on the home page of the Education Hub. Send all the pages (you can take photos of them!) to the address on the form. You will get a log on and password, then you just log in, go to the course through the block on the right of the home page, and follow the instructions! There are only 8 spots for this program, so register quickly! ? ?? ? ?Mithriel MacKay, Ph.D.? ? Director of Research and Education Marine and Coastal Ecology Research Center San German, Puerto Rico, USA and Pipe Creek, Texas 78063 Website www.Marine-Eco.org E-mail Mithriel at Marine-Eco.org Education HUb www.Marine-Eco.org/mcerc-moodle Photo Gallery www.Marine-Eco.Jimdo.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From volunteerdepartment at cmaquarium.org Fri Aug 28 04:35:35 2015 From: volunteerdepartment at cmaquarium.org (Volunteer Department) Date: Fri, 28 Aug 2015 11:35:35 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Clearwater Marine Aquarium Stranding Biologist Position Message-ID: Interested applicants will email a cover letter and resume to ddesantis at cmaquarium.org . Clearwater Marine Aquarium is located at 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater FL . Information can be found at www.seewinter.com . Due to the large number of applicants no follow up calls or emails will be accepted. POSITION DESCRIPTION POSITION TITLE: Stranding Biologist REPORTS TO: Supervisor EXEMPT OR NON-EXEMPT: Non-exempt PERCENTAGE OF FULL TIME EMPLOYMENT: 100% PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Able to work in adverse environmental conditions, lift and carry 50 lbs, proficient swimmer, and have good physical stamina. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY: The role of the Stranding Biologist within the Stranding Department is to support and contribute to the goals and objectives outlined by management. This will require the Stranding Biologist position to maintain flexible working hours, to be amenable to shifting priorities and other changes, and to be able to modify accordingly. The Stranding Biologist may report to more than one job site, which involves traveling beyond Pinellas County and/or to other facilities. The primary responsibility of the Stranding Biologist is to be activity involved in tasks that are necessary to support stranding preparedness and response, as determined by the Stranding Coordinator, and that which promotes education and community awareness. Routine tasks required of the Stranding Biologist include, but are not limited to, public speaking, public relations, maintenance and storage of equipment, purchase of supplies, teaching and education, collection and management of data and samples, correspondence related to all aspects of the job, rehab shift coverage and overnight observations, operation of vehicles and vesicles, and producing written materials. Other aspects of the Stranding Biologist position involve transport, processing and/or disposal of carcasses as well as the treatment and care of live animals in the field and/or in a rehab setting. The Stranding Biologist is required to participate in random and unscheduled events such as interviews, necropsies, or various animal responses. On an as needed basis, the Stranding Biologist will also assist with some or all aspects of various projects, research, or grant writing and is required to participate in other animal care departments. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: * To have complete knowledge of the SE Marine Mammal Stranding Network, CMA's role within the stranding network and the community. * Participate in all operations required for consistent stranding response preparedness 100% of the time. * Participate in daily operations including, but not limited to, the completion of checklists, equipment cleaning and organization, monitoring and response to the stranding hotline, public stranding demonstrations, guest programs, and more. * Modify and adjust work schedule and priorities in order to participate in the rapid response to all stranded animal rescues and rehab events, including those which occur during non-schedule times. * Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the critical care facilities and storage areas on a consistent basis. * Complete routine inspections of critical care facilities based on NMFS Polices and Best Practices and USDA guidelines. Make recommendations for work orders. * Complete all tasks necessary to monitor the 24-hour CMA emergency stranding hotline. * Maintain a comprehensive and updated stranding team membership database. * Conduct workshops and trainings for the Stranding Team volunteers, interns, law enforcement, and the public. * Participate in the rehabilitation, release, and monitoring efforts of marine mammals, which involve overnight and extended-hour shifts. * Maintain accurate and updated information on CMA's Cetacean Database, CMA's Photo Archive, and the NMFS Marine Mammal National Database. * Collect quality data and complete required documentations (e.g. 24-hour report, Level A Data) for stranded animals. * Maintain or revise the Stranding Internship syllabus as needed, and provide daily training and supervision to Stranding Interns. Complete a minimum of two evaluations for each Stranding Intern. * Participate in activities that promote or support the Stranding Department as determined by the Stranding Coordinator. * Participate in various public relations and media events, including professional interviews. * Participate in community relations, outreach events and other activities, which may involve traveling to the other counties within the state of FL, for the purpose of education, training, and networking. * Conduct public stranding demonstrations and/or hoist paid guest programs. Assist with training of new program hosts and monitor programs for appropriate content and quality. * Participate in some or all aspects of various types of research projects, as deemed appropriate by CMA's research committee and the Stranding Coordinator. * Participate in projects, grant writing, and research, as needed. * Assist with conducting necropsies and coordinate the disposal of carcasses. * Maintain CMA's database for tissue samples and skeletal parts/complete skeletons and keep record of the transfer of parts. * Maintain stranding equipment and vehicles, including inspection logs. * Produce quality written material including SOPs, SOGs, reports, correspondence, and other. * Maintain an on-going record of the CCF freezer content, storage, and removal. * Participate in the development and implementation of educational outreach material or activities to promote public awareness and conservation efforts. EDUCATIONAL/CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: * Bachelor's degree in related discipline from an accredited college/university * Minimum of 1-3 years of experience working in the Marine Mammal Stranding Network * Capacity to withstand extreme outdoor temperatures * Ability to lift up to 50lbs * Valid driver's license * Must pass the CMA Stranding Team swim test with a total of 80 points or higher * Proven written communication skills, preferably in research and/or grant writing * Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and related software programs (e.g. Microsoft Outlook; ArcGIS) * Excellent organizational and data entry skills. * Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines. * Possess good judgment, flexibility in responding to changing priorities, and be able to work as a team member and function well under pressure Dawn De Santis Vice President of Guest Relations/Human Resources Clearwater Marine Aquarium 249 Windward Passage Clearwater, FL 33767 ddesantis at cmaquarium.org www.SeeWinter.com [cid:3491897161_717927] -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 29680 bytes Desc: image001.png URL: From christiana.wittmaack at ttu.edu Sun Aug 30 09:29:58 2015 From: christiana.wittmaack at ttu.edu (Wittmaack, Christiana) Date: Sun, 30 Aug 2015 16:29:58 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New Publication Diagnosing Domoic Acid Toxicosis in the California Sea Lion (Zalophus Californianus) Using Behavioral Criteria: A Novel Approach, in the Journal of Zoo Biology Message-ID: On behalf of my coauthors I would like to announce the the publication of Diagnosing Domoic Acid Toxicosis in the California Sea Lion (Zalophus Californianus) Using Behavioral Criteria: A Novel Approach in the Journal of Zoo Biology. Wittmaack, C., Lahvis, G. P., Keith, E. O. and Self-Sullivan, C. (2015), Diagnosing domoic acid toxicosis in the California sea lion (Zalophus californianus) using behavioral criteria: A novel approach. Zoo Biol., 34: 314?320. doi: 10.1002/zoo.21217 Domoic acid toxicosis in the California sea lion (Zalophus californianus) is difficult to diagnose using presence of toxin alone because the duration of domoic acid presence in blood and urine is generally less than 48?hr following exposure. Because domoic acid toxicosis is often suggested by presentation of behavioral abnormalities, we asked whether assessment of behavior might be useful for diagnostic purposes. We developed an ethogram to categorize behavioral data collected via continuous focal animal sampling. In total, 169 subjects were observed at a rehabilitation center. Sea lions with domoic acid toxicosis displayed head weaving (P? From dagmar_fertl at hotmail.com Sun Aug 30 16:39:51 2015 From: dagmar_fertl at hotmail.com (Dagmar Fertl) Date: Sun, 30 Aug 2015 18:39:51 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Abstracts - latest issue of J Cet Res Mgmt (volume 14, 2014) Message-ID: The following are abstracts from the most recent issue (Volume 14, issue 1, 2014) of the Journal of Cetacean Research and Management. The International Whaling Commission (IWC) publishes The Journal of Cetacean Research and Management thrice yearly (Spring, Autumn, and Winter), with at least one supplement that will contain the full report of the IWC Scientific Committee. The following is posted on behalf of the IWC and the journal editor. Further information can be found at: http://www.iwcoffice.org/publications/JCRM.htm. A guide for authors is included in the first volume of each issue and on the IWC website: http://www.iwcoffice.org/publications/authorsguide.htm. All articles are available as open access at: https://archive.iwc.int/pages/themes.php?theme1=Journal+of+Cetacean+Research+and+Management Thank you for your continued interest in the journal and abstract postings. Please do not queries about the journal or articles to me. With regards, Dagmar Fertl ************* Hamilton LJ, Lindsay K, 2014. Beaked whale strandings on the coast of Australia in comparison to those of other cetaceans. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 14:1-14. Beaked whale (Ziphiidae) strandings on the coast of Australia are examined in comparison to five other odontocete (toothed whale) species and two mysticetes (baleen whales) representative of non-Ziphiids found stranded in Australian waters. Ninety percent of reported beaked whale strandings involve a single animal. Seven beaked whale stranding events of three or more individuals have been recorded from 1871 to 2010, with a maximum in any event of 6. The five non-Ziphiid odontocetes had maximum numbers in a stranding of 13, 51, 65, 200, and 250, and a combined total of 66 events with 10+ in a stranding. The mysticetes had almost exclusively single strandings. Similar trends for the Ziphiids and other cetaceans are generally observed worldwide, although larger numbers of Ziphiids have stranded elsewhere. Continental scale geographical stranding patterns are similar for the Ziphiids, the five non-Ziphiid odontocetes, and the two mysticetes, although not for the same reasons. Reported strandings predominantly occurred around the southern half of Australia south of 20?S. On average around three times as many beaked whale stranding events per month occurred for the period January to April than for July to December. The monthly trend for beaked whale strandings follows the seasonal cycle of sea temperatures, indicating a relation to oceanic phenomena, rather than to the often invoked effect of increased observer effort in months with warmer air temperatures. Some single and dual beaked whale strandings which include a female may be related to use of shallow sheltered waters for calving and subsequent resting. ************ Morita JG, George JC, 2014. Age classification of bowhead whales using recursive partitioning. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 14:15-21. An algorithm was derived for using morphometric data to classify bowhead whales into three age brackets: over 90 years (?very old?); 60?90 years (?old?); and under 60 (?younger?). Recursive partitioning was applied to a subset of the data from post mortem examinations. This subset consisted of whales with higher quality data scores and with either estimated ages or characteristics of very old animals such as: near-maximum body length and baleen length; heavy scarring; and ancient weapons embedded in them. Statistical analysis suggested that for males, body length and peduncle girth provide the most useful information for this age classification. For females, anterior flipper length and body length were the key variables for classifying age. If anterior flipper length is not available for females, then body length, baleen length and peduncle girth may be used to classify age. ********** Read AJ, Barco S, Bell J, Borchers DL, Burt ML, Cummings EW, Dunn J, Meagher Fougeres E, Hazen L, Williams Hodge LE, Laura AM, McAlarney RJ, Nilsson P, Pabst DA, Paxton CGM, Schneider SZ, Urian KW, Waples DM, McLellan WA, 2014. Occurrence, distribution and abundance of cetaceans in Onslow Bay, North Carolina, USA. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 14:23-35. In this paper the occurrence, distribution and abundance of cetaceans in offshore waters of Onslow Bay, North Carolina, USA is described. Between June 2007 and June 2010 monthly aerial and shipboard line-transect surveys were conducted along ten 74km transects placed perpendicular to the shelf break. In total 42,676km of aerial trackline (218 sightings) and 5,209km of vessel trackline (100 sightings) were observed. Seven species of cetaceans were observed, but the fauna was dominated strongly by common bottlenose and Atlantic spotted dolphins. Both species were present year-round in the study area. Using photo identification techniques, five bottlenose dolphins and one spotted dolphin were resighted during the three-year period. In general, the abundance of cetaceans in Onslow Bay was low and too few sightings were made to estimate monthly abundances for species other than bottlenose and spotted dolphins. Maximum monthly abundances of bottlenose and spotted dolphins were 4,100 (95% CI: 1,300?9,400) in May 2010 and 6,000 (95% CI: 2,500?17,400) in March 2009, respectively. Bottlenose dolphins were found throughout the study area, although they were encountered most frequently just off the shelf break. In contrast, spotted dolphins exhibited a strong preference for waters over the continental shelf and were not encountered beyond the shelf break. *********** Bouveroux T, Tyson RB, Nowacek DP, 2014. Abundance and site fidelity of bottlenose dolphins in coastal waters near Panama City, Florida. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 14:37-42. Dolphin watching and swim-with programmes are popular tourist attractions in Panama City, Florida, USA. Despite this, little is known about the population of dolphins that utilise this area, specifically St. Andrew Bay. To learn more about this population, photo-identification mark-recapture surveys were conducted between March 2004 and July 2007. The main objectives were to estimate the abundance of bottlenose dolphins inhabiting this region during this time period and to examine their patterns of site fidelity. Robust design population models were used to calculate seasonal abundance estimates, which ranged from 89 (CI 95% = 71?161) to 183 (CI 95% = 169?208) dolphins, even though 263 distinctive dolphins were identified during the study. Only 7% of dolphins (n = 18) observed were seen regularly in the study region. In addition, only 12% of dolphins (n =30) observed had high site fidelity for the study region, while 58% (n = 153) were considered to be transient to the area. This study provides baseline information regarding dolphin abundance and site fidelity in and around St. Andrew Bay that may be used for the conservation and management of this dolphin population. ********* Randage SM, Alling A, Currier K, Heywood E, 2014. Review of the Sri Lanka blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus) with observations on its distribution in the shipping lane. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 14:43-49. A population of blue whales is resident off the southern coast of Sri Lanka and has been observed year-round by the crew of a whalewatching vessel, Raja & the Whales, a few miles south of Mirissa Harbour. Over the course of three years (1 December 2009 to 30 November 2012), a total of 485 blue whale sightings were reported with an average of 4.56 individuals observed per sighting. This number does not represent the total number of individuals seen because repeat sightings were highly probable. Calves were observed during the northeast monsoon. Sightings were confined to an area of about 200 n. miles that is bisected by a heavily trafficked shipping lane. Much of this area is characterised by submarine canyons and sloping bathymetry, which contributes to monsoonal seasons of high productivity and upwelling suitable for feeding whales. While the numbers of injuries and fatalities due to ship strikes are not known, four dead blue whales were observed along the southern coast over the course of five months (1 January to 31 May 2014). It is of great urgency to understand the identity and size of this population, reduce ship strikes and address all issues threatening this population in order to arrive at possible mitigation measures for its protection. *********************** Boye TK, Simon M, Witting L, 2014. How may an annual removal of humpback whales from Godthaabsfjord, West Greenland, affect the within-fjord sighting rate? Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 14:51-56. Photo-identifications of humpback whales in the Godthaabsfjord area were collected from 2007 to 2012 and divided into individuals and number of sightings per individual. Monte Carlo simulations were performed on the sighting distributions of individual humpback whales to investigate the potential impact that local removals (e.g. ship strikes, subsistence hunt) could have on the sighting rate of humpback whales in Godthaabsfjord. Half of the sightings were based on the same six individuals during the six year period. Sighting rate was likely to drop regardless of when (spring, summer or autumn) an individual was removed due to the large degree of site fidelity of several humpback whales in Godthaabsfjord. Removals could affect the whalewatching industry in Godthaabsfjord where humpback whales constitute a key species. The least impact may be achieved by conducting the hunt outside the fjord system or minimising summer or autumn hunts within the fjord, as spring removals tend to have the least effect on summer sighting rates. ********* Baines ME, Reichelt M, 2014. Upwellings, canyons and whales: An important winter habitat for balaenopterid whales off Mauritania, northwest Africa. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 14:57-67. The aim of this study was to identify critical habitats for baleen whales in the Mauritanian upwelling zone using data collected from a platform of opportunity: a 60 day geophysical survey approximately 100km southwest of Cap Blanc, Mauritania in winter (2012/13). The bathymetry of the 5,500km2 study area was complex, including parts of the Cap Timiris Canyon system. Large whales, including sei and blue whales, accounted for 70% of the 238 cetacean sightings. Species identification was often problematic, especially in the case of balaenopterid whales, so data for all whales of this genus were pooled for the estimation of abundance and distribution. Spatial modelling was applied to estimate abundance and to plot a predicted density map of balaenopterid whales. Depth and the chlorophyll-a concentration when at its peak (in the previous September) were significant predictors of whale density. Point abundance in the study area was estimated at 272 whales (95% CI 265?279) and density was highest in the depth range 500?2,250m near to the canyon system (6.18 whales/100km2, 95% CI 6.03?6.51). Steep seabed topography created by canyons running off the shelf edge, together with the strong upwelling system, probably create optimal habitats for the euphausiid prey of sei and blue whales. Sei whales were observed skim-feeding at dawn or dusk on seven occasions; in one sighting an aggregation of 18 skim-feeding sei whales were observed. The high density of these baleen whale species in such a highly productive area and direct observation of feeding behaviour in sei whales, provides evidence of feeding during the winter breeding season, when they have previously been presumed to feed less. This study demonstrates the potential value of collecting further data on seismic survey vessels and would improve understanding of cetacean ecology in remote and under-explored regions. ***************** Greenman JT, McFee WE, 2014. A characterisation of common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) interactions with the commercial shrimp trawl fishery of South Carolina, USA. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 14:69-79. In the United States, interactions between the shrimp trawl fishery and bottlenose dolphins are known to exist; however, the level of mortality is largely unknown, and has not been studied in South Carolina, USA. The current study attempted to determine if interactions between bottlenose dolphins and the South Carolina commercial shrimp trawl fishery pose a significant threat to dolphin populations and if fishery related mortality is underreported. Onboard observations were made during a 25 day (August?December 2010) field study. No dolphin takes occurred during the observational period. These observations focused on direct physical interactions with the gear and depredation behaviours. Additionally, a subsample of the shrimp fishery in South Carolina was asked to participate in a mailed survey. The survey included questions related to gear, dolphin observations, and the status of the shrimp database for signs of shrimp fishery interactions. A three-tiered flow diagram was developed to characterise each stranding case according to the likelihood that mortality resulted from trawler interaction. Field results point to significant dolphin presence around commercial trawlers (x2 = 23.406, p < 0.001). Survey results showed 12 unreported incidents of shrimp trawl fishery mortality of dolphins. Finally, stranding records revealed several more cases with signs of possible trawler interaction. The current US National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA) designation of the fishery as a Category II fishery is correct. Increased observer coverage and improved communication with the fishery on the importance of reporting takes is warranted. ******************** Punt, AE, 2014. A summary history of the application of statistical catch-at-age analysis (SCAA) to Antarctic minke whales. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 14: 81-92. Various forms of SCAA methods have been applied to data for Antarctic minke whales since this method was first presented to the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission by Punt and Polacheck (2005). A brief overview is provided of the historical use of methods which use catch-at-age data to draw inferences regarding trends in abundance for Antarctic minke whales. The original version of the SCAA and how this method has been modified over time to more adequately mimic the available data on length, conditional age-at-length and indices of abundance from IDCR/SOWER and JARPA/JARPAII is described. The paper also lists the specifications for the reference case analyses in each paper presented to the Scientific Committee. The focus is on methodology, with only limited comment on the results from each subsequent analysis. ******************** Punt, AE, Hakamada T, Bando T, Kitakado T. 2014. Assessment of Antarctic minke whales using statistical catch-at-age analysis (SCAA). Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 14: 93-116. Statistical catch-at-age analysis (SCAA) is applied to data for Antarctic minke whales. The SCAA model is spatially-structured, can model multiple stocks of minke whales, and can utilise several data types for parameter estimation. The application to Antarctic minke whales considers two stocks (I and P) in five areas which cover Antarctic Areas III?E to VI?W. The parameters of the model (annual deviations about the stock-recruitment relationship, changes over time in carrying capacity, density-dependence parameters related to productivity and carrying capacity, and the parameters which determine growth by stock, age-specific natural mortality by stock, and vulnerability by area and ?fleet?) are estimated by fitting the model to data on catches, catch-at-length, conditional age-at length, and estimates of absolute and relative abundance. A reference case analysis is selected, and sensitivity explored using retrospective analyses and by varying the assumptions on which the reference case analysis is based. The reference case analysis is able to mimic all of the data sources adequately. Most of the analyses (reference and sensitivity) indicates that Antarctic minke whales in the assessed area increased from 1930 until the mid-1970s and have declined thereafter, with the extent of the decline greater for minke whales in Antarctic Areas III?E to V?W than for those further east. Natural mortality is consistently estimated to be higher for younger and older individuals than for individuals of intermediate age. Estimates of MSYR1+ (the exploitation rate on animals 1 and older at which sustainable yield is maximised) are presented, but are unreliable owing to the lack of contrast. ******************** Hampton JO, Mawson PR, Coughran DK, Vital SD, 2014. Validation of the use of firearms for euthanising stranded cetaceans. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 14:117-123. Efforts to euthanise stranded cetaceans remain highly variable in their outcomes, with few field tested operational procedures available. This study sought to validate the efficacy of using modern firearms technology to euthanise small (<6m length) stranded cetaceans. Post-mortem evidence was gathered from the standardised shooting of cetacean cadavers (n = 10), representing six species, using .30 caliber (7.62mm) firearms and blunt solid copper-alloy non-deforming projectiles, in southwestern Australia. The six species studied were Risso?s dolphin, common dolphin, bottlenosed dolphin, pygmy sperm whale, Cuvier?s beaked whale, and humpback whale. Post-mortem data revealed that 100% of bullet wound tracts fully penetrated the skulls of shot animals, with associated indirect skull fracturing, secondary bone missiles and brain parenchyma laceration. The results suggest that appropriate firearms technology is fully capable of inducing instantaneous fatal pathology to the central nervous system of these species. In comparison to alternative methods for the euthanasia of stranded cetaceans, the use of firearms is associated with superior animal welfare outcomes, public safety levels and accessibility. This paper provides a template for the safe, humane and repeatable use of this technique to euthanize <6m length stranded cetaceans. ********** Van Der Zee JP, Punt AE, 2014. Evaluating critical dispersal rates for whale management under the IWCs Revised Management Procedure: An application for North Atlantic common minke whales. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 14:125-132. A key consideration for any Revised Management Procedure (RMP) and Aboriginal Whaling Management Procedure (AMWP) Implementation is the choice of stock structure hypotheses, and the weighting of alternative stock structure hypotheses using available data. The RMP/AWMP-lite framework is applied to the North Atlantic common minke whales for three stock structure hypotheses and two RMP ?variants?. The stock structure hypotheses differ in terms of how many stocks are found in the North Atlantic and how they mix on the feeding grounds. Focusing on the eastern North Atlantic, simulations are undertaken to assess when management performance for two RMP variants is inadequate and how much effective dispersal between adjacent stocks is needed so that the performance of these variants becomes adequate. ********** Franklin W, Franklin T, Gibbs N, Childerhouse S, Garrigue C, Constantine R, Brooks L, Burns D, Paton D, Poole M, Hauser N, Donoghue M, Russell K, Mattila DK, Robbins J, Anderson M, Olavarria C, Jackson J, Noad M, Harrison P, Baverstock P, Leaper R, Baker S, Clapham P, 2014. Photo-identification confirms that humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) from eastern Australia migrate past New Zealand but indicates low levels of interchange with breeding grounds of Oceania. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 14:133-140. Recent photo-identification and genetic studies have identified at least five discrete breeding populations in Australia and Oceania: western Australia (D), eastern Australia (E (i)), New Caledonia (E (ii)), Tonga (E (iii)), French Polynesia and the Cook Islands (F). Also evident are low levels of intermingling among breeding populations consistent with the degree of genetic differentiation. Photo-identification has confirmed linkages between Area V feeding areas and eastern Australia breeding grounds and one genotype match has been reported between Area V feeding areas and Oceania breeding grounds. Recent abundance estimates show strong increases in the eastern Australian population, and some recovery in the New Caledonia and Tonga populations, but with little evidence of recovery at other known Oceania breeding grounds or New Zealand. Studies to date have provided no conclusive evidence of the migratory destination of humpback whales passing through New Zealand waters en route between Antarctic feeding areas and tropical breeding grounds. Photo-identification comparisons were undertaken between humpback whale fluke catalogues from eastern Australia (EA, 1315), Oceania east (OE, 513), Oceania west (OW, 166) and New Zealand (NZ, 13). Five matches were found between OE/OW, four matches between OW/EA and three matches between NZ/EA. The data are used to investigate and discuss the migratory destination and breeding ground migratory interchange of humpback whales travelling through New Zealand waters. The data confirm that humpback whales with site fidelity to eastern Australia migrate past New Zealand including through the Cook Strait and Foveaux Strait. ******** Schmitt NT, Double MC, Baker S, Gales N, Childerhouse S, Polanowski AM, Steel D, Albertson R, Olavarria C, Garrigue C, Poole M, Hauser N, Constantine R, Paton D, Jenner CS, Jarman SN, Peakall R, 2014. Mixed-stock analysis of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) on Antarctic feeding grounds. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 14:141-157. In understanding the impact of commercial whaling, it is important to estimate the mixing of low latitude breeding populations on Antarctic feeding grounds, particularly the endangered humpback whale populations of Oceania. This paper estimates the degree of genetic differentiation among the putative populations of Oceania (New Caledonia, Tonga, the Cook Islands and French Polynesia) and Australia (western Australia and eastern Australia) using ten microsatellite loci and mtDNA, assesses the power of the data for a mixed-stock analysis, determines ways to improve statistical power for future studies and estimates the population composition of Antarctic samples collected in 2010 south of New Zealand and eastern Australia. A large proportion of individuals could not be assigned to a population of origin (> 52%) using a posterior probability threshold of > 0.90. The mixed-stock analysis simulations however, produced accurate results with humpback whales reapportioned to their population of origin above the 90% threshold for western Australia, New Caledonia and Oceania grouped using a combined mtDNA and microsatellite dataset. Removing the Cook Islands, considered a transient region for humpback whales, from the simulation analysis increased the ability to reapportion Tonga from 86% to 89% and French Polynesia from 89% to 92%. Breeding ground sample size was found to be a factor influencing the accuracy of population reapportionment whereas increasing the mixture or feeding ground sample size improved the precision of results. The mixed-stock analysis of our Antarctic samples revealed substantial contributions from both eastern Australia (53.2%, 6.8% SE) and New Caledonia (43.7%, 5.5% SE) [with Oceania contributing 46.8% (5.9% SE)] but not western Australia. Despite the need for more samples to improve estimates of population allocation, our study strengthens the emerging genetic and non-genetic evidence that Antarctic waters south of New Zealand and eastern Australia are used by humpback whales from both eastern Australia and the more vulnerable breeding population of New Caledonia, representing Oceania. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From srichardson at coastalstudies.org Mon Aug 31 07:52:21 2015 From: srichardson at coastalstudies.org (Stephanie Richardson) Date: Mon, 31 Aug 2015 10:52:21 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] Aerial Observer Position - Right Whale Research Program, Provincetown, MA - USA Message-ID: Aerial Observer Position - Right Whale Research Program Provincetown, MA - USA The Center for Coastal Studies (CCS) is seeking right whale aerial survey observers for the upcoming 2016 winter/spring season (approximately January 1st to May 15th, 2016). Observers will work with the aerial team documenting the abundance, distribution, and behavior of North Atlantic right whales in Cape Cod Bay and adjacent waters. Responsibilities include: participation in marine mammal aerial surveys including photography and data collection, photo analysis, data entry, and associated work; as part of an ongoing long term study of North Atlantic right whales. The ideal candidate will have the following qualifications: prior experience as a marine mammal aerial survey observer (highly desired), experience in matching right whales (or other species of cetaceans), familiarity with digital SLR cameras, proficient and accurate data entry skills, at least a B.S. with courses in biology, personal transportation, enthusiasm and willingness to enhance field and lab based research skills, and the ability to work and live successfully in a team environment. This is a full-time temporary/seasonal position. CCS has a long history of conservation and research work with the North Atlantic right whale, information about the CCS Right Whale Research Program is available at: http://coastalstudies.org/right-whale-research/population-monitoring/ Please submit cover letter and resume highlighting relevant aerial experience along with contact information for three professional references together in one PDF document by September 30, 2015 to: Stephanie Richardson Human Resource Manager Email: srichardson at coastalstudies.org 115 Bradford Street Provincetown, MA 02657 -- Stephanie Richardson Human Resource Manager Center for Coastal Studies 115 Bradford Street Provincetown, MA 02657 t. (508) 487-3622 Ext. 113 f. (508) 487-4495 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From hlgis3m at gmail.com Mon Aug 31 08:02:24 2015 From: hlgis3m at gmail.com (=?UTF-8?B?SMOpbMOobmUgTGFiYWNo?=) Date: Mon, 31 Aug 2015 17:02:24 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] Extended deadline for abstract submission to the international Workshop on Bottlenose dolphin in the NW Mediterranean Sea Message-ID: Dear all, *Deadline for abstract submission* to the international workshop on "Bottlenose dolphin conservation and monitoring in the North-Western Mediterranean Sea" is *extended to the 13th of september.* This workshop will be held on the 01 & 02 December 2015 at the Villa M?diterran?e, in Marseille(France). Experts, scientists, managers, institutional bodies are welcomed to share and discuss expertise, knowledge, issues, and challenges on: Ecology and monitoring ; Strategies of conservation ; Measures of conservation and Networking. *To submit* an abstract, please follow instructions in www.gdegem.org/abstract-submission *To register* go to http://www.gdegem.org/registration Cost for the two days workshop : 50? For more information please visit http://www.gdegem.org/international- workshop or contact us at workshop at gis3m.org We look forward to seeing you in Marseille! -- H?l?ne LABACH Coordinatrice, Charg?e de projets / Coordinator, Project manager GIS3M - Groupement d'Int?r?t Scientifique pour les Mammif?res Marins de M?diterran?e et leur environnement www.gis3m.org / www.facebook.com/GISMMM Le Kalliste B?t B4, 1 avenue Cl?ment Monnier, 13960 Sausset-les-pins, France Tel : +33(0)953929263, Mob :+33 (0)6.36.50.03.03 Email : *hlgis3m at gmail.com* , Skype : labhel13 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From naomi at awionline.org Sun Aug 30 07:44:37 2015 From: naomi at awionline.org (Naomi Rose) Date: Sun, 30 Aug 2015 14:44:37 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Do bottlenose dolphin females fight and sometimes kill infants? Message-ID: Dear MARMAMers: A weeks-old calf has died at Plan?te Sauvage, a dolphinarium in France. Here is the short press item on this death: http://www.presseocean.fr/actualite/port-saint-pere-un-jeune-dauphin-meurt-a-planete-sauvage-29-08-2015-168169 For those who don't speak French, the article says: A dolphin calf died following a fight between two adult females Friday in Port-Saint-P?re. She was born on August 16. "When a female gives birth, it is always a risky life stage," warned Martin Boye, scientific director of Wild Planet (Plan?te Sauvage). "We placed the mother Tarel and her female calf in the nursery pool with another female. The whole team was mobilized to monitor this first-time birth. Friday, before the afternoon performance, there was an altercation between the two females," reported Boye. "The little one was struck. It was immediately fatal to her. The veterinary examination confirmed this," he added, clearly upset. According to my sources, Boye also claimed that the death of this calf was "totally normal" and that females killing calves (accidentally or deliberately, is not clear) occurs in free-ranging populations. He also said that a video from a free-ranging population recording this kind of calf death exists, but hasn't been seen outside the scientific community. I am aware that bottlenose dolphins kill harbor porpoises and that male bottlenose dolphins kill calves; however, I have never heard of females killing calves, accidentally or deliberately, during fights. Is this something that has been observed in free-ranging populations and if so, does video exist of it? Thank you to the community for any information relevant to this situation. ____________________________ [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 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: