From lsayigh at whoi.edu Sat Jan 3 12:05:12 2015 From: lsayigh at whoi.edu (Laela Sayigh) Date: Sat, 03 Jan 2015 15:05:12 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Abstract and early registration deadline for the Watkins Memorial Marine Mammal Bioacoustics Symposium, 26-29 March 2015 In-Reply-To: <5436DFE3.8000808@whoi.edu> References: <5391A084.3030506@st-and.ac.uk> <5395DABD.8040900@whoi.edu> <5436DFE3.8000808@whoi.edu> Message-ID: <54A84B78.2020809@whoi.edu> Dear colleagues, This is a reminder that January 15 is the deadline for abstract submissions and early registration for the Watkins Memorial Marine Mammal Bioacoustics Symposium, to be held 26-29 March 2015 in New Bedford, Massachusetts. Abstracts are being accepted for both spoken and poster presentations. Please visit http://www.whalingmuseum.org/programs/watkins-symposium-2015 Contact lsayigh at whoi.edu with any questions about the event. From dianna at blueoceansociety.org Sat Jan 3 13:29:19 2015 From: dianna at blueoceansociety.org (Dianna Schulte, Blue Ocean Society) Date: Sat, 3 Jan 2015 16:29:19 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Blue Ocean Society- Summer Research Internships Message-ID: <002c01d0279c$5628a4b0$0279ee10$@blueoceansociety.org> Blue Ocean Society for Marine Conservation is accepting applications for Summer 2015 Research and Education Interns. Blue Ocean Society for Marine Conservation is a nonprofit organization based in Portsmouth, NH, USA with a mission to protect marine mammals in the Gulf of Maine through education, research and conservation. We achieve our goals primarily through our core programs which include outreach/school programs, whale watch trips and beach cleanups. Blue Ocean Society's Research and Education Internship Program is a structured program designed to provide undergraduates and recent post-grads with hands-on experience in the field of whale research and marine conservation. Interns will be directly involved with contributing to our long-term studies of several wild cetacean species (humpback, fin, minke whales, etc) in the Gulf of Maine while working aboard commercial whale watching vessels departing from NH and northern MA. Responsibilities: . Collect detailed data (physical and behavioral) on local marine species and marine debris . Interact with passengers of all ages and backgrounds . Enter data . Attend weekly meetings and lectures . Complete weekly reading assignments . Assist with beach cleanups . Assist with school/outreach programs (primarily in June) Qualifications: . Must possess a strong work ethic, have high attention to detail and the ability to work with limited supervision . Must be self-motivated, friendly and able to talk to small groups . Must be 18 or older . Preference is given to those who can commit to a minimum of at least 10 weeks . Must be available on weekends and holidays . Must be available to start by June 1, 2015 Prior experience is not required and all training is provided. Additional opportunities may be available to assist at our Blue Ocean Discovery Center in Hampton Beach, NH. This is an unpaid position. Interns are responsible for their own housing and transportation. Please visit http://www.blueoceansociety.org/Jobs/intern.html for full Internship information. Details on how to apply can be found at http://www.blueoceansociety.org/Jobs/app_forms.html. Application deadline is March 15, 2015. Dianna Schulte Research and Intern Coordinator Blue Ocean Society for Marine Conservation Gov. John Langdon House 143 Pleasant Street Portsmouth, NH 03801 Office: 603-431-0260 Email: dianna at blueoceansociety.org www.blueoceansociety.org Facebook | Twitter -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From pgiogli at gmail.com Sun Jan 4 16:04:26 2015 From: pgiogli at gmail.com (PG) Date: Mon, 5 Jan 2015 02:04:26 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] MMO/PAM/FLO required Message-ID: <28C898B8-6718-4CE8-A937-48DCC20D6DAC@gmail.com> Dear all, Geo-Marine Consultants (GMC) is currently tendering for some MMO/PAM/FLO work on several seismic projects and looking for consultants to fill the following positions: ? Professional Marine Mammal Observers (MMO?s) and Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) operators with JNCC certification or comparable body. Should be graduates in Marine Biology/Marine Science/ Environmental Science. ? English/French speaking FLOs, especially with experience in or around W. Africa All applicants should have ? BOSIET/HUET or equivalent training ? Valid Offshore medical certificate ? Proficient level in English language If you are interested please send your updated CV stating your availability to info at geo-mar.com Thank you. Geo-Marine Consultants Ltd. www.geo-mar.com info at geo-mar.com Tel. +44 207 183 0423 | +44 07960901325 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From putu.liza at my.jcu.edu.au Sun Jan 4 23:04:37 2015 From: putu.liza at my.jcu.edu.au (Putu Mustika) Date: Mon, 5 Jan 2015 07:04:37 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] An MMS note on boat and dolphin interactions in Lovina, Bali Indonesia Message-ID: Dear colleagues, We are very pleased to inform you that our latest paper has been published as a note on Marine Mammal Science with DOI 10.1111/mms/12188. Mustika, P. L. K., A. Birtles, Y. Everingham and H. Marsh. 2014. "Evaluating the potential disturbance from dolphin watching in Lovina, north Bali, Indonesia." Marine Mammal Science. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/mms.12188/abstract Full PDF is also available upon request. Sincerely, Dr Putu Liza Kusuma Mustika ('Icha') Adjunct Researcher, College of Marine and Environmental Studies, James Cook University Adjunct Researcher, College of Business, Law and Governance, James Cook University Member, IUCN Cetacean Specialist Group Coordinator, Whale Stranding Indonesia Bali - Indonesia Townsville - Australia putu.liza at my.jcu.edu.au, putuliza at gmail.com http://putuliza.blogspot.com www.whalestrandingindonesia.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From cdmacleod at gisinecology.com Mon Jan 5 02:04:30 2015 From: cdmacleod at gisinecology.com (Colin D. MacLeod) Date: Mon, 5 Jan 2015 10:04:30 -0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Final Call: Two New Short GIS Courses For Biologists From GIS In Ecology Message-ID: This is the final call for attendees for two new short GIS courses for biologists in February 2015. These courses will be held in Glasgow in Scotland, and will be taught by Dr. Colin D. MacLeod, a biological researcher with more than 15 years experience in using GIS. Each course will run for two days, with the second course being held directly after the first to make it logistically easier for those wanting to do both courses. These courses are: 1. An Introduction To Investigating The Home Ranges Of Individual Animals (9 ? 10 February 2015): This course will provide an introduction to investigating the home ranges of individual animals using a GIS-based approach. It will cover how to create a minimum convex polygon (MCP), how to create a kernel density estimate (KDE) in environments with and without barriers to movements, how to create 50 and 95% percentage volume contours PVCs) and how to select an appropriate bandwidth/h value. This course is aimed at anyone who wishes to use GIS to study the home ranges of animals in either the terrestrial or aquatic environments, even if they have little or no existing knowledge of GIS. It will primarily use ArcGIS software, but it will also cover the use of ArcMET and Geospatial Modelling Environment (GME) for home range analyses. Duration: 2 days. Cost: ?295 (?200 for students, unwaged and those working for NGOs). Places will be limited to a maximum of 14 people and will be filled on a first come, first served basis. For more information on this course, visit www.gisinecology.com/Training_Course_Home_Range_February_2015.htm or email info at GISinEcology.com. Places can also be booked through this email address. 2. An Introduction To Creating Custom GIS Tools For Biological Research (11 ? 12 February 2015): This course will provide an introduction to the creation of custom GIS tools for use in all areas of biological research. Creating custom GIS tools for biological research allows you not only to automate frequently repeated tasks (saving time and reducing the risk of accidental processing errors), but it also allows non-GIS specialists to process and analyse data using standard protocols in a GIS-based environment by running a single easy-to-use tool. This means that creating custom GIS tool provides an effective way of expanding the pool of individuals within a research group or organisation who can carry out specific and complex GIS tasks. The course will consist of background session which will explain the principles of creating your own custom GIS tools, as well as practical exercises in which a number of example tools will be built and tested. There will also be the option of building your own custom tool to automate a task of your choice. This course assumes that you have at least a basic knowledge of GIS and is not aimed at complete beginners. It will use the ModelBuilder module of ESRI?s ArcGIS sofware to show how biologists can create custom GIS tools for use in their research. Duration: 2 days. Cost: ?295 (?200 for students, unwaged and those working for NGOs). Places will be limited to a maximum of 14 people and will be filled on a first come, first served basis. For more information on this course, visit www.gisinecology.com/Training_Course_Custom_GIS_Tools_February_2015.htm or email info at GISinEcology.com. Places can also be booked through this email address. --- This email is free from viruses and malware because avast! Antivirus protection is active. http://www.avast.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From jessarah19 at yahoo.com Mon Jan 5 10:16:37 2015 From: jessarah19 at yahoo.com (Jessica Taylor) Date: Mon, 5 Jan 2015 18:16:37 +0000 (UTC) Subject: [MARMAM] Bottlenose Dolphin Photo-ID Internship/Research Assistant Position Message-ID: <1066691911.2859056.1420481797118.JavaMail.yahoo@jws10034.mail.ne1.yahoo.com> Hi,?Could you please post the following announcement to the list?Thanks! Bottlenose DolphinPhoto-ID Internship/Research Assistant Position for Summer 2015 The Outer Banks Centerfor Dolphin Research (OBXCDR)/Nags Head Dolphin Watch are currently acceptingapplications for the 2015 summer season. One internship position is available.?The research season is May 4 ? October 9. Successful applicants must be able tocommit for the entire season.The Outer Banks Centerfor Dolphin Research is a 501 c(3) non-profit organization dedicated to theconservation of bottlenose dolphins in the Outer Banks, NC. Our program?s goalis to gain an understanding of the population dynamics, movement patterns, andbehavioral ecology of coastal bottlenose dolphins in the sounds and coastalwaters near the Outer Banks. The OBXCDR currently conducts aphoto-identification monitoring study of bottlenose dolphins in Roanoke,Croatan, Albemarle, Pamlico and Currituck Sounds. Data is collected viadedicated small boat surveys as well as opportunistically from a local dolphinwatch. This study is a continuation of the long-term study initiated by theNags Head Dolphin Watch in 1997. Information from the long-term monitoringstudy will provide a basis for studies involving habitat utilization, socialassociations, and anthropogenic effects on the dolphins as well as aid in effortsto examine bottlenose dolphin stock structure and movement patterns along theU.S. Atlantic coast. Interns will gain experience in field data collection,photo-identification of dolphins, and environmental education. For moreinformation about the OBXCDR, please visit: obxdolphins.org. The internshipposition will consist of bottlenose dolphin photo-identification,opportunistic/dedicated field research, and environmental education. Responsibilitiesinclude: ?? Photo-identification of dolphins in the lab:This includes photo sorting, grading, and matching, sighting data entry, andassisting in maintenance of the long-term OBX photo-id catalog using the MSAccess database FinBase. ?Additional timewill also be spent matching the OBX catalog to the Mid-Atlantic BottlenoseDolphin Catalog (MABDC) for an examination of seasonal movement patterns. TheMABDC is a long-term collaborative effort to gain a greater understanding ofthe stock structure and movement patterns of bottlenose dolphins along the U.S.Atlantic coast. (40% of time) ??? Mate/naturalist duties aboard the Nags HeadDolphin Watch: This involves the implementation of educational programs,including public speaking aboard the eco-tours (using a microphone andone-on-one) to educate others about local dolphin biology and marineconservation, as well as additional mate duties. The mate/naturalist will alsocollect opportunistic photo-identification data aboard the eco-tours(photographing dorsal fins, measuring environmental parameters, and recordingsighting data), organize opportunistic data for inclusion in thephoto-identification catalog, and assist in general maintenance of fieldequipment.? For additional information about the Nags Head Dolphin Watch,go to www.nagsheaddolphinwatch.com (50% of time) ? ?? Boat-based photo-identification: The internwill assist with boat-based photo-identification surveys to examine seasonalabundances, site fidelity, and prevalence of skin lesions of bottlenosedolphins in Roanoke Sound.? Responsibilities include operating a smallvessel during transect surveys and sightings, assisting withphoto-identification, collecting environmental, location, and behavioral data fordolphin groups, and general maintenance of field equipment. (10% of time) ?This internshiprequires a minimum commitment of 36 hours per week, consisting of eco-tours,lab photo-identification, and dedicated surveys. The intern will carry outmate/naturalist duties and opportunistic photo-identification aboard the NagsHead Dolphin Watch for 3-4 days per week throughout the field season while 1-2days per week will be spent conducting photo-identification in the lab.Abundance surveys will be conducted once per month (May, June, August, andSeptember) and 2-3 times a month during July and October. Salary:? Thisinternship is a paid position. Applicants will receive an hourly salary for thenaturalist position on the dolphin watch. Tips aboard the dolphin tours areexpected, but not guaranteed. Housing:?Although housing is not provided, we will assist you in finding housingaccommodations in the Outer Banks. Interns are responsible for their owntransportation to and from the Outer Banks as well as to and from the fieldsite. The successfulapplicant would ideally have the following qualifications: ?? Minimum of 18 years of age and recentlyenrolled in a college-level program in marine biology, biology, zoology, orrelated field ?? Strong interest in the marine environment andconservation ?? Ability to swim ?? Basic proficiency in MS Access and MS PictureManager ?? Enthusiasm, attention to detail, responsible, independent,focused, and dedicated ?? Works well in a team environment as well asindividually ?? Experience in boating and marine field datacollection ?? Experience in photo-identification preferredbut not required ?? First AID/CPR certification preferred but notrequired ?? Due to employment aboard the dolphin eco-tours,all candidates must be U.S. citizens ?NOTE: The UnitedStates Coast Guard requires all passenger vessels to be drug free workenvironments. In order to work aboard the dolphin eco-tours, the intern will berequired to pass a pre-employment drug test and to participate in random drugtesting during the period of the research season. Application Process: Please submit coverletter, resume, and contact information for 3 references via email to:obxcdr at hotmail.com?Use ?Dolphin photo-id internship? in thesubject line of the email. All applications will be reviewed in the order theyare received. Applicants must apply by February 15th to beconsidered for this position. ?Jessica Taylor President/PrincipalInvestigator, Outer Banks Center for Dolphin Research P.O. Box 7721 Kill Devil Hills, NC27948 Obxdolphins.org ? -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From jeff at cawildlife.org Mon Jan 5 11:15:09 2015 From: jeff at cawildlife.org (JEFF Hall) Date: Mon, 05 Jan 2015 11:15:09 -0800 Subject: [MARMAM] Rescue and Rehab Internship Opportunity: Session I and II Deadline Message-ID: California Wildlife Center in Malibu (Los Angeles County) is offering internship positions in our Marine Mammal Response and Rehabilitation Department during spring and summer of 2015. The deadline for Sessions I and II applications is January 15. Summary of Program The California Wildlife Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of injured, orphaned and sick native wildlife. CWC fulfills this mission through marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation, and treatment of avian and terrestrial wildlife in our rehabilitation hospital. This internship will provide an exciting and challenging educational experience in the marine mammal field, while also allowing for additional hands-on experience with other native California wildlife. The interns will be working closely with the Marine Mammal program staff in all aspects of stranding response and rehabilitation, including logistics, assessment, capture/restraint, transportation, husbandry, and public relations. In addition, interns will provide support to CWC Hospital staff in animal husbandry tasks for avian and terrestrial wildlife. Intern Qualifications The internship is open to all applicants at least 18 years of age or older. If the intern intends to receive academic credit, the intern will be responsible for making all arrangements with their educational institutions. Due to the unpredictable nature of marine mammal stranding response, interns may sometimes be required to work beyond their normal scheduled hours. Interns must be able and willing to work flexible hours including weekends and holidays. Interns will be required to have good physical strength and the ability to lift/carry 50 lbs. Interns need to have the ability to multitask and work in a fast paced environment. Animal care and/or marine mammal experience is a plus but not required. Applicant must demonstrate proof of negative TB test within the past year and a current tetanus vaccination. Intern Responsibilities Assess stranded marine mammals. Coordinate and lead responder team in the capture and handling of stranded marine mammals needing medical attention. Coordinate transport of stranded marine mammals to the rehabilitation facility. Complete NMFS Level A data sheets while maintaining detailed database records. Assist with marine mammal necropsy and sample collection. Assist in daily husbandry tasks of marine mammals admitted to the on-site rehabilitation facility. Work closely with Marine Department staff to provide patient-specific rehabilitative care. Maintain good rapport with representatives of various agencies. Program Dates All sessions are six weeks long. 32 hour per week minimum time commitment. Two positions available per session. Start and end dates are somewhat flexible. Session I: Mid-February to end of March Session II: Mid-March to beginning of May Session III: End of April to beginning of June Session IV: Beginning of June to mid-July Application Deadlines Sessions I & II applications due January 15. Sessions III & IV applications due March 31. Other Information Internships are unpaid. Housing and transportation are the responsibility of the intern. Must have own transportation and current drivers license. Very limited on-site housing available at no cost. All individuals selected for on-site housing will be required to complete 40 hours per week. Application Process Interested individuals must send the following: -Letter of intent -Resume -Two letters of reference -Proof of vaccinations (tetanus) Your letter of intent must state the Session (please choose no more than two) you are applying for and detail interests, experience, housing accommodations requested and availability. Proof of vaccinations must be provided before internship starts and is not necessary for application. Please submit the above items via regular mail or email (preferred) to: California Wildlife Center Attn: Jeff Hall P.O. Box 2022 Malibu, CA 90265 Email: jeff at cawildlife.org Please visit our website for more information and a link to the official 2015 internship announcement: www.cawildlife.org. -- JEFF Hall Marine Program Manager California Wildlife Center -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From frances.c.robertson at gmail.com Mon Jan 5 16:01:18 2015 From: frances.c.robertson at gmail.com (Frances Robertson) Date: Mon, 5 Jan 2015 16:01:18 -0800 Subject: [MARMAM] ECS Workshop on marine mammal mitigation methods and guidelines Message-ID: Dear MarMam and ECS Communities, Apologies for cross posting. On behalf of the Marine Mammal Observer Association and the New Zealand Department of Conservation we would like to bring to your attention to the following workshop, to be held at the the 29th Annual ECS conference in Malta in March. *ECS Workshop* *New mitigation methods and evolving acoustic exposure guidelines* *Malta* *March 21st 2015* *9am-5pm* New Zealand Department of Conservation in association with the MMOA. This workshop is offered by the MMOA and New Zealand?s Department of Conservation. The purpose of the workshop is to cover changes in technology and recently developed methods, and to look at current methods used in mitigation with a view to improving or enhancing marine mammal mitigation guidelines in New Zealand and elsewhere. The workshop will be structured around two sessions; the first session will concentrate on novel technologies used in mitigation, while the second will discuss mitigation guidelines for seismic surveys and other activities and the roles these new technologies may play in them. Experts will present on a variety of topics including sound measurement, multi-beam, thermal imaging, acoustic deterrents, PAM and the use of streamers for PAM systems, acoustic exposure guidelines and soft start procedures. The workshop will end with a discussion which will consider how these methods may be used to improve mitigation, how they may be implemented and lastly guideline improvements. We recognise that we will not be aware of all emerging technologies and new data on mitigation effectiveness. We therefore welcome the submission of posters on relevant topics for discussion during the breaks and in the free-flowing session at the end of the day. If you wish to present a poster at this workshop, please contact Frances Robertson: frances.c.robertson at gmail.com To register for this workshop please contact either: Andrew Wright: marinebrit at gmail.com Or Patrick Lyne: plyne1 at eircom.net Best wishes, Workshop Organizers. -- Frances C. Robertson, PhD *Marine Mammal Biologist* Canada (+1) 604 339 4967 USA (+1) 360 420 4403 frances.c.robertson at gmail.com www.distantfin.net -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From sn1608 at googlemail.com Mon Jan 5 11:26:12 2015 From: sn1608 at googlemail.com (Sam Nichols) Date: Mon, 5 Jan 2015 19:26:12 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Underwater Acoustics courses Message-ID: Seiche Training is pleased to announce two underwater acoustics courses in March 2015: UNDERWATER ACOUSTICS IN THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT 23 - 26th March 2015 University of Southampton, UK in association with the University of Bath Our 4 day course equips delegates with a thorough knowledge of the fundamentals of underwater acoustics. It then focuses on developing clear, quantitative understanding of the issues involved in the impact of acoustics on marine wildlife. The following topics are covered: ocean environments, noise propagation models, sound field modelling, methods of assessment, impacts of noise on marine life, mitigation, environmental regulations and Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), fisheries, JNCC guidelines, emerging studies and technologies acrossthis field, the physical drivers of noise and seismic sources, vessel-radiated noise, shallow water measurements, marine seismic imaging, marine seismic sources and marine seismic data processing. The course is delivered by leading research professors and experts in their field including Dr Paul Lepper, Dr Philippe Blondel, Dr Paul Fernandes and Professor Victor Humphrey It will be particularly useful in providing a better understanding of reports that delegates either have to deliver or receive from clients. Who is it for? Regulators, environmental consultants and policy/environmental professionals within industry This course has been granted official CPD recognition by IMarEST, the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology UNDERWATER ACOUSTICS FOR OIL, GAS AND DEFENCE 23 - 27th March 2015 University of Southampton, UK in association with the University of Bath This 5 day intensive course in underwater acoustics is delivered by leading research professors primarily for engineers and scientists from the oil, gas and defence industries. The first 3 days cover the principles of underwater acoustics, providing delegates with an in-depth knowledge of the mechanisms of sound propagation in the ocean, the impact of noise and reverberation produced by the ocean environment and the basic structure and performance of acoustic instruments. This is followed by 2 days of advanced modules on underwater sound sources with emphasis on sonar, its application and measurement, calculations in shelf sea waters, seismic imaging, seismic sources and seismic data. Delegates are required to have a good grounding in Maths, Engineering or Science. This course has been granted official CPD recognition by IMarEST, the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology For more info and details, please visit www.seiche.com training course section or contact Sarah Hancock on s.hancock at seiche.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From liane.nakahara at navy.mil Tue Jan 6 15:44:30 2015 From: liane.nakahara at navy.mil (Nakahara, Liane L CIV Navy Region NW, N00P) Date: Tue, 6 Jan 2015 23:44:30 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Navy to hold public meetings on Supplement to the Northwest Training & Testing Draft EIS Message-ID: <1334760E4C8BA546A988A8EC744A09A14B288C@NAWEBREMXM02V.nadsuswe.nads.navy.mil> Pasted below is a press release that was sent out to local news media in the Washington, Oregon, Southeastern Alaska, and Northern California areas. The Navy is holding four public meetings next week to give the public an opportunity to learn more about the Supplement to the Northwest Training and Testing (NWTT) Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). Please see the full list of meetings in the below release. The Supplement is currently available for public review and comment until Feb. 2. Please let me know if you have any questions. Thank you. Very Respectfully, Liane Nakahara Public Affairs Specialist Navy Region Northwest Desk: (360) 396-1630 Email: liane.nakahara[at]navy.mil ---------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 6, 2014 Release # 15-001 Navy to hold public meetings on Supplement to the Northwest Training and Testing Draft EIS SILVERDALE, Wash. - The U.S. Navy invites the public to attend public meetings to learn more about the Supplement to the Northwest Training and Testing (NWTT) Draft Environmental Impact Statement/Overseas Environmental Impact Statement (EIS/OEIS). The Navy prepared the Supplement to evaluate the potential environmental effects of additional military readiness training activities resulted from recently updated training requirements. Public Meetings: Four open-house meetings will be held to inform the public about the Navy's findings in the Supplement to the Draft EIS/OEIS, to answer questions, and to solicit public comments on the Supplement. Each public meeting will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Comments will be accepted throughout each meeting. The public meetings will be held at the following locations and times: Monday, Jan. 12, 2015 Poulsbo Fire Station Conference Room 911 NE Liberty Road Poulsbo, WA Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2015 Grays Harbor College, Hillier Union Building 1620 Edward P. Smith Drive Aberdeen, WA Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2015 Isaac Newton Magnet School Commons 825 NE Seventh St. Newport, OR Friday, Jan. 16, 2015 Eureka Public Marina, Wharfinger Building Great Room 1 Marina Way Eureka, CA Individuals requiring reasonable accommodations, please contact Liane Nakahara, Navy Region Northwest Public Affairs Specialist, at 360-396-1630 or liane.nakahara at navy.mil. Availability of the Supplement and Public Comment Period: The Navy is seeking public input on the accuracy and adequacy of the Supplement to the Draft EIS/OEIS. The Supplement is available for public review online at www.NWTTEIS.com and at the following locations: Washington: . Everett Main Library . Gig Harbor Library . Jefferson County Library - Port Hadlock . Kitsap Regional Library - Poulsbo . Kitsap Regional Library - Sylvan Way (Bremerton) . Oak Harbor Public Library . Port Angeles Main Library . Port Townsend Public Library . Timberland Regional Library - Aberdeen . Timberland Regional Library - Hoquiam Oregon: . Astoria Public Library . Driftwood Public Library . Newport Public Library . Tillamook Main Library . Hatfield Marine Science Center Northern California: . Fort Bragg Branch Library . Humboldt County Public Library, Arcata Main Library . Humboldt County Public Library, Eureka Main Library . Redwood Coast Senior Center Southeastern Alaska: . Juneau Public Library, Downtown Branch . Ketchikan Public Library The Navy is accepting comments throughout the 45-day public comment period, from Dec. 19, 2014, to Feb. 2, 2015. All comments must be postmarked or received online by Feb. 2, 2015, for consideration in the Final EIS/OEIS. Written comments may be submitted via the project website at www.NWTTEIS.com, in person at the public meetings or by mail to: Naval Facilities Engineering Command Northwest Attention: Ms. Kimberly Kler - NWTT EIS/OEIS Project Manager 1101 Tautog Circle, Suite 203 Silverdale, WA 98315-1101 All public comments received during the original Draft EIS comment period (Jan. 24 - April 15, 2014) are still valid and are being considered in the development of the Final EIS. Supplement to the NWTT Draft EIS/OEIS: Following publication of the Draft EIS/OEIS on Jan. 24, 2014, the U.S. Navy determined that updated training requirements would result in changes to the Proposed Action. The purpose of this Supplement to the Draft EIS/OEIS is to present these changes and significant new information relevant to environmental concerns. These changes include an updated requirement for increased use of sonobuoys during training in the Northwest Training Range Complex. The supplement also addresses additional analysis related to assessing impacts of ongoing maritime security operations. The types of activities that were evaluated include maritime security escorts for Navy vessels such as Fleet Ballistic Missile Submarines [SSBNs]. Unless specifically included in the Supplement, the activities and analyses of effects to resources described in the original Draft EIS/OEIS remain valid and are included by reference in the Supplement to the Draft EIS/OEIS. In the NWTT Draft EIS/OEIS that was previously released, the Navy evaluated the potential environmental effects from military readiness training and testing activities conducted primarily within existing range complexes and testing ranges in the NWTT Study Area. The purpose of the Proposed Action is to ensure that the Navy accomplishes its mission to maintain, train and equip combat-ready naval forces capable of winning wars, deterring aggression and maintaining freedom of the seas. This mission is achieved in part by training and testing within the NWTT Study Area. The NWTT EIS/OEIS also supports the renewal of federal regulatory permits and authorizations for current training and testing activities and future activities requiring environmental analysis. Visit the project website at www.NWTTEIS.com to learn more about the project. MEDIA AVAILABILITY: There is an opportunity for media to speak with project personnel at 4:30 p.m. before each meeting. Media interested in attending or seeking further information should contact: Liane Nakahara, Navy Region Northwest Public Affairs Specialist, 360-396-1630 (office) or 360-340-5372 (cell). -USN- -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: smime.p7s Type: application/pkcs7-signature Size: 5619 bytes Desc: not available URL: From jessarah19 at yahoo.com Tue Jan 6 17:24:28 2015 From: jessarah19 at yahoo.com (Jessica Taylor) Date: Wed, 7 Jan 2015 01:24:28 +0000 (UTC) Subject: [MARMAM] Bottlenose Dolphin Photo-ID Internship Message-ID: <1896980104.3329326.1420593868716.JavaMail.yahoo@jws100124.mail.ne1.yahoo.com> Bottlenose DolphinPhoto-ID Internship/Research Assistant Position for Summer 2015 The Outer Banks Centerfor Dolphin Research (OBXCDR)/Nags Head Dolphin Watch are currently acceptingapplications for the 2015 summer season. One internship position is available.The research season is May 4 ? October 9. Successful applicants must be able tocommit for the entire season. The Outer Banks Centerfor Dolphin Research is a 501 c(3) non-profit organization dedicated to theconservation of bottlenose dolphins in the Outer Banks, NC. Our program?s goalis to gain an understanding of the population dynamics, movement patterns, andbehavioral ecology of coastal bottlenose dolphins in the sounds and coastalwaters near the Outer Banks. The OBXCDR currently conducts aphoto-identification monitoring study of bottlenose dolphins in Roanoke,Croatan, Albemarle, Pamlico and Currituck Sounds. Data is collected viadedicated small boat surveys as well as opportunistically from a local dolphinwatch. This study is a continuation of the long-term study initiated by theNags Head Dolphin Watch in 1997. Information from the long-term monitoringstudy will provide a basis for studies involving habitat utilization, socialassociations, and anthropogenic effects on the dolphins as well as aid in effortsto examine bottlenose dolphin stock structure and movement patterns along theU.S. Atlantic coast. Interns will gain experience in field data collection,photo-identification of dolphins, and environmental education. For moreinformation about the OBXCDR, please visit: obxdolphins.org. The internshipposition will consist of bottlenose dolphin photo-identification,opportunistic/dedicated field research, and environmental education. Responsibilitiesinclude: ?? Photo-identification of dolphins in the lab:This includes photo sorting, grading, and matching, sighting data entry, andassisting in maintenance of the long-term OBX photo-id catalog using the MSAccess database FinBase. ?Additional timewill also be spent matching the OBX catalog to the Mid-Atlantic BottlenoseDolphin Catalog (MABDC) for an examination of seasonal movement patterns. TheMABDC is a long-term collaborative effort to gain a greater understanding ofthe stock structure and movement patterns of bottlenose dolphins along the U.S.Atlantic coast. (40% of time) ??? Mate/naturalist duties aboard the Nags HeadDolphin Watch: This involves the implementation of educational programs,including public speaking aboard the eco-tours (using a microphone andone-on-one) to educate others about local dolphin biology and marineconservation, as well as additional mate duties. The mate/naturalist will alsocollect opportunistic photo-identification data aboard the eco-tours(photographing dorsal fins, measuring environmental parameters, and recordingsighting data), organize opportunistic data for inclusion in thephoto-identification catalog, and assist in general maintenance of fieldequipment.? For additional information about the Nags Head Dolphin Watch,go to www.nagsheaddolphinwatch.com (50% of time) ? ?? Boat-based photo-identification: The internwill assist with boat-based photo-identification surveys to examine seasonalabundances, site fidelity, and prevalence of skin lesions of bottlenosedolphins in Roanoke Sound.? Responsibilities include operating a smallvessel during transect surveys and sightings, assisting withphoto-identification, collecting environmental, location, and behavioral datafor dolphin groups, and general maintenance of field equipment. (10% of time) ?This internshiprequires a minimum commitment of 36 hours per week, consisting of eco-tours,lab photo-identification, and dedicated surveys. The intern will carry outmate/naturalist duties and opportunistic photo-identification aboard the NagsHead Dolphin Watch for 3-4 days per week throughout the field season while 1-2days per week will be spent conducting photo-identification in the lab.Abundance surveys will be conducted once per month (May, June, August, andSeptember) and 2-3 times a month during July and October. Salary:? Thisinternship is a paid position. Applicants will receive an hourly salary for thenaturalist position on the dolphin watch. Tips aboard the dolphin tours areexpected, but not guaranteed. Housing:?Although housing is not provided, we will assist you in finding housingaccommodations in the Outer Banks. Interns are responsible for their owntransportation to and from the Outer Banks as well as to and from the fieldsite. The successfulapplicant would ideally have the following qualifications: ?? Minimum of 18 years of age and recentlyenrolled in a college-level program in marine biology, biology, zoology, orrelated field ?? Strong interest in the marine environment andconservation ?? Ability to swim ?? Basic proficiency in MS Access and MS PictureManager ?? Enthusiasm, attention to detail, responsible, independent,focused, and dedicated ?? Works well in a team environment as well asindividually ?? Experience in boating and marine field datacollection ?? Experience in photo-identification preferredbut not required ?? First AID/CPR certification preferred but notrequired ?? Due to employment aboard the dolphin eco-tours,all candidates must be U.S. citizens ?NOTE: The UnitedStates Coast Guard requires all passenger vessels to be drug free workenvironments. In order to work aboard the dolphin eco-tours, the intern will berequired to pass a pre-employment drug test and to participate in random drugtesting during the period of the research season. Application Process: Please submit coverletter, resume, and contact information for 3 references via email to:obxcdr at hotmail.com?Use ?Dolphin photo-id internship? in thesubject line of the email. All applications will be reviewed in the order theyare received. Applicants must apply by February 15th to beconsidered for this position. ?Jessica Taylor President/PrincipalInvestigator, Outer Banks Center for Dolphin Research P.O. Box 7721 Kill Devil Hills, NC27948 Obxdolphins.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From holly_morin at mail.uri.edu Wed Jan 7 12:24:37 2015 From: holly_morin at mail.uri.edu (Holly Morin) Date: Wed, 7 Jan 2015 15:24:37 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Conference Announcement: National Marine Educators Association (NMEA) 2015 Conference Message-ID: <0625856A-7DCC-4213-86A1-32661A7852F3@mail.uri.edu> The Southeastern New England Marine Educators (SENEME) invite formal and informal educators, scientists, students, and government and industry members to NMEA 2015 in the fascinating, historic port city of Newport, Rhode Island, June 29-July 2, 2015! Conference attendees from across the U.S. and around the world will come together to share ideas on the world of water and help promote the mission of "making known the world of water, both fresh and salt." The Call for Presenters is open! Please consider presenting a session at this year?s conference. There are five conference tracks: in the classroom, out of the classroom, next generation science standards (NGSS), today?s scientific research, and partnerships with industry and government. Session submissions will be accepted through January 30th. To visit the submission page, http://www.marine-ed.org/general/custom.asp?NMEA_2015_Call. For questions, please contact Andrea Gingras, Programs Committee Co-Chair, at agingras at uri.edu. We look forward to seeing you in Newport!! Elise Avallon, Andrea Gingras, Grace Jacobson NMEA 2015 Program Committee co-Chairs -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From amy.farak at navy.mil Wed Jan 7 17:29:38 2015 From: amy.farak at navy.mil (Farak, Amy M CIV NUWC NWPT) Date: Thu, 8 Jan 2015 01:29:38 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] General Natural Resources Management and Biological Sciences Position Message-ID: All, The Naval Undersea Warfare Center, Division Newport is accepting resumes for candidates with a Bachelor's Degree with one year of specialized experience or a Master's Degree in general natural resources management, marine biological sciences, or related disciplines appropriate to the position. This position is located in the Environmental Branch of the Corporate Operations Department at the Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division, Newport. Functionally, the group is responsible for providing environmental and spatial planning and biological analysis services to division Newport and its Navy and non-Navy customers. This individual will be responsible for developing assessments for compliance with environmental regulations through the application of scientific analyses. The Naval Undersea Warfare Center, Division Newport is the Navy's full spectrum research, development, test and evaluation, engineering, and fleet support center for submarine warfare and many other systems associated with undersea battlespace. Division Newport provides the technical foundation that enables the conceptualization, research, development, fielding, modernization, and maintenance of systems that ensure our Navy's undersea superiority. KEY REQUIREMENTS: - Must be a US Citizen - Must be registered for Selective Service - May be required to successfully complete a probationary period - Must obtain and maintain a security clearance - Degree must be from an accredited or pre-accredited institution - Must provide a copy of your transcripts with your resume Please email your resume, transcripts, and any supporting documentation to: nuwc_npt_recuritm_fu at navy.mil. Please include Biological Science in the subject line. Applications will be accepted through February 5th. Please note, this position is similar to, but different from, the "Biologist Position" posted to MARMAM on September 24, 2014. If you are interested in a position at the Naval Undersea Warfare Center, Division Newport's Environmental Branch, you are encouraged to submit resumes/transcripts to the email address identified above. Thank you, Amy ------------------------------------------------- Amy Farak NUWC Newport, Environmental Program Manager, Mission Environmental Planning Office: 401-832-4674 Cell: 401-465-1938 Fax: 401-832-4747 DSN: 432-4674 NIPR: amy.farak at navy.mil SIPR: amy.farak at navy.smil.mil ------------------------------------------------- This signature line and my digital signature is the equivalent of a hard copy signature, serving to authenticate that I have the authority to send this e-mail and to indicate I have consciously decided that it should have the same legal authority normally accorded to an actual hard copy signature. -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: smime.p7s Type: application/pkcs7-signature Size: 5599 bytes Desc: not available URL: From akkayaaylin at yahoo.com Thu Jan 8 06:36:47 2015 From: akkayaaylin at yahoo.com (aylin akkaya) Date: Thu, 8 Jan 2015 14:36:47 +0000 (UTC) Subject: [MARMAM] New publication on critical habitat selection for bottlenose dolphins in the Istanbul Strait Message-ID: <1880984395.474212.1420727807057.JavaMail.yahoo@jws10643.mail.bf1.yahoo.com> Dear Marmam Members, We are pleased to inform you that our latest paper has been published: Aylin Akkaya Ba?, Ayaka Amaha ?zt?rk and Bayram ?zt?rk. 2014. Selection of critical habitats for bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) based on behavioral data, in relation to marine traffic in the Istanbul Strait, Turkey Marine Mammal Science.?DOI: 10.1111/mms.12202. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/mms.12202/abstract Abstract: Marine traffic is a significant source of disturbance to the bottlenose dolphin population in the Istanbul Strait, Turkey. To determine the importance of this threat, behavioral data together with sighting data of both dolphins and marine vessels were assessed for 2012. The current study suggests that the Istanbul Strait is used mostly as a foraging ground for bottlenose dolphins. Nonetheless, in the same area there is intense marine traffic as well as increase of industrial fishing activities in autumn. The findings of this study indicated that high-speed ferries and high-speed boats were the most significant source of disturbance. Moreover, increased densities of fishing vessels resulted in a drastic decline of dolphin sightings. This study highlights that vessel type, speed, distance, and density have a cumulative negative effect on dolphins. In order to mitigate the impacts of vessels, it is necessary to establish managed areas in the Istanbul Strait. Such proposed areas should limit speed and density of marine traffic and have specific restrictions on vessel routes. We propose three different seasonal managed areas according to their values as critical habitat for bottlenose dolphins in the strait. Please e-mail me if you want a PDF copy. Sincerely,Aylin AKKAYA BAS ? -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From jlewi006 at fiu.edu Sun Jan 4 18:09:50 2015 From: jlewi006 at fiu.edu (Jennifer Lewis) Date: Mon, 5 Jan 2015 07:39:50 +0530 Subject: [MARMAM] Documentary on Ganges River Dolphin Message-ID: The Tropical Dolphin Research Foundation (www.tropicaldolphin.org) is working to complete a documentary on a group of young conservation biologists who are working to save the Ganges river dolphin from extinction. We have finished our trailer (Who Will Save the River Dolphin? ) and are now filming in the field in Asia (Field Blog) . We wanted to inform the marine mammal community about this upcoming film and to also make MARMAM members aware of our fund raising campaign to help us complete this important documentary (Indegogo Crowd Fund for Documentary ). -- Jennifer Lewis, Ph.D. Director, Tropical Dolphin Research Foundation www.tropicaldolphin.org Trailer: Who Will Save the River Dolphin? HELP SUPPORT TDRF FILMS -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From susan at orcanetwork.org Wed Jan 7 18:48:27 2015 From: susan at orcanetwork.org (Susan Berta) Date: Wed, 07 Jan 2015 18:48:27 -0800 Subject: [MARMAM] Ways of Whales workshop January 24th, Whidbey Island, WA In-Reply-To: <7.0.1.0.2.20140107134320.057160e0@orcanetwork.org> References: <7.0.1.0.2.20140107134320.057160e0@orcanetwork.org> Message-ID: <54ADEFFB.8020601@orcanetwork.org> *WAYS OF WHALES WORKSHOP, JANUARY 24, 2015 * *Coupeville, Whidbey Island, WA: "Blues, Grays, Humpbacks and Pacific White Sided Dolphins" **[] /PHOTO COURTESY of NOAA Fisheries and Vancouver Aquarium /*//* **O**rca Network's* annual *Ways of Whales Workshop* will be held Saturday, January 24, 2015, 9:30 am until 4:30 pm at the Coupeville Middle School Performing Arts Center, 501 S. Main St, Coupeville, Whidbey Island, WA, followed by *a special screening of the new documentary /Fragile Waters/*//at the Nordic Lodge south of Coupeville. The 2015 Ways of Whales workshop features presentations on a wide variety of cetaceans, from the local North Puget Sound Gray whales who feed in Possession Sound and Saratoga Passage each spring, to the endangered Southern Resident Community of orcas, to thriving populations of Humpback whales in the Salish Sea and beyond and Blue whales off our coastal waters, to the acrobatic Pacific White Sided dolphins. The day will feature presentations by the region's top cetacean experts and advocates, including: *Howard Garrett, Orca Network: *Southern Resident Orcas Update: J32/Rhapsody and J50; Lolita/Tokitae, and "Blackfish Effect" Updates * John Durban, NOAA Fisheries: *Size matters: using photogrammetry to monitor length, growth and body condition for conservation of Resident killer whales *John Calambokidis, Cascadia Research: *New insights into the abundance and movements of the larger baleen whales (blue, humpback and our local gray whales) off the US West Coast and potential human threats. * Erin Ashe, Oceans Initiative: *Pacific White Sided Dolphins of the Salish Sea * *and a special song from *Environmental Songster Dana Lyons *Environmental education displays and materials will be available throughout the day, including a table from Orca Network's Langley Whale Center gift shop, with whale books, DVDs, CDs, field guides and more. Cost of the workshop is $35 ($25 for Students/Seniors), and a hot lunch is available for purchase for an additional $10 /(for those who pre-register by Jan. 16, or on an as-available basis after this date)/.* */NEW! Post Workshop Event from 5 - 8 pm FRAGILE WATERS/ Documentary* *Following the Ways of Whales workshop is an Orca Network fundraising event, with food and drink and discussion of the day's workshop, and a special screening of the new documentary /Fragile Waters/, produced for Orca Network by filmmakers Rick Wood and Shari Macy, about Southern Resident Orcas and their need for salmon. Rick and Shari will attend the screening and hold a Q&A session after the movie. This event will be held at the Nordic Lodge, 63 Jacobs Rd, south of Coupeville. Cost is $25/person. Pre-registration is highly recommended, as seating is limited. Further information and online registration are available at www.orcanetwork.org . Questions? Contact Orca Network at info at orcanetwork.org or 360-331-3543 or 1-866-ORCANET. ### Susan Berta & Howard Garrett Orca Network * * --- This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. http://www.avast.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: image/jpeg Size: 23778 bytes Desc: not available URL: From sn1608 at googlemail.com Tue Jan 6 14:16:28 2015 From: sn1608 at googlemail.com (Sam Nichols) Date: Tue, 6 Jan 2015 22:16:28 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) course New Orleans, USA, 9 - 11 February 2015 Message-ID: *Passive Acoustic Monitoring Course* *9 - 11 February 2015* *New Orleans, USA* Our well-established 3 day Passive Acoustic Monitoring course provides universal PAM training with all kits. Classroom and practical boat sessions provide comprehensive training for personnel new to the offshore industry who are interested in PAM. Modules cover: ? Sound In Water ? Marine Mammals ? Anthropogenic Noise in the Sea ? Effects of Anthropogenic Noise on Marine Mammals ? PAM Principles & the Role of the PAM Operator ? PAM Hardware & Operations ? PAM Software ? PAMGuard Workshop ? Practical PAM Session ? on boat session ?The 3 days gave a really good foundation - covered everything from the physics of sound underwater to the really practical stuff like using PAMGuard in a mitigation situation ? I feel ready to start!? ? I?ve worked with PAM offshore for a while but this course really filled gaps in my knowledge. Just wish I?d done it sooner? Cost - $800 See www.seiche.co m training courses section for more details, registration and booking. Or contact s.hancock at seiche.com. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From mmadden at nmlc.org Thu Jan 8 09:49:13 2015 From: mmadden at nmlc.org (Margot Madden) Date: Thu, 08 Jan 2015 12:49:13 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] National Marine Life Center: Summer Internship Opportunities Message-ID: <112875da11e47fedace67777ef4fdd9e@nmlc.org> The National Marine Life Center, a non-profit marine animal rehabilitation, education, and science center in Buzzards Bay, MA is seeking qualified applicants for our summer internship programs. Internships are available in marine animal rehabilitation & education, as well as marketing/development. Please read the job descriptions below, and if interested, apply as directed below. Marine Animal Rehabilitation & Education Internship Animal Care Responsibilities- Depending on need and case load, interns will assist with the care of the NMLC rehabilitation patients including seals, sea turtles, and freshwater turtles. Animal Care duties will include animal restraint, cleaning, disinfecting tanks, equipment, and environmental enrichment devices, food preparation, administering feeds including tube feeding, record keeping, maintenance, and water quality testing. Interns will also assist animal care staff with medical procedures, admission exams, and release events. Education Responsibilities- Interns will assist with environmental education programs, including on-site programs, off-site programs, fairs, and festivals. Interns will assist in giving public presentations to guests of NMLC and educate them on marine animals and conservation. Interns will assist in the gift shop, assist with various office projects, create displays for the Discovery Center, and help create lesson plans and activities that are aligned with the Massachusetts State Frameworks. Other Responsibilities- Each intern will take on a project which they will work on for the duration of their internship. The project must be proposed by the student and agreed upon with the NMLC staff. At the end of the internship, the intern will present the project to the staff, volunteers, and members of the public. Each intern will also be assigned a weekly chore to assist with the upkeep of the facility and equipment, and will be required to attend regularly scheduled intern meetings. Positions are unpaid, interns must have their own transportation, and housing is not provided, but NMLC will offer suggestions. Qualifications- -The internship is open to students who are currently enrolled in, or recently graduated from an accredited college or university. High school students may also be considered. -Preference will be given to students or recent graduates working towards biology, environmental studies, marine science, education, or other related fields. -Intern should demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills. -Students that are adaptable, responsible, hard working, willing to learn, and have attention to detail are encouraged to apply. -Must be able to work independently and as part of a team. -Interns must be able to commit to at least three months; summer interns should be available to work from May 23, 2o15 ? August 15, 2015. -Interns should expect to work 35-40 hours per week which will include early morning and/or late night seal feedings. -If an intern plans to receive school credit for an internship they must notify staff prior to the internship start date, and it will be the responsibility of the applicant to ensure all required paperwork is completed and submitted. To Apply- Send your resume, cover letter, and one letter of reference to Kate Shaffer & Margot Madden at apply at nmlc.org or PO Box 269, Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts 02532. Applications must be received by August 1 for the fall semester, November 30 for the spring semester, or February 28 for the summer semester. Marketing/Development Internship Responsibilities- -Promoting NMLC?s mission through appropriate publications and venues. -Assisting with donor outreach and communications, including donor tracking, follow-up, and upkeep of the donor database. -Updating community and website calendars with upcoming events and educational programs. -Assist in the planning and execution of fundraising events including our annual Mermaid Ball, Feet Fins & Flippers 5K, Deals for Seals Yard Sale, and The Spectacle of the Trees. Specific activities include: Creating event marketing materials, Writing press releases, Managing the 5K t-shirt design competition, Recruiting event sponsors, Recruiting donations for auction and raffle prizes, Helping with event registration and day of preparations -Maintaining social media outlets: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, & Instagram. -Maintaining our WordPress website. -Research potential funding sources and apply for funding through grants and sponsorship programs. -Update and edit current marketing materials such as brochures, flyers, direct mailings, and educational materials. -Update NMLC?s marketing plan, social media policy, media policy, & other communications policies Qualifications- -The internship is open to students who are currently enrolled in, or recently graduated from an accredited college or university. -Preference will be given to students or recent graduates in marketing, communications, or other related fields. -Strong written and verbal communication skills. -Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. -Must be outgoing and personable with good social and conversational skills. -Have knowledge of the Microsoft Office Suite and social media outlets, including Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, YouTube & blogging -Must be able to work independently and as part of a team. -Intern must be able to commit to at least three months; summer interns should be available from May 23, 2015-August 15, 2015. -Intern should expect to work 20-24 hours per week, including weekends, evenings, & holidays. -If an intern plans to receive school credit for an internship they must notify staff prior to the internship start date, and it will be the responsibility of the applicant to ensure all required paperwork is completed and submitted. -This position is unpaid. Interns must have their own transportation. Housing is not provided, but NMLC will offer suggestions. To Apply: Send your resume, cover letter, and one letter of reference to Kate Shaffer and Ashley Bolbrock at apply at nmlc.org or PO Box 269, Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts, 02532. Applications must be received by August 1 for the fall semester, November 30 for the spring semester, or February 28 for the summer. -- Margot Madden Animal Care and Programs Assistant National Marine Life Center PO Box 269, 120 Main St Buzzards Bay, MA 02532 P (508) 743-9888 F (508) 759-5477 mmadden at nmlc.org From hheenehan at gmail.com Thu Jan 8 14:00:39 2015 From: hheenehan at gmail.com (Heather Heenehan) Date: Thu, 8 Jan 2015 17:00:39 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Duke University Marine Laboratory Marine Conservation Summer Institute- Global Fellowship Announcement 2015 Message-ID: *Duke University Marine Laboratory Marine Conservation Summer Institute-Global Fellowships Summer 2015* *Application Deadline: February 1, 2015* The Duke University Marine Laboratory is offering an unparalleled educational opportunity from July 6 - August 7, 2015. Duke's Marine Conservation Summer Institute focuses on principles necessary for the conservation and preservation of coastal and ocean environments during an intensive five-week summer session. The emphasis is on interdisciplinary problem solving using biophysical and social science to address real world environmental problems. This program is an opportunity for students and professionals at any level to think about conservation biology and policy in an environment full of students, faculty and practitioners grappling with the same issues. The Institute will immerse students in the world of marine conservation biology and policy, giving them a set of basic tools for addressing and understanding issues of conserving marine biodiversity in the context of 21st Century society and the 'anthropocene' epoch. The Institute is set in the vibrant educational and research setting of the Duke University Marine Laboratory in Beaufort, North Carolina. The five-week course consists of three weeks of plenary lectures, field trips and activities, and two intensive week-long modules intertwined in weeks two and four and led by experts in the field. 2015 Themes and Instructors: ? Human Dimensions and the Marine Environment ? Coastal Aquaculture and Conservation ? Ocean Energy and Sustainability ? Invasive Species ? Sea Turtle & Marine Mammal Conservation & US Ocean Laws ? Doug Nowacek, Conservation Technology (Institute Director) ? Xavier Basurto, Sustainability & Ocean Governance ? James Morris, NOAA, Marine Ecology ? Andy Read, Conservation Biology, Marine Vertebrates ? Steve Roady, Environmental Law *Global Fellowships *in Marine Conservation will be awarded on a competitive basis and are contingent on available funding. The Fellowship fully covers travel expenses, room and board, tuition, and fees for ENVIRON 746A Marine Conservation Summer Institute. *Eligibility:* The Global Fellowships are available to any international applicant with a good working knowledge of English who has an interest in marine conservation biology and policy, ideally with the intent to apply this interest to the practice of coastal and marine conservation. *The course does not have specific prerequisites, but Global Fellows must have a BA or BS degree in hand and be enrolled in a graduate program, or currently working in the field of marine conservation. Past participants are not eligible for multiple fellowships.* *To Apply for Global Fellowships: * It is our preference to receive applications via email (rachel.lopiccolo at duke.edu) or by fax (252)504-7648. If sent by postal mail, application materials should be directed to: Duke Marine Lab Global Fellows Program c/o Rachel Lo Piccolo 135 Duke Marine Lab Rd Beaufort NC 28516, USA *Application Materials* In addition to the enrollment form, each Global Fellowship applicant is required to submit the following credentials: (*Please include last name and title on all printed and electronic documents) Documents to be submitted electronically as ONE document. Please include last name in file title: ? Duke University Marine Lab summer course enrollment form- please print and send completed form ? A brief essay - please limit this to one page - describing the applicant's background, education, research, and work experience. Please note a Curriculum Vitae does not take the place of this essay ? A brief statement of purpose - please limit this to one page - i.e., describing the applicant's reason for applying for the Fellowship, how the applicant will be able to apply the training in his/her home country; and the applicant's future goals. ? A Complete Curriculum Vitae. Documents below to be submitted with application or sent separate directly to Rachel Lo Piccolo ? A letter of recommendation from academic faculty or employer addressed to Dr. Doug Nowacek. We do not offer guidelines about the information to be included in your reference letter. These letters typically include how the referee knows you, his/her opinions of your work together in the past, and thoughts about whether he/she feels you'd be well suited to this program. ? A copy of your transcript is preferred. It may be an unofficial version. The transcript can be emailed to rachel.lopiccolo at duke.edu or faxed to (252) 504-7638 to the attention of Rachel Lo Piccolo. A non-certified translation of the transcript is fine. If sending a transcript is impossible, then please send a copy of your degree. If a traditional transcript is available, documentation certifying your courses, grades and official notes taken in each course during university studies in addition to a copy of your diploma will be required. *Due Date* Global Fellowship applications materials must be received no later than *February, 1st 2015,* by Rachel Lo Piccolo (rachel.lopiccolo at duke.edu). All applicants will be notified of their award status soon after the deadline date. We appreciate your interest in our Global Fellows program. If you have any questions you may contact Rachel Lo Piccolo at rachel.lopiccolo at duke.edu. Global Fellowship Application instructions: http://nicholas.duke.edu/marinelab/global-fellowships-marine-conservation Global Fellowship Application for printing: http://www.nicholas.duke.edu/marinelab/programs/enrollment_forms/summerapp Marine Conservation Summer Institute: http://superpod.ml.duke.edu/mcsi/ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From bruno at thebdri.com Sat Jan 10 03:01:11 2015 From: bruno at thebdri.com (Bruno Diaz Lopez) Date: Sat, 10 Jan 2015 11:01:11 +0000 (UTC) Subject: [MARMAM] Dolphin society, behaviour & acoustics internships - Last vacancies Spring 2015 In-Reply-To: <1414506998.11133.YahooMailNeo@web125003.mail.ne1.yahoo.com> References: <1414506998.11133.YahooMailNeo@web125003.mail.ne1.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <1106842409.85728.1420887671375.JavaMail.yahoo@jws10026.mail.ne1.yahoo.com> Dolphin behaviour, society & acoustics internships - Last call Spring Season 2015 Hi everyone, On behalf of the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI), I am pleased to announce that we are currently accepting internship applications for spring term 2015 (a?minimum of 60 days of participation) for our research project along the North-western coast of the?Iberian Pensinsula (Galician waters, Spain).? Interns can expect to gain a solid foundation in cetaceans behavioural ecology and sociobiology with a focus on dolphins ethology, habitat use and communication.?The BDRI offers the interns the chance to work during many steps of the research. Your participation means that you will not only be observing the studied animals at sea, but?you will also be collecting different types of scientific data, using various research methods, and helping on board the research vessel in general.?Furthermore,?as the Galician coastline is known for frequent strandings of various marine mammals species, the participants will be a part of an important network for rescue and data?collection from these stranded animals.?When back in the lab, you?will participate in the transcription of the collected data, with the database work, you will use various softwares, perform photo-identification analysis, use of GIS and?more. Moreover, interns?will also receive cross-training in different areas related with the strandings (Response, Rescue, Necropsy and data collection). As an internship, you will be encouraged to work hard and gain an insight of what it is actually like to work as a marine mammal researcher. 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. Our?centre ?understands ?the importance of giving the participant the responsibilities and experience which give an insight and reflect the ones of a true future job in the field?of marine mammal science. The BDRI is a private and self-funded centre, hence, there is no compensation for the internship positions. The interships fee includes the accommodation in an?apartment, tuition and other expenses derived of 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).?Internship start and end dates are flexible but the position requires a minimum 8 weeks continuous?commitment sometime between February through November 30th.? The intern is required to complete a project and present a 10 minute presentation at the end of their internship.?Undergraduate and postgraduate students could, as a part of?one of BDRIs projects, present a personal research project as their thesis work. In order to do so, this is requested within your internship application.?If the intern intends to receive academic credit, he/she will be responsible for making all arrangements with their educational institutions.? There is no deadline to apply. However, approved applications are accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. Apply early! Positions are open until filled (maximum 8 vacancies). Prior field?research experience is recommended but not required. Please download the internships general information and application form at: www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/internships.pdfwww.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/applicationinternships.doc Send the application form, resume, recommendation letters, and cover letter by email to the email: info at thebdri.comFor more information about BDRI's research and conservation work, please visit?www.thebdri.com?or our Facebook page. See you on site! Bruno Diaz LopezChief Biologist and DirectorBottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI)Av. Beiramar 192, O Grove CP. 36980Pontevedra-Spaintel. 00 34 605 521441 www.thebdri.com 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 MLynott at virginiaaquarium.com Fri Jan 9 11:32:23 2015 From: MLynott at virginiaaquarium.com (Margaret C. Lynott) Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2015 19:32:23 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] SEAMAMMS Call for Abstracts Message-ID: The 2015 Southeast and Mid-Atlantic Marine Mammal Symposium (SEAMAMMS) will take place March 27-29, 2015 in Virginia Beach, VA and will be hosted by the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center. SEAMAMMS is a regional, student-oriented, scientific marine mammal meeting. Preference will be given to marine mammal research conducted in the mid-Atlantic and southeast US or conducted by students in the same region. Other topics will be considered as space is available. Students and other interested parties are invited to submit abstracts for oral presentation and poster session. Attached you will find details for abstract submission. Abstracts are due by 5:00pm on Friday, February 13. The conference website will be up shortly and a link will be sent out. Maggie Lynott Stranding Response Manager Virginia Aquarium Stranding Response Program 717 General Booth Blvd Virginia Beach, VA 23451 mlynott at virginiaaquarium.com 757-385-6482 (desk) 757-437-4933 (fax) -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: SEAMAMMS 2015 Call for Abstracts.pdf Type: application/pdf Size: 136920 bytes Desc: SEAMAMMS 2015 Call for Abstracts.pdf URL: From perrtreer at savannahstate.edu Fri Jan 9 10:50:37 2015 From: perrtreer at savannahstate.edu (Perrtree, Robin) Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2015 18:50:37 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Summer Dolphin Research Internship in Savannah, GA Message-ID: The Savannah State University Dolphin Sciences Laboratory (SSUDS lab) is accepting applications for Summer 2015 interns. There are 2-3 positions available. Application deadline is March 1st. The SSUDS lab is located adjacent to the marsh on the campus of Savannah State University in coastal Georgia. The SSUDS lab and Dr. Tara Cox study spatial ecology and conservation biology of long-lived marine vertebrates, marine and coastal policy and management, and human interactions with marine mammals. Current projects include: Human-interaction behaviors (particularly begging), stock structure and abundance estimates, and diet of common bottlenose dolphins. Interns will support graduate research on common bottlenose dolphins living in the local waterways. Dates: May 11th - Aug 1st (Start and end dates are flexible) Location: Savannah State University in Savannah, Georgia Time: Interns are expected to commit full time (40 hours per week) and their time will be split between lab and field work. Lab duties include: photo-identification, data entry and double checking Field duties: assisting with small boat-based photo-identification surveys including sighting dolphins, data recording, photography, and environmental measurements Qualifications: * Minimum age of 18 years old * Currently or recently enrolled in a college-level program in marine biology, biology, zoology, or related field * Strong interest in marine mammals, the environment, and conservation * Computer proficiency, especially MS Office * Enthusiastic, attentive to detail, responsible, and dedicated * Works well in a team environment as well as individually * Ability to work long days in the hot sun on a small boat To apply please submit the following via email with the subject "SSUDS Internship" to perrtreer at savannahstate.edu : * A cover letter describing why you are interested in this position, how the experience will help you meet your long-term goals, and your dates of availability. * A resume (or curriculum vitae) describing your relevant training and experience. * Current academic transcripts (unofficial are sufficient). * Names and contact information for two references. This position is unpaid, and interns are responsible for providing their own housing and transport to Savannah, GA. This is a great opportunity to work with scientists and graduate students in the field and lab while gaining experience with photo-identification and boat-based marine mammal surveys. Savannah State University offers a Master of Science in Marine Sciences; thus, successful interns may have future opportunities for graduate study in the SSUDS lab. For more information about Marine Sciences at SSU please visit: http://www.savannahstate.edu/cost/nat-science/marine-sci.shtml Robin Perrtree SSUDS Lab Manager Marine Sciences Technician Savannah State University Savannah, Georgia -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From yeaterd at sacredheart.edu Fri Jan 9 08:21:40 2015 From: yeaterd at sacredheart.edu (Yeater, Prof. Deirdre M.) Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2015 16:21:40 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Bimini Course - Final Deadline for Applications 15 Feb 2015 Message-ID: STUDY ABROAD BIMINI, THE BAHAMAS PS 299 - Special Topics in Psychology (3 Credits) - or - BI 199/299 - Special Topics in Biology for Non-Majors/Majors(3 Credits) Summer 2015: May 26 - June 8, 2015 *** Deadline Extended until February 15, 2015! Led by Dr. Deirdre Yeater in the Sacred Heart University Psychology department in collaboration with Dolphin Communication Project, this course will examine the behavioral and social ecology of coastal cetaceans, particularly Atlantic spotted and bottlenose dolphins. You will enjoy a hands-on learning experience with wild dolphins, in the beautiful waters surrounding the island of Bimini in the Bahamas. On the program, you will earn three credits while learning to record and analyze dolphin behaviors. You will also learn about ecotourism and human impacts on the marine environment. The field work at Bimini will consist of 4 to 5 hour boat surveys. If the group is able to make underwater observations, you will be assisting in the use of underwater slates, video cameras, and digital still cameras. The number of students accepted will be limited by the size of the research vessel. Therefore, you should apply as soon as possible. You MUST be able to swim and snorkel as part of the program. Application Deadline February 15! For more information, contact: Sacred Heart University Office of Global Affairs (203) 396-8028 studyabroad at sacredheart.edu www.sacredheart.edu/studyabroad https://sacredheart-sa.terradotta.com/index.cfm?FuseAction=Programs.ViewProgram&Program_ID=23462 or Dolphin Communication Project http://www.dolphincommunicationproject.org/ Program Highlights Study Dolphins Dolphins are long-lived and social! Yet, we know little about their social relationships. Study dolphins in their natural habitat. Bimini, The Bahamas Less than 7 mile long and only a few hundred yards wide, Bimini is known for big game fishing, SCUBA diving, mangroves, and of course, wild dolphins. Application Requirements Students majoring/minoring in Psychology, Biology, or a related discipline Minimum GPA of 3.0 Visiting students accepted Deirdre Yeater, Ph.D Associate Professor Sacred Heart University 5151 Park Avenue Fairfield, CT 06825 Phone: 203-365-4870 Fax: 203-371-7998 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From ehines at sfsu.edu Sat Jan 10 16:24:02 2015 From: ehines at sfsu.edu (Ellen M Hines) Date: Sun, 11 Jan 2015 00:24:02 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Dr. Kanjana Adulyanukosol Message-ID: <420FBCF28440F445AC7C05B401AD7952B3A6A4F4@EMX43.ad.sfsu.edu> Dear Colleagues, yesterday, January 10, 2015, Dr. Kanjana Adulyanukosol, passed away from liver cancer. Kanjana was the foremost dugong scientist in Thailand. She began to study dugongs in 1988, and worked tirelessly to bring awareness of dugongs and their conservation to Thailand and beyond. Dr. Kanjana was a wonderful and generous woman who inspired, mentored and challenged many of us, and became our lifelong friend. Her books and papers are an impressive scientific contribution, while her exhibits, posters and famous t-shirts became lessons and examples in the importance of reaching out beyond the scientific community. Her pioneering research on Bryde's whales in the upper Gulf of Thailand has brought us a wealth of valuable knowledge. She tirelessly communicated her message of marine mammal conservation to countless local communities. For myself and many others, to have known and loved Kanjana has shaped our lives and our science. To continue within her legacy will be the greatest honor. Ellen Hines, PhD Associate Director & Professor of Geography Romberg Tiburon Center for Environmental Studies San Francisco State University 3152 Paradise Drive Tiburon, CA 94920 USA 1 415 338 3512 Fax: 1 415 338 6243 ehines at sfsu.edu http://rtc.sfsu.edu/research/in_hines.html -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From sophie.brasseur at wur.nl Sun Jan 11 11:01:36 2015 From: sophie.brasseur at wur.nl (Brasseur, Sophie) Date: Sun, 11 Jan 2015 19:01:36 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] =?windows-1252?q?New_publication_on_=93Estimating_the_sp?= =?windows-1252?q?atial_position_of_marine_mammals_based_on_digital_camera?= =?windows-1252?q?_recordings=94?= Message-ID: <02EF80319BE55644A09DCCAFCE21AFE40E22EDE5@SCOMP0932.wurnet.nl> We are pleased to inform you that the following paper has been published: Hoekendijk, J. P. A., de Vries, J., van der Bolt, K., Greinert, J., Brasseur, S., Camphuysen, K. C. J. and Aarts, G. (2015), Estimating the spatial position of marine mammals based on digital camera recordings. Ecology and Evolution. doi: 10.1002/ece3.1353 The paper is published in an open access journal and can be downloaded here: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ece3.1353/pdf SHORT SUMMARY Estimating the spatial position of animals is important in many ecological and behavioural studies, but can be extremely challenging for marine mammals who only appear at the surface briefly. This study shows how photogrammetric methods applied to land-based Digital HD recordings of harbour porpoises can be used to accurately estimate their spatiotemporal fine-scale distribution. ABSTRACT Estimating the spatial position of organisms is essential to quantify interactions between the organism and the characteristics of its surroundings, for example, predator?prey interactions, habitat selection, and social associations. Because marine mammals spend most of their time under water and may appear at the surface only briefly, determining their exact geographic location can be challenging. Here, we developed a photogrammetric method to accurately estimate the spatial position of marine mammals or birds at the sea surface. Digital recordings containing landscape features with known geographic coordinates can be used to estimate the distance and bearing of each sighting relative to the observation point. The method can correct for frame rotation, estimates pixel size based on the reference points, and can be applied to scenarios with and without a visible horizon. A set of R functions was written to process the images and obtain accurate geographic coordinates for each sighting. The method is applied to estimate the spatiotemporal fine-scale distribution of harbour porpoises in a tidal inlet. Video recordings of harbour porpoises were made from land, using a standard digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera, positioned at a height of 9.59 m above mean sea level. Porpoises were detected up to a distance of ~3136 m (mean 596 m), with a mean location error of 12 m. The method presented here allows for multiple detections of different individuals within a single video frame and for tracking movements of individuals based on repeated sightings. In comparison with traditional methods, this method only requires a digital camera to provide accurate location estimates. It especially has great potential in regions with ample data on local (a)biotic conditions, to help resolve functional mechanisms underlying habitat selection and other behaviors in marine mammals in coastal areas. On behalf of all authors, Sophie Brasseur -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From adrianajvella at gmail.com Tue Jan 13 00:50:43 2015 From: adrianajvella at gmail.com (Adriana Vella) Date: Tue, 13 Jan 2015 09:50:43 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] VIDEOs Submission for ECS Conf _deadline 16th January Message-ID: Dear All, *Last few days to forward your video submission proposals* for the ECS Conf. March 2015, view flyer: https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/4378145/ECS%20Video%20Deadline.pdf *Visit 29th ECS Conference Website:* http://europeancetaceansociety.eu/conference/29th-ecs-conference Early Registration deadline - 16th January 2015 Interesting and diverse workshops being offered, contact the workshop organisers, view list at: https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/4378145/ECS%20Workshop%20list%20announce.pdf *Conf. Keynote speakers:* Phil Hammond, Gianni Pavan, Barbara Taylor and others. *The theme of the 2015 ECS Conference * *Marine Mammal Conservation - from Local to Global* This theme would be supported by a number of keynote presentations that will look at how conservation efforts are being managed at a range of levels and the links between them. This will include consideration of local, national, regional and global conservation initiatives, as well as methods and mechanisms for addressing both short and long-term impacts. In addition to original research contributions on the usual range of topics that include, but are not limited to, health, genetics, by-catch, acoustics, abundance, distribution, ecology, breeding, behaviour, conservation, welfare, historical perspectives, we also welcome critical assessments of conservation policy. See you in Malta! ECS Conf 2015 org. team. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From akkayaaylin at yahoo.com Mon Jan 12 06:07:27 2015 From: akkayaaylin at yahoo.com (aylin akkaya) Date: Mon, 12 Jan 2015 14:07:27 +0000 (UTC) Subject: [MARMAM] Research Assistants Needed for Cetacea Fauna Study in the Antalya Bay, Turkey Message-ID: <1792758771.943809.1421071647617.JavaMail.yahoo@jws106123.mail.bf1.yahoo.com> Doyou what to be a part of ground breaking research we have a perfect positionfor you. ?The Project:Weare a new NGO in the Turkish Mediterranean Coast, Marine Mammals Research Association(Deniz Memelileri Ara?t?rma Derne?i (DMAD)) is aimed at studying cetaceanbiodiversity of the Antalya Bay by gathering data on the fauna description,distribution and habitats.?So far, 9 cetacean species were recorded,included bottlenose dolphins, striped dolphins, common dolphins, Risso'sdolphins, Cuvier's beaked whale and even in some rare occasions whales such asthe fin whale and sperm whale.? Despite this large biodiversity there haven?tbeen many studies on this region so there is a big gap on the data available.Therefore, the project aims to fulfill the gaps of missing long-term studies inthe area by collecting data on cetacean fauna.?This project provides anexcellent opportunity for students and individuals interested in getting moreexperience and knowledge in the field of marine mammal research. ?Duties and Opportunities Weare looking for volunteers for position of Assistant researcher for the nextsurvey season. The Assistant researchers will be responsible for: (1)Collecting sighting and behavioral data, (2) Organizing photo-ID and (3)entering data.? Asa researcher you will have access to intensive training and mentoring:? (1) in?marine mammals biodiversity, (2)photo-ID, (3) statistics and (4) GIS. You will also get hands on experience inmarine mammal id, boat based and land based observation, marine mammalbehavior, etc. There will be opportunities for longer boat based observationsaboard vessels; these may take two or three days at the time whenever they areavailable.Asa Research Assistant you should expect long working days in the field (from 6to 12 hours per day), and expect to wake up very early (around?4:30 a.m.).The work will be carried under adverse weathers conditions. The typical week isdivided in 3 days of fieldwork 2 days of office work and 2 days for you toenjoy the lovely Turkish Riviera and the city of Antalya.? ?ConditionsAssistantresearcher have to be able to live and work with others in a multi culturalteam, have a strong desire to work with marine mammals under any weatherconditions and maintain a professional and hardworking attitude.Thepositions are unpaid and request a contribution from the participants. As anewly formed NGO, the DMAD is a self-funded center and as such it stillrequires a contribution from the assistant researcher in order to fullyfunction. This will be a contribution of 500Euro per month and it coversaccommodation (food cost will be at each responsibility, although this is a lowexpense and should be around 80$ month or less), your contribution will alsoaid in renting the vessels and renting equipment.?Plussuccessful applicants will be responsible for their own transportation to andfrom Antalya-Turkey.Positionsfor this season are open starting in March-2015. The minimum commitment time is1 month but longer times have priority. Applicants should send a short email introducingthemselves to?akkayaaylin at yahoo.com.?The email should include an outline of why you would like to work on thisproject. Please also attach a brief CV.?There is no deadline to apply.However, approved applications are accepted on a first-come, first serve basis.? -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From denupplyste at hotmail.com Tue Jan 13 15:12:42 2015 From: denupplyste at hotmail.com (Fredrik) Date: Wed, 14 Jan 2015 00:12:42 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] =?windows-1252?q?_New_publication_on_=93Estimating_Cumul?= =?windows-1252?q?ative_Exposure_of_Wildlife_to_Non-Lethal_Disturbance_Usi?= =?windows-1252?q?ng_Spatially_Explicit_Capture-Recapture_Models=94?= Message-ID: Dear MARMAM colleagues, We are happy to announce the publication of the following paper in the Journal of Wildlife Management: Christiansen, F., Bertulli, C.G., Rasmussen, M. & Lusseau, D. 2015. Estimating Cumulative Exposure of Wildlife to Non-Lethal Disturbance Using Spatially Explicit Capture-Recapture Models. The Journal of Wildlife Management. DOI: 10.1002/jwmg.836 Abstract: Impact assessments often focus on short-term behavioral responses of animals to human disturbance. However, it is the cumulative effects caused by repeated behavioral disruptions which are of management concern, since these effects have the potential to influence individuals? survival and reproduction. We need to estimate individual exposure rates to disturbance in order to determine cumulative effects. In this study we present a new approach to estimate the spatial exposure of minke whales to whalewatching boats in Faxafl?i bay, Iceland. We use recent advances in spatially explicit capture recapture modelling to estimate the probability that whales will encounter a disturbance (i.e. whalewatching boat). Spatially-explicit individual encounter histories of individually-identifiable animals were obtained using photo-identification. The study area was divided into 1 km2 grid cells, where each cell was considered a spatially distinct sampling unit. We used capture history of individuals to model and estimate spatial encounter probabilities of individual minke whales across the study area, accounting for heterogeneity in sampling effort. We inferred the exposure of individual minke whales to whalewatching vessels throughout the feeding season by estimating individual whale encounters with vessels using the whale encounter probabilities and spatially-explicit whalewatching intensity in the same area, obtained from recorded whalewatching vessel tracks. We could then estimate the cumulative time whales spent with whalewatching boats to assess the biological significance of whalewatching disturbances. The estimated exposure levels to boats varied considerably between individuals, due to both temporal and spatial variations in the activity centers of whales and the whalewatching intensity in the area. However, although some whales were repeatedly exposed to whalewatching boats throughout the feeding season, the estimated cumulative time they spent with boats was very low. While whalewatching boat interactions caused feeding disruptions for the whales, the estimated low cumulative exposure makes it unlikely that the whalewatching industry in its current state is having any long-term negative effects on vital rates. For an early view of this paper, please visit: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/jwmg.836/full If you are unable to download the article, please contact me by email and I will be happy to send you a copy: f.christiansen at live.se. Best regards, Fredrik Christiansen Research fellow Centre for Integrative Ecology School of Life and Environmental Sciences Deakin University Warrnambool Campus, PO Box 423, Warrnambool, VIC 3280, Australia Phone: +61 3 55633080 Email: f.christiansen at deakin.edu.au, f.christiansen at live.se Publications: http://scholar.google.com.au/citations?user=vkA5Y3EAAAAJ&hl=en&oi=sra -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From EBates at virginiaaquarium.com Mon Jan 12 05:42:57 2015 From: EBates at virginiaaquarium.com (Erin R. Bates) Date: Mon, 12 Jan 2015 13:42:57 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Fellowship positions with the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center Message-ID: <2FBE2DC4A05CB6419A57708192E8539AFF825BB8@VBMS0008.vbgov.com> The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center?s Research & Conservation Division is offering Fellowship positions during the winter/spring (February ? May) and busy spring/summer seasons (May ? September). Qualified students can compete for one of three Batten Fellowship positions which include a stipend to help offset personal and incidental expenses (one spring and two summer fellowships). Successful candidates will be self-motivated, detail-oriented individuals who will assist with several aspects of on-going Virginia Aquarium Foundation programs including marine mammal and sea turtle research and stranding response. These positions are approximately three months long. Batten Fellows are expected to bring a higher level of dedication and scientific interest to the program and will be integrated more fully into staff activities. They will be required to complete a final project on their Fellowship work which will be submitted to the Aquarium?s Batten Fellowship Endowment Committee. Responsibilities, duties and projects will vary with each individual fellowship. Please see the attached document for fellowship requirements and descriptions. Those not accepted for a Batten Fellowship will have the opportunity to compete for a general internship (no stipend). Requirements: Applicants for Batten Fellowships with the Virginia Aquarium?s Research & Conservation Division must: * Be 18 years of age or older * Be a rising senior, recent graduate or pursuing a post-graduate degree in a science-based program * Demonstrate interest in a career in marine or veterinary science * Have basic math and computer skills using MS spreadsheets, databases and data entry (advanced programs such as SQL, GIS, R, etc. preferred) * Have a valid U.S. drivers license and good driving record * Be able to swim and be comfortable in and around open water and boats * Be self-motivated and able to perform activities both as part of a team as well as independently * Be able to lift and carry 25 pounds and assist with lifting and moving larger loads * Be able to hike up to 5 miles on beaches carrying gear * Be physically and mentally fit: you will be expected to handle field activities, extreme weather, constantly changing environmental conditions, extended periods of intense activities, dead and decomposing animals (both during response and necropsy), prolonged periods of travel, insects, team activities, individual activities, sick and injured animals, etc. * Be available to perform support activities (24-7) as needed during the period of appointment (e.g. May 15, 2015 through August 15, 2015) Batten Fellow duties: * Assist VAQS staff with Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Stranding Network data collection, processing, organization and entry into relational database * Assist VAQS volunteers and staff in field stranding response and/or recovery of dead (comprise ~90% of VA strandings) and live marine mammals and sea turtles. Activities may be conducted under adverse weather conditions * Participate in postmortem data collection and necropsies (animal autopsies) * Assist in care for animals during rehabilitation, including but not limited to: food prep, feeding, extensive cleaning (mopping floors, laundry, dishes, cleaning tanks), and other animal husbandry duties Expectations: Stranding Response Batten Fellows will be expected to study a topic selected through discussion with a VAQS supervisor and complete a research paper for presentation at the end of the appointment period. Fellows will give an oral (MS PowerPoint) presentation summarizing their experience at the conclusion of the appointment and complete a survey/exit interview. It will be the responsibility of the Batten Fellow, not VAQS, to ensure that any requirements for academic credit at a home institution are fulfilled. This competitive position includes a stipend to help offset personal and incidental expenses over the course of the appointment period. **Winter/Spring Batten Fellow application materials are due by 9 February 2015 and notification of acceptance will occur no later than 23 February 2015. **Spring/Summer Batten Fellow application materials are due by 23 February 2015 and notification of acceptance will occur no later than 9 March 2015. Application materials should be mailed to: Volunteer Services Office ? Batten Fellows Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center 717 General Booth Boulevard Virginia Beach, VA 23451 Telephone: (757) 385-0274 Fax: (757) 437-6055 E-mail: aquavols at virginiaaquarium.com Questions about the Research & Conservation fellowship opportunities can be directed to: Virginia Aquarium Stranding Response Program E-mail: vaqstranding at gmail.com Information on all current Batten Fellowship opportunities can also be viewed on-line at the Virginia Aquarium website: http://www.virginiaaquarium.com/join/batten-fellowship -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From james_maccracken at fws.gov Tue Jan 13 12:30:36 2015 From: james_maccracken at fws.gov (MacCracken, James) Date: Tue, 13 Jan 2015 11:30:36 -0900 Subject: [MARMAM] Marine Mammal Science hardcopies Message-ID: We have nearly complete issues from 1986-2011. If you want them, let me know. -- James G. MacCracken, Ph.D. US Fish & Wildlife Service Marine Mammals Management Walrus Program Supervisor 1011 E. Tudor Rd., MS-341 Anchorage, AK 99503 907-786-3803 office 907-952-3778 cell 907-786-3816 FAX -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From peter.sigray at foi.se Mon Jan 12 23:45:14 2015 From: peter.sigray at foi.se (Peter Sigray) Date: Tue, 13 Jan 2015 07:45:14 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] OCEANoise2015 Abstract Submission Message-ID: Reminder to all! The acoustic conference OCEANoise2015 will be held in Spain this spring 2015. The deadline for abstract submission is 15 January 2015. For more information visit http://oceanoise2015.com/. Peter Sigray Science Committee OCENANoise2015 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From anna.meissner at gmail.com Wed Jan 14 01:12:04 2015 From: anna.meissner at gmail.com (Anna Meissner) Date: Wed, 14 Jan 2015 22:12:04 +1300 Subject: [MARMAM] NEW ARTICLE: Behavioural Effects of Tourism on Oceanic Common Dolphins in New Zealand Message-ID: Dear MARMAM colleagues, On behalf of my co-authors I am pleased to announce the publication of the following paper: Meissner AM, Christiansen F, Martinez E, Pawley MDM, Orams MB (2015) Behavioural Effects of Tourism on Oceanic Common Dolphins, *Delphinus* sp., in New Zealand: The Effects of Markov Analysis Variations and Current Tour Operator Compliance with Regulations. PLoS ONE 10(1): e0116962. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0116962 Abstract: Common dolphins, *Delphinus* sp., are one of the marine mammal species tourism operations in New Zealand focus on. While effects of cetacean-watching activities have previously been examined in coastal regions in New Zealand, this study is the first to investigate effects of commercial tourism and recreational vessels on common dolphins in an open oceanic habitat. Observations from both an independent research vessel and aboard commercial tour vessels operating off the central and east coast Bay of Plenty, North Island, New Zealand were used to assess dolphin behaviour and record the level of compliance by permitted commercial tour operators and private recreational vessels with New Zealand regulations. Dolphin behaviour was assessed using two different approaches to Markov chain analysis in order to examine variation of responses of dolphins to vessels. Results showed that, regardless of the variance in Markov methods, dolphin foraging behaviour was significantly altered by boat interactions. Dolphins spent less time foraging during interactions and took significantly longer to return to foraging once disrupted by vessel presence. This research raises concerns about the potential disruption to feeding, a biologically critical behaviour. This may be particularly important in an open oceanic habitat, where prey resources are typically widely dispersed and unpredictable in abundance. Furthermore, because tourism in this region focuses on common dolphins transiting between adjacent coastal locations, the potential for cumulative effects could exacerbate the local effects demonstrated in this study. While the overall level of compliance by commercial operators was relatively high, non-compliance to the regulations was observed with time restriction, number or speed of vessels interacting with dolphins not being respected. Additionally, prohibited swimming with calves did occur. The effects shown in this study should be carefully considered within conservation management plans, in order to reduce the risk of detrimental effects on common dolphins within the region. A copy of the article can be downloaded at: http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0116962 Please do not hesitate to contact me at anna.meissner at gmail.com if you are unable to download it. Kindest regards, Anna Meissner ------------------------------------------------- Anna M. Meissner PhD student Coastal-Marine Research Group Institute of Natural and Mathematical Sciences Massey University Private Bag 102 904 North Shore City, 0745 Auckland, New Zealand Tel: +64 9 414 0800 ext 41520 Cell: +64 22 603 6646 Fax: +64 9 443 9790 Email: a.m.meissner at massey.ac.nz Web: http://cmrg.massey.ac.nz ------------------------------------------------- -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From er26 at st-andrews.ac.uk Wed Jan 14 01:32:27 2015 From: er26 at st-andrews.ac.uk (Eric Rexstad) Date: Wed, 14 Jan 2015 09:32:27 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Distance sampling workshops, St. Andrews, August 2015 Message-ID: <54B637AB.8080700@st-andrews.ac.uk> The Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling (CREEM) is hosting two linked workshops in the summer of 2015 in our purpose-built facilities at the University of St. Andrews, Scotland. The aim of these workshops is to train participants in the latest methods for design and analysis of distance sampling surveys, including line and point transects. The workshops are taught by leading researchers in the field, using industry-standard software. The first workshop (11-14 August) will run at an introductory level, and will focus on distance sampling methods, largely described in the standard reference book "Introduction to Distance Sampling." The workshop will be a blend of theory and practice and participants will learn how to use the program "Distance." Participants will gain a solid grounding in both survey design and methods of analysis for distance sampling surveys. Note that we have moved the 'automated survey design' and 'incorporating covariates in detection function' from the advanced workshop into the introductory workshop. The advanced distance sampling workshop (17-20 August) will include advanced treatment of: analyses in which detectability on the transect line is not assumed to be perfect (the so-called g(0) problem) and spatial (or density surface) modelling. We will showcase a series of new R packages we have developed for performing standard as well as sophisticated analyses in R. The aim of this workshop is to bring participants up to date with the latest developments in distance sampling methods and software. It is also an opportunity for those actively engaged in the design, analysis and execution of distance sampling surveys to discuss common issues and problems, and set future research directions. The workshop will be a combination of lectures and computer sessions, with considerable time for discussion. For all workshops, participants are encouraged to bring their own data sets, and can expect to do some preliminary analyses with their data. Computer sessions take place in our modern computer classroom (attached to the seminar room); participants can use our computers or bring their own laptops. Additional details regarding the workshop can be found at our website http://creem2.st-andrews.ac.uk/workshops/distance-sampling-workshops-st-andrews-august-2015/ -- Eric Rexstad Research Unit for Wildlife Population Assessment Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling University of St. Andrews St. Andrews Scotland KY16 9LZ +44 (0)1334 461833 The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland : No SC013532 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From info at cbmwc.org Wed Jan 14 01:53:46 2015 From: info at cbmwc.org (CBMWC) Date: Wed, 14 Jan 2015 09:53:46 -0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New volunteer opportunities at the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre, Wales, UK Message-ID: <004b01d02fdf$fdb4ee50$f91ecaf0$@cbmwc.org> WTSWW_high_res_logoCBMWC logo without boarderCardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre New Quay Wales www.cbmwc.org Dedicated to conserving Cardigan Bay?s marine wildlife through education and research The Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre is currently recruiting for a number of exciting new volunteer positions for the 2015 season. We are looking for a volunteer to manage our Atlantic grey seal photo-ID project, a volunteer co-ordinator assistant and a volunteer marine education and awareness assistant. About CBMWC The Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre is based in New Quay, west Wales, UK and is the marine wing of the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales. Since 1996 we have been dedicated to raising awareness of the local marine environment through education and research. Using boat-based and land-based surveys, photo-ID and acoustic studies we monitor bottlenose dolphin, harbour porpoise and Atlantic grey seal populations in the Cardigan Bay Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and wider Irish Sea. We also run a busy visitor centre as well as an education and activity room which offers marine educational and awareness raising activities for families with young children. Atlantic grey seal photo-ID assistant We are recruiting a research volunteer to continue our Atlantic grey seal photo-ID project throughout the 2015 field season (March-November). Initiated in 2014, the seal photo-ID project aims to create a catalogue of individuals photographed in Cardigan Bay area to learn more about their travelling habits and areas that are important to them. This is a fantastic opportunity to be involved in all aspects of a new CBMWC research project, to gain valuable research and analytical skills and to make a positive contribution to local conservation initiatives and collaborations. Role description: The successful volunteer will be responsible for analysing photographs of seals taken mainly along the Cardigan Bay coast, sorting and matching images as well as liaising with existing collaborators of this project. Depending on skills and experience there may also be an opportunity to go out into the field to capture images first hand throughout the field season and to assist with the further development of the project. This project may be suitable for an MSc project, however the student would need to commit their time for the duration of the project (this may be negotiable). The successful volunteer will also have the opportunity to be involved in other aspects of CBMWC?s work and will need to be flexible and willing to help out with other tasks associated with CBMWC?s work where required. Essential skills and qualifications: ? Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and unsupervised ? IT literate ? Good attention to detail ? An interest in wildlife and conservation ? Proven report writing skills ? Organised and dedicated Desirable skills ? Experience using digital SLR cameras ? Previous experience of photo-identification (not necessarily with seals) ? Experience of Access databases ? Experience using GIS programs (ESRI ArcGIS or QGIS) ? Experience of statistical analysis ? A background in biology/marine biology/environmental science ? Driving licence and access to a vehicle Commitment: Although this is a volunteer role, we are looking for a volunteer that is able to commit for the entire field season from 23rd March to 2nd November 2015. You will be required to work up to five days a week (including weekends), this will depend on field work and activities as daily work schedule can change depending on weather conditions and events planned. To apply: Please email a CV and covering letter (no more than one side of A4) outlining your experience and motivations for applying to volunteer at cbmwc.org with ?Seal ID 2015? in the subject line. The deadline is midnight on 1st February 2015. Interviews via Skype will be held in the week commencing 9th February. Volunteer co-ordinator assistant We are recruiting an volunteer co-ordinator assistant for the 2015 season (March to November) to help coordinate our volunteers and promote our work and activities via social media networks. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn about running a small but very active marine conservation group, to develop skills in volunteer co-ordination and training and leadership experience. Role description: ? Assist with volunteer coordination and training ? Assist with the administration of the CBMWC ? Provide engaging content across CBMWC social media ? Assist in researching, developing and implementing strategies to build our online community using social listening and management tools like Hootsuite and Facebook Insights ? Develop creative, new social media campaigns ? Assist in producing a bi-monthly CBMWC newsletter ? Assist with website updates Essential skills and qualifications: ? Fluency in English with excellent verbal and written communication skills ? Confident communicator ? Leadership skills ? Approachable ? Experience of team working ? Experience using social media ? IT literate ? Enthusiastic, conscientious and hard working ? Proactive with ability to work unsupervised ? Responsible, flexible and mature attitude ? Excellent attention to detail Desirable skills ? Experience of managing small teams ? Experience in updating Word press websites Commitment: This is a volunteer role. We are looking for a volunteer that is able to commit for the entire field season from 23rd March to 2nd November 2015. You will be required to work up to five days a week (including weekends). To apply: Please email a CV and covering letter (no more than one side of A4) outlining your experience and motivations for applying to volunteer at cbmwc.org with ?Volunteer Project Officer 2015? in the subject line. The deadline is midnight on 1st February 2015. Interviews via Skype will be held in the week commencing 9th February. Volunteer Marine Education and Awareness assistant We are recruiting a voluntary Marine Education and Awareness assistant for the 2015 season (March to November) to promote and deliver our educational programme and assist with awareness raising work and events in the local community. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to help run the educational activities of a small but very active marine conservation group, gaining experience and developing skills essential for a career in environmental education. Role description: This is a volunteer role, which is ideally suited to someone who is looking to develop a career or gain experience in environmental education. ? Assist with development and promotion of a programme of educational activities for the 2015 season ? Assist with delivering educational activities from our ground floor activity room and on the local beach (weather permitting) ? Host visiting groups, provide talks and activities ? Develop new educational activities and materials ? Assist with event organisation and promotion, e.g. World Ocean Day, The Wildlife Trusts? National Marine Week ? Represent CBMWC/WTSWW at outside events ? Organise regular beach cleans Essential skills and qualifications: ? Fluency in English ? Experience of working with children and families ? Experience in delivering educational activities ? Enthusiastic, conscientious and hard working ? Proactive with ability to work unsupervised ? Responsible, flexible and mature attitude ? Interest in wildlife and conservation ? IT skills ? Excellent verbal and written communication skills ? Driving licence and access to a vehicle Desirable skills ? An interest and knowledge of British marine life would be an advantage ? A background in biology, particularly marine biology/environmental science Commitment: We are looking for a volunteer that is able to commit for the entire field season from 23rd March to 2nd November 2015. You may be required to work up to five days a week (including weekends), some evening volunteering time may be required. To apply: Please email a CV and covering letter (no more than one side of A4) outlining your experience and motivations for applying to volunteer at cbmwc.org with ?Education volunteer 2015? in the subject line. The deadline is midnight on 1st February 2015. Interviews via Skype will be held in the week commencing 9th February. Information for all roles: Accommodation and expenses: If you are from outside of the local area then we can assist with finding accommodation. For example, accommodation can be arranged locally in private houses for approximately ?60/week, including bills. You will be responsible for all your own accommodation, travel and other expenses incurred however, it is relatively easy to find a part-time job. Contact: For further information and any queries, please contact Laura Mears, Project Officer Email: volunteer at cbmwc.org Tel: 01545 560224 Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre Patent Slip Building Glanmor Terrace New Quay Ceredigion SA45 9PS www.cbmwc.org Laura Mears Project Officer Support our research - adopt a Cardigan Bay dolphin with the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre Raise money for CBMWC with each internet search you do - it doesn't cost you a penny http://sites.affilyon.co.uk/CBMWC Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre Patent Slip Building Glanmor Terrace New Quay Ceredigion SA45 9PS Wales, UK Ffon/Phone: 01545 560 224 E-bost/Email: info at cbmwc.org Website: www.cbmwc.org For all the latest news and sightings information, please visit our website, follow us on Twitter and become a fan of our Facebook page www.cbmwc.org http://twitter.com/CBMWC http://facebook.com/CBMWC Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre is supported by the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Group, a marine interest group of the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales. Helping to conserve Cardigan Bay's marine wildlife through education and research Helpu I warchod bywyd gwyllt morol Bae Ceredigion drwy addysg ac ymchwil ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------- The contents of this email are confidential and are soley for the use of the intended recipient. If you receive this email in error please delete it and notify us either by email or telephone. It is prohibited to copy, forward or otherwise disclose the contents of this email. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 273965 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... 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Name: image004.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 3763 bytes Desc: not available URL: From srm227 at cornell.edu Tue Jan 13 21:17:00 2015 From: srm227 at cornell.edu (Sarah McCormack) Date: Wed, 14 Jan 2015 00:17:00 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Shoals Marine Laboratory: Three classes for marine mammal students Message-ID: Shoals Marine Laboratory (Appledore Island, Maine) is offering three courses this summer for students interested in marine mammal biology. *Introduction to Marine Mammal Biology* Introduction to the biology and conservation of cetaceans and pinnipeds, with a particular focus on species of the Gulf of Maine: taxonomy and species diversity, adaptations for life in the sea, foraging ecology and behavior, reproductive cycles, bioacoustics, and management of threatened species. Land and open-water observations of whale and seal behavior. Dates: June 8 ? 22, 2015 Faculty: Dr. Nadine Lysiak, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution *Field Wildlife Forensics* Introduction to forensic science and the utilization of marine biology within the justice system. Comprehensive instruction concerning the recognition, documentation, collection and preservation of physical evidence. Students develop practical incident response, scene management and forensic teamwork skills. Dates: June 22 ? 29, 2015 Faculty: Dr. Wayne Lord, University of Central Oklahoma Dr. Robert Kenney, University of Rhode Island Dr. Inga Sidor, University of New Hampshire Mr. Trey Knott, National Marine Fisheries Service *Anatomy and Function of Marine Vertebrates* Introduces students to a comparative study of the principal organ systems of vertebrates [fishes, sea turtles, marine birds, marine mammals] that are specifically adapted to the marine environment. Anatomy of structures is integrated with function, biological roles and evolutionary relationships. Laboratory exercises cover osteology, dissection, behavior and biomechanics. Dates: July 20 ? August 3, 2015 Faculty: Dr. Frank Fish, West Chester University Dr. Malcolm Gordon, UCLA For all classes, registration, cost and financial aid information is available at: http://www.sml.cornell.edu/sml_students_creditcourses.html For more information about Shoals Marine Laboratory, see: http://www.sml.cornell.edu -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From elizabeth.mansfield at duke.edu Sun Jan 11 21:56:14 2015 From: elizabeth.mansfield at duke.edu (Betsy Mansfield) Date: Mon, 12 Jan 2015 05:56:14 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Beneath the Waves Film Festival Second Call Message-ID: Dear Interested Filmmakers, The deadline to submit a film to the Beneath the Waves film festival is approaching quickly! Please submit your film by January 31, 2015. If you have a story to tell about the marine environment, we would love to hear from you. Whether you?re a first-time filmmaker or a professional, we?d love to hear about what interests you about the ocean. Details about submission follow. If you can think of anyone who may be interested, please forward them this call. Thank you, and we look forward to showing your best stories. -The Beneath the Waves Team Details: Please visit www.beneaththewavesfilmfest.org/submit-a-film/ for instructions on submitting and www.beneaththewavesfilmfest.org/festivals/ for films shown in recent festivals. Length Beneath the Waves accepts short films (<10 minutes) to show at all of our festivals. However, if your film is greater than 10 minutes, we will still consider it. Language We prefer films in English, but films in other languages are also acceptable if they have English subtitles. Format We prefer digital submissions addressed to collections at beneaththewaves.org using a common compression format. We also require the film to be distributed over a video sharing service (i.e. YouTube, Vimeo, etc.). Contact If you have any questions about submission criteria or how to submit, please contact us at collections at beneaththewaves.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From maja.nimak-wood at gardline.com Wed Jan 14 07:48:46 2015 From: maja.nimak-wood at gardline.com (Maja Nimak-Wood) Date: Wed, 14 Jan 2015 15:48:46 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Marine Mammal Observer Training Course for New Zealand, February/March 2015 Message-ID: [cid:image004.jpg at 01CFA74D.55C2E4B0] 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 23rd February - 17th March 2015 b) Field based 18th- 20th March Auckland, New Zealand The course cost: ?1250 or AUD $ 2350 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: 2nd February 2014 Due to high interest in this course and limited number of places, we encourage you to apply early. 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:image003.jpg at 01CFA74A.D6B77700] Gardline Environmental Limited is part of the Gardline Group of Companies Registered in England No.04589816 | VAT Registration No. 640 4800 66 Registered office: Endeavour House, Admiralty Road, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, NR30 3NG ________________________________ CONFIDENTIALITY - This e-mail and any attached files contain information that is confidential and/or may be subject of legal privilege, intended only for use by the addressee(s). If you are not the intended recipient or the person responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, please be advised that you have received this message in error and that any dissemination, copying or use of this message or attachment is strictly forbidden, as is the disclosure of the information therein. If you have received this message in error please notify the sender immediately and preserve this confidentiality by deleting the message. No binding contract will result from this e-mail until and unless an officer, on behalf of the sender, signs a written document. Sender accepts no responsibility for the completeness or accuracy of this message as it has been transmitted over public networks. Unless otherwise specifically stated any views or opinions are solely those of the author and do not represent those of the sender Company. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ This email has been scanned by the MessageLabs Email Security System, on behalf of the Gardline Group of Companies. For more information please visit http://www.symanteccloud.com _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image003.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 6658 bytes Desc: image003.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image004.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 7678 bytes Desc: image004.jpg URL: From nicola.hodgins at whales.org Wed Jan 14 09:21:12 2015 From: nicola.hodgins at whales.org (Nicola Hodgins) Date: Wed, 14 Jan 2015 17:21:12 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] WDC Award - REMINDER Message-ID: A TIMELY REMINDER FOR ALL CETACEAN RESEARCHERS Dear MARMAM'ers, WDC is delighted to announce the 2015 WDC Bharathi Viswanathan Award for Innovative and Non-Invasive Research. WDC strives to ensure that benign research methods are promoted as a guiding principle, both for the organisation and the researchers that we fund. Up to ?5,000 is available for the recipient of this annual award. The only restrictions that apply are that the project must utilize only non-invasive techniques and ultimately aim to benefit the conservation management or welfare of whales and/or dolphins. Applications must be on a WDC Research Award Form (see website) and will be accepted at any time until the closing date, mid-day (GMT) February 14th 2015. The Award recipient will be chosen by March 14th 2015. Through this Award, WDC aims to showcase non-invasive research methodologies, highlighting the fact that many of these methods provide scientific data of excellent quality, whilst also promoting the development of innovative and non-invasive approaches towards studying cetaceans. Please visit our website for more details and application forms. http://uk.whales.org/wdc-in-action/wdc-award-for-innovative-and-non-invasive-research Good luck, Nicola [WDC - Whale and Dolphin Conservation] Nicola Hodgins Head of science and research Telephone: +44 (0)1249 449 537 Mobile: +44 (0)7841 497 597 Skype: nicola.hodgins WDC, Whale and Dolphin Conservation Brookfield House, 38 St Paul Street Chippenham Wiltshire SN15 1LJ United Kingdom whales.org [WDC on Facebook] [WDC on Twitter] [WDC on YouTube] [WDC Blogs] [WDC E-Newsletter] ________________________________ Whale and Dolphin Conservation (?WDC?) is a company registered in England and Wales (No. 02737421) and a registered charity (in England and Wales No. 1014705, in Scotland No. SC040231) WDC Shop is a trading name of WDCS (Trading) Ltd, a company registered in England and Wales (No. 02593116) Registered office : Brookfield House, 38 St. Paul Street, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 1LJ. Tel: +44 (0)1249 449 500 This message is private and confidential. If you have received this message in error, please notify us and remove it from your system. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: 04C50FDD-3B22-4599-A4B8-43324D0C2B7E.png Type: image/png Size: 1285 bytes Desc: 04C50FDD-3B22-4599-A4B8-43324D0C2B7E.png URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: 16D806B4-C8D8-41CF-A620-04CA81DF3950.png Type: image/png Size: 1963 bytes Desc: 16D806B4-C8D8-41CF-A620-04CA81DF3950.png URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: A31B7A7D-F1B7-4FC0-9CBA-6E8FC4B33AEF.png Type: image/png Size: 2299 bytes Desc: A31B7A7D-F1B7-4FC0-9CBA-6E8FC4B33AEF.png URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: DF615FD0-9559-4DE9-9AED-0B3D712BEE5B.png Type: image/png Size: 2314 bytes Desc: DF615FD0-9559-4DE9-9AED-0B3D712BEE5B.png URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: 175FDE86-364F-44B7-8CEC-1F2E95418DE9.png Type: image/png Size: 2049 bytes Desc: 175FDE86-364F-44B7-8CEC-1F2E95418DE9.png URL: From victoria.angeline13 at gmail.com Wed Jan 14 13:23:57 2015 From: victoria.angeline13 at gmail.com (Victoria Howard) Date: Wed, 14 Jan 2015 15:23:57 -0600 Subject: [MARMAM] Marine Mammal Research Internship Message-ID: *Summer 2015 Marine Mammal Internship* The IMMS Research Internship Program is designed as a way for students interested in a career in marine science to gain valuable research experience in a real-world setting. Interns will participate with multiple projects involving bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles and diamondback terrapins. As an intern, you will be trained in all aspects of dolphin photo-id research, sea turtle satellite tracking, and other current research projects at IMMS. Interns will also participate in other operations at IMMS including stranding response, education, and animal care. Our goal is to give Interns a well-rounded experience in a variety of areas while providing expert training and experience in marine science research. Interns must: - Commit to a minimum of at least 12 weeks. The internship can be extended depending on work performance. - Be available to work Mon-Fri and must be available for all boat trips. Some field days may fall on the weekends. - Have strong sense of responsibility, work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to admit mistakes. - Produce high quality research efforts and exhibit strong interpersonal skills. - *Principle Duties include*: data entry, searching and cataloging journal articles, learning all research protocols, cropping and sorting photo-id fin images, learning to use photo-id programs such as Darwin (fin matching software), and FinBase (Microsoft Access), boat based field research (21? and 31? boats), and learn how to use ArcGIS - *Secondary Duties involve*: Assisting with animal care staff, attending marine mammal necropsies, responding to marine mammal and sea turtle strandings, and assisting with educational tours. - *Field days: *Interns must be able to spend many hours on the water and on shore in sometimes extreme seasonal conditions. Seasonal temperatures range from over 100 ?F in summer to 30 ?F in winter. Field days typically exceed eight hours and occur at least two or three times a week. Applicants must be 18 or older and must have a genuine interest in marine research. Applicants should be actively pursuing a college degree or be a recent graduate in oceanography, marine science/biology, biology, or a related field. Previous research experience in any capacity is a plus. Applicants must be able and willing to fulfill all duties outlined for this Internship Program. This is an unpaid position and Interns are responsible for their own housing and transportation. Once accepted, IMMS staff will be able to assist Interns in suggesting suitable housing options and locations. *Deadline to Apply for the Summer Session (5/4/15 - 7/24/15 and 6/8/15 - 8/28/15) is March 1, 2014* *Please visit **http://imms.org/internship.php* * for application and full details* -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From lauralilly10 at gmail.com Thu Jan 15 18:46:50 2015 From: lauralilly10 at gmail.com (Laura Lilly) Date: Thu, 15 Jan 2015 21:46:50 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Whale Watch Education and Research Internship Gloucester, MA Message-ID: Cape Ann Whale Watch is accepting applications for its Field Research and Environmental Education Internship. Based in Gloucester, MA and partnered with Planet Whale, our whale watch boat takes between 150 and 250 passengers a day on whale watches in and around the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. We work to educate passengers about marine life and the oceans to foster a sense of importance and personal responsibility in doing a part to contribute to the wellbeing and conservation of the environment. This internship will allow you to gain hands-on experience in research, educational techniques, and the general workings of being on a whale watch boat. Interns are the core of the education program at Cape Ann Whale Watch. They work collaboratively with the naturalist to help accomplish our goal of educating people about whales and fostering a stronger appreciation and respect for whales and the ocean environment. Educators circulate the boat with hands-on teaching tools to educate the public about whales and their environment. Once the actual whale watching begins, the naturalist provides educational interpretive commentary while the interns collect data on whale behavior and identification for our research. Interns work 1-2 whale watch trips per day, four to five days per week. In addition to using teaching tools (such as a sample of whale baleen or a 3-D model of Stellwagen Bank), interns are available to answer passengers? questions on a wide variety of topics- everything from whale behavior to ocean conservation. Interns are also expected to help with the general functioning of the whale watch vessel and provide a harbor tour to passengers at the beginning of each trip. In addition to responsibilities during whale watch trips, interns are expected to attend and participate in weekly meetings, which cover topics of interest and relevance, and also provide opportunity for reflection and development among the group of educators. Finally, interns are expected to complete a project of their choice- past examples include creating a new teaching tool or developing a slide show for passengers to view while on board. Past interns have received degrees in biology, psychology, education, French, history, philosophy, etc. *You don?t need to be a biology major to apply, and prior experience is not required- training is provided on the job!* We are looking for individuals who will make the most of the amazing opportunities this internship provides. This internship is geared for college students and recent college graduates, however, anyone who is interested in helping Cape Ann Whale Watch and the educators/researchers or in learning about whales is encouraged to apply. We are looking for individuals who are passionate about whales and the ocean environment. Applicants for this position should feel comfortable with public speaking, teaching in small groups, and working with the general public. The application deadline is March 1, *however early application is strongly encouraged.* Applicants will be notified by the end of March. The whale watching season begins in early May and it runs through October. During this time, we ask that people can devote at least 10 weeks to the internship. This is an unpaid internship, and housing is not provided, but we will work with all the interns to find something suitable. It is your responsibility to arrange for college credit if you choose to do so. If you are interested please send a resume, cover letter, two written letters of recommendation, and an unofficial transcript to: lauralilly10 at gmail.com or Cape Ann Whale Watch PO BOX 345 Gloucester, Ma 01930 Attn: Laura For any further questions, contact Laura at the email address provided. -- Laura Lilly (978) 302-5802 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From D.Chabanne at murdoch.edu.au Thu Jan 15 18:42:00 2015 From: D.Chabanne at murdoch.edu.au (Delphine Chabanne) Date: Fri, 16 Jan 2015 02:42:00 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Research assistants needed for Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin study (photo-id + genetic sampling) in Perth, Western Australia, from March 2015 Message-ID: <471C24C8B60AEF4995A8D064026BD83207D9CF@Exch-AD-MBX4.ad.murdoch.edu.au> Seeking field assistants for research on Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin in Perth, Western Australia Due to last minute change, I am seeking for 1 or 2 field assistants from March 2015 until June 2015. Project title: Assessment of the population of bottlenose dolphins within the Perth metropolitan waters. This project aims to assess dolphin abundance, residency, ranging patterns and genetic connectivity within an area encompassing over a four-year period. Sampling effort is stratified across four zones (Cockburn Sound, Owen Anchorage, Gage Roads, and the Swan-Canning Estuary) and across all four austral seasons (spring, summer, autumn, winter). This will be our last season of fieldwork, so perhaps one of our busier and exciting with a lot of photo-id surveys and genetic sampling to do. Location: Cetacean Research Unit, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia. Duties: - Assisting with boat-based photo-identification surveys of bottlenose dolphins, including operating small vessel during surveys, collecting environmental, location, and behavioural data for dolphin groups. Expect early starts, hot weather, up to 11 hours on the water for multiple consecutive days, and up to a week between days off; - Photo-identification of dolphins in the lab. Prerequisites: - Enthusiasm for field work on a boat is essential (long hours and natural environment conditions); - Experience of working on and driving a small boat (essential); - Experience of photo-ID survey techniques (highly desirable); - No history of debilitation seasickness (essential). Expenses: This is an unpaid position. Travel to/from, accommodation, and food for applicants will be at their own charges. Please submit resume and cover letter to D.Chabanne at murdoch.edu.au. Delphine Delphine Chabanne Ph.D. candidate Murdoch University Cetacean Research Unit School of Veterinary and Life Sciences Murdoch University, Western Australia Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia http://mucru.org/group-members/delphine-chabanne/ http://mucru.org/research-projects/coastal-and-estuarine-dolphin-project/ [mucru-with-murdoch-WHITEBACKGROUND] -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 17388 bytes Desc: image001.png URL: From kmatassa at pacificmmc.org Wed Jan 14 17:31:09 2015 From: kmatassa at pacificmmc.org (Keith Matassa) Date: Wed, 14 Jan 2015 17:31:09 -0800 Subject: [MARMAM] Pacific Marine Mammal Center Director of Education Job Opportunity Message-ID: <00a901d03062$f0dbcf90$d2936eb0$@org> Could this please be posted on the MARMAM list serve, thank you. PMMCLogo-open background Director of Education- Pacific Marine Mammal Center The Pacific Marine Mammal Center (PMMC), a 501(c) 3 organization located in Laguna Beach California, is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, releasing marine mammals and inspiring ocean stewardship through research, education and collaboration. This is a great opportunity to share in the mission of one of the leading marine animal rehabilitation centers on the west coast, make a tremendous impact and experience profound job satisfaction and fulfillment. The Pacific Marine Mammal Center is searching to hire a dynamic, proven, energetic forward thinking Director of Education. The Director of Education reports to the Executive Director and is responsible for developing, overseeing, and implementing all educational programs and outreach associated with PMMC. Key responsibilities include the continuation and improvement of educational programs already offered at PMMC, developing and implementation of new educational programs and outreach, grant writing, attending fundraising events, development of marketing and collateral materials. The Director of Education will work with the executive, animal care and development directors to determine funding needs and priorities for the year. The Director of Education supervises and mentors the full time education coordinator, part-time teachers and camp councilors, and Education Committee Volunteers to achieve yearly educational goals. Qualifications The ideal candidate will have a proactive, upbeat and energetic disposition with a minimum of 5 years experience in a similar role that allows them to succeed with limited supervision. The candidate must have a drive to succeed and be comfortable with new program development, with the target to implement new educational programs for k-12, college and adult education. Final Candidate will demonstrate poise and confidence when dealing with children, parents, donors or in group settings; must be comfortable around animals and children. Some weekends and evenings required. Additional qualifications: . Bachelor's degree and/or the equivalent of 5 years or more experience with education in a nontraditional setting . Successful Grant writing experience . Proven ability to supervise and mentor internal and volunteer staff . Excellent communication, presentation and organizational skills . Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite; . Must be a team player with a great work ethic, and who enjoys owning and juggling priorities in pursuit of an important mission Please send cover letter stating your salary requirements, CV and 3 references to jobs1 at hradvisors.com. No phone calls please. Keith A. Matassa Executive Director Pacific Marine Mammal Center | 20612 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949-494-3050, Extension #202 (p) | 949-494-2802 (f) | www.pacificmmc.org PMMCNewLogo2012Reduced The Pacific Marine Mammal Center rescues, rehabilitates, releases marine mammals and inspires ocean stewardship through research, education and collaboration. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 13388 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image002.png Type: image/png Size: 7090 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image003.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 2641 bytes Desc: not available URL: From intern at neaq.org Fri Jan 16 08:32:59 2015 From: intern at neaq.org (Intern) Date: Fri, 16 Jan 2015 11:32:59 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Summer Internships at New England Aquarium Message-ID: <8013BE5242117842AA8EF06961F0067E0DE55ABB@rightwhale.neaq.org> We are now accepting application for summer internships with New England Aquarium! Our priority deadline is January 31st! We are accepting applications for positions throughout the Aquarium including the following: Marine Mammal Education and Research Internship Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Rescue Internship Marine Mammal Internship All internships work alongside experts in their field and provide excellent opportunities to gain first-hand knowledge. All positions are unpaid. If you have any questions please feel free to reach out or see the links in my signature, below. Best wishes, Brendon Dempsey Intern Coordinator New England Aquarium tel 617.226.5235 intern at neaq.org www.neaq.org Applying for Internships Internship Positions Have questions? Internship FAQ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From art at bayoffundy.ca Sun Jan 18 06:27:34 2015 From: art at bayoffundy.ca (Art Mackay) Date: Sun, 18 Jan 2015 10:27:34 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] INTERNS: Marine Mammal Research Internship Message-ID: <54BBC2D6.5070808@bayoffundy.ca> * * The IMMS Research Internship Program is designed as a way for students interested in a career in marine science to gain valuable research experience in a real-world setting. Interns will participate with multiple projects involving bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles and diamondback terrapins. As an intern, you will be trained in all aspects of dolphin photo-id research, sea turtle satellite tracking, and other current research projects at IMMS. Interns will also participate in other operations at IMMS including stranding response, education, and animal care. Our goal is to give Interns a well-rounded experience in a variety of areas while providing expert training and experience in marine science research. Interns must: * Commit to a minimum of at least 12 weeks. The internship can be extended depending on work performance. * Be available to work Mon-Fri and must be available for all boat trips. Some field days may fall on the weekends. * Have strong sense of responsibility, work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to admit mistakes. * Produce high quality research efforts and exhibit strong interpersonal skills. * *Principle Duties include*: data entry, searching and cataloging journal articles, learning all research protocols, cropping and sorting photo-id fin images, learning to use photo-id programs such as Darwin (fin matching software), and FinBase (Microsoft Access), boat based field research (21?? and 31?? boats), and learn how to use ArcGIS * *Secondary Duties involve*: Assisting with animal care staff, attending marine mammal necropsies, responding to marine mammal and sea turtle strandings, and assisting with educational tours. * *Field days: *Interns must be able to spend many hours on the water and on shore in sometimes extreme seasonal conditions. Seasonal temperatures range from over 100 ??F in summer to 30 ??F in winter. Field days typically exceed eight hours and occur at least two or three times a week. Applicants must be 18 or older and must have a genuine interest in marine research. Applicants should be actively pursuing a college degree or be a recent graduate in oceanography, marine science/biology, biology, or a related field. Previous research experience in any capacity is a plus. Applicants must be able and willing to fulfill all duties outlined for this Internship Program. This is an unpaid position and Interns are responsible for their own housing and transportation. Once accepted, IMMS staff will be able to assist Interns in suggesting suitable housing options and locations. *Deadline to Apply for the? Summer Session (5/4/15 - 7/24/15 and 6/8/15 - 8/28/15) is? March 1, 2014* *Please visit **http://imms.org/internship.php**for application and full details* -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From lsayigh at whoi.edu Sat Jan 17 20:20:52 2015 From: lsayigh at whoi.edu (Laela Sayigh) Date: Sat, 17 Jan 2015 23:20:52 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Extension of abstract and early registration deadline for the Watkins Memorial Marine Mammal Bioacoustics Symposium, 26-29 March 2015 In-Reply-To: <54A84B78.2020809@whoi.edu> References: <5391A084.3030506@st-and.ac.uk> <5395DABD.8040900@whoi.edu> <5436DFE3.8000808@whoi.edu> <54A84B78.2020809@whoi.edu> Message-ID: <54BB34A4.2010409@whoi.edu> Dear colleagues, The abstract and early registration deadline for the Watkins Memorial Marine Mammal Bioacoustics Symposium, to be held 26-29 March 2015 in New Bedford, Massachusetts, has been extended to January 31. Please visit http://www.whalingmuseum.org/programs/watkins-symposium-2015 Contact lsayigh at whoi.edu with any questions about the event. From ashadevos at gmail.com Sun Jan 18 19:00:16 2015 From: ashadevos at gmail.com (Asha de Vos) Date: Mon, 19 Jan 2015 08:30:16 +0530 Subject: [MARMAM] Opportunity for blue whale research in Sri Lanka! Message-ID: <6C71E1C6-3FED-485D-B9EF-CCB0B45A45FA@gmail.com> The Sri Lankan Blue Whale Project seeks interns for the upcoming field season commencing February 1st 2015 and running through to the end of February. This represents the oldest research project on blue whales in the Northern Indian Ocean. Its efforts to bring attention to the unusual Sri Lankan blue whales and the threats they face have been showcased internationally by Channel 7 Australia (2010), the BBC (2010), the New York Times (2012), CNN (2012), WIRED UK (2014), the New Scientist (2014) and TED talks (2015). For more information on the project please visit http://ashadevos.com. This Internship Program is designed to provide students interested in a career in marine science valuable research experience in a real-world setting. Interns will participate in blue whale research in Sri Lanka. As an intern, you will be trained in all aspects of blue whale photo-identification and survey methodology. Furthermore, interns will be trained in science communication methods and the use of social media for the benefit of science. Interns must: ? Commit to the 4-week internship period. ? Have a strong sense of responsibility, work ethic, willingness to learn, attention to detail, and ability to admit mistakes. ? Be physically capable to participate in all aspects of the work. ? Exhibit strong interpersonal skills. ? Have good English communication skills. ? Principal Duties include: data entry, learning all research protocols, sorting photo-id images, boat based field research ? Field days: Interns must be able to spend many hours on the water in small boats in temperatures averaging 28?C. Field days are typically 8-9 hours long, take place on all good weather days and require early starts. ? Bonus abilities include the ability to make short films in the field. ? Applicants must have a genuine interest in marine research. It is preferred but not necessary if applicants are actively pursuing a college degree or are a recent graduate in oceanography, marine science/biology, biology, or related field. Previous research experience in any capacity is a plus. Applicants must be able and willing to fulfill all duties outlined for this Internship Program. This is an unpaid position and Interns are requested to contribute towards their housing, transportation and meal costs (please contact whalessrilanka at gmail.com for rates). If you are interested in this position please send your CV, a 300 word paragraph outlining why you are interested in this opportunity and two letters of reference to whalessrilanka at gmail.com by the 25th of January 2015. -- ><((((?>`?.??.???`?.?.???`?...?><((((?>?. `?.??.???`?.?????`?.. ><((((?>`?.??.???`?.?.???`?...?><((((?> Asha de Vos TED Senior Fellow Founder, The Sri Lankan Blue Whale Project http://about.me/ashadevos www.ashadevos.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From sotalia at gmail.com Mon Jan 19 05:25:23 2015 From: sotalia at gmail.com (Marcos Santos) Date: Mon, 19 Jan 2015 11:25:23 -0200 Subject: [MARMAM] Course for Graduate Students: Cetacean Acoustics Message-ID: Course for Graduate Students: Cetacean Acoustics (March. 3 to 13; Sao Paulo, Brazil) Course for up to 8 (eight) graduate students in Sao Paulo, Brazil organized by the Instituto Oceanografico - Universidade de S?o Paulo (IOUSP) with the support of Fundacao de Amparo a Pesquisa do Estado de Sao Paulo (FAPESP). Ph. D. Laura Kloepper (National Science Foundation funded Postdoctoral Fellow at Brown University and Visiting Scholar Appointment in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at University of Massachusetts Dartmouth; www.laurakloepper.net) will be visiting Brazil and will share information on an important field of cetacean investigation. The course is free of charge, except in the 5 last fieldwork days which will include the amount of around U$ 100 to cover expenses of food and accomodation taxes at the IOUSP research base at the Cananeia estuary. The conceptual framework will be worked from March 3rd to 7th in the main headquarters of the IOUSP in Sao Paulo, and fieldwork working with Guiana dolphin acoustics will be done at the Cananeia estuary from Mar. 9th to 13th. Transportation to the field and back to Sao Paulo will be provided by the IOUSP. The main topics to be covered in this course are: -- introduction to physics of underwater sounds -- introduction to biology and anatomy of sound production in cetaceans -- introduction to tools used to record sounds (hydrophones, amplifiers, recorders) -- using arrays (localization, beam reconstruction, etc) -- software to analyze sounds (focus on free software but also touch on matlab) -- interpreting and understanding sounds: linking to mitigation and monitoring It is a 60h course and may be used as credits to graduate courses. Classes will be in English. Interested students may get in touch with Prof. Marcos Santos (sotalia at gmailcom) who will answer questions about subscriptions (to be opened from February 1st to 24th; form and docs to be sent by e-mail) and will help with indications on where to stay in Sao Paulo. The ones who want to start searching a place to stay, there is an interesting opportunity to spend less or no money when staying at student's houses close to the university. Check at https://www.facebook.com/usp.ifriends. [USP IFRIENDS] Dr. Marcos C ?e? sar de Oliveira Santos Laborat ?o? rio de Biologia da Conserva ?ca? o de Mam ?i? feros Aqu ?a? ticos (LABCMA) Departamento de Oceanografia Biol ?o? gica, Instituto Oceanogr ?a? fico, Universidade de S ?a? o Paulo Pra ?c? a do Oceanogr ?a? fico, 191, Sala 145-A Butant ?a? , S?o Paulo, SP, Brasil. 05508-120 http://www.sotalia.com.br *Teachers: Encourage tomorrow's dreams!* -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From mignucci at mac.com Mon Jan 19 05:55:31 2015 From: mignucci at mac.com (Antonio A. Mignucci-Giannoni) Date: Mon, 19 Jan 2015 09:55:31 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] Internship available at the Puerto Rico Manatee Conservation Center Message-ID: <4D9D5C81-C183-43A0-AA10-9C73FF032A78@mac.com> Internship available at the Puerto Rico Manatee Conservation Center The Puerto Rico Manatee Conservation Center (PRMCC) and the Caribbean Stranding Network at the Inter American University of Puerto Rico announces the availability of four 2-month volunteer (unpaid) internship positions in three periods per year (1 February-31 March, 15 May-15 July, 1 September-31 October). The PRMMC conducts conservation efforts on behalf of endangered Antillean manatees in four modalities: (1) Rescue and Stranding Response, (2) Rehabilitation and Veterinary Care, (3) Population Research, and (4) Community Outreach and Education. Requirements: Applicants must be students enrolled in a natural sciences bachelor?s, graduate or professional degree (biology, zoology, oceanography, marine biology, environmental sciences, animal sciences, veterinary medicine or similar), or recent graduates of these disciplines seeking experience on endangered marine species conservation. Work at the PRMCC is conducted in Spanish and English, thus, interns must at least be able to converse and write in one of these languages. Interns must be self-motivated and responsible, able to work independently, have computer experience, good organizational and communication skills, and perform as a team. Candidates must be in good physical fitness, swim well, lift and carry 25 kg, walk long distances in difficult terrain, and follow written and oral staff directions and protocols effectively. In addition, interns should be prepared to perform in a variety of settings on any given day including; beach, in-water, and laboratory. Work hours are 40-60 hours per week. The 2-month internship may be extended an extra month at the discretion of the PRMCC and a positive 2-month evaluation. USA citizen interns do not need a visa to attend the internship; International applicants need to apply for a USA visa to attend. If interns intend to receive academic credit, they are responsible for making all arrangements with their educational institutions. The PRMCC internship is a once in a lifetime opportunity for students and recent graduates to join dedicated scientists who are conducting manatee conservation in the beautiful environmental setting of the Caribbean Island of Puerto Rico. As part of this program, interns are extremely important members of a focused and dedicated team and will be immersed in pioneering hands-on work with manatees. This is an excellent chance to contribute meaningfully to an exciting marine conservation effort to save an endangered species from extinction. Interns who successfully complete the program will receive a certificate acknowledging training in manatee conservation initiatives of stranding response and necropsies, rescue, rehabilitation and veterinary care, population research, and community outreach and education. Applications for the May 2015 internship must be received by 1 February 2015; and September 2015 internship by 1 June 2015. To apply, submit a complete application at our website http://manatipr.org/voluntarios/internship/. For more information, please contact volunt at manatipr.org. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: IMG_1485.jpeg Type: image/jpeg Size: 103575 bytes Desc: not available URL: From adrianajvella at gmail.com Mon Jan 19 00:03:10 2015 From: adrianajvella at gmail.com (Adriana Vella) Date: Mon, 19 Jan 2015 09:03:10 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] Various Workshops - ECS Conference March 2015 Message-ID: Dear All, *Follow updates on the various workshops being offered on the 21st and 22nd of March 2015, prior to the ECS Conference, in Malta.* Topics range from acoustics and mitigation, education and awareness, enhancing cooperation, latest pathology and necropsy developments, rescue procedures to Ethics and more. *Visit:* http://www.europeancetaceansociety.eu/conference/workshops-programme *Contact the Workshop Organizer directly.* For any further info contact ecs.conf 2015(at)gmail.com *Visit 29th ECS Conference Website for any other info too:* http://europeancetaceansociety.eu/conference/29th-ecs-conference Late Registration deadline - 13th February 2015 Best wishes, ecs conf 2015 org team -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From Kate.Liddell at UKHO.gov.uk Mon Jan 19 04:38:15 2015 From: Kate.Liddell at UKHO.gov.uk (Liddell Kate) Date: Mon, 19 Jan 2015 12:38:15 -0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Senior Marine Biology Analyst vacancy at UKHO Message-ID: <~B54bcfabb0000.54bd04820002.0001.mml.1384472573@HMAL05.business.ukho.gov.uk> Please see below for details of a UK based position suitable for those with a background in marine mammals. Senior Marine Biology Analyst Grade: B2 Salary: ?29,712 + benefits Location: Taunton, Somerset As part of the Ministry of Defence trading fund, at the UK Hydrographic Office, we produce nautical publications and services for the Royal Navy and merchant shipping, to protect lives at sea. Maintaining our leading position supporting the global mission of our national security forces, we employ around 1000 people based in Taunton, Somerset, with a vision to be the world's best provider of hydrographic data services. It takes brilliant people to achieve our vision. And that's where you come in. Joining the Defence Situational Awareness Marine Environment team, you'll identify and analyse a range of data sources to provide expert assessments of the marine biological environment for Navy operations. Helping to minimise potentially adverse environment impacts, you'll develop a network of contacts throughout the scientific community to access the best and most current scientific understanding. From planning and research to data analysis and report writing, you'll always be looking for ways to improve the quality and usefulness of our insights. It will be down to you to keep abreast of new developments in data analysis tools and techniques, as well as the availability of marine biological datasets. You'll join us with in-depth knowledge and understanding of the marine biological environment, and will probably hold a relevant postgraduate qualification. Practical experience of digital data analysis and databasing techniques applied to marine biological data is essential. Aware of current issues and legislation relating to the conservation of the marine environment, you'll have a good understanding of remote sensing principles, as well as image analysis and interpretation. This should include knowledge of GIS software packages such as ArcGIS. An excellent communicator, used to sharing research in meetings, conferences and presentations, you'll be able to draw on a range of data presentation and data visualisation techniques. In return we offer opportunities for ongoing learning and career development and a generous benefits package including Civil Service pension, onsite gym, onsite cr?che, free car parking, flexitime, childcare vouchers and a subsidised canteen. This is an MOD reserved post and therefore applications will only be accepted from UK Nationals. (Those with dual nationality are ineligible to apply.) Successful applicants will require NSV security clearance and will therefore need to have resided in the UK for a minimum of five years. To find out more and apply please visit http://www.ukho.gov.uk/AboutUs/Careers/Pages/home.aspx. Applications close on the 2nd February at midnight. Dr Kate Liddell Marine Biology Analyst Lead Defence Situational Awareness United Kingdom Hydrographic Office Admiralty Way TAUNTON Somerset TA1 2DN Direct line: 01275 392280 mail: kate.liddell at ukho.gov.uk www.ukho.gov.uk P please consider the environment before printing this email ********************************************************************** The contents of this e-mail and any attachments are the property of the United Kingdom Hydrographic Office and are intended for the confidential use of the named recipient only. Its unauthorised use, disclosure, storage or copying is not permitted and may be unlawful. If you are not the intended recipient, please destroy all copies and inform the sender by return e-mail. This footnote also confirms that this e-mail message has been swept by Sophos Antivirus for the presence of computer viruses. You are however advised to carry out your own virus checks. ********************************************************************** -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.gif Type: image/gif Size: 2440 bytes Desc: image001.gif URL: From yvonne at scanningoceansectors.com Sun Jan 18 20:14:48 2015 From: yvonne at scanningoceansectors.com (Yvonne Miles - Scanning Ocean Sectors) Date: Mon, 19 Jan 2015 14:14:48 +1000 Subject: [MARMAM] JNCC Approved MMO courses for Australia Message-ID: *We are pleased to announce our brand new training courses for 2015 in Australia.* *Scanning Ocean Sectors* specialises in training, consultancy and supply of *Marine Mammal Observer (MMO)* / *Marine Fauna Observer (MFO) *worldwide. We are JNCC recognised/approved course for industry and research for the UKCS and have been running for over 10 years. We have years of research behind the effective and consistent training of MMOs/MFOs including courses adapted/personalised to the requirements of our clients, and taught by professionals in their specialised fields. Our staff are fully trained and experienced in all areas of the MMO/MFO line of work. Our specialised training is to ensure RESEARCH/INDUSTRY attains the best MMOs/MFOs they require for the specialised work, the outcome from our training, KNOWLEDGABLE, EFFICIENT and EFFECTIVE in the job and are prepared for ALL necessary actions. Each student is graded in their certificates to ensure the quality standard of the MMO/MFO industry is gaining. Please note you must register and pay at the same time. NOTE: pre registering will NOT entitle you to Standard price the price coding will be at time of full and final payment. For full prices please visit www.marinemammalobservertraining.com/prices/. *Australian MMO Training Course Dates in Hervey Bay, Queensland* February 2-5th - Standard price still offered until 23rd January April 20-23rd June 22-25th August 24-27th September 7-10th November 23-26th REGISTER NOW *Register Online* Visit the website to register for the next MMO course. www.marinemammalobservertraining.com/register/ *Other Useful Links* Marine Mammal Observer Training on Facebook www.facebook.com/marinemammalobservertrainingcourses Marine Mammal Magazine on Facebook www.facebook.com/marinemammalobservertrainingcourses Marine Mammal Jobs on Facebook www.facebook.com/marinemammaljobs With regards, *Yvonne Miles* Managing Director yvonne at scanningoceansectors.com www.scanningoceansectors.com www.marinemammaljobs.com -- Regards, Yvonne Miles *Managing Director* *Scanning Ocean Sectors* E: yvonne at scanningoceansectors.com W: www.scanningoceansectors.com W: www.marinemammalobservertraining.com W: www.marinemammaljobs.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From aschaef3 at fau.edu Tue Jan 20 06:00:15 2015 From: aschaef3 at fau.edu (Adam Schaefer) Date: Tue, 20 Jan 2015 14:00:15 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Interdisciplinary Job Posting Message-ID: <9EE4285194CD314FB9EA66C8CD8AD31BC08BFD36@EXCHANGEMB03.ad.fau.edu> FAU-Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute is looking for applicants to join our research team Text for Biological Scientist #979543 Posting Date: 1/16/15 This position is located in Fort Pierce, FL, FAU's Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute. Position Summary: This position will assist in statistical data analysis and reporting; field collection and coordination of data and samples for marine mammal, environmental and human health epidemiology research. The position will involve collaborative interdisciplinary research pertaining to a variety of marine mammal related projects in the field and laboratory. Job Duties: Field collection and coordination of data and samples will include both human and wildlife based studies. Participant recruitment in compliance with Institutional Review Board protocols is required. Statistical data analysis and reporting for research related activities as directed Performs office work, record keeping, and data entry under the direction of supervisor Pathology related duties include the proper collection, documentation and archiving of tissues for both diagnostic and research purposes Minimum Requirements: Bachelor's degree in the preferred areas of biology, marine science, public health or environmental science; related fields will be considered. Basic laboratory skills are required. Experience with Microsoft Word, Outlook, Access and Excel required. Experience conducting basic statistical analysis is required. Two years of experience assisting with research on human and/or wildlife population health required. Excellent communication, ability to work in a team and independently, detail-oriented are preferred skills. Work days and hours: Flexible schedule which may include weekend, holidays and nights. Pay range: $33,000-$35,000 Online application must be completed in order to be considered for this position. https://jobs.fau.edu/, reference position number 979543 Questions regarding the position can be directed to the hiring department, Harbor Branch, attention Cathy Rossmell crossmel at fau.edu Special Instructions to the Applicant: Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodation call 561-297-3057 (561-955-8771 TTY/TDD) Florida Atlantic University is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access Institution and is committed to the diversity of its workforce. Adam M. Schaefer, MPH Epidemiologist Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute at Florida Atlantic University 5600 US 1 North, Ft. Pierce, FL 34946 office: 772-242-2311 Ocean Science for a Better World -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From cdmacleod at gisinecology.com Tue Jan 20 10:55:37 2015 From: cdmacleod at gisinecology.com (Colin D. MacLeod) Date: Tue, 20 Jan 2015 18:55:37 -0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New Training Course: QGIS For Biologists, March 2015 Message-ID: <6252903493794C0292C83C34ABA0258D@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 30th and 31st of March 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. http://www.avast.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From nam.dolphin.edu at gmail.com Mon Jan 19 23:42:37 2015 From: nam.dolphin.edu at gmail.com (Namibian Dolphin Project) Date: Tue, 20 Jan 2015 09:42:37 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] Fwd: Namibian Dolphin Project Research Internship Opportunity In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: The Namibian Dolphin Project research internship is a once in a lifetime opportunity for students and enthusiasts to join dedicated scientists who are conducting marine research in a challenging, beautiful and remote environment. The Namibian Dolphin Project focuses its research along the desert coast of Namibia at Walvis Bay, within the highly productive Benguela upwelling system. As part of this program, interns are extremely important members of a focused and dedicated research team and will be immersed in pioneering research. This is an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to exciting marine research, as well as experience the frustrations, the highs, lows and achievements associated with ambitious marine research in Africa. Job Role: Intern activities include but are not limited to: ?Assisting in running research vessel (6m RIB) and research station ?Visual surveys to investigate dolphin distribution ?Above-water photo ID of cetaceans and photo processing for analysis ?Above water genetic sampling of dolphin and whale species* and basic processing of samples for storage ?Behavioural sampling of bottlenose dolphins ?Acoustic monitoring of bottlenose dolphin vocalisations ?Static acoustic monitoring of dolphins using CPOD?s to monitor presence and behaviour in key habitats *Actual taking of skin samples will be limited to NDP scientists, and interns will assist in the processing of samples Interns will be directly involved in the collection of photo identification, behavioural and acoustic data in the field, and will gain skills in photograph grading, data input, processing and analysis. Interns would be expected to attend any strandings that may occur. When not in the field interns will also be involved with the development of educational materials or working on a small research project of their choosing. Interns would primarily be assisting in data collection of Heaviside's (Cephalorhychus heavisidii) and bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae). Qualifications, knowledge & experience: A maximum of five interns will be accepted per month between March and August 2015. As such we limit applications to current students or recent graduates with a College or University degree (BSc or MSc) in biology or zoology. Personal skills and attributes: 1) Organised and conscientious 2) Enthusiastic, self-motivated and willing to get involved with all aspects of the research 3) Able to work as a member of the team or alone 4) Patient and flexible to changes Cost: USD 2100 per month Application: Prospective interns should send a letter of motivation and their CV/resume to nam.dolphin.edu at gmail.com to apply to the program. For further information, please visit our website: http://www.namibiandolphinproject.com/get-involved/volunteer-internship-program/ -- Namibian Dolphin Project www.namibiandolphinproject.com namibiandolphinproject.blogspot.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: NDP internship advert_final.pdf Type: application/pdf Size: 371294 bytes Desc: not available URL: From mithriel.mackay at gmail.com Mon Jan 19 12:45:48 2015 From: mithriel.mackay at gmail.com (Mithriel MacKay) Date: Mon, 19 Jan 2015 14:45:48 -0600 Subject: [MARMAM] Humpback Whale Field Intensive internship programs in Puerto Rico, USA Message-ID: Hi All, We still have a few spots left in the Humpback Whale Field Intensive internship programs to join our team in the field in Puerto Rico, USA. Please visit our website (www.Marine-Eco.org), Education Hub ( www.Marine-Eco.org) and Facebook page (www.Facebook.com/researchcenter) for details. Programs run for a week at a time and include vessel and land data collection (behavioral and acoustic), and data analysis using different software. The programs are effective skill builders and our main source of funding for the Humpback Whale Project so please distribute freely! No experience is necessary as the field intensive is designed for people looking to gain experience in cetacean behavioral ecology field research If your questions are not answered from one of our online sites, please fee free to email Mithriel at Marine-Eco.org. Cheers and thanks for helping to support our education and research programs. -- *}-wh^ale> **}-wh^ale> **}-wh^ale> **}-wh^ale> **}-wh^ale> * *}-wh^ale>* Mithriel M. MacKay Ph.D. Candidate Marine Mammal Research Program Department of Marine Biology Texas A&M University, Galveston (830) 688-9878 mithriel.mackay at gmail.com and 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 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From ehines at sfsu.edu Tue Jan 20 12:49:13 2015 From: ehines at sfsu.edu (Ellen M Hines) Date: Tue, 20 Jan 2015 20:49:13 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Abstract submissions opening FEB 1 for the 21st Biennial in San Francisco! Message-ID: <420FBCF28440F445AC7C05B401AD7952B3A79796@EMX43.ad.sfsu.edu> [cid:image001.png at 01D034AF.7D93E530] Abstract Submission to Open on February 1, 2015 by SMM We will begin accepting abstract submissions for workshops, oral, speed and poster presentations on February 1st, 2015 for the 21st Biennial Society for Marine Mammalogy Conference, to take place in San Francisco from December 13-18, 2015. The submission deadline is May 15th, 2015. Workshops will be held on December 12-13th. Early bird registration for the conference will open on April 6, 2015. We are bringing together an exciting group of plenary speakers and panels PLUS an unforgettable SMM birthday celebration to close the conference (the Society was founded in San Francisco 21 years ago). We are looking forward to receiving your abstract submissions and hope to see you in San Francisco in December! If you are interested in sponsorships, exhibiting or advertising in our program, please contact us. It?s gonna be great, Ellen Hines and Frances Gulland Conference Chairs Dan Costa and Sarah Allen Scientific Program Chairs Ellen Hines, PhD Associate Director & Professor of Geography Romberg Tiburon Center for Environmental Studies San Francisco State University 3152 Paradise Drive Tiburon, CA 94920 USA 1 415 338 3512 Fax: 1 415 338 6243 ehines at sfsu.edu http://rtc.sfsu.edu/research/in_hines.html -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 36724 bytes Desc: image001.png URL: From info at cbmwc.org Tue Jan 20 04:52:35 2015 From: info at cbmwc.org (CBMWC) Date: Tue, 20 Jan 2015 12:52:35 -0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Final call for bottlenose dolphin research volunteers at the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre Message-ID: <015501d034af$f692ee90$e3b8cbb0$@cbmwc.org> WTSWW_high_res_logoCBMWC logo without boarderCardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre New Quay Wales www.cbmwc.org Bottlenose dolphin research volunteers Dedicated to conserving Cardigan Bay?s marine wildlife through education and research The Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre (CBMWC) is recruiting volunteers for the 2015 season (March to November) to collect data on the marine wildlife of Cardigan Bay and to help run our visitor centre, educational and awareness raising activities. Applications close at midnight on Sunday 25th January. About CBMWC The Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre is based in New Quay, west Wales, UK and is the marine wing of the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales. Since 1996 we have been dedicated to raising awareness of the local marine environment through education and research. Using boat-based and land-based surveys, photo-ID and acoustic studies we monitor bottlenose dolphin, harbour porpoise and Atlantic grey seal populations in the Cardigan Bay Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and the wider Irish Sea. We also run a busy visitor centre as well as an education and activity room which offers marine educational and awareness raising activities for families with young children. Position description Seasonal volunteers are required for specific periods from 23rd March through to 2nd November 2015 to help with our ongoing research, education and awareness-raising programmes concerning the marine wildlife of Cardigan Bay. As CBMWC is run almost entirely by volunteers, this is a fantastic opportunity for you to make a positive contribution to marine wildlife conservation and meet new people who share your interests. You will learn about the species and habitats in Cardigan Bay, gain experience in field work, research methods, data processing, public awareness and education programmes. The data you collect will contribute to long running research studies on bottlenose dolphin site usage, abundance, photo-identification and acoustic studies. There may also be additional opportunities to gain experience in boat handling and seamanship skills. Responsibilities/duties will include (but are not limited to): ? Visitor centre operation, including dealing with enquiries and taking boat bookings ? Land-based surveys in conjunction with Ceredigion County Council ? Boat-based surveys* ? Educational and awareness raising activities with children and the general public ? Data entry and checking ? Updating daily sightings information ? Beach cleans ? Aquarium maintenance ? Cleaning and general upkeep of CBMWC premises * Boat surveys are weather dependent and volunteers take turns to join trips to act as onboard researcher. During times of bad weather, you will spend more time carrying out shore-based activities. Important: You may be expected to work up to 8 hours a day, six days a week. Some training and activities may take place outside of normal office hours. Field work can involve long periods outdoors and in inclement weather. All volunteers are expected to contribute to all CBMWC activities, tasks and field work and to attend all training sessions provided. Person specification: Essential skills ? Positive, reliable, responsible, conscientious and mature attitude ? Ability to work and live closely with others as part of a small team ? Strong work ethic with an ability to work unsupervised ? Adaptable and patient (particularly as boat work is weather dependent) ? Confident in dealing with the public both face to face and over the telephone ? Fluency in English ? Willing to ask for help if unsure and admit mistakes Desirable skills ? Interest and/or experience of working with children in environmental education ? Research and surveying experience ? IT skills, including Microsoft Office and GIS ? Interest and or/experience in salt water aquaria Please note that enthusiasm for our work and the marine environment is as valued as experience, since full training is provided. Student projects We welcome undergraduate and postgraduate students who require field work support ? including boat time and office space to conduct their research projects. Please note that we do not have a list of specific project ideas but if you have a project idea in mind, please contact us to discuss whether your ideas are feasible. Time commitment Volunteer positions are available from 23rd March until 2nd November 2015 for five separate blocks ranging from 4 to 9 weeks. You must be able to commit to an entire block and priority will be given to volunteers who are able to commit to more than one block. Applications are encouraged from volunteers who would like to join the team for the entire season and would like gain additional experience in photo-ID analysis, environmental education and volunteer training and coordination. Volunteers living locally who are available on a part-time basis are welcome year round and are greatly appreciated. 2015 volunteering dates ? Block A: 23/03/2015-19/04/2015 (4 weeks) ? Block B: 20/04/2015-17/05/2015 (4 weeks) ? Block C: 18/05/2015-05/07/2015 (7 weeks) ? Block D: 06/07/2015-06/09/2015 (9 weeks) ? Block E: 07/09/2015-02/11/2015 (8 weeks) Volunteer fee An administration fee of ?45 will be required from all successful applicants. Accommodation and expense arrangements Shared accommodation in a comfortable and fully equipped house will be arranged for successful volunteers (where required) at a cost of ?55 per week, including fuel bills. Volunteers are responsible for their own food, travel and accommodation costs. Due to payment arrangements with the house owners, accommodation costs are required in advance to cover the cost of each block so before applying please ensure that you can cover this and all other expenses. How to apply Download a seasonal volunteer application form from our website www.cbmwc.org/volunteer/ and email it along with a CV and covering letter (no more than one side of A4) outlining how you meet the personal specification and your motivations for applying to volunteer at cbmwc.org with ?Volunteer application 2015? in your subject line. Incomplete applications will not be assessed so please make sure you complete the form fully, including availability and be sure to attach your CV and covering letter. The closing date for applications is midnight on Sunday 25th January 2015 For further information Visit www.cbmwc.org/ If you have any questions please email volunteer at cbmwc.org with an appropriate subject line or call Laura on +44 (0)1545 560224. Laura Mears Project Officer Support our research - adopt a Cardigan Bay dolphin with the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre Raise money for CBMWC with each internet search you do - it doesn't cost you a penny http://sites.affilyon.co.uk/CBMWC Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre Patent Slip Building Glanmor Terrace New Quay Ceredigion SA45 9PS Wales, UK Ffon/Phone: 01545 560 224 E-bost/Email: info at cbmwc.org Website: www.cbmwc.org For all the latest news and sightings information, please visit our website, follow us on Twitter and become a fan of our Facebook page www.cbmwc.org http://twitter.com/CBMWC http://facebook.com/CBMWC Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre is supported by the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Group, a marine interest group of the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales. Helping to conserve Cardigan Bay's marine wildlife through education and research Helpu I warchod bywyd gwyllt morol Bae Ceredigion drwy addysg ac ymchwil ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------- The contents of this email are confidential and are soley for the use of the intended recipient. If you receive this email in error please delete it and notify us either by email or telephone. It is prohibited to copy, forward or otherwise disclose the contents of this email. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 273965 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image003.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 356201 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image005.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 4489 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image006.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 3860 bytes Desc: not available URL: From dfhunter at gmail.com Tue Jan 20 19:29:40 2015 From: dfhunter at gmail.com (David Hunter) Date: Tue, 20 Jan 2015 19:29:40 -0800 Subject: [MARMAM] Whale Interpretive Centre Hiring a Marine Interpreter / Educator Message-ID: *Marine Interpreter/Educator Job* *The Whale Interpretive Centre* *www.killerwhalecentre.org* *Project Description* The Whale Interpretive Centre (WIC) is an initiative of the Johnstone Strait Killer Whale Interpretive Centre Society (JSKWICS), a non-profit society. The Whale Interpretive Centre (WIC) was established in Telegraph Cove, BC in 2002 and is committed to marine mammal education and conservation. It aspires to be a 'world class' interpretive centre that inspires and involves the local community as well as many international visitors. The Whale Interpretive Centre is housed in a historical building on the boardwalk of Telegraph Cove and contains displays that feature the marine biodiversity of the local area, the importance of the Michael Bigg Ecological Reserve at Robson Bight, and marine conservation issues. The highlight of the museum is the articulated skeletons of marine and terrestrial mammals (killer whale, minke whale, Pacific white-sided dolphin, harbour seal, pygmy sperm whale, sea otter, river otter and Steller sea lion etc), including a 20m fin whale that is suspended from the ceiling of the building. The museum is open from May through October each year. Staff deliver a variety of educational programs and provide interpretation to the visitors. Structured school programs that focus on marine interconnectedness, adaptations, and marine mammal biology are offered during May, June and September. Specialty tours, evening lectures and special events are also offered throughout the season. The WIC is perfectly situated to reach a large audience, as Telegraph Cove is the main launching point for kayak expeditions, whale watching tours, and is a popular day trip for many north island locals. *Interpreter Job Description* Interpreters are front-line staff at the WIC, providing engaging education to visitors about marine mammals and marine conservation. Their duties include: - Meet and greet local and international visitors - Deliver one-on-one interpretation of displays to visitors - Provide structured presentations and tours to highly diverse audiences from around the world (groups of 30+) - Maintain museum, displays and salt water aquarium - Deliver programs to school groups (K-Grade 12) - Clean and articulate skeletons (as needed) - Facilitate evening events, lectures etc (as needed) - Update websites and social media (Facebook, Twitter) for up to 2 hours a week - Special projects and duties as required *Successful Candidates:* - Are easily approachable, welcoming, and have excellent interpersonal skills - Are comfortable speaking to large groups - Are driven to deliver environmental education - Are practical, resourceful and self-motivated workers - Work well in a goal-oriented team environment - Possess knowledge of marine mammal biology and a strong conservation ethic - Are willing and able to participate in menial labour when required - Can tolerate cold, damp working conditions A second language is an asset, as is formal training in interpretation or environmental education. *** Candidates must be available from May 1 to September 30, 2015 *** *Realities* - Nearest town with accommodation is in the community of Port McNeill ? *own vehicle is a necessity*. - The WIC is an un-insulated building above the water and is often drafty and cold. - Physical and, at times, dirty work in addition to the academic. - Need for great independence and initiative. - Repetitive nature of interpretive tours. - Invaluable "hands-on" learning potential and the opportunity to contribute to marine education. - Spectacular location and opportunities to experience beautiful northern Vancouver Island. PLEASE NOTE: This is not a research position *Salary:* Starting Salary: $15/hour, dependent on qualifications and experience. *Application Procedure* Please submit your cover letter, resume and 3 references (2 of which must be work references) to Mary Borrowman by *Friday,* *February 20th, 2015*. Please be sure to indicate period of availability*.* Preferred that candidates apply via email. *We thank all those who apply but only successful applicants will be contacted for an interview.* *Contact Information:* Mary Borrowman JSKWICS - Whale Interpretive Centre P.O. Box 2-3 Telegraph Cove, B.C. V0N 3J0 society at killerwhalecentre.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From akkayaaylin at yahoo.com Wed Jan 21 05:53:57 2015 From: akkayaaylin at yahoo.com (aylin akkaya) Date: Wed, 21 Jan 2015 13:53:57 +0000 (UTC) Subject: [MARMAM] Research Volunteers are Needed for the Cetacean Fauna Study in Antalya Bay, Turkey Message-ID: <1429397745.4488528.1421848437439.JavaMail.yahoo@jws10633.mail.bf1.yahoo.com> Doyou what to be a part of ground breaking research we have a perfect positionfor you. ? The Project: Weare a new NGO in the Turkish Mediterranean Coast, Marine Mammals Research Association(Deniz Memelileri Ara?t?rma Derne?i (DMAD)) is aimed at studying cetaceanbiodiversity of the Antalya Bay by gathering data on the fauna description,distribution and habitats.?So far, 9 cetacean species were recorded,included bottlenose dolphins, striped dolphins, common dolphins, Risso'sdolphins, Cuvier's beaked whale and even in some rare occasions whales such asthe fin whale and sperm whale.? Despite this large biodiversity there haven?tbeen many studies on this region so there is a big gap on the data available.Therefore, the project aims to fulfill the gaps of missing long-term studies inthe area by collecting data on cetacean fauna.?This project provides anexcellent opportunity for students and individuals interested in getting moreexperience and knowledge in the field of marine mammal research. ? Duties and Opportunities Weare looking for volunteers for position of Assistant researcher for the nextsurvey season. The Assistant researchers will be responsible for: (1)Collecting sighting and behavioral data, (2) Organizing photo-ID and (3)entering data.? Asa researcher you will have access to intensive training and mentoring:? (1) in?marine mammals biodiversity, (2)photo-ID, (3) statistics and (4) GIS. You will also get hands on experience inmarine mammal id, boat based and land based observation, marine mammalbehavior, etc. There will be opportunities for longer boat based observationsaboard vessels; these may take two or three days at the time whenever they areavailable. Asa Research Assistant you should expect long working days in the field (from 6to 12 hours per day), and expect to wake up very early (around?4:30 a.m.).The work will be carried under adverse weathers conditions. The typical week isdivided in 3 days of fieldwork 2 days of office work and 2 days for you toenjoy the lovely Turkish Riviera and the city of Antalya.? ? Conditions Assistantresearcher have to be able to live and work with others in a multi culturalteam, have a strong desire to work with marine mammals under any weatherconditions and maintain a professional and hardworking attitude. Thepositions are unpaid and request a contribution from the participants. As anewly formed NGO, the DMAD is a self-funded center and as such it stillrequires a contribution from the assistant researcher in order to fullyfunction. This will be a contribution of 500Euro per month and it coversaccommodation (food cost will be at each responsibility, although this is a lowexpense and should be around 80$ month or less), your contribution will alsoaid in renting the vessels and renting equipment.? Plussuccessful applicants will be responsible for their own transportation to andfrom Antalya-Turkey. Positionsfor this season are open starting in March-2015. The minimum commitment time is1 month but longer times have priority. Applicants should send a short email introducingthemselves to?akkayaaylin at yahoo.com.?The email should include an outline of why you would like to work on thisproject. Please also attach a brief CV.?There is no deadline to apply.However, approved applications are accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. Cheers,Aylin Akkaya Bas ? ? ? -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From cheng-hsiu.tsai at otago.ac.nz Wed Jan 21 07:12:02 2015 From: cheng-hsiu.tsai at otago.ac.nz (Cheng-Hsiu Tsai) Date: Wed, 21 Jan 2015 15:12:02 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication - Tsai and Fordyce 2015 ADR in Mysticeti Caperea and Miocaperea Message-ID: <519DFDBD-E208-4F66-B916-607D2C87C802@otago.ac.nz> Dear colleagues We are pleased to announce a new article: Cheng-Hsiu Tsai and R. Ewan Fordyce 2015 Ancestor-descendant relationships in evolution: origin of the extant pygmy right whale, Caperea marginata. Biology Letters doi: 10.1098/rsbl.2014.0875 http://rsbl.royalsocietypublishing.org/content/11/1/20140875 Abstract Ancestor?descendant relationships (ADRs), involving descent with modification, are the fundamental concept in evolution, but are usually difficult to recognize. We examined the cladistic relationship between the only reported fossil pygmy right whale, ?Miocaperea pulchra, and its sole living relative, the enigmatic pygmy right whale Caperea marginata, the latter represented by both adult and juvenile specimens. ?Miocaperea is phylogenetically bracketed between juvenile and adult Caperea marginata in morphologically based analyses, thus suggesting a possible ADR?the first so far identified within baleen whales (Cetacea: Mysticeti). The ?Miocaperea?Caperea lineage may show long-term morphological stasis and, in turn, punctuated equilibrium. Available at http://rsbl.royalsocietypublishing.org/content/11/1/20140875 or email Tsai: cheng-hsiu.tsai at otago.ac.nz; craniata at gmail.com Regards and all the best, Tsai Cheng-Hsiu Tsai ????) PhD student, Department of Geology, University of Otago 360 Leith Walk (Courier) or PO Box 56 (Postal) Dunedin 9054, New Zealand Email: cheng-hsiu.tsai at otago.ac.nz; craniata at gmail.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From njaratiana.rabearisoa at gmail.com Thu Jan 22 03:11:32 2015 From: njaratiana.rabearisoa at gmail.com (Njaratiana Rabearisoa) Date: Thu, 22 Jan 2015 12:11:32 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] New paper - Toothed whale depredation mitigation device Message-ID: <54C0DAE4.8090702@gmail.com> Dear all, We are pleased to announce the publication of the following article in the ICES Journal of Marine Science: Rabearisoa, N., Bach, P., and Marsac, F. 2015. Assessing interactions between dolphins and small pelagic fish on branchline to design a depredation mitigation device in pelagic longline fisheries. ICES Journal of Marine Science. doi:10.1093/icesjms/fsu252 **Abstract* * Depredation by false killer whales (/Pseudorca crassidens/) and short-finned pilot whales (/Globicephala macrorhynchus/) in pelagic longlining is an issue leading to negative impacts on the economics of the fishery and on odontocetes themselves. We investigated the efficacy of a new depredation mitigation device called "DEPRED" in the interaction between bottlenose dolphins (/Tursiops aduncus/), spinner dolphins (/Stenella longirostris/), and small pelagic fish (SPF) attached to branchlines to simulate caught fish. We suggest implications for DEPRED efficacy with larger toothed whales interacting with pelagic longline capture in the open ocean. The design of the device uses streamers to both deter cetaceans and protect fish from predation. In controlled experiments, we tested its efficacy by observing changes in the dolphin's behaviour brought on by the presence or absence of the device on branchlines. First, dolphin--SPF interactions were observed at the small scale using video footage recorded with an underwater camcorder. Second, the efficacy of the device was quantified from interactions between dolphins and 80 branchlines deployed on a longline 500 m long baited with SPF. One half of the SPF on successive branchlines was protected by DEPRED and the other half was not. A total of 707 branchlines were set when dolphins interacted with SPF, and among them, 355 were equipped with DEPRED. Encouraging results were obtained: over the short term, the number of damaged unprotected SPF was on average more than twice the number of protected ones. Nevertheless, habituation behaviour was observed for a resident group of /T. aduncus/ in the experimental area. The relation between the deterrent effect of the device and constraints related to the design of such a device to be used at a commercial operational level are discussed. The early version of the paper is available from: http://icesjms.oxfordjournals.org/content/early/2015/01/21/icesjms.fsu252.full?keytype=ref&ijkey=P6zv6zr4jaYVP2z If you have any trouble to download the article, please contact me at njaratiana.rabearisoa at gmail.com and I would be happy to send you a pdf copy. All the best, Njaratiana -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From stefanie.gazda at gmail.com Thu Jan 22 08:00:33 2015 From: stefanie.gazda at gmail.com (Stefanie Gazda) Date: Thu, 22 Jan 2015 11:00:33 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Field Assistant(s) Opportunity, May/June 2015 Message-ID: Field Assistant Opportunity: 1 to 2 field assistants are needed for fieldwork for a PhD candidate from the University of Massachusetts in dolphin feeding behavior. The field season will be focused on preliminary data-gathering and scouting of the area for a larger, more formal field season in the future. It will run for 4 weeks, from about May 25th through June 20th. Research will take place in Crystal River and Cedar Key, Florida, 3 hours north of Tampa and 60 miles west of Gainesville. Assistants will be expected to work on a boat 6 to 7 days per week, for up to 10 hours at a time. Typical weather conditions in summer include 95 degree heat, very high humidity, and no breezes. Prior experience working on dolphins and habitats is preferred but not required. Those with no experience should demonstrate their willingness to learn. This is not a paid position. Assistants will have the option to obtain their own housing and food at the research site. Housing may be available with the PI, in this case assistants may be asked to contribute $75 per month towards food. More details are available. Assistants will be responsible for arranging their own transportation to Florida, but once in the field they will not need their own car. Applicants must be able to stay for the duration of the season. Please send an email of inquiry to stefanie.gazda at gmail.com with the subject line as "Field assistants for 2015". A more in depth description of the position and its requirements will be emailed out--at that time candidates who are still interested should email their CV and informative cover letter to the above email address. -Stefanie Gazda -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From hr at alaskasealife.org Wed Jan 21 12:26:56 2015 From: hr at alaskasealife.org (Human Resources) Date: Wed, 21 Jan 2015 11:26:56 -0900 Subject: [MARMAM] Job Announcement Message-ID: *The Alaska SeaLife Center, which generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska's marine ecosystems; is seeking applications for the following:* * Science Director* *This position is responsible for the overall Alaska SeaLife Center science program. * *Education and Experience Requirements**: *Ph.D. degree in marine biology, zoology, wildlife biology or a related research field. Fifteen years professional research experience in a related field, including project budgeting and management, with ten years at a supervisory level or the equivalent. *Responsibilities (include but are not limited to):* 1. Leads the development and coordination of new research directions at the Center involving Center staff, University scientists and scientists with external affiliations. 2. Supports Science staff in expanding competitive grant programs and strengthening scientific productivity. 3. Develops and implements strategic Science plans for the Center. 4. Serves as administrative lead for the Science Advisory Committee (SAC). 5. Makes recommendations to the Center?s President and CEO, SAC and the Board of Directors regarding overall scientific direction and opportunities for enhancing the Center?s scientific program. 6. Works collaboratively with the Education Director to integrate Science and Education programs. 7. Supervises personnel matters within the Science Department. Assigns and checks work, establishes schedules, sets deadlines, and delegates authority. Sets performance standards for staff. Prepares annual performance evaluations. Makes personnel related recommendations to the President and CEO. 8. May develop a personal research program at the Center in addition to his/her department leadership responsibilities. This is a half-time position; development of an externally funded personal research program could result in a full-time position. ASLC offers a competitive wage (DOE) and benefits package. *Open until filled:* Reviews to begin February 20, 2015 *Start Date:* Negotiable Send application (downloadable at www.alaskasealife.org), CV and a writing sample intended for a public audience to HR at alaskasealife.org. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. *EO/AA Employer* Human Resources Alaska SeaLife Center Fax: (907) 224-6360 P.O. Box 1329 ? 301 Railway Ave ? Seward, AK 99664 www.alaskasealife.org [image: https://fbcdn-profile-a.akamaihd.net/hprofile-ak-xfa1/v/t1.0-1/p160x160/1012297_10151458315326471_1952750349_n.jpg?oh=9a79982995a49b9042b223c6dff8c7ad&oe=54B7F034&__gda__=1422259735_efdb3b35eab441be43a5ac06b6263754] [image: https://cdn3.iconfinder.com/data/icons/free-social-icons/67/facebook_circle_color-20.png] [image: https://cdn3.iconfinder.com/data/icons/free-social-icons/67/twitter_circle_color-20.png] [image: https://cdn3.iconfinder.com/data/icons/free-social-icons/67/instagram_circle_color-20.png] [image: https://cdn3.iconfinder.com/data/icons/free-social-icons/67/youtube_circle_color-20.png] [image: https://cdn3.iconfinder.com/data/icons/free-social-icons/67/linkedin_circle_color-20.png] -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From lizabeth.kashinsky at noaa.gov Wed Jan 21 16:31:11 2015 From: lizabeth.kashinsky at noaa.gov (Lizabeth Kashinsky - NOAA Affiliate) Date: Wed, 21 Jan 2015 14:31:11 -1000 Subject: [MARMAM] CLOSING DATE January 23, 2015 for Hawaiian Monk Seal Research Program Summer Field Camp positions Message-ID: The Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research (JIMAR) works with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center through a cooperative agreement with the University of Hawaii to conduct research and recovery activities on Hawaiian monk seals. JIMAR hires program staff through the Research Corporation of the University of Hawaii (RCUH) and is currently seeking applicants for Biological Research Technicians and Biological Research Assistants for the 2015 field research season. Selected individuals will study the endangered Hawaiian monk seal in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. This work is part of a long-term annual Hawaiian monk seal population monitoring and conservation program by NMFS and includes: conducting trend counts; tagging seals; identifying individual seals by tags, scars, natural markings, and applied bleach marks; monitoring reproduction, survival, injuries, entanglements, migration, performing necropsies; collecting scat & spew samples for food habitat, parasite load, and hormonal analysis; collecting tissue samples for DNA analysis; collecting & removing debris capable of entangling seals and other wildlife. Behavior data are also collected at some sites. Researchers at some sites may participate in shark mitigation activities. General information about the program can be found at: http://www.pifsc.noaa.gov/hawaiian_monk_seal/ The number of positions and/or continuation of the program are subject to funding. These positions will be for all or a subset of the 6 major monk seal sub-populations in the NWHI. Fieldwork is accomplished by 2-4 member teams in remote camps. Researchers live in either wall tents or buildings at the various sites. All sites are accessible by ship (2-8 day travel; 830-2,300 km from Honolulu), and one is accessible by plane. Few (if any) supply opportunities exist and outside communication is limited. The employment period will include about 2 weeks of training and packing in Honolulu. Once the field season is over, an additional 1-2 weeks of employment will take place in Honolulu to clean up gear and summarize data. Dates are subject to change, but the positions are tentatively scheduled to start in late April with a field deployment date in mid to late May. Field staff will be deployed approximately 4.5 months with a tentative return date in late September. The employment end dates are tentatively scheduled for early to mid October. Travel to and from Honolulu and food, lodging, and transportation in Honolulu before deployment are not provided. Transportation between Honolulu and field sites and food and lodging in the field are provided. Due to unforeseen circumstances, departure delays could result in longer periods in Honolulu that may result in additional uncompensated living expenses. Applicants must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident Alien, and must be able to meet both the U.S. Department of Commerce and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) security requirements to access the work location, and also the health requirements to board a NOAA vessel. Instructions to apply for both positions are in the job postings below. Please clearly address all qualifications in your cover letter. JIMAR PIFSC BIOLOGICAL RESEARCH TECHNICIAN ? ID# 14691. Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research. (6) Regular, Full- Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST), Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research (JIMAR), located at the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), Pacific Islands Regional Office (PIFSC) in Honolulu, Hawaii. Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws. MINIMUM MONTHLY SALARY: $1,871/Mon. DUTIES: Performs daily maintenance and operation of field camp in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands or on remote shorelines in the main Hawaiian Islands. Collects census and life history data on Hawaiian monk seals. Conducts boating operations at multiple-island atolls. Required to lead other field personnel. Responsible for returning and storing all field equipment and supplies at the end of field season. Collaborates with scientists within NMFS to conduct and analyze field studies on the Hawaiian monk seal. PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION/TRAINING: Associate's Degree from an accredited community college in Marine Biology, Biology, Fisheries Oceanography, or other related field. EXPERIENCE: One to three (1-3) years of field experience, including experience working within small groups in remote settings. Experience conducting research on Hawaiian monk seals. Experience handling monk seals. ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS: Working knowledge of personal computers including use of word processing, spreadsheets, and databases. Must be able to meet and maintain United States Department of Commerce (DOC) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) security requirements to access work location. Must be a US Citizen or Permanent Resident Alien. Good communications skills (both written and oral). Leadership and decision-making skills. Ability to perform data entry. For positions requiring travel between multiple-island atolls, must be NOAA certified for small boat operations (having completed Motorboat Operators Certification Course (MOCC) and NOAA small boat component training). Post Offer/Employment Conditions: Must be able to meet and maintain US Department of Commerce (DOC), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) security requirements for working in a federal facility, which includes being fingerprinted and having a federal background check performed prior to date of hire and maintained throughout duration of employment. Must be able to pass pre-deployment training requirements including field medical training before being deployed to remote island. PHYSICAL/MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS: Ability to swim. Ability to work in remote locations for extended periods of time. Must be able to work long hours in the sun. Must be able to walk long distances (up to seven (7) miles) in the sand carrying up to twenty-five to thirty-five (25-35) pounds of field gear unassisted. Must be able to obtain and maintain medical clearance for working on NOAA research vessels or other appropriate vessels, which includes providing proof of required immunizations and/or obtaining the necessary immunizations as required by NOAA Marine and Aviation Operations. POLICY AND/OR REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS: As a condition of employment, employee will be subject to all applicable RCUH policies and procedures and, as applicable, subject to University of Hawaii's and/or business entity's policies and procedures. Violation of RCUH's, UH's, or business entity's policies and/or procedures or applicable State or Federal laws and/or regulations may lead to disciplinary action (including, but not limited to possible termination of employment, personal fines, civil and/or criminal penalties, etc.). SECONDARY QUALIFICATIONS: Prior field experience in a Hawaiian monk seal field camp. Previous experience in field or laboratory studies of marine mammals, previous experience handling marine mammals, previous data entry experience. Prefer applicants interested in pursuing career in marine mammology or related field. Ability to perform basic data analysis. For positions requiring travel between multiple-island atolls, possess the ability to conduct routine maintenance on small boats. INQUIRIES: Nicole Wakazuru-Yoza 956-5018 (Oahu). APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: Please go to www.rcuh.com, click on ?Employment?; select ?Apply? and navigate to ?See Job Announcements and/or Apply for a Job.? You must submit the following documents online to be considered for the position: 1) Cover Letter, 2) Resume, 3) Salary History, 4) Supervisory References, 5) Copy of Degree(s)/Transcript(s)/Certificate(s). All online applications must be submitted/received by the closing date (11:59 P.M. Hawaii Standard Time/RCUH receipt time) as stated on the job posting. If you do not have access to our system and the closing date is imminent, you may send additional documents to rcuhhr at rcuh.com. If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call (808) 956-8344. CLOSING DATE: January 23, 2015. EEO/AA Employer. JIMAR PIFSC BIOLOGICAL RESEARCH ASSISTANT ? ID# 14690. Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research. (10) Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST), Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research (JIMAR), located at the National Marine Fisheries (NMFS), Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center (PIFSC) in Honolulu, Hawaii. Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws. MINIMUM MONTHLY SALARY: $1,730/Mon. DUTIES: Under guidance of field camp leader and/or NMFS personnel, assists in camp preparations, daily maintenance and operation of field camp, and collection of census and life history data on Hawaiian monk seals in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands or on remote shorelines in the main Hawaiian Islands. Conducts boating operations at multiple-island atolls. Assists with return, repair, and clean-up of field equipment and supplies at the end of camp and with the processing of field data. PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION/TRAINING: High School Diploma or G.E.D. equivalent. EXPERIENCE: One to three (1-3) years of field experience, including experience working within small groups in remote settings. Experience with handling of wildlife. ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS: Working knowledge of personal computers including use of word processing, spreadsheets, and databases. Must be able to meet and maintain United States Department of Commerce (DOC) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) security requirements to access work location. Must be a US Citizen or Permanent Resident Alien. Good communication and team skills. Ability to perform data entry. For positions requiring travel between multiple-island atolls, must be NOAA certified for small boat operations (having completed Motorboat Operators Certification Course (MOCC) and NOAA small boat component training). Post Offer/Employment Conditions: Must be able to meet and maintain US Department of Commerce (DOC), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) security requirements for working in a federal facility, which includes being fingerprinted and having a federal background check performed prior to date of hire and maintained throughout duration of employment. Must be able to pass pre-deployment training requirements including field medical training before being deployed to remote islands. PHYSICAL/MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS: Ability to swim. Ability to work in remote locations for extended periods of time. Must be able to work long hours in the sun. Must be able to walk long distances (up to seven (7) miles) in the sand carrying up to twenty-five to thirty-five (25-35) pounds of field gear unassisted. Must be able to manually restrain immature seals (up to two hundred (200) pounds assisted). Must be able to obtain and maintain medical clearance to work on NOAA research vessels or other appropriate vessels, which includes providing proof of required immunizations and/or obtaining the necessary immunizations as required by NOAA Marine and Aviation Operations. POLICY AND/OR REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS: As a condition of employment, employee will be subject to all applicable RCUH policies and procedures and, as applicable, subject to University of Hawaii's and/or business entity's policies and procedures. Violation of RCUH's, UH's, or business entity's policies and/or procedures or applicable State or Federal laws and/or regulations may lead to disciplinary action (including, but not limited to possible termination of employment, personal fines, civil and/or criminal penalties, etc.). SECONDARY QUALIFICATIONS: Prior field experience in a Hawaiian monk seal field camp. Previous experience in field or laboratory studies of marine mammals, previous experience handling marine mammals, previous data entry experience. Prefer applicants interested in pursuing career in marine mammology or related field. For positions requiring travel between multiple-island atolls, possess prior experience operating small boats and/or the ability to conduct routine maintenance on small boats. INQUIRIES: Nicole Wakazuru-Yoza 956-5018 (Oahu). APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: Please go to www.rcuh.com, click on ?Employment?; select ?Apply? and navigate to ?See Job Announcements and/or Apply for a Job.? You must submit the following documents online to be considered for the position: 1) Cover Letter, 2) Resume, 3) Salary History, 4) Supervisory References, 5) Copy of Degree(s)/Transcript(s)/Certificate(s). All online applications must be submitted/received by the closing date (11:59 P.M. Hawaii Standard Time/RCUH receipt time) as stated on the job posting. If you do not have access to our system and the closing date is imminent, you may send additional documents to rcuhhr at rcuh.com. If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call (808)956-8344. CLOSING DATE: January 23, 2015. EEO/AA Employer. -- Lizabeth Kashinsky JIMAR/Veterinary Program Senior Supervisor Hawaiian Monk Seal Research Program NOAA IRC NMFS/PIFSC/PSD 1845 WASP Blvd., Building 176 Honolulu, HI 96818 Ph: (808) 725-5719 Fax: (808) 725-5567 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From kmchugh at mote.org Thu Jan 22 10:01:58 2015 From: kmchugh at mote.org (Katie McHugh) Date: Thu, 22 Jan 2015 13:01:58 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Sarasota Dolphin Research Program Internships - Summer 2015 Message-ID: <54C13B16.7050706@mote.org> *Sarasota Dolphin Research Program Internships* 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. */Additional Summer 2015 Opportunity:/**Use of overhead imaging for bottlenose dolphin body condition and health assessment.*(/JUN-AUG 2015 ONLY/).The body or nutritional condition of dolphins can significantly affect survival and reproductive success. In addition, it can be a sensitive indicator of prey abundance and individual feeding success, as well as the presence of disease. This study is developing an aerial photogrammetric technique for non-invasively assessing the body condition and overall health of dolphins.This field project will involve collection of vertical aerial photographs of Sarasota Bay bottlenose dolphins using a novel overhead imaging system that will be deployed from a small boat. Duties in the field will include assisting with boat-based photographic identification of bottlenose dolphins and the collection of vertical aerial photographs of dolphins. Behavioral, location, individual, and environmental data will also be recorded for each dolphin group.While in the lab, work will generally involve photo-identification of dolphins, computer data entry, analysis of aerial images using Adobe Photoshop, literature searches, equipment maintenance, and other duties.Interns should expect to spend the majority of their time in the field when weather permits./Note: Interns selected for this opportunity will spend most of their time devoted to this specific project rather than the general SDRP projects described above, under the supervision of Duke University PhD student Rachel Cassoff, DVM. / // Additional desired qualifications for the overhead imaging for body condition project: * Experience with Adobe Photoshop; * Completion of a boating safety course; * Prior experience operating a small boat in coastal waters is highly desired; * Prior cetacean photo-identification experience is desired. ** ** *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. *Summer 2015 applicants please also indicate if you have a strong preference between our general internship opportunity (dolphin population monitoring and prey sampling) and the overhead imaging for body condition project*/. / // 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 jgoldbogen at gmail.com Thu Jan 22 12:13:02 2015 From: jgoldbogen at gmail.com (Jeremy Goldbogen) Date: Thu, 22 Jan 2015 12:13:02 -0800 Subject: [MARMAM] Whale breaching: pictures and video sequences wanted Message-ID: Dear MARMAM, We are seeking video footage and pictures of large whale breaching events. We are currently studying the mechanics of breaching using animal-attached movement tags, but we are interested in complementing these data with a large number of pictures and a few exemplar video sequences of breaches (as defined by Whitehead, 1985) to determine the maximum proportion of the body that exits the water for different species. We are especially interested in pictures of breaches from larger species that exhibit this behavior less often (i.e. other than humpbacks), including large beaked whales, large baleen whales, and sperm whales. All contributors will be acknowledged and extensive contributors have the potential of joining as co-author on a future manuscript if there is also an intellectual contribution. Thanks, -- Jeremy Goldbogen Assistant Professor, Hopkins Marine Station Department of Biology, Stanford University 120 Ocean View Boulevard Pacific Grove, California 93950 jergold at stanford.edu http://goldbogen.stanford.edu/ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From marinebrit at gmail.com Fri Jan 23 07:41:07 2015 From: marinebrit at gmail.com (Andrew Wright) Date: Fri, 23 Jan 2015 10:41:07 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Final call for nominations for the ECS Conservation Award Message-ID: Dear Colleagues, Apologies for cross-posting. This is the final call for nominations for the ECS Mandy McMath Conservation Award, which will be given for the fifth time during the 29th ECS conference in St. Julian?s, Malta (23rd-25th March, 2015). The award is for an outstanding contribution to the field of marine mammal conservation and/or welfare, with particular emphasis on contributions to environmental education and/or to conservation in practice (e.g. leading to improved legislation or management). This award is particularly noteworthy this year given the inclusion of policy-related presentations in line with the theme of the conference. The award will be judged on the basis of a proposal made using the format given below and related material as described. It will be decided upon by consensus, or a majority vote of the ECS Conservation Award Committee. The winner of the award will be announced during the ECS Conference. Self-nominations are strongly discouraged. The Committee reserves the right not to present the award if no appropriate nominations are received. The ECS Award Committee comprises: Andrew Wright (Chair) Aviad Scheinin Thierry Jauniaux Hanna Nuuttila Ayaka ?zt?rk Mark Simmonds Simon Berrow Nominations should conform to the following format: Name(s) of person(s)/institution/body nominated for award Address and contact details Description of the work/body of work proposed for the award (maximum length of proposal 250 words) Note that the award can be given for a single conservation-education tool (such as a book or for an entire body of work - i.e. a series of linked contributions) in the sphere of education relating to marine mammal conservation and or welfare. Full references for the material identified above and any relevant web-links. Name of nominator(s) Address and contact details The nomination, and any supporting material if deemed necessary, should be sent to the Chair of the Award Committee by 27th February, 2015. Andrew J. Wright, Ph.D. ECS Conservation Award Chair Email: marinebrit at gmail.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From doug.nowacek at duke.edu Thu Jan 22 11:33:40 2015 From: doug.nowacek at duke.edu (Douglas Nowacek, Ph.D.) Date: Thu, 22 Jan 2015 19:33:40 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Marine Conservation Summer Institute - Duke Marine Lab Message-ID: Application Window Open: Duke University 2015 MARINE CONSERVATION SUMMER INSTITUTE: Science, Policy and Ethics of Marine Conservation 6 July through 7 August 2015 Marine Laboratory Campus Nicholas School of the Environment Beaufort, NC 2015 Themes ? Human Dimensions and the Marine Environment ? Coastal Aquaculture and Conservation ? Ocean Energy and Sustainability ? Invasive Species ? Sea Turtle & Marine Mammal Conservation & US Oceans Law Duke Faculty Instructors Dr. Doug Nowacek, Conservation Technology (Institute Director) Dr. Xavier Basurto, Sustainability & Ocean Governance Dr. James Morris, NOAA, Marine Ecology Dr. Andy Read, Conservation Biology, Marine Vertebrates Mr. Steve Roady, Environmental Law Distinguished Guest Lecturer: Dr. Joao Ferreira, Marine Aquaculture The Marine Conservation Summer Institute (MCSI) is an intensive 5-week program that uses a trans-disciplinary approach to engage students and professionals in global marine conservation topics. The institute immerses students in the world of marine conservation biology and policy, giving them a set of fundamental tools for addressing and understanding issues of conserving marine biodiversity in the context of 21st Century society. The Institute is set in the vibrant educational and research setting of the Duke University Marine Laboratory in Beaufort, North Carolina. The institute is open to advanced undergraduates, graduates, environmental professionals, and international practitioners. The 2014 MCSI hosted 32 participants from 21 countries; we expect similar representation in 2015. Advanced Registration is open and will remain open until the course is filled, but space is limited. The five-week course consists of one introductory week covering the basics of natural and social science as they relate to marine conservation, followed by three intensive week-long modules led by experts and consisting of plenary lectures, discussions, field trips, and other activities. During week 5, participants will synthesize products (e.g., by building story maps) that become legacy resources of the Institute. MCSI focuses on hands-on, team-based, experiential learning with meaningful faculty-student engagement that are hallmarks of the educational environment at the Marine Laboratory. Students will be in the field and at the discussion table, learning from the faculty and from one another. Eligibility Open to national and international practitioners, graduate students, advanced undergraduates. Duke Credits 7 credits (2 course equivalents) Fees Tuition: $7,210 Room & Board: $2,414 Duke Fees: $180.75* * International students will incur additional fees for passports, visas, and health insurance. MCSI Global Fellowships The Marine Conservation Summer Institute supports a global network of marine conservation leaders through the Global Fellows program. A limited number of Global Fellowships are available for international applicants, contingent on available funds. Fellowships cover travel expenses, room and board, tuition, and fees for the Marine Conservation Summer Institute. The fellowship application deadline is 1 February 2015. For additional information about the Global Fellowships and application instructions, please visit our website: http://nicholas.duke.edu/marinelab/global-fellowships-marine-conservation Questions? Contact mcsi at duke.edu www.nicholas.duke.edu/marinelab/programs/mcsi Douglas P. Nowacek, Ph.D. Repass-Rodgers Chair of Marine Conservation Technology Nicholas School of the Environment & Pratt School of Engineering Duke University Marine Laboratory 135 Duke Marine Lab Rd. Beaufort, NC 28516 http://superpod.ml.duke.edu http://oceanography.ml.duke.edu -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From nina.thompson at ufl.edu Fri Jan 23 09:59:16 2015 From: nina.thompson at ufl.edu (Thompson,Nina) Date: Fri, 23 Jan 2015 17:59:16 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Fifth Florida Marine Mammal Health Conference Message-ID: <73876dd173b544aa9b193d92fd017531@AHC-EXCH07.ad.ufl.edu> Please post this announcement. The University of Florida's Aquatic Animal health Program is pleased and excited to invite you to join us for the 2015 Aquatic Ecosystem Health conference consisting of two back-to-back meeting: the Fifth Florida Marine Mammal Health Conference, June 2-4 2015 directly following the Third International Symposium on Ranaviruses May 30-June 1 in Gainesville, Florida. The focus of the Fifth Marine Mammal Health Conference will be to discuss how Florida faces the same global challenges affecting aquatic ecosystems worldwide including development pressure, resource depletion, water quality deterioration, chemical contamination, biotoxin imbalance, trophic level disruption and an increasing number of marine animal mortality events. The Fifth Florida Marine Mammal Health Conference will bring together scientists, veterinarians, policy makers and students from throughout Florida to discuss environmental factors and their interrelationships with marine animal health, including: *Ecosystem health assessments and monitoring *Infectious diseases *Anthropogenic health stressors *Molecular techniques and immunology *Reproductive health *Conservation solutions * Role of government in ecosystem health In addition to oral presentations by experts and students, there will be Keynote addresses by Dr. Jan Landsberg (Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission) and Dr. John Reynolds (Mote Marine Laboratory), a panel discussion, and a poster session. The conference will be held at the Hilton University of Florida Conference Center and there will also be a social networking event held at the Florida Museum of Natural History (http://www.flmnh.ufl.edu/). We encourage all individuals with an interest in ecosystem health, wildlife diseases and marine mammal health to attend both meetings (http://conference.ifas.ufl.edu/aeh/). Abstract submissions are due February 25, 2015. More information and instructions for abstract submission can be found on the conference website: (http://conference.ifas.ufl.edu/aeh/marinemammal). In order to ensure that interested students and researchers are able to participate, we are seeking support and donations to help defer the travel costs of invited speakers, provide travel grants to students and research associates, as well as cover other expenses including program printing, rental fees, refreshments, light snacks, and lunches. If you are interested in being a sponsor for the Aquatic Ecosystem Health Conference or know someone who may, please visit our website for more information (http://conference.ifas.ufl.edu/aeh/marinemammal/sponsor_ops.html). We hope to see you in Gainesville! Fifth Florida Marine Mammal Health Conference Organizing Committee Mike Walsh, Thomas Waltzek, Martine deWit, Iske Larkin, Craig Pelton, Roger Reep, John Reynolds, Nicole Stacy, and Jim Wellehan -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From MLynott at virginiaaquarium.com Fri Jan 23 12:58:04 2015 From: MLynott at virginiaaquarium.com (Margaret C. Lynott) Date: Fri, 23 Jan 2015 20:58:04 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] SEAMAMMS website Message-ID: The 2015 Southeast and Mid-Atlantic Marine Mammal Symposium (SEAMAMMS) website is now up and running. For meeting details, information on abstract submission and to register please visit www.virginiaaquarium.com/conserve/SEAMAMMS SEAMAMMS will take place March 27-29, 2015 in Virginia Beach, VA and will be hosted by the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center. SEAMAMMS is a regional, student-oriented, scientific marine mammal meeting. Preference will be given to marine mammal research conducted in the mid-Atlantic and southeast US or conducted by students in the same region. Other topics will be considered as space is available. We hope to see you in March! Maggie Lynott Stranding Response Manager Virginia Aquarium Stranding Response Program 717 General Booth Blvd Virginia Beach, VA 23451 mlynott at virginiaaquarium.com 757-385-6482 (desk) 757-437-4933 (fax) -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From phillip.clapham at noaa.gov Sat Jan 24 16:09:57 2015 From: phillip.clapham at noaa.gov (Phillip Clapham - NOAA Federal) Date: Sat, 24 Jan 2015 16:09:57 -0800 Subject: [MARMAM] New paper on humpback whales Message-ID: The following was just published online: Clapham, P.J. & Zerbini, A. 2015. Are social aggregation and temporary immigration driving high rates of increase in some Southern Hemisphere humpback whale populations? *Marine Biology* doi 10.1007/s00227-015-2610-3. *Abstract* Humpback whales (*Megaptera novaeangliae*) in the Southern Hemisphere were heavily exploited by commercial whaling. Today, their recovery is variable: humpbacks remains surprisingly scarce in some formerly populous areas (e.g. New Zealand, Fiji), while in other regions (such as eastern Australia) they appear to be rebounding at or even above the maximum plausible rate of annual increase. Here, we propose that this phenomenon cannot be explained solely in demographic terms. Through simulation, we test the hypothesis that reported high rates of increase represent a combination of true intrinsic growth rates and temporary immigration, driven by a strong tendency to aggregate for mating. We introduce the idea that overexploitation diminished density at major breeding grounds such that these were no longer viable; then, during subsequent population recovery, a critical mass was attained in certain areas which drew in whales that formerly bred elsewhere. The simulations show that, to maintain high increase rates, the contribution to that rate by temporary immigration from a second, ?source? population would have to represent a larger and larger proportion of the source stock and would require relatively large (but quite plausible) intrinsic rates of increase for each population. In the modeling scenarios, the demand for immigrants would eventually exceed the supply and exhaust the source population, but the simulations demonstrated that high increase rates can be sustained over periods of more than 20 years. This hypothesis, if correct, would not only explain excessively high rates of increase in current ?hotspots? such as eastern Australia, but would also imply that formerly important areas (e.g. Fiji) host few whales today not necessarily because of a failure to recover, but because the species? mating system leads the whales concerned to migrate to higher-density breeding grounds elsewhere. Overall, we caution that assessments of depleted animal populations that do not consider the social behavior of a species are missing a potentially vital component of the picture. Pdf reprints are available from me. -- Phillip J. Clapham, Ph.D. Leader, Cetacean Assessment and Ecology Program National Marine Mammal Laboratory Alaska Fisheries Science Center 7600 Sand Point Way NE Seattle, WA 98115, USA tel 206 526 4037 fax 206 526 6615 email phillip.clapham at noaa.gov -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From r.sabin at nhm.ac.uk Mon Jan 26 03:05:10 2015 From: r.sabin at nhm.ac.uk (Richard Sabin) Date: Mon, 26 Jan 2015 11:05:10 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Request for advice/recommendations - mounting/suspending very large skeletons Message-ID: <4D209BE04198344B9F49EE1428E4301AFB2F47FE@EXC-JONES.nhm.ac.uk> Dear MARMAM colleagues, As part of our exhibition development programme, the Natural History Museum, London, is seeking recommendations of companies that specialise in the take-down (deconstruction) of old armatures used to support very large, skeletal specimens, and the production of new, custom-built armatures using the latest materials and techniques for mounting bones. We would also appreciate details of companies with a demonstrable capability to design rigging for the suspension of very large skeletal specimens. This is a request for information and recommendations from colleagues worldwide. Any assistance will be gratefully received. Many thanks, Richard C. Sabin Principal Curator, Vertebrate Zoology Group (Mammalogy, Herpetology, Ichthyology) Division of Vertebrates, Department of Life Sciences The Natural History Museum London, SW7 5BD -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From jerome.dupras at uqo.ca Mon Jan 26 06:55:55 2015 From: jerome.dupras at uqo.ca (jerome.dupras at uqo.ca) Date: Mon, 26 Jan 2015 14:55:55 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] =?iso-8859-1?q?POSTDOCTORAL_FELLOWSHIP_OFFER_-_Universit?= =?iso-8859-1?q?=E9_du_Qu=E9bec_en_Outaouais?= Message-ID: <0A01617C6616DA468D57DC8FD9BE04536C55B7@VMPROEXP02.uqo.local> POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP OFFER Universit? du Qu?bec en Outaouais Title of the Project Modeling the acoustic environment of marine mammals in the St. Lawrence Estuary in relation to marine navigation. Description The St. Lawrence Estuary (Quebec, Canada) is the location of many interactions between commercial shipping and recreational boating activities and marine mammals. The impact of this combined navigation on the acoustic environment of marine mammals is a source of concern, particularly with respect to the conservation of endangered species such as beluga, blue and fin whales in the region. Although standards on critical levels for underwater noise have yet to be established for species that frequent the St. Lawrence Estuary, mitigation of the potential impact of noise in the habitat of endangered species requires the prior characterization of the contribution of human activities to the cumulative soundscape. With this in mind, this project aims to model the propagation of noise emitted from human activities in the St. Lawrence Estuary, including the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park, with emphasis on navigation. The fleet of vessels that navigate the region is diverse, exhibiting a variety of vessel sizes and types and frequent speed changes. In addition, the St. Lawrence Estuary is characterized by a complex abiotic environment (e.g. locally strong tidal currents, complex bathymetry, water column stratification, heterogeneous seabed composition). The acoustic model to be implemented should consider the variability of factors characterizing noise sources (emission) and the complexity of the physical environment (propagation) to reproduce the insonification patterns throughout the area. The acoustic model will be implemented within the spatiotemporal 3MTSim framework[1], a decision-support tool developed and used to manage boat-whale interactions in the Estuary. Initially, the emphasis will be on quantifying the cumulative noise throughout the area and subsequently the sound frequencies that interfere with the communication space of marine mammals (masking effect); two dimensions characterizing the acoustic quality of wildlife habitats. Model results will be referenced to empirical data collected from hydrophones immersed in the study area. These data consist of systematic recordings of sound levels in strategic locations as well as the tracking of various vessel types used to estimate their sound source levels, which are made available through the collaboration with researchers from Fisheries and Oceans, Canada . The postdoctoral fellow will work with scientists from several disciplines and produce results with the potential to meet current needs for the sustainable management of navigation in the region. The researcher will have the opportunity to present his/her work to the working group on maritime transport and the protection of marine mammals in the St. Lawrence (G2T3M). This group brings together stakeholders from both the maritime transport and marine mammal protection sectors in the St. Lawrence Estuary. Research results will also be presented within the activities of the MEOPAR Network Centre of Excellence (Marine Environmental Observation, Prediction and Response Network) founding the project. Required Competence ? Ph.D. in Physics, Engineering Physics or Physical Oceanography ? Programming experience required, knowledge of Matlab and/or Java is an asset ? Self-reliant and autonomous ? Acoustic modeling experience is an asset ? Ability to communicate orally to experts and non-experts as well as producing literature review and writing scientific articles Location * Based in Montr?al (Universit? du Qu?bec ? Montr?al) and/or Ripon (Universit? du Qu?bec en Outaouais) with occasional stays in Mont-Joli/Rimouski (Institut Maurice Lamontagne, Fisheries and Oceans Canada) Remuneration ? 35 000$ Duration ? 12 months (April 1st 2015 to March 31st 2016) Contact ? Professor J?r?me Dupras Institut des sciences de la for?t temp?r?e 58 rue Principale, Ripon (Qc), J0V 1V0 (819) 595-3900 poste 2931 jerome.dupras at uqo.ca ________________________________ [1] http://complexity.ok.ubc.ca/projects/3mtsim/ From monica.pepe at whales.org Mon Jan 26 08:03:24 2015 From: monica.pepe at whales.org (Monica Pepe) Date: Mon, 26 Jan 2015 16:03:24 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] LAST CALL: Whale and Dolphin Conservation, NA Field Research Internship Message-ID: <0B82DCA9D7826C4E8F27B482571768A4BDA61A91@WDCS-CRIMSON.wdcs-net.wdcs.org> FINAL WEEK TO SUBMIT APPLICATIONS 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 spring and summer 2015 positions, which begin as early as April 1st. The deadline to submit an application for spring/summer positions is Monday, February 2nd. The positions are offered to qualified applicants throughout the year, allowing each participant/student to customize their learning experience based on their interest, skill set, and availability. Successful applicants will become proficient at field data collection, educational outreach, and conservation of marine mammals. Interns will also complete a focused project furthering professional development 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. Based on time of year and the interest level of successful applicants, the intern program may include all or some portion of the following: Education and Outreach * Whale Watch Naturalist Training * 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 * Researching and submitting grant applications * 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. Assistance can be provided in finding alternate housing at the request of the applicant, and those that can provide their own housing are encouraged to apply. 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. * Familiarity 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 preferred. * 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: 1. Cover letter and Resume (no more than 3 pages) 2. Contact information for two references including e-mail and phone numbers 3. A supporting document of no more than 500 words answering one of the following: * Do whales die through human's knowledge or ignorance? * Preservation or conservation. Which offers the best route to a sustainable population of an endangered species and why? * How do you convert apathy into interest and then into action? We are currently accepting applications for spring and summer 2015 positions, which begin as early as April 1st. The deadline to submit an application for spring/summer positions is Monday, February 2nd. 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/USOrcasbedammed2.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... Name: image003.png Type: image/png Size: 1919 bytes Desc: image003.png URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image004.png Type: image/png Size: 2286 bytes Desc: image004.png URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image005.png Type: image/png Size: 2173 bytes Desc: image005.png URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image006.png Type: image/png Size: 1936 bytes Desc: image006.png URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image007.png Type: image/png Size: 22134 bytes Desc: image007.png URL: From zardusj1 at citadel.edu Tue Jan 27 09:48:31 2015 From: zardusj1 at citadel.edu (John Zardus) Date: Tue, 27 Jan 2015 17:48:31 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] seeking samples of conical barnacles from whales Message-ID: Dear MARMAM community, Several species of acorn barnacles occur on whales worldwide. The most commonly reported is Coronula diadema, a globose crown-shaped species up to 6 or 7 cm in diameter. I am seeking specimens (shell and tissue) of other, apparently less prevalent species that are conical, straight-sided, or flattened (i.e. Coronula reginae and Cetopirus complanatus). Indications are these species occur mostly with hosts from southern oceans. Samples preserved in ethanol (not formaldehyde) are desired. If you have potential samples to share please contact me offline at the address below. I will be happy to supply you with my NMFS collecting permit, advise on preservation and shipment, and to pay for sample shipment. Kind regards, John Zardus John D. Zardus Associate Professor Department of Biology The Citadel 171 Moultrie Street Charleston, SC 29409 ph. 843-953-7511 fx. 843-953-7264 e. john.zardus at citadel.edu -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From L.L.IJsseldijk at uu.nl Tue Jan 27 04:55:27 2015 From: L.L.IJsseldijk at uu.nl (IJsseldijk, L.L. (Lonneke)) Date: Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:55:27 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] pilot whale asphyxia - case request Message-ID: <6BC1BCED8C004745BF5CE50DD7366CEA29D0C4DC@ICTSC-W-S202.soliscom.uu.nl> Dear all, I am searching for cases of fatal asphyxiation due to fish lodged in pilot whales. Is there anyone familiar with this cause of death in this species? It would be great if you could contact me at L.L.ijsseldijk at uu.nl. Thanks in advance! 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 frth at dhigroup.com Tue Jan 27 03:15:54 2015 From: frth at dhigroup.com (Frank Thomsen) Date: Tue, 27 Jan 2015 11:15:54 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] WODA Workshop on Underwater Sound Message-ID: <336D295AE7D63F45A03E2064507EB2BC7F8C29AB@DKCPH1-EXCH01.dhi.dk> Dear Colleagues I am pleased to announce the WODA workshop: Underwater Sound in Relation to Dredging: Translating Science into First-Hand Guidance, on Thursday 26 March 2015, in Paris, France. The World Organisation of Dredging Associations (WODA) and Central Dredging Association (CEDA) will co-organise this event. Via interactive presentations, held by international leading experts, guidance will be given on how to assess the effects of underwater sound from dredging operations on marine life. Participants will learn about: * Underwater sound in general and how its impacts should be assessed * How underwater sound should be measured * Sound levels of various dredging activities * Documented impacts of underwater sound from dredging * How dredging noise impacts can be managed The workshop is aimed at: * Regulators * Policy makers * Industry * Stakeholders * Scientists For more information about the WS motivation, content and how to sign-on, please refer to www.cedaconferences.org/UWS See you in Paris! Best regards, Frank Thomsen Ph.D. Senior Marine Scientist DK-EED [DHI logo] DHI Agern All? 5 DK-2970 H?rsholm Denmark Tel: +45 4516 9200 Direct: +45 4516 9446 frth at dhigroup.com www.dhigroup.com The expert in WATER ENVIRONMENTS This message contains information which may be confidential and privileged. Unless you are the intended recipient (or authorised to receive this message for the intended recipient), you may not use, copy, disseminate or disclose any information contained in it thereof. If you have received this communication in error, please advise the sender appropriately by reply e-mail, and then delete it. Thank you very much. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 6222 bytes Desc: image001.png URL: From dagmar_fertl at hotmail.com Tue Jan 27 07:42:59 2015 From: dagmar_fertl at hotmail.com (Dagmar Fertl) Date: Tue, 27 Jan 2015 09:42:59 -0600 Subject: [MARMAM] Abstracts - Journal of Cetacean Research & Management 13(3) Message-ID: Dear Marmam subscribers, The following are abstracts from the most recent issue (Volume 13, issue 3, 2013) of the Journal of Cetacean Research and Management. The following is posted on behalf of the IWC and the journal editor. 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. This is one of the final issues of JCRM to be published in hard copy format. The IWC is delighted to inform you that the Journal of Cetacean Research and Management will be available free of charge online from Volume 14 (https://iwc.int/jcrm). Back copies will also be available free of charge on the IWC website. Some back copies of the Journal of Cetacean Research and Management are available in hard copy format, and these are available for the cost of postage only. For further details, please contact secretariat at iwc.int. Contact information is provided for the corresponding author for each article. Please do not contact the listserve editors or me for pdfs or copies of the articles. Thank you for your continued interest in the journal and abstract postings. A guide for authors is included at the website. With regards, Dagmar Fertl Kitakado, T., C. Lockyer, and A.E. Punt. 2013. A statistical model for quantifying age-reading errors and its application to the Antarctic minke whales. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 13(3):181-190. Contact e-mail: kitakado at kaiyodai.ac.jp A statistical method for quantifying age-reading error, i.e. the extent of bias and inter-reader variability among readers, is introduced. The method assumes the availability of an independent ?control reader? who produces reference ages for age-reading structures which are also read by additional readers. This control reader is assumed to provide unbiased or consistently biased age estimates so that the additional readers? age-reading outcomes can be standardised. Linear structures in bias and variance are incorporated in a conditional probability matrix representing the stochastic nature of age-determination for each reader. A joint likelihood function for the parameters related to age-reading bias, variance and nuisance parameters is defined based on observed age-reading outcomes from both the control and additional readers. The method is applied to data for Antarctic minke whales taken during Japanese commercial (1971/72?1986/87) and scientific (JARPA: 1987/88?2004/05, JARPA II: 2005/06?2010/11) whaling. A total of 250 earplugs selected according to a predetermined protocol were used in the analyses to estimate the inter-reader variation for four Japanese readers. One of the authors acted as the control reader. The Japanese readers and the control reader differed in terms of both the expected age given the true age, and variance in age-estimates. The expected age and random uncertainty in age estimates differed among the Japanese readers, although the two readers in charge of age-reading for samples taken during Japanese scientific whaling (JARPA and JARPA II) provided quite similar agereading outcomes. These results contribute to analyses using catch-at-age data for this species. It should also be noted that the model and approach in this paper can be applied to populations other than the Antarctic minke whales, if a control reader is available, even retrospectively. ******** F?lix, F., and B. Haase. 2013. A note on the northernmost record of the Antarctic minke whale (Balaenoptera bonaerensis) in the Eastern Pacific. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 13(3):191-194. Contact e-mail: fefelix90 at hotmail.com In this study the first record of the Antarctic minke whale (Balaenoptera bonaerensis) in Ecuador (2?7.35?S, 80?45.7?W) is presented. It was a single stranding of a calf of 3.43m in length. The species was identified based on morphological characteristics such as the number and colour of baleen plates, the number and extension of ventral grooves, lack of white flipper patch and the waved greyish light colouration pattern on the flanks, among others. Although only a handful of records exist of this species in the Eastern Pacific, it confirms that the breeding area of this species at least reaches the equator in this region. ******** Koh, H.S., J.E. Jo, N.H. Ahn, J.J. Lee, K.S. Kim, and C.W. Jin. 2013. Preliminary study on genetic differences between two species of finless porpoises, genus Neophocaena, with lack of genetic divergence between two subspecies of the narrow-ridged finless porpoise, N. asiaeorientalis: cytochrome b sequence analyses. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 13(3):195-199. Contact e-mail: syskoss at chungbuk.ac.kr Using samples from bycaught finless porpoises, cytochrome b sequences were analysed and phylogenetic trees were constructed. The aims were to: (1) determine genetic divergences within the genus Neophocaena; (2) examine interspecific divergences between N. asiaeorientalis and N. phocaenoides; and (3) examine intraspecific divergence between N.a. asiaeorientalis and N.a. sunameri. For this purpose, complete cytochrome b sequences for 12 N.a. sunameri specimens, collected from fishery markets at Pohang in southeastern Korea, were obtained, and these sequences were compared to the corresponding partial (402bp) and complete (1,140bp) sequences of Neophocaena, obtained from GenBank. From a maximum likelihood tree with the partial sequences of the two Neophocaena species, two clades were detected, corresponding to the two species, with average genetic distance of 1.64%, four fixed site differences (1.00%), and a Gst value of 0.64, although we did not examine the specimens from Southeast Asia and contiguous South China Sea. Furthermore, from the complete sequences, we recognised a lack of genetic divergence between the two subspecies of N. asiaeorientalis, with a Gst value of 0.06 and two pairs of identical sequences between them, indicating that our results do not support current subspecies classification. Thus, we newly found that our cytochrome b sequencing results are useful for the examination of interspecific and intraspecific divergences in Neohpocaena, although further genetic analyses with additional specimens of Neophocaena across its distributional range are necessary to confirm the findings in this study. ******** Pitchford, J.L., B.J.S. Serafin, D. Shannon, A.T. Coleman, and M. Solangi. 2013. An analysis of historical bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) strandings in the Mississippi Sound, USA using classification and regression trees (CART). Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 13(3):201-209. Contact e-mail: jpitchford at imms.org Trends in bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) strandings can be used to examine several factors associated with mortality and life history and are essential for detecting unusual mortality events (UMEs). This study characterised stranding trends in the Mississippi Sound (MS) region of the northern Gulf of Mexico (GoM) from 1996?2009 using kernel density estimation (KDE) and classification and regression tree (CART) analysis. An annual mean of 26.1 strandings (n = 14), SD = 13.7, 95% CI [18.2, 34.0] and a peak in strandings during spring (March?May) were evident from our analyses. Neonates stranded almost exclusively in spring indicating that this is the dominant breeding and calving season in this area. Spatial distributions revealed that the majority of dolphins stranded along central and western portions of the MS Sound near Gulfport, MS and on Ship Island during the spring and summer months, but were more often found in the eastern MS Sound during winter and autumn. Our CART analyses indicated that 1996, which contained a declared UME, was anomalous from other years as the number of adult, sub-adult and juvenile strandings was relatively high during the autumn and winter. Further, our analyses showed that the location of those strandings on Ship Island in autumn and winter was unique from all other years in the historical record. These results represent historical conditions that can be used as a baseline for future studies of the effects of environmental disturbances, including UMEs, in MS. This research also demonstrates the versatility and usefulness of CART for describing historical trends, detecting departures from the norm and explaining UMEs within the framework of a single analysis. This approach represents an objective assessment tool that could be used to assist governmental agencies with determining the onset of a UME and could help support or refute the cause of these events. ******** Benmessaoud, R., M. Cherif, and N. Bejaoui. 2013. Baseline data on abundance, site fidelity and association patterns of common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) off the northeastern Tunisian coast (Mediterranean Sea). Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 13(3):211-219. Contact e-mail: benmessaoud_rimel at yahoo.fr The common bottlenose dolphin has been studied intensively in numerous locations around the world but very little is known about this species along the South Mediterranean Basin. In this study, the temporal distribution of dolphins, group dynamics, site fidelity and association patterns of common bottlenose dolphins along the northeastern coastal waters of Tunisia was assessed through mark recapture photo-identification techniques. Prior to this study, no research has focused on bottlenose dolphins within these waters, despite the potential for human impacts on this species. A total of 718h of boat-based observations, spanning 284 days, were spent at sea between August 2008 and July 2010. During this period, 253h were spent in direct observation of 317 groups of common bottlenose dolphins. Bottlenose dolphins were observed in all seasons, although seasonality was evident, with more encounters during the summer. Photo-identification studies show that 43 individuals used the northeastern coast of Tunisia on a regular basis, while others were present less often. Based on a social structure analysis it was possible to discriminate different communities related with the spatial distribution of the sightings (Zembra island, Hammamet, Kelibia and Galite island). ******** Towers, J.R., C.J. McMillan, M. Malleson, J. Hildering, J.K.B. Ford, and G.M. Ellis. 2013. Seasonal movements and ecological markers as evidence for migration of common minke whales photo-identified in the eastern North Pacific. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 13(3):221-229. Contact e-mail: jrtowers at gmail.com In the eastern North Pacific Ocean, common minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) are widespread but encountered relatively infrequently. It is generally believed that they make annual migrations between higher latitudes in the summer and lower latitudes in the winter; however, in some temperate coastal regions where common minke whales have been sighted year-round they have been referred to as resident. To determine movement patterns of common minke whales found in coastal waters of British Columbia and Washington we examined photo-identification data that were collected opportunistically from 2005?12. These data were from four non-overlapping areas between 48?N and 53?N. Despite year-round search efforts, common minke whales were only encountered between April and October. Most of the 44 unique individuals identified in 405 encounters displayed fidelity to areas both within and among years. Five of these whales made relatively large-scale intra-annual movements between areas on six occasions. They were documented to move up to 424km in a northerly direction in spring and up to 398km in a southerly direction in autumn. The seasonal patterns of these movements provide new insights into the foraging ranges and migrations of the individuals. Ecological markers provide evidence that the common minke whales photographed undertake annual long distance migrations. Scars believed to be from cookiecutter shark (Isistius brasiliensis) bites were observed on 43 individuals and the majority of whales documented with good quality images each year had acquired new scars since the previous year. Furthermore, the commensal barnacle Xenobalanus globicipitis was observed on three individuals. Since these sharks and barnacles are from relatively warm waters, it can be inferred that they interacted with the common minke whales at lower latitudes. These findings may have important implications for the definition and management of common minke whale stocks and/or populations in the eastern North Pacific. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From megan at elding.is Wed Jan 28 04:07:33 2015 From: megan at elding.is (Megan Wittaker) Date: Wed, 28 Jan 2015 12:07:33 +0000 (GMT) Subject: [MARMAM] Research Assistants Needed in Reykjavik, Iceland In-Reply-To: <1169472752.418.1422446750455.JavaMail.root@elding.is> Message-ID: <1262908432.453.1422446853976.JavaMail.root@elding.is> Research Assistant needed in Reykjavik, Iceland, for summer 2015. Elding Whale Watching Reykjavik is looking for three voluntary research assistants with a passport from an EEA country to assist for 5 months (1 st May to the 31 st September 2015). Research is conducted in co-operation with the University of Iceland?s research center in H ?savik and it comprises of photo identification and behavioral studies mainly of minke whales and white-beaked dolphins but occasionally also humpback whales, orca, fin whales and basking sharks. Elding Whale Watching Reykjavik is a family owned company established in 2000. Elding has from the beginning worked closely with the University of Iceland offering our boats as a platform for marine biologists so that we can better understand the wildlife we are encountering on our tours. For further information regarding the company please visit our website at www.elding.is . Research will be conducted on the whale watching tours (3 hours, 3 times a day). There will always be two assistants on board taking data and one on land processing, cropping, ID matching and uploading onto an online database. Each researcher will have four days at sea and two days on land processing. Working day averages at about 12-14 hours for those at sea and 6-8 hours those on land. You will have every Sunday off work as well as bad weather days when tours are cancelled. We are looking for assistant that; * Have a strong interest and education in marine science specifically cetaceans and marine birds. * Good spotting skills * Have experience on boats preferably above 17m and not acceptable to seasickness easily. * Be able to work calmly and politely under pressure and sometimes in stressful situations. * Must be a quick learner, adaptive, have a very good sense of humour, hard working, outgoing and generally a very positive person. * Willingness to work long hours outdoors in sometimes unfavorable weathers. * A Team Player * Physically fit - there may be some heavy lifting. i.e. moving cases of drinks or working with heavy ropes, being on your feet for most the day. * Have their own equipment e.g. DSLR camera and computer. Assistants will be responsible for their own travel costs, travel insurance and personal expenses but accommodation is provided throughout the working period as well as an afternoon hot meal. Further information on living and working in Iceland can be found at http://www.mcc.is/media/frettir/Living_and_working_in_Iceland.pdf and www.iceland.is Accommodation You will be living on an old converted capelin fishing boat that now acts as a permanently stationed gift shop/ waiting area/ small museum for our passengers in the heart of Iceland?s capital city, Reykjavik. You will get your own small bedroom but the living area, shower room, kitchen and toilet, with all essentials, will be communal with the other researchers. How to apply: Please email your cv, covering letter specifying any relevant experience and qualifications to Megan Whittaker ( megan at elding.is ) by the 31 st February 2015. Megan Whittaker Head Guide Elding Whale Watching ?gisgar?ur 5, 101 Reykjav?k, Iceland Tel. (+354) 519 5090 Elding Whale Watching Elding Vi?ey Tours Tel: ( +354) 519 5000 elding at elding.is www.elding.is / www.videy.com Add us on Facebook Elding Whale Watching Reykjav?k Follow us on Twitter: EldingWhale Check our Videos on YouTube: Reykjavik Activities Elding is EarthCheck Certified and our boats carry the Blue Flag. In 2008 we received the Environmental Award of the Icelandic Tourist Board and in 2012 we received VAKINN EnviroGold and Endorsed Travel Service by the Icelandic Tourist Board. - check out our environmental policy Please think of the environment; please don't print this e-mail unless you really need to. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From nathan.merchant at cefas.co.uk Wed Jan 28 01:05:16 2015 From: nathan.merchant at cefas.co.uk (Nathan Merchant (Cefas)) Date: Wed, 28 Jan 2015 09:05:16 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Measuring acoustic habitats Message-ID: <5AB69026F917584E9E5BD729ECBA58EE0AD6594A@w14mbx10.gb.so.ccs> Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to announce that the fully formatted version of this paper has now been published Open Access in Methods in Ecology and Evolution: Merchant, N.D., Fristrup, K.M., Johnson, M.P., Tyack, P.L., Witt, M.J., Blondel, P., Parks, S.E. (2015). Measuring acoustic habitats. Methods in Ecology and Evolution. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/2041-210X.12330 Please note that a file was missing (PAMGuide.fig) from the pre-proof version of the Supplementary Material due to a publishing error - this has now been fixed in the formatted version. PAMGuide, the software which accompanies this paper, will be maintained on Source Forge: http://sourceforge.net/projects/pamguide/ Any updates or additions to the software will be added here, and extensions can be developed collaboratively. With best wishes, Nathan Merchant Summary 1.Many organisms depend on sound for communication, predator/prey detection, and navigation. The acoustic environment can therefore play an important role in ecosystem dynamics and evolution. A growing number of studies are documenting acoustic habitats and their influences on animal development, behaviour, physiology, and spatial ecology, which has led to increasing demand for passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) expertise in the life sciences. However, as yet, there has been no synthesis of data processing methods for acoustic habitat monitoring, which presents an unnecessary obstacle to would-be PAM analysts. 2.Here, we review the signal processing techniques needed to produce calibrated measurements of terrestrial and aquatic acoustic habitats. We include a supplemental tutorial and template computer codes in MATLAB and R, which give detailed guidance on how to produce calibrated spectrograms and statistical analyses of sound levels. Key metrics and terminology for the characterisation of biotic, abiotic, and anthropogenic sound are covered, and their application to relevant monitoring scenarios is illustrated through example datasets. To inform study design and hardware selection, we also include an up-to-date overview of terrestrial and aquatic PAM instruments. 3.Monitoring of acoustic habitats at large spatiotemporal scales is becoming possible through recent advances in PAM technology. This will enhance our understanding of the role of sound in the spatial ecology of acoustically sensitive species, and inform spatial planning to mitigate the rising influence of anthropogenic noise in these ecosystems. As we demonstrate in this work, progress in these areas will depend upon the application of consistent and appropriate PAM methodologies. ******* Dr Nathan Merchant Senior Scientist, Underwater Noise Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas) Pakefield Road Lowestoft Suffolk NR33 0HT +44 (0) 1502 527780 nathan.merchant at cefas.co.uk www.cefas.defra.gov.uk [cefas_logo_small] This email and any attachments are intended for the named recipient only. Its unauthorised use, distribution, disclosure, storage or copying is not permitted. If you have received it in error, please destroy all copies and notify the sender. In messages of a non-business nature, the views and opinions expressed are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of Cefas. Communications on Cefas? computer systems may be monitored and/or recorded to secure the effective operation of the system and for other lawful purposes. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image003.png Type: image/png Size: 12294 bytes Desc: image003.png URL: From sn1608 at googlemail.com Wed Jan 28 07:20:41 2015 From: sn1608 at googlemail.com (Sam Nichols) Date: Wed, 28 Jan 2015 15:20:41 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Passive Acoustic Monitoring Training Level 1 course - New Orleans, 9-11 February 2015 Message-ID: Seiche Training is running its next course in New Orleans, USA, 9-11 February: *Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) ? Level 1* Our well-established three day course provides comprehensive training for personnel new to the offshore industry. This course provides the skills needed to use PAM systems as a PAM operator and is aimed at delegates with a scientific background, preferably in biology and marine sciences. Two days of classroom sessions to include lectures on sound in water, marine mammal and sound production, noise sources and their effect on marine mammals, PAM principles and the role of the PAM operator, Seiche PAM hardware with deployment and operations, PAM software and an introduction to PAMGuard. There will be a hands-on sessions in the classroom with the Seiche PAM equipment to reinforce the lectures and encourage the delegates to get to grips with the system, its set-up, operation and troubleshooting. The final classroom session is an interactive PAMGuard workshop where delegates learn how to build a functioning PAMGuard data model. Simulated sources and recordings are used to show how to effectively detect and localize marine mammals. Day three is a practical session on a vessel where delegates use what they have learned to take an active role in set-up, deployment and operation of the Seiche PAM system at sea and run through troubleshooting scenarios. Thorough support material is provided. Please see www.seiche.com/topics/95-passive-acoustic-monitoring-pam-level-1 for more info and booking. Or contact Sarah Hancock at s.hancock at seiche.com. Seiche Training provides market-leading Marine Mammal Monitoring training and Underwater Acoustics courses worldwide. Seiche Ltd is the top supplier of Passive Acoustic Monitoring equipment to the Oil and Gas industry. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From silvia.sm.monteiro at gmail.com Wed Jan 28 08:10:26 2015 From: silvia.sm.monteiro at gmail.com (Silvia Monteiro) Date: Wed, 28 Jan 2015 16:10:26 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication on application of stable isotopes to assess the feeding ecology of long-finned pilot whale (Globicephala melas) in the Northeast Atlantic Ocean Message-ID: Dear Marmam Readers, I am very pleased to announce the following publication: Silvia Monteiro; Marisa Ferreira; Jos? V. Vingada; Alfredo L?pez; Andrew Brownlow; Paula, M?ndez-Fern?ndez (2015). Application of stable isotopes to assess the feeding ecology of long-finned pilot whale (*Globicephala melas*) in the Northeast Atlantic Ocean. Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology 466: 55-63 doi:10.1016/j.jembe.2015.01.007. Abstract In order to improve our knowledge on the feeding ecology of long-finned pilot whales (*Globicephala melas*) in Northeast Atlantic waters, skin samples of 68 long-finned pilot whales stranded in Northwest Iberia (*n* = 22) and Scotland (*n* = 46) were analysed using stable isotopes of ?13C and ?15N. Isotopic mixing models were applied to obtain a quantitative estimate of the proportion of the main prey species in the diet of pilot whales. Stable isotope analysis revealed that 57.8?73.8% of the diet in Northwest Iberia consisted in curled octopus (*Eledone cirrhosa)*, followed by European flying squid (*Todarodes sagittatus)*, while in Scotland the predominant prey species was either *Histioteuthis* sp. or *T. sagittatus*, depending of the trophic enrichment factor applied. These results are generally in accordance with previous stomach content studies; however, the isotopic analysis may provide new information regarding key prey species and habitat use that could be missed or underestimated if only stomach contents analysis were used. Additionally, considering that the Atlantic Coast of Iberia was responsible for 95% of the landings of the main prey consumed by pilot whales in this area, between 2000 and 2010, these data provide trophic baseline information to be taken into account in fishery impact assessment studies and management decisions. For an early view of this paper, please visit: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022098115000088 If you are unable to download the article, please contact me by email and I will be happy to send you a copy:silvia.sm.monteiro at gmail.com Best wishes, Silvia Monteiro -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From seasynergy at gmail.com Wed Jan 28 11:00:26 2015 From: seasynergy at gmail.com (Lucy Hunt) Date: Wed, 28 Jan 2015 19:00:26 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Marine biology summer volunteer opportunities Message-ID: Hello I would appreciate it if you could circulate the below opportunities that may be of interest to your network. *Marine biology volunteer positions available at Sea Synergy Marine Awareness and Activity Centre, Waterville, Co. Kerry, Ireland: 2015 summer season* Sea Synergy is a new Marine Awareness and Activity Centre set up by marine biologist Lucy Hunt in the beautiful coastal village Waterville located on the famed picturesque Ring of Kerry driving route in SW Ireland. For more info please visit www.seasynergy.ie The marine awareness centre incorporates an interactive marine exhibition of Irish marine life, a small gift shop and a booking office for marine activities in the area. Marine awareness and education programmes are run from the centre throughout the summer including children and adult beach workshops, snorkelling, nature surveys, hatchery and lake tours, summer camps and indoor presentations. Sea Synergy is involved in and reports to a number of ongoing research projects such as Purse Search Ireland, Coastwatch, Shore Thing, Seasearch, IWDG, Birdwatch reporting schemes and involved in Clean Coasts and other marine conservation schemes. There are three full time volunteer positions available for start June ? end Sept 2015. Preference will be given to candidates that can volunteer for longer periods of time and who fit the below requirements. (More positions may also be available in August so please include how long you can come for and when you are available). *Education and Outreach officer duties (2):* Working alongside owner of Sea Synergy you will: ? Develop the marine education programme ? Supervise children and adult marine workshops on the beaches and in the centre ? Show people around the exhibition centre ? Generate marine awareness presentations and games ? Give marine wildlife presentations ? Provide marine wildlife talks on boats when possible ? Host travelling marine workshops ? Create educational and promotional resources ? Promote social networking and public relations ? Assist in research and field survey work ? Work in gift shop/booking office/exhibition reception *Research development officer duties* Working alongside owner of Sea Synergy you will: ? Develop research and survey programme incl. Coastwatch, Shore Thing, local nature studies & trails ? Record, organise data and report to relevant organisations ? Supervise local headland watches for marine mammals and birds ? Organise and conduct public whale watches from local headland ? Set up and attend boat based surveys when possible ? Provide talks/presentations on marine wildlife and survey involvement ? Encourage the public in surveys - citizen science ? Teach children and public survey methods ? Promote social networking and public relations ? Work in gift shop/ exhibition reception & centre/booking office *Important skills/qualifications* *Essential:* Age 18years+ ? Background in marine biology/environmental science or similar ? Keen interest in marine conservation and education ? First Aid skills ? Be enthusiastic and possess a caring, patient & positive attitude, with a strong desire to learn ? Strong commitment to volunteering work ? Must be able use to use own initiative and have desire for independent actions/thoughts and work without continuous supervision ? Ability to work well in a team ? Confidence to interact with the public, especially children ? Excellent verbal and writing/reporting skills ? Good organizational and workload management skills ? Good IT skills *Desirable:* ? Strong interest in and knowledge of Irish marine biodiversity ? Previous experience snorkeling or scuba diving certificate ? Previous experience in public speaking ? Previous experience working with children ? Previous experience in survey work (e.g. headland watches, coastal surveys) ? Previous experience in data handling ? Previous experience with aquaria ? Ability to work long hours outdoors in variable weather ? Capability to work well on boats ? Life saving and Advanced First Aid skills ? Have own transport *Opportunities:* ? Live in one of the most beautiful parts of Ireland for the summer ? See some of Ireland?s amazing marine life on watches and surveys ? Snorkel, scuba dive and observe Ireland?s coastal waters ? Work with like-minded and enthusiastic team ? Visit UNESCO world heritage site Skellig Micheal ? Be part of survey vessels, wildlife tour boats and Skellig trips ? Develop your skills in marine surveying, outreach, education and awareness ? Gain experience with Waterville Lakes & Rivers Trust in salmon and seatrout conservation measures To view more of Sea Synergy and the area where you could be working watch this video clip from a recent programme featured on TV3 Lucy Hunt - Sea Synergy Waterville, Co. Kerry Shared accommodation can be arranged with the Sea Synergy team at your own expense (ranging from ?50-70pw depending on house choice). TO APPLY: Please send a cover letter with your CV and available times for summer 2015 to Lucy Hunt at seasynergy at gmail.com. Application deadline is *20th of Feb*. Interviews will be conducted in March via skype/tel or in person. For more information please send an email to seasynergy at gmail.com or call +353 (0) 877850929. Add us on Facebook *LH Marine & Sea Synergy* Follow us on Twitter *LHMARINE_info* *www.seasynergy.ie * -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From kelly at dcpmail.org Thu Jan 29 07:48:20 2015 From: kelly at dcpmail.org (Kel Melillo Sweeting) Date: Thu, 29 Jan 2015 10:48:20 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Summer 2015 Dolphin Research Internships Message-ID: Dolphin Communication Project (DCP) - Volunteer Research Assistants/Interns - Summer 2015 Florida, USA and Bimini, The Bahamas The Dolphin Communication Project (DCP, www.dolphincommunicationproject.org) is currently seeking one - two interns for the summer of 2015. These internships have field and office components, both of which are mandatory, and total 8-10 weeks, depending on DCP's schedule. DCP looks at how dolphins communicate and attempts to shed more light on the meaning of their interactions. With research ongoing since 1991, our questions focus primarily on communication and behavior among dolphins. Interns will spend the field portion of this internship at our Bimini, Bahamas research site, where we study wild Atlantic spotted and bottlenose dolphins. An abbreviated publication list is available at the end of this post. Responsibilities In the field: --Travel to and assist for 3-4 weeks at our Bimini research site (exact dates TBD, likely beginning in early July, following the office component) --Assist gathering data (general observations, photographs) during 4-6 hour/day boat excursions (weather and schedule dependent) --Complete photo-identification of dolphins from still photography and video as well as other data entry and analysis tasks --Assist with on-board and outreach education as well as web-based projects --Represent DCP in an enthusiastic, responsible, mature and respectful manner At the office: --Travel to and assist for 4-5 weeks at our Florida (FL) office (exact dates TBD, likely prior to field component, beginning in late May/early June) --Process and analyze data, including, but not limited to: photo-identification of individuals from other DCP research sites, event sampling from video data for behavioral analyses, and acoustic analysis of dolphin sounds --Assist in the development and implementation of education programs for schools and the general public, as needed Requirements Successful interns must have basic computer skills and working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Current enrollment in a degree-seeking program, background in science and/or animal behavior and experience on boats and/or with photo-identification are all desired, but not necessarily required. The successful candidates will be comfortable on a boat for several hours at a time in varying conditions, including extreme heat. They will also be proficient swimmers with the desire to improve snorkeling and free-diving skills. They will be able to work as a team both in a small office and in a fairly remote and isolated field setting. Good writing and public speaking skills are a must, as is attention to details. Interns must be at least 18 years of age. Although international applicants are invited to apply, all applicants should know that interns are responsible for their own daily transportation to/from the FL office and public transportation is limited in this area; therefore, all interns should have their own transportation while in FL. Expenses and Compensation This is an unpaid internship. Interns are responsible for their own transportation to Bimini and Florida. There is a $1,000.00 fee that will cover expenses in the field, including room and partial board. Room, board and transportation while in Florida are the responsibility of the intern. Although assistance in finding housing may be available, the ability to find suitable housing in Florida is ultimately the interns? responsibility. We recommend all applicants complete a preliminary housing search in advance of submitting their applications. Interested applicants should review information at this link: http://tinyurl.com/DCPInternships. Please read this page thoroughly before applying or emailing questions. Send a completed application (downloadable and detailed at the link above) to kelly at dcpmail.org. Applications are due 20 February 2015. Due to field schedules, only electronic applications will be accepted. Interviews (via telephone or Skype) will be arranged for selected candidates in early March. For more information, please contact Kelly Melillo Sweeting at kelly at dcpmail.org. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Selected Refereed Publications: (for a full list of publications by DCP researchers, please visit: http://www.dolphincommunicationproject.org/index.php/about-dolphins/scientific-publications) Dudzinski, K.M., Clark, C.W., W?rsig, B. 1995. A mobile video/acoustic system for simultaneously recording dolphin behavior and vocalizations underwater. Aquatic Mammals 21(3): 187-193. Dudzinski, K.M. 1998. Contact behavior and signal exchange among Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis). Aquatic Mammals 24(3): 129-142. Dudzinski, K.M., M. Sakai, M., Masaki, K., Kogi, K., Hishii, T., Kurimoto, M. 2003. Behavioral observations of adult and sub-adult dolphins towards two dead bottlenose dolphins (one female and one male). Aquatic Mammals 29(1): 108-116. Gregg, J.D., Dudzinski, K.M., Smith, H.V. 2007. Do dolphins eavesdrop on the echolocation signals of conspecifics? International Journal of Comparative Psychology, 20: 65-88 Dudzinski, K.M., Thomas, J. Gregg, J.D. 2008. Communication. In (W.F. Perrin, B. W?rsig, H.C.M. Thewissen, eds) Encyclopedia of Marine Mammals, second edition. Academic Press, Inc. Melillo, K.E., Dudzinski, K.M., Cornick, L.A. 2009. Interactions between Atlantic spotted (Stenella frontalis) and bottlenose (Tursiops truncatus) dolphins off Bimini, The Bahamas, 2003-2007. Aquatic Mammals, 35:281-291 Dudzinski, K.M., Gregg, J.D., Paulos, R.D., Kuczaj, S.A. 2010. A comparison of pectoral fin contact behaviour for three distinct dolphin populations. Behavioural Processes, 84: 559-567. Greene, W., Melillo-Sweeting, K., Dudzinski, K. 2011. Comparing object play in captive and wild dolphins. International Journal of Comparative Psychology 24(3):292-306. Dudzinski, KM, Gregg, JD, Melillo-Sweeting, K, Levengood, A, Seay, B., Kuczaj II, SA. 2012. Tactile contact exchanges between dolphins: self-rubbing versus inter-individual contact in three species from three geographies. International Journal of Comparative Psychology 25:21-43. Dudzinski, KM, Danaher-Garcia, N, Gregg, JD. 2013. Pectoral fin contact between dolphin dyads at Zoo Duisburg, with comparison to other dolphin study populations. Aquatic Mammals. 39(4): 335-343. Melillo-Sweeting, K, Turnbull, S and Guttridge, T. 2014. Evidence of shark attacks on Atlantic spotted (Stenella frontalis) and bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) off Bimini, The Bahamas. Marine Mammal Science. DOI: 10.1111/mms.12082 _______________________________ Kelly Melillo Sweeting Bimini Research Manager Dolphin Communication Project www.dolphincommunicationproject.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From emmaforrester at hydenlyne.com Wed Jan 28 06:51:57 2015 From: emmaforrester at hydenlyne.com (Emma Forrester - Hydenlyne) Date: Wed, 28 Jan 2015 14:51:57 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Nigerian MMOs needed Message-ID: Hydenlyne are an E&P consultancy who supply environmental consultants worldwide. We are currently looking to expand our database of consultants based in Africa - particularly Nigeria. Please get in touch at emmaforrester at hydenlyne.com if you're interested in working with us. Kind regards, Emma Forrester Project Manager UK Mobile +44 (0)7730222001 Office +44 (0)1202 900078 Hydenlyne 1 Princes Court Princes Road Ferndown Dorset England BH22 9JG This email is confidential and for the intended recipient(s) only. If you are not the intended or authorised recipient, please maintain this confidentiality, notify the sender immediately and then delete it from your computer systems. Any unauthorised duplication, dissemination or other use of this communication is strictly prohibited and may be unlawful. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From a.diederichs at bioconsult-sh.de Fri Jan 30 06:09:39 2015 From: a.diederichs at bioconsult-sh.de (Ansgar Diederichs) Date: Fri, 30 Jan 2015 15:09:39 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] Position available Message-ID: <54CB90A3.1070000@bioconsult-sh.de> Position available BioConsult SH, a German consultancy, is offering a position for a biologist (MSc, comparable qualification) for projects in the marine environment; main focus is on data analyses and report-writing. Most projects are based on visual and acoustic detection and registration methods regarding marine mammals (e.g. Harbour porpoise) and seabirds in the German North and Baltic Sea. Sound knowledge of statistic and scientific data analyses are a main condition. Further emphasis lies in scientific concepts and environmental assessments. Good identification skills (in particular seabirds) as well as working experience in spatial planning are an advantage. The position is for one year, but a longer employment is envisaged. Desired qualifications of the applicant: ? graduated in biology or related science (Diploma or Master); ? working experience (or PhD) in zoology, marine biology, biological consultancy or a closely related field; ? profound knowledge in statistical analyses (preferred R); ? special skills in databank management; ? experience in autonomous / self-dependent scientific work; ? good knowledge about marine mammals, seabirds and marine biology; ? strong writing and communication skills; ? good English skills (good skills in German or willingness to learn); ? ability to work in a team. BioConsult SH is located in Husum, North-Germany. We are a team consisting of >25 biologist and landscape ecologists, with long-term experience in ecological research. The roots of both our personal interests and our work are within ecological research and conservation. Through qualified scientific work, we aim to establish the basis upon which decisions related to both conservation concepts and impact assessments can be made, as well as resolving conflicts. More information can be found at www.bioconsult-sh.de. Application is requested by email to info at bioconsult-sh.de (1 file, < 2 MByte) until February 6th 2015. -- -- Ansgar Diederichs BioConsult SH GmbH & Co.KG Schob?ller Str. 36 25813 Husum Germany ph.: (+49) 04841-6632915 fax: (+49) 04841-6632919 mob.: (+49) 0170-1880240 email: a.diederichs at bioconsult-sh.de www.bioconsult-sh.de BioConsult SH GmbH & Co.KG. Sitz der Gesellschaft: Husum. Amtsgericht Flensburg: HRA 6160 FL. Gesch?ftsf?hrer: BioConsult SH Verwaltungs-GmbH. Sitz der Gesellschaft: Husum. Amtsgericht Flensburg: HRB 7148 FL. Gesch?ftsf?hrer: Dr. Georg Nehls. From carolinaloch at yahoo.com.br Thu Jan 29 13:42:36 2015 From: carolinaloch at yahoo.com.br (Carolina Loch) Date: Thu, 29 Jan 2015 21:42:36 +0000 (UTC) Subject: [MARMAM] New paper on the enamel ultrastructure in fossil cetaceans Message-ID: <1868541902.2647484.1422567756890.JavaMail.yahoo@mail.yahoo.com> Dear MARMAM subscribers,?We are pleased to announce the publication of the following paper inPLOS One:??Loch C, Kieser JA, Fordyce RE (2015) Enamel Ultrastructure in Fossil Cetaceans(Cetacea: Archaeoceti and Odontoceti). PLoS ONE 10(1): e0116557. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0116557??AbstractThe transition from terrestrial ancestry to a fully pelagic life profoundlyaltered the body systems of cetaceans, with extreme morphological changes inthe skull and feeding apparatus. The Oligocene Epoch was a crucial time in theevolution of cetaceans when the ancestors of modern whales and dolphins(Neoceti) underwent major diversification, but details of dental structure andevolution are poorly known for the archaeocete-neocete transition. We reportthe morphology of teeth and ultrastructure of enamel in archaeocetes, andfossil platanistoids and delphinoids, ranging from late Oligocene (WaitakiValley, New Zealand) to Pliocene (Caldera, Chile). Teeth were embedded in epoxyresin, sectioned in cross and longitudinal planes, polished, etched, and coatedwith gold palladium for scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observation. SEMimages showed that in archaeocetes, squalodontids and Prosqualodon (taxa withheterodont and nonpolydont/limited polydont teeth), the inner enamel wasorganized in Hunter-Schreger bands (HSB) with an outer layer of radial enamel.This is a common pattern in most large-bodied mammals and it is regarded as abiomechanical adaptation related to food processing and crack resistance.Fossil Otekaikea sp. and delphinoids, which were polydont and homodont, showeda simpler structure, with inner radial and outer prismless enamel. Radialenamel is regarded as more wear-resistant and has been retained in severalmammalian taxa in which opposing tooth surfaces slide over each other. Theseobservations suggest that the transition from a heterodont and nonpolydont/limitedpolydont dentition in archaeocetes and early odontocetes, to homodont andpolydont teeth in crownward odontocetes, was also linked to a markedsimplification in the enamel Schmelzmuster. These patterns probably reflectfunctional shifts in food processing from shear-and-mastication in archaeocetesand early odontocetes, to pierce-and-grasp occlusion in crownward odontocetes,with the implication of less demanding feeding biomechanics as seen in mostextant odontocetes. Full text is available at: http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0116557 Or alternatively, a pdf can be requested at: carolina.loch at otago.ac.nz ?Best regards,?________________________________________ Carolina Loch Silva, PhD Research Assistant Sir John Walsh Research Institute Faculty of Dentistry, University of Otago Dunedin 9054, New Zealand Phone: +(64) 03 479-5667 & Research Collaborator Geology Department, University of Otago and Laborat?rio de Mam?feros Aqu?ticos UFSC Florian?polis, SC - Brasil http://www.otago.ac.nz/sjwri/people/craniofacial-biomechanics/otago054438.html ? -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From cindye at alaskasealife.org Thu Jan 29 17:12:33 2015 From: cindye at alaskasealife.org (Cindy Ecklund) Date: Thu, 29 Jan 2015 16:12:33 -0900 Subject: [MARMAM] Scientist 2 at the Alaska SeaLife Center Message-ID: The Alaska SeaLife Center generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska?s marine ecosystems is seeking applications for the following: *Scientist 2* This position is responsible for conducting research at the Alaska SeaLife Center. Areas of research interest should marine mammals but may also include seabirds, fish and other areas of marine biology. This is a soft-money position; some start-up funding may be available, but obtaining funding for future research is expected. *Education and Experience Requirements:* PhD. degree in zoology, wildlife biology, marine biology or a related animal research field, and 2 years professional experience in lab or field marine mammal research in addition to graduate studies or the equivalent. Project budgeting and management experience preferred. *Responsibilities (include but are not limited to):* 1. Prepares and submits competitive grant proposals to prospective funding opportunities. 2. Independently manages, or assists collaborating scientists, on designated research projects including project planning, data collection, data analysis, publications, budgets, and permits. 3. Conducts field and/or laboratory based research activities that may include arranging logistics and supervising field or laboratory staff. Field research may involve work at remote locations. 4. Designs experiments and data collection systems; carries out scientific data collection and statistical analysis of data collected. Manages record keeping and data for research projects. 5. Prepares reports, posters, presentations, and peer-reviewed publications relating to research conducted. 6. Develops collaborations with external scientists to maximize the scientific impact of research projects. 7. Applies for and manages research permits as required to conduct research projects. Maintains compliance with all applicable permits. 8. Supervises personnel matters as assigned. 9. Maintains a valid driver?s license. Travels within the U.S. to work with partners and collaborators and present scientific results. 10. Represents research projects to private, local, state, or federal agencies in coordination with the Science Director. This is a full-time position. ASLC offers a competitive wage (DOE) and benefits package. *Apply by:* February 12, 2015 *Start Date:* ASAP Send cover letter, CV & ASLC application with professional references (downloadable at www.alaskasealife.org) to HR at alaskasealife.org. Please submit requested documents as one PDF if possible. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. *EO/AA** Employer* Alaska SeaLife Center *Cindy L. Ecklund* *Human Resources Director* P.O. Box 1329 ? 301 Railway Ave ? Seward, AK 99664 Direct: (907) 224-6895 Mobile: (907) 362-2276 Fax: (907) 224-6320 www.alaskasealife.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From dagmar_fertl at hotmail.com Thu Jan 29 10:35:05 2015 From: dagmar_fertl at hotmail.com (Dagmar Fertl) Date: Thu, 29 Jan 2015 12:35:05 -0600 Subject: [MARMAM] Abstracts - Journal of Cetacean Research & Management, 13(1) Message-ID: Dear Marmam and ECS-mailbase subscribers, Apologies to those of you who will receive duplicate emails due to cross-posting. The following are abstracts from one of the most recent issues (Volume 13, issue 1, 2013) of the Journal of Cetacean Research and Management. The following is posted on behalf of the IWC and the journal editor. 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. This is one of the final issues of JCRM to be published in hard copy format. The IWC is delighted to inform you that the Journal of Cetacean Research and Management will be available free of charge online from Volume 14 (https://iwc.int/jcrm). Back copies will also be available free of charge on the IWC website. Some back copies of the Journal of Cetacean Research and Management are available in hard copy format, and these are available for the cost of postage only. For further details, please contact secretariat at iwc.int. Contact information is provided for the corresponding author for each article. Please do not contact the listserve editors or me for pdfs. Thank you for your continued interest in the journal and abstract postings. A guide for authors is included at the website. With regards, Dagmar Fertl ************************************************ Brodie, P., K. Ramirez, and M. Haulena. 2013. Growth and maturity of belugas (Delphinapterus leucas) in Cumberland Sound, Canada, and in captivity: evidence for two growth layer groups (GLGs) per year in teeth. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 13(1):1-18. Contact e-mail: p.brodie at icloud.com The beluga (Delphinapterus leucas) is one of the few cetaceans to adapt, year-round, to an Arctic environment, one of the most challenging marine habitats, incorporating shallow estuaries, high turbidity, shifting pack-ice and extreme tidal ranges. Adaptation is attributed in part, to year-round herd integrity and synchrony, occupying a sequence of restricted seasonal habitats and calving sites, which are reflected in tooth laminae. Field research, 1966?1969, led to the conclusion that females are sexually mature at 5.75 years and males at 8.75 years, gestation is 15?16 months, reproductive cycle 3 years, with a lifespan of 30?35 years. Newborn and the first four year-classes are recognisable by length, body colour and morphology. The two-year nursing period results in rapid growth, coincident with a training period to acquire social, feeding, and crucial under-ice navigational skills. Belugas in Cumberland Sound had been reduced through exploitation, thus it is unlikely that present numbers are food limited, reflecting maximum rate of increase. We examine growth indices for captive belugas, either captured as calves, or first and second generations born in captivity, to compare known-age animals. Onset of sexual maturity in males and females is similar to findings for Cumberland Sound, which was based on two growth layer groups per year in the teeth, or GLG/2. We analyse studies where previous oral doses of tetracycline, as well as bomb radiocarbon 14C from 1958 were used to argue for single annual GLGs or GLG/1. Dedicated field studies, using appropriate dosage of intramuscular tetracycline, provide evidence for GLG/2. The 14C study appears to have been compromised by preparation technique and burdens sampled in the 1990s may have been of maternal origin, transferred during foetal growth and nursing, or from recent fallout to 1980. Fundamental to the issue of growth-at-age: arguments for GLG/1 are based on back-calculation from adults of unknown age, while GLG/2 is based on projection from newborn to known-age young and adults. Direct observations and cross-referenced parameters do not substantiate GLG/1, which requires halving the growth rate, thus doubling the age of sexual and physical maturity as well as lifespan, resulting in a 40% reduction of the intrinsic rate of natural increase, substantially lower than the present rate of recovery observed. **** Bassos-Hull, K., R.M. Perrtree, C.C. Shepard, S. Schilling, A.A. Barleycorn, J.B. Allen, B.C. Palmer, W.E. Pine, and R.S. Wells. 2013. Long-term site fidelity and seasonal abundance estimates of common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) along the southwest coast of Florida and responses to natural perturbations . Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 13(1):19-30. Contact e-mail: kbhull at mote.org Information characterising site fidelity and abundance for common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) along the southwest coast of Florida is important for defining stock structure for management purposes. Long-term site fidelity and ranging patterns of bottlenose dolphins in Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound, Florida were investigated using photo-ID data collected during 566 boat-based surveys from 1982 through 2007. Seasonal abundance estimates were generated from seven multi-week field seasons during 2001 through 2006, before and after a major hurricane and red tide event occurred in the area. In total, 1,154 distinctive dolphins were identified up to 34 times each with 84% of individuals resighted on more than one day. Multiple year residency rates were high with 81% of dolphins sighted in at least two years and 30% over ten or more years. Seventy-six percent of individuals with sightings on two or more days were observed in both summer and winter. Of 249 dolphins sighted on ten or more days in the study area, 83% were never observed outside the study area, indicating strong site-fidelity. Two years after a devastating Category 4 hurricane in 2004 and following two years of Karenia brevis harmful algal blooms, 94% of dolphins were observed in the same region within the study area and abundance estimates remained stable. Documenting range and site fidelity patterns of individuals over long periods of time is helpful for characterizing population structure and for examining changes attributable to environmental factors and perturbations such as hurricanes, harmful algal blooms and climate change. **** Martien, K.K., D.P. Gregovich, and A.E. Punt. 2013. Defining the appropriate ?Unit-To-Conserve? under the International Whaling Commission?s Revised Management Procedure. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 13(1):31-38. Contact e-mail: Karen.Martien at noaa.gov Identifying the appropriate ?Unit to Conserve? (UTC) is critical to the success of any management scheme. While the need to define the UTC appropriate to the IWC?s Catch Limit Algorithm (CLA) has long been recognised by its Scientific Committee, little progress has been made on this issue. The CLA was rigorously tested prior to its adoption. However, most of those original performance trials focused on single-population scenarios or two-population scenarios with no ongoing dispersal. None of the trials considered the performance of the CLA across a range of dispersal rates. In this study, the performance of the CLA under a variety of population structure scenarios is examined. This is the first study to investigate the levels of connectivity (i.e. dispersal rate) for which populations require separate management to meet the conservation goals of the CLA. All the trials consisted of two populations that were managed as a single stock for 100 years. Both historical and modern hunts were spatially-biased so that population 1 was the primary target of hunting. Parameters that varied among trials were the relative carrying capacities (K) of the populations, the dispersal rate between them, maximum sustainable yield rate (MSYR1+), and the precision in simulated abundance estimates. All of these parameters had strong effects on the conservation performance of the CLA. Trials with a low MSYR1+ (1%) generally ended with the abundance of population 1 below 0.54K, regardless of the dispersal rate or relative carrying capacities of the two populations. The same was true of trials in which the carrying capacity of population 1 represented only 10% of the total landscape carrying capacity and the CV of the abundance estimates was low, even when dispersal between populations was high (5 ? 10?3yr?1) and MSYR1+ was 4%. The results suggest that the appropriate UTCs under the RMP are likely to exchange dispersers at high enough rates that they will be difficult to delineate using existing methods. These results also highlight the value of spatially-diffuse hunting patterns that avoid potential overhunting of unrecognised stocks. **** Bertulli, C.G., M.H. Rasmussen, and M.J. Tetley. 2013. Photo-identification rate and wide-scale movement of common minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) in the coastal waters of Faxafl?i and Skj?lfandi Bays, Iceland. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 13(1):39-45. Contact e-mail: ciarabertulli at yahoo.it Information on movement and site fidelity is important for conservation and management. Photo-ID of common minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) was conducted from whalewatching vessels within the coastal waters of Faxafl?i (a bay on the southwest coast of Iceland) and Skj?lfandi (a bay on the northeast coast) between 2007?10 and 2001?10 respectively, to examine fidelity to the sampling locations and movement between them. Images of 292 individual minke whales were obtained in Faxafl?i and 61 in Skj?lfandi, with an overall ?annual re-capture proportion? of 23.3% in the former and 16.4% in the latter. Most (about 80%) of the resighted animals in each bay were re-sighted in one year only. The total number of identified whales has increased in both Faxafl?i and Skj?lfandi Bays since 2007 and 2001 respectively, suggesting the existence of an open population in both bays. One match was found between the two bays, eight years apart; the distance was approximately 600km between southwest and northeast Iceland. This study shows the value of photo-ID studies from platforms of opportunity such as whalewatching vessels. More data are required from broader geographic areas before firm conclusions can be drawn about movements and site fidelity within Icelandic waters. **** Vermeulen, E. 2013. Abundance estimates of southern right whales (Eubalaena australis) in Bah?a San Antonio, Patagonia, Argentina. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 13(1):47-51. Contact e-mail: elsvermeulen5 at gmail.com The abundance of southern right whales (Eubalaena australis) was estimated by the means of aerial line-transect surveys for the area of Bahia San Antonio, a bay located in the north-western region of the San Matias Gulf (40?50?S 64?50?W), Rio Negro, Patagonia Argentina. In total, seven aerial surveys were conducted in the first week of August and September 2009, September, October and November 2010, and August, September 2011. Survey effort equalled a total flight time of 12.4h, during which 200 whales were counted in 119 whale groups. Half of the encounters were solitary animals and 17% were mating groups. Corrected abundance estimates showed the highest amount of whales present in the bay during the month of September, with 85+71, 207+108 and 117+55 animals in 2009, 2010 and 2011 respectively. In adjacent months, less than half the amount of whales seemed to be present. The correction factor g(0)availability resulted 0.392+0.456. Perception bias was not accounted for. These aerial surveys resulted in the first estimates of southern right whale abundance in this north Patagonian bay and indicated a rather abrupt peak during the month of September. This being the peak month for right whale presence is consistent with data from other regions in the Southwest Atlantic, but data obtained in the other months remained scarce and thus results should be interpreted carefully. The complete absence of whales in the area during November 2010 and August 2011 raises further questions on the predictability of the whale?s presence in the area. Overall, more consistent aerial surveys should be conducted to accurately determine the annual and interannual evolution of southern right whale abundance in the study area. **** Silberg, J.N., J.M.V. Acebes, A.M. Burdin, E.G. Mamev, K.C. Dolan, C.A. Layusa, and E.Q. Aca. 2013. New insight into migration patterns of western North Pacific humpback whales between the Babuyan Islands, Philippines and the Commander Islands, Russia. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 13(1):53-57. Contact e-mail: joshsilberg at gmail.com The population structure of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in the North Pacific has received significant attention in recent years through the collaborative Structure of Populations, Levels of Abundance, and Status of Humpback whales in the North Pacific (SPLASH) study. However, the analysis of humpback whales in the western North Pacific Asian population was limited in the SPLASH study, due to small sample size. Much of the Asian population summers off Kamchatka, Russia and spends the winters in breeding grounds in Okinawa and Ogasawara, Japan and the Babuyan Islands in the northern Philippines. Prior studies grouped the Commander Islands feeding ground in Russia, with the eastern Aleutian Islands as part of the central humpback whale stock. This paper uses additional years of photo-ID data from both the Philippines (160 whales from 2000?12) and the Commander Islands (531 whales from 2008?10) to establish a previously unreported migratory connection by matching four animals between the two sites. The new migratory linkage found in the present study suggests that a small portion of humpback whales hypothesised to be migrating to a ?missing? breeding ground in the central North Pacific are actually migrating to the Philippines. However, additional studies on a wider geographical scale are required. **** Ivashchenko, V.Y., P.J. Clapham, and R.L. Brownell, Jr. 2013. Soviet catches of whale in the North Pacific: revised totals. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 13(1):59-71. Contact e-mail: yulia.ivashchenko at noaa.gov The USSR conducted a global campaign of illegal whaling beginning in 1948. Catch records for Soviet pelagic operations in the Southern Hemisphere (and the northern Indian Ocean) have been largely corrected, but major gaps have remained for the North Pacific. Here, using newly discovered whaling industry reports, corrected figures for Soviet catches in this ocean are provided. During the period 1948?79, a minimum of 190,183 whales were killed by the USSR in the North Pacific (195,783 if one includes an estimate for sperm whales taken in years for which there are no true data); of these, only 169,638 were reported to the IWC, a difference of 20,568 whales (26,168 including the sperm whale estimate). Figures were falsified for 8 of 12 hunted species, with some catches over-reported to camouflage takes of illegal species. Revised catch totals (caught vs. reported) are as follows: blue whale ? 1,621 vs. 858; fin whale ? 14,167 vs. 15,445; humpback whale ? 7,334 vs. 4,680; sperm whale ? 153,686 vs. 132,505; sei whale ? 7,698 vs. 11,363; North Pacific right whale ? 681 vs. 11; bowhead whale ? 145 vs. 0; gray whale ? 172 vs. 24. Bryde?s, minke, killer and Baird?s beaked whale catches were reported correctly. Of all the hunted species, sperm and North Pacific right whales were the most heavily impacted. Major falsifications for sperm whales involved figures for both total catch and sex ratio. **** Lammers, M.O., A.A. Pack, E.G. Lyman, and L. Espiritu. 2013. Trends in collisions between vessels and North Pacific humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in Hawaiian waters (1975-2011). Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 13(1):73-80. Contact e-mail: lammers at hawaii.edu Injury from collisions with vessels is a growing threat worldwide for many species of whales. Thirty seven years of historical records were examined for evidence of vessel collisions with humpback whales in the main Hawaiian Islands. Between 1975 and 2011, 68 collisions between vessels and whales were reported including 59 witnessed collisions and 9 observed whale injuries that were consistent with a recent vessel collision. No collisions were immediately lethal. The waters between Maui, Molokai, Lanai and Kahoolawe, which are known to have one of the highest concentrations of humpback whales in the Hawaiian Islands, had the highest incidence of collisions. Over 63% of the collisions involved calves and subadults, suggesting a greater susceptibility towards collisions among younger animals. The rate of collisions increased significantly over the final twelve breeding seasons of the study and was greater than predicted by the estimated annual increase in the whale population, suggesting that the rising number of reported collisions cannot be explained solely by the annual increase in whale abundance. Although the total number of registered vessels and shipping traffic in Hawaii remained relatively constant between 2000 and 2010, there was a significant increase in the number of vessels between 7.9m and 19.8m in length. Vessels within this size range were also the most commonly involved in collisions during the study period, accounting for approximately two thirds of recorded incidents. It is concluded that from 1975 2011, there was a significant increase in reports of non-lethal collisions between vessels and humpback whales, especially calves and subadults, in the main Hawaiian Islands that likely reflects a combination of factors including the recovery of the population of North Pacific humpback whales, increases in traffic of particular vessel types, and increased reporting practices by operators of vessels. **** Brandon, J.R., and A.E. Punt. 2013. Testing the Gray Whale Strike Limit Algorithm (SLA): allowing environmental variability to influence population dynamics . Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 13(1):81-88. Contact e-mail: jbrandon at u.washington.edu The performance of the Gray Whale SLA is evaluated based on an operating model conditioned on available information for the eastern North Pacific stock of gray whales including: survey estimates of 1+ abundance; calf counts; strandings data; and the extent of sea-ice in the feeding grounds in the Bering Sea in the early season. Multiple scenarios are considered in the analyses to explore the impact of different sources of environmental variation, including scenarios in which future environmental forcing and episodic events are driven by the relationships between reproductive success and survival to sea ice. A variety of sources of uncertainty are considered, including parameter uncertainty, the uncertainty about the relationship between the extent of sea-ice and population dynamics, and observation error. The impact of these sources of uncertainty on the performance of the Gray Whale SLA is small. For all scenarios considered in the simulations, application of the SLA results in the stock being at or near carrying capacity at the end of a 92 year projection period for which sea-ice cover forecasts are available, while still satisfying the needs of aboriginal whalers -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From dagmar_fertl at hotmail.com Thu Jan 29 10:38:48 2015 From: dagmar_fertl at hotmail.com (Dagmar Fertl) Date: Thu, 29 Jan 2015 12:38:48 -0600 Subject: [MARMAM] Abstracts - Journal of Cetacean Research & Management, 13(2) Message-ID: Dear Marmam subscribers, The following are abstracts from one of the most recent issues (Volume 13, issue 2, 2013) of the Journal of Cetacean Research and Management. The following is posted on behalf of the IWC and the journal editor. 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. This is one of the final issues of JCRM to be published in hard copy format. The IWC is delighted to inform you that the Journal of Cetacean Research and Management will be available free of charge online from Volume 14 (https://iwc.int/jcrm). Back copies will also be available free of charge on the IWC website. Some back copies of the Journal of Cetacean Research and Management are available in hard copy format, and these are available for the cost of postage only. For further details, please contact secretariat at iwc.int. Contact information is provided for the corresponding author for each article. Please do not contact the listserve editors or me for pdfs or copies of the articles. Thank you for your continued interest in the journal and abstract postings. A guide for authors is included at the website. With regards, Dagmar Fertl Sumich, J.L., S.A. Blokhin, and P.A. Tiupeleyev. 2013. Revised estimates of foetal and post-natal growth in young gray whales (Eschrichtius robustus). Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 13(2):89-96. Contact e-mail: sumichj at onid.orst.edu Patterns of gray whale growth in body length and weight with age are evaluated using published values of foetal and post-natal body dimensions at reported ages, supplemented with previously unpublished measured lengths of 88 mid-gestation foetuses, 82 first-summer calves and 30 secondsummer whales taken in the summer/autumn Chukotkan native subsistence fishery. Gompertz growth models are fitted to foetal and post-natal lengths at age, predicting mean lengths at birth in mid-January of 4.7m, 7.9m at weaning and 8.7m at one year. The late foetal diapause in growth of length is not supported by the available data. Two equations were derived for estimating body weights from the linear body dimensions of length nd maximum girth. For biomass estimates, two equations based on length alone and on both girth and length are derived. A multiple least squares regression equation fit to 14 measurements of the same whale over 14 months of captive rehabilitation predicts mean body weights at birth of 1,100?1,200kg, 5,100?5,200kg at six months (weaning), and 6,700?6,800kg at one year of age. ****** D?Intino, A.M., J.D. Darling, J. Urb?n R., and T.R. Frasier. 2013. Lack of nuclear differentiation suggests reproductive connectivity between the ?southern feeding group? and the larger population of eastern North Pacific gray whales, despite previous detection of mitochondrial differences. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 13(2):97-104. Contact e-mail: timothy.frasier at smu.ca During winter, eastern North Pacific gray whales migrate south to calving grounds in the lagoons of Baja California, and in spring they migrate north to their summer feeding grounds in the Chukchi and Beaufort Seas. Although the majority of the population makes this migration, a small subset of the population known as the ?southern feeding group? ends their northward migration early, spending summers feeding in waters ranging from northern California to southern Alaska. Previous analyses based on photo-ID and mtDNA data indicate that this seasonal substructuring results from maternally-directed site fidelity to different feeding grounds, and that this site fidelity and feeding ground preference is passed from mothers to their offspring. It is currently assumed, but not known, that the individuals of the southern feeding group mate with the rest of the population, and therefore that the eastern North Pacific gray whale represents one interbreeding population. Testing this assumption and understanding how these whales are related to the rest of the population, is key to making appropriate management decisions, which are particularly relevant given the recent increase in potential removals, or threats in the area such as the proposed resumption of aboriginal whaling, and increased oil pipeline development and subsequent vessel traffic. This paper analyses 15 nuclear microsatellite loci in 59 individuals from the southern feeding group and 40 individuals from the calving lagoons (representative of the larger population) to test the hypothesis that the eastern North Pacific gray whale represents one interbreeding population. No indication of population substructuring was found based on these nuclear loci, suggesting that all sampled whales do indeed represent one interbreeding population. Combined, these data from mitochondrial and nuclear markers therefore suggest one interbreeding population that is seasonally subdivided based on maternally-directed site fidelity to different feeding areas. **** Coughran, D.K., N.J. Gales, and H.C. Smith. 2013. A note on the spike in recorded mortality of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in Western Australia. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 13(2):105-108. Contact e-mail: Douglas.Coughran at dpaw.wa.gov.au An unprecedented number of humpback whales (n = 46) from Breeding Stock D (BSD) were found dead or dying on Western Australian beaches in 2009. This compares to an average of less than four stranded humpback whales in each year in the period between 1989 and 2008. The recorded number of humpback whales on beaches in the year preceding this peak (2008, n = 13) and the two years following the peak (2010, n = 16; 2011, n = 17) were also above the long term average. In 2012 (n = 7), the numbers of stranded whales was closer to the longer term average. The majority of stranded individuals were either calves (44%) or juveniles/sub-adults (49%), with only 7% classified as adults. Most whales appeared emaciated. There were insufficient data to determine cause of death. Three possible hypotheses to explain this spike in mortality are proposed: (1) the increase in mortality of BSD was an artefact of increased detection and reporting; (2) the increase was temporary and transitory; and (3) the spike in mortality represents the start of an increasing trend in mortality as the population approaches carrying capacity. We suggest that hypothesis two is the most plausible but on-going monitoring will be required to test this. ***** Rankin, R.W., D. Maldini, and G. Kaufman. 2013. Bayesian estimate of Australian humpback calving interval under sparse resighting rates: 1987-2009. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 13(1):109-121. Contact e-mail: robertw.rankin at gmail.com This study estimates a calving interval for humpback whales from a longterm photo-ID catalogue of 2,973 individuals resighted in Hervey Bay, East Australia. The study proposes a modification of two existing methods to handle partial identification of sex and age-classes of whales from visual surveys. One method truncates the data to just breeding females and discards all resighting events prior to the first observed breeding event. The second method utilises the multi-stage mark recapture (MSMR) framework and multi-event extension to include all resighted individuals and their entire encounter history. The performance of each method is assessed and the conditioning required to handle ambiguity of sex and age-classes is detailed, which is subtly different from most other mark-recapture methods. Both truncation and the multi-event methods led to similar estimates of calving intervals: 2.98 years (95% CI: 2.27?3.51) and 2.78 years (95% CI: 2.23?3.68) respectively. More importantly, estimates were more sensitive to the exact specification of resighting probabilities among age and sex classes than to the type of conditioning. However, the multi-event framework resulted in more precise estimates of other important life-history parameters such as apparent survival, and included a wider constituency of age and sex classes. ***** Hakamada, T., K. Matsuoka, S. Nishiwaki, and T. Kitakado. 2013. Abundance estimates and trends for Antarctic minke whales (Balaenoptera bonaerensis) in Antarctic Areas IV and V for the period 1989/90-2004/05. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 13(2):123-151. Contact e-mail:hakamada at cetacean.jp The Japanese Whale Research Programme under Special Permit in the Antarctic (JARPA) conducted sighting surveys during the 1989/90 to 2004/05 austral summer seasons (mainly in January and February), alternating between IWC management Areas IV (70?E?130?E) and V (130?E?170?W), both south of 60?S each (split-)year. These data are analysed to obtain abundance estimates for Antarctic minke whales (Balaenoptera bonaerensis) in these Areas. The estimates are calculated by standard line transect analysis methods using the program DISTANCE under the assumption that g(0) = 1. Annual rates of increase in abundance are estimated using log-linear models. The analyses take several recommendations from the 2006 JARPA Review Meeting into consideration. Those addressed here aim to: (a) improve the point estimates of abundance and their precision; and (b) evaluate (through sensitivity tests) the effect of different factors associated with the JARPA survey on the estimates of abundance and trend. GLM models are used to adjust for different strata being surveyed at different times of year over the duration of JARPA, with model selection being based on AICc. Abundance estimates for Area IV range from 16,562 (CV = 0.542) in 1997/98 to 44,945 (CV = 0.338) in 1999/00, while those for Area V range from 74,144 (CV = 0.329) in 2004/05 to 151,828 (CV = 0.322) in 2002/03. Estimates of the annual rates of increase in abundance are 1.8% with a 95% CI of [?2.5%, 6.0%] for Area IV and 1.9% with a 95% CI of [?3.0%, 6.9%] for Area V. Estimates of these trends are robust to the effects of changes in survey timing, the shapes of the shoulders of detection functions, portions of survey tracklines following the ice edge, parts of the Areas in which no survey took place and poor coverage within some strata. Adjustments to allow for the g(0) being less than 1 are made by the application of a regression model, developed from the results of the Okamura-Kitakado (OK) method estimate of minke whale abundance from the IDCR-SOWER surveys, which provides estimates of g(0) from the statistics of the minke whale school size distribution in a stratum. With this adjustment, abundance estimates increase by an average of 32,333 (106%) for Area IV and 89,245 (86%) for Area V, while the estimates of annual rates of increase and their 95% CIs change slightly to 2.6% [?1.5%,6.9%] for Area IV and 1.6% [ 3.4%,6.7%] for Area V. ***** Murase, H., I. Temoai, T. Kirata, S. Finkaso, G. Yasunaga, and L.A. Pastene. 2013. A note on cetaceans off Kiribati and Tuvalu from a research cruise in October 2010. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 13(2):153-158. Contact e-mail: muraseh at affrc.go.jp This paper summarises the results of a sighting survey conducted around the Gilbert Islands (Kiribati) and Tuvalu Islands (Tuvalu) in the central Pacific Ocean between 3 and 17 October 2010. This was the first systematic collection of cetacean sighting data in this region. The main objective of the survey was to investigate the occurrence and distribution of cetaceans around Kiribati and Tuvalu. In addition biopsy samples were obtained to investigate the species identity of Bryde?s-whale-like baleen whales through genetic analyses and to assess feeding ecology of cetaceans in the survey area through the examination of fatty acids. The survey was carried out using a sighting survey vessel, which covered a total of 1,012 n.miles (?1,875km). A total of 24 schools (640 individuals) of cetaceans was sighted: three schools (five individuals) of Bryde?s-whale-like baleen whales, one school (nine individuals) of sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus), one school (six individuals) of killer whales (Orcinus orca), one school (14 individuals) of short finned pilot whales (Globicephala macrorhynchus), one school (two individuals) of false killer whales (Pseudorca crassidens), eight schools (483 individuals) of spinner dolphins (Stenella longirostris), and one school (70 individuals) of striped dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba). Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) analyses based on the biopsy samples identified two of the Bryde?s-whale-like whales sighted, as of the putative species Balaenoptera brydei. Compositions of fatty acids of Bryde?s and killer whales are presented. The survey provided new information on the distribution and fatty-acid composition of cetaceans around Kiribati and Tuvalu. ***** Stevick, P.T., J.M. Allen, M.H. Engel, F. F?lix, B. Haase, and M.C. Neves. 2013. Inter-oceanic movement of an adult female humpback whale between Pacific and Atlantic breeding grounds off South America. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 13(2):159-162. Contact e-mail: ptstevick at gmail.com We report the first documented movement of an individual humpback whale between the eastern South Pacific stock off Ecuador and the western South Atlantic stock off Brazil. This constitutes the first record of a humpback whale in both the Atlantic and Pacific breeding grounds off South America, and one of a small number of inter-oceanic movements documented to date. It is possible that, even at quite low levels, this movement of individuals between breeding grounds contributes to the current high level of mtDNA diversity in these once-depleted Southern Hemisphere populations. When first sighted, the whale was accompanied by a young calf, and is therefore identified as an adult female. This movement to a different and distant breeding ground is the first reported by a reproductively mature female, and shows that extreme long-distance travellers among humpback whales are not restricted to young males. ***** Iriarte, V., and M. Marmontel. 2013. Insights on the use of dolphins (boto, Inia geoffrensis and tucuxi, Sotalia fluviatilis) for bait in the piracatinga (Calophysus macropterus) fishery in the western Brazilian Amazon. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 13(2):163-173. Contact e-mail: verorcinus at gmail.com In the Amazon Basin, the use of the pink dolphin or boto (Inia geoffrensis) for bait in the piracatinga (Calophysus macropterus) fishery was first detected in the year 2000. Since then, this artisanal fishery has become more prevalent as it requires only a few hours of work per night and provides immediate cash earnings. It is thus an attractive addition to (or replacement for) traditional fishing. Previous reports have noted the use of botos as bait, but stated that the most common bait used are caimans (Melanosuchus niger, Caiman crocodilus). Estimates of the number of dolphins killed based on fish landings have been proposed and an apparent decrease in sighting/survival of an artificially-marked boto population was observed. Although stocks/population estimates, trends and actual numbers of hunted dolphins are unknown, the conservation impacts of this activity are of concern. Between October 2010 and November 2011, research was conducted within an area with serious conflicts between dolphins and fishermen as well as intense fishing for piracatinga, i.e. in the lower Japur? River, on the border with the Mamirau? and Aman? Sustainable Development Reserves, where both boto and tucuxi (Sotalia fluviatilis) are used for bait. One-hundred and fifty-seven monitoring surveys were carried out in eight key communities, confirming 114 piracatinga fishing events through direct monitoring and incognito surveys of fishing gear (gaiolas). Empirical evidence of the activity in gaiolas comprised pieces of bait, carcass remains, piracatinga provoked vomits and dolphin fished carcasses. Of those, 31.2% (n = 35) involved cetacean bait (91.4% I. geoffrensis, 8.58% S. fluviatilis), 68.7% (n = 77) caiman bait (96% M. niger, 4% C. crocodilus), and two fishing events used both types. These percentages may be higher/lower in other areas within and outside the Reserves. Given the increasing trend of the piracatinga fishery, the authors believe that precautionary measures for the conservation of Amazonian dolphins are urgently needed. Development of practical short-term solutions (e.g. offal-baited fish traps) and multispecies management together with law enforcement, incentives and educational programmes could allow the future transition of riverine communities from the piracatinga fishery to sustainable, higher income activities. ***** Ryan, C., D. Craig, P. L?pez-Su?rez, J.V. Perez, I. O?Connor, and S.D. Berrow. 2013. Breeding habitat of poorly studied humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in Boa Vista, Cape Verde. Journal of Cetacean Research and Management 13(2):175-180. Contact e-mail address: cryan at mcr-team.org The waters surrounding Cape Verde comprise one of two known breeding grounds for humpback whales in the North Atlantic. The population remains very small and has apparently failed to recover since the cessation of whaling there. During the breeding seasons of 2011 and 2012, sighting surveys were carried out for humpback whales off Boa Vista, the easternmost island of the Cape Verde Island archipelago. The distribution and relative abundance of humpback whales and mother-calf pairs was investigated by plotting effort-corrected sightings using a 2km2 grid-square. The study area, a 206km2 region from the coastline up to 8km offshore, covered the western half of Boa Vista where whales have previously been regularly recorded. Following 1,954km of search effort, 117 sightings of humpback whales were made. An encounter rate of 0.11 whales per km was recorded for both years. It is hoped that these data may assist in implementing conservation measures to protect humpback whales and the habitat of Baia Sal Rei, which appears to be the single most important bay for winter breeding, calving and nursing humpback whales in the eastern North Atlantic. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From info at cbmwc.org Fri Jan 30 01:52:42 2015 From: info at cbmwc.org (CBMWC) Date: Fri, 30 Jan 2015 09:52:42 -0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Final call for applications for new volunteer opportunities at the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre, Wales, UK Message-ID: <00b001d03c72$7de7dcb0$79b79610$@cbmwc.org> WTSWW_high_res_logoCBMWC logo without boarderCardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre New Quay Wales www.cbmwc.org Dedicated to conserving Cardigan Bay?s marine wildlife through education and research The Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre is currently recruiting for a number of exciting new volunteer positions for the 2015 season. We are looking for a volunteer to manage our Atlantic grey seal photo-ID project, a volunteer co-ordinator assistant and a volunteer marine education and awareness assistant. Applications close at midnight on Sunday 1st February. About CBMWC The Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre is based in New Quay, west Wales, UK and is the marine wing of the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales. Since 1996 we have been dedicated to raising awareness of the local marine environment through education and research. Using boat-based and land-based surveys, photo-ID and acoustic studies we monitor bottlenose dolphin, harbour porpoise and Atlantic grey seal populations in the Cardigan Bay Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and wider Irish Sea. We also run a busy visitor centre as well as an education and activity room which offers marine educational and awareness raising activities for families with young children. Atlantic grey seal photo-ID assistant We are recruiting a research volunteer to continue our Atlantic grey seal photo-ID project throughout the 2015 field season (March-November). Initiated in 2014, the seal photo-ID project aims to create a catalogue of individuals photographed in Cardigan Bay area to learn more about their travelling habits and areas that are important to them. This is a fantastic opportunity to be involved in all aspects of a new CBMWC research project, to gain valuable research and analytical skills and to make a positive contribution to local conservation initiatives and collaborations. Role description: The successful volunteer will be responsible for analysing photographs of seals taken mainly along the Cardigan Bay coast, sorting and matching images as well as liaising with existing collaborators of this project. Depending on skills and experience there may also be an opportunity to go out into the field to capture images first hand throughout the field season and to assist with the further development of the project. This project may be suitable for an MSc project, however the student would need to commit their time for the duration of the project (this may be negotiable). The successful volunteer will also have the opportunity to be involved in other aspects of CBMWC?s work and will need to be flexible and willing to help out with other tasks associated with CBMWC?s work where required. Essential skills and qualifications: ? Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and unsupervised ? IT literate ? Good attention to detail ? An interest in wildlife and conservation ? Proven report writing skills ? Organised and dedicated Desirable skills ? Experience using digital SLR cameras ? Previous experience of photo-identification (not necessarily with seals) ? Experience of Access databases ? Experience using GIS programs (ESRI ArcGIS or QGIS) ? Experience of statistical analysis ? A background in biology/marine biology/environmental science ? Driving licence and access to a vehicle Commitment: Although this is a volunteer role, we are looking for a volunteer that is able to commit for the entire field season from 23rd March to 2nd November 2015. You will be required to work up to five days a week (including weekends), this will depend on field work and activities as daily work schedule can change depending on weather conditions and events planned. To apply: Please email a CV and covering letter (no more than one side of A4) outlining your experience and motivations for applying to volunteer at cbmwc.org with ?Seal ID 2015? in the subject line. The deadline is midnight on 1st February 2015. Interviews via Skype will be held in the week commencing 9th February. Volunteer co-ordinator assistant We are recruiting an volunteer co-ordinator assistant for the 2015 season (March to November) to help coordinate our volunteers and promote our work and activities via social media networks. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn about running a small but very active marine conservation group, to develop skills in volunteer co-ordination and training and leadership experience. Role description: ? Assist with volunteer coordination and training ? Assist with the administration of the CBMWC ? Provide engaging content across CBMWC social media ? Assist in researching, developing and implementing strategies to build our online community using social listening and management tools like Hootsuite and Facebook Insights ? Develop creative, new social media campaigns ? Assist in producing a bi-monthly CBMWC newsletter ? Assist with website updates Essential skills and qualifications: ? Fluency in English with excellent verbal and written communication skills ? Confident communicator ? Leadership skills ? Approachable ? Experience of team working ? Experience using social media ? IT literate ? Enthusiastic, conscientious and hard working ? Proactive with ability to work unsupervised ? Responsible, flexible and mature attitude ? Excellent attention to detail Desirable skills ? Experience of managing small teams ? Experience in updating Word press websites Commitment: This is a volunteer role. We are looking for a volunteer that is able to commit for the entire field season from 23rd March to 2nd November 2015. You will be required to work up to five days a week (including weekends). To apply: Please email a CV and covering letter (no more than one side of A4) outlining your experience and motivations for applying to volunteer at cbmwc.org with ?Volunteer Project Officer 2015? in the subject line. The deadline is midnight on 1st February 2015. Interviews via Skype will be held in the week commencing 9th February. Volunteer Marine Education and Awareness assistant We are recruiting a voluntary Marine Education and Awareness assistant for the 2015 season (March to November) to promote and deliver our educational programme and assist with awareness raising work and events in the local community. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to help run the educational activities of a small but very active marine conservation group, gaining experience and developing skills essential for a career in environmental education. Role description: This is a volunteer role, which is ideally suited to someone who is looking to develop a career or gain experience in environmental education. ? Assist with development and promotion of a programme of educational activities for the 2015 season ? Assist with delivering educational activities from our ground floor activity room and on the local beach (weather permitting) ? Host visiting groups, provide talks and activities ? Develop new educational activities and materials ? Assist with event organisation and promotion, e.g. World Ocean Day, The Wildlife Trusts? National Marine Week ? Represent CBMWC/WTSWW at outside events ? Organise regular beach cleans Essential skills and qualifications: ? Fluency in English ? Experience of working with children and families ? Experience in delivering educational activities ? Enthusiastic, conscientious and hard working ? Proactive with ability to work unsupervised ? Responsible, flexible and mature attitude ? Interest in wildlife and conservation ? IT skills ? Excellent verbal and written communication skills ? Driving licence and access to a vehicle Desirable skills ? An interest and knowledge of British marine life would be an advantage ? A background in biology, particularly marine biology/environmental science Commitment: We are looking for a volunteer that is able to commit for the entire field season from 23rd March to 2nd November 2015. You may be required to work up to five days a week (including weekends), some evening volunteering time may be required. To apply: Please email a CV and covering letter (no more than one side of A4) outlining your experience and motivations for applying to volunteer at cbmwc.org with ?Education volunteer 2015? in the subject line. The deadline is midnight on 1st February 2015. Interviews via Skype will be held in the week commencing 9th February. Information for all roles: Accommodation and expenses: If you are from outside of the local area then we can assist with finding accommodation. For example, accommodation can be arranged locally in private houses for approximately ?60/week, including bills. You will be responsible for all your own accommodation, travel and other expenses incurred however, it is relatively easy to find a part-time job. Contact: For further information and any queries, please contact Laura Mears, Project Officer Email: volunteer at cbmwc.org Tel: 01545 560224 Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre Patent Slip Building Glanmor Terrace New Quay Ceredigion SA45 9PS www.cbmwc.org Laura Mears Project Officer Support our research - adopt a Cardigan Bay dolphin with the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre Raise money for CBMWC with each internet search you do - it doesn't cost you a penny http://sites.affilyon.co.uk/CBMWC Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre Patent Slip Building Glanmor Terrace New Quay Ceredigion SA45 9PS Wales, UK Ffon/Phone: 01545 560 224 E-bost/Email: info at cbmwc.org Website: www.cbmwc.org For all the latest news and sightings information, please visit our website, follow us on Twitter and become a fan of our Facebook page www.cbmwc.org http://twitter.com/CBMWC http://facebook.com/CBMWC Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre is supported by the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Group, a marine interest group of the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales. Helping to conserve Cardigan Bay's marine wildlife through education and research Helpu I warchod bywyd gwyllt morol Bae Ceredigion drwy addysg ac ymchwil ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------- The contents of this email are confidential and are soley for the use of the intended recipient. If you receive this email in error please delete it and notify us either by email or telephone. It is prohibited to copy, forward or otherwise disclose the contents of this email. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 273965 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... 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Name: image006.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 3763 bytes Desc: not available URL: From info at geo-mar.com Thu Jan 29 14:11:05 2015 From: info at geo-mar.com (Geo-Marine Consultants) Date: Fri, 30 Jan 2015 00:11:05 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] MMO/FLO poistions Message-ID: <4AA83DBA-2CF5-4866-9AC6-DA17AC51F9C4@geo-mar.com> Dear all, Geo-Marine Consultants are looking for specialists for the following positions: -Arabic speaking Fisheries Liaison Officer -Nigerian Marine Mammal Observer Please send your CVs to: info at geo-mar.com Best regards, Giota Giogli ------ Director Geo-Marine Consultants Communications House, 26 York Street, London, W1U 6PZ www.geo-mar.com info at geo-mar.com Tel. +44 207 183 0423 | +44 07960901325 | +30 6976626293 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From jdsheldon at ucdavis.edu Tue Jan 27 13:34:57 2015 From: jdsheldon at ucdavis.edu (Julie Sheldon) Date: Tue, 27 Jan 2015 13:34:57 -0800 Subject: [MARMAM] 2015 UC Davis Wildlife and Exotic Animal Medicine Symposium Message-ID: Hello! You cordially invited to the *2015 Wildlife and Exotic Animal Symposium *hosted by the Wildlife and Aquatic Animal Medicine (WAAM) and the Avian and Exotic Animal Medicine (AEMC) Clubs at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine! *WHEN*: April 11-12th, 2015 *WHERE*: UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine or Interactive Online Webinar *WHAT*: Lectures, panel discussions and an ultrasound wetlab with experts in the fields of zoo, free-ranging wildlife, and companion exotic animal medicine! CE credits available for veterinarians and technicians. *HOW*: Register *HERE* Questions: waam.ucd at gmail.com Thank you and we hope to see you in April! Sincerely, Julie D. Sheldon DVM Candidate, Class of 2016 Wildlife and Aquatic Animal Medicine Club President Bayer Animal Health Student Representative UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine [image: Inline image 1] [image: Inline image 2] -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image.png Type: image/png Size: 122634 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image.png Type: image/png Size: 249162 bytes Desc: not available URL: From pfruet at gmail.com Thu Jan 29 10:14:33 2015 From: pfruet at gmail.com (Pedro Fruet) Date: Thu, 29 Jan 2015 16:14:33 -0200 Subject: [MARMAM] Recent Publication: reproductive traits in female bottlenose dolphins of the Southwestern Atlantic Ocean Message-ID: Dear all, We are glad to announce a recent publication in Marine Biology: Pedro F. Fruet; Rodrigo Cezar Genoves, Luciana M. M?ller, Silvina Botta, Eduardo R. Secchi (2015) Using mark?recapture and stranding data to estimate reproductive traits in female bottlenose dolphins (*Tursiops **truncatus*) of the Southwestern Atlantic Ocean. Marine Biology. DOI 10.1007/s00227-015-2613-0 ABSTRACT Despite bottlenose dolphins being well studied in several regions around the world, there is very limited information about the reproduction of these animals in the Southwestern Atlantic Ocean (SWA). In this study, data from a long-term mark-recapture and stranding monitoring program were used to estimate life history traits of female bottlenose dolphins inhabiting the Patos Lagoon estuary, a sub-tropical coastal region in the SWA. From the analysis of 32,296 high-quality dorsal fin photographs, the fate of 37 individual females and 66 of their calves was tracked. Results supported a birth pulse dolphin community, with most births occurring during late spring and summer, in association with increasing water temperature and food supply. Female bottlenose dolphins first reproduced at a minimum age of 8 years. Mean inter-birth interval was 3 years (mode = 2), and fecundity was 0.11. A clear change in the ?13C and ?15N profiles in teeth from stranded carcasses near age 2 indicated the most probable weaning age. First and second year annual calf survival estimates were 0.84 (95 % CI 0.72?0.90) and 0.86 (95 % CI 0.74? 0.94), respectively. No evidence was found to support that timing of birth plays a role in calf survival, suggesting that variability in water temperature and food resources within the year is unlikely to impact upon survival of calves. Older females reproduced at lower rates, suggesting an age-related decrease in reproductive fitness. At an individual level, marked variation in reproductive success was observed. Our findings highlight the importance of long-term studies for long-lived mammals to yield individual- and population-level parameters for demographic and viability analyses that are useful for conservation and management The article is fully accessible to all users at libraries and institutions that have purchased a SpringerLink license. http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00227-015-2613-0 Alternatively, PDF of the article can be requested by sending an email to pfruet at gmail.com Cheers, Pedro ---------------------------------------------------------------- Pedro F. Fruet Universidade Federal do Rio Grande Museu Oceanogr?fico Rio Grande, RS, Brasil. email: pfruet at gmail.com www.botosdalagoa.com.br -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From y.bohadi at gmail.com Thu Jan 29 22:38:23 2015 From: y.bohadi at gmail.com (Yusuf Bohadi) Date: Fri, 30 Jan 2015 09:38:23 +0300 Subject: [MARMAM] Mysteries and negligence: The state of cetaceans in kuwait waters Message-ID: A new summary of the cetacean incidents that occurred in Kuwait in the past 2 years is available. Overview: Many are the marine mammal species that can be found inshore and throughout the local waters of Kuwait. These range from finless proposes, to dolphins such as the common dolphin, bottlenose dolphin, killer whales, to baleen whales, such as bryde's whales and blue whales. Most of these animals show seasonal appearances, or accidentally find themselves trapped in the Arabian/Persian gulf area, and end up washing on shore. One species however has made the waters of Kuwait it?s home on both the northern and southern parts of the Kuwaiti shores. And one report explains that the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin is an animal that has shown consistent presence in these waters all year around. They also suggest that these animals exhibit seasonal migrations between the northern and southern grounds annually. Other than a handful of such scientific documentation, much of the opinions and advancements in this field here in Kuwait are lacking due to the absence of a general authority on the matter, or are correct in their own right but were conceived pre-maturely due to haste in presenting a word for the press. Such cases proving this claim present themselves irregularly in the form of stranding animals across the Kuwaiti shores. Listed below are records from the local papers of such incidents in the past 2 years. Each report shows the facts documented and the different responses that were in the form of environmentalists?s accusations and attempts from public authorities to asses the situation. For each incident listed is also an attempt to examine the evidence presented scientifically and prove of disprove the claims and/or responses. Please contact this email for the full report.: y.bohadi at gmail.com With kind regards, yusuf bohadi -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: