From mikafontaine at gmail.com Thu Nov 2 02:47:20 2017 From: mikafontaine at gmail.com (Michael Fontaine) Date: Thu, 2 Nov 2017 10:47:20 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication on the Genetic footprint of Population Fragmentation and Contemporaneous Decline in the endangered Yangtze Finless Porpoise Message-ID: <0F72F225-414E-4827-9918-CE3E76D85BF4@rug.nl> Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to announced the publication of our new paper about the Yangtze finless porpoise in the Scientific Reports: Genetic footprint of Population Fragmentation and Contemporaneous Decline in the endangered Yangtze Finless Porpoise. By: Chen M.*, Fontaine M. C.*, Chehida Y. B.*, Zheng J., Mei Z., Hao Y., Wang K., Wu M., Zhao Q., Wang D. *(co-first authors) Scientific Reports 7: 14449. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-14812-z Abstract: Understanding demographic trends and patterns of gene flow in an endangered species is crucial for devising conservation strategies. Here, we examined the extent of population structure and recent evolution of the critically endangered Yangtze finless porpoise (Neophocaena asiaeorientalis asiaeorientalis). By analysing genetic variation at the mitochondrial and nuclear microsatellite loci for 148 individuals, we identified three populations along the Yangtze River, each one connected to a group of admixed ancestry. Each population displayed extremely low genetic diversity, consistent with extremely small effective size (?92 individuals). Habitat degradation and distribution gaps correlated with highly asymmetric gene-flow that was inefficient in maintaining connectivity between populations. Genetic inferences of historical demography revealed that the populations in the Yangtze descended from a small number of founders colonizing the river from the sea during the last Ice Age. The colonization was followed by a rapid population split during the last millennium predating the Chinese Modern Economy Development. However, genetic diversity showed a clear footprint of population contraction over the last 50 years leaving only ~2% of the pre-collapsed size, consistent with the population collapses reported from field studies. This genetic perspective provides background information for devising mitigation strategies to prevent this species from extinction. Best wishes, Michael C Fontaine and co-authors -- ><((((?>`?.??.???`?.?.???`?...?><((((?>?. `?.??.???`?.?????`?.. ><((((?>`?.??.???`?.?.???`?...?><((((?> Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences (GELIFES) University of Groningen Nijenborgh 7 9747 AG Groningen The Netherlands Office phone: (+31) (0)50 363 2146 Email: m.c.fontaine at rug.nl Google scholar profile Researcher-ID (G-5350-2011) Professional webpage: www.rug.nl/staff/m.c.fontaine/ Personal webpage: michaelcfontaine.wordpress.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From rebeccaboys at hotmail.com Thu Nov 2 03:33:56 2017 From: rebeccaboys at hotmail.com (Rebecca Boys) Date: Thu, 2 Nov 2017 10:33:56 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] European Cetacean Society 2018: Student volunteers wanted Message-ID: Dear ECS student members, For the upcoming ECS conference in the beautiful area of La Spezia, Italy, that will take place from April 8th-10th 2018, Cristian Passarello (passarellocristian at gmail.com) and myself (ecs.students at gmail.com) are looking for 15 student volunteers from outside Italy and 15 from Italy. As a student volunteer you will help with all sorts of things (registration desk, technical support etc) during the conference, but you will also have more than enough time to attend or present talks, posters and other conference activities. In return you will get your conference registration for free, an awesome experience with the other student volunteers and off course a volunteer T-shirt! There will also be a student party on one of the conference nights! So do you want to be a volunteer at the next ECS conference in Italy? Apply now! Send an email to ecs.students at gmail.com, and include the following: - Name and age - Country, university and student level (Bachelors, Masters or PhD) - Prior ECS experience (visited, volunteered, presented poster or talk etc: also note where and which years) - Attach a short CV You have to be an ECS member (2018) and a current student or graduated in the last 12 months, to become a student volunteer! So we will be looking for about 15 students from Italy and 15 from other European countries. About 25 new volunteers and 5 with previous ECS volunteering experience will be selected (based on experience and first-come-first-serve basis). You will be notified about your application in early January. If we get more applicants than needed we will make a reserves list and work from there if spots become available. For more information about the conference go to: http://europeancetaceansociety.eu/conference/32nd-annual-conference-la-spezia-italy Hope to see you all in Italy! Thanks! Rebecca Boys -------------------------------------------------------------- Rebecca Boys Marine Biologist ECS Student Representative IMAR - Dept. Oceanography and Fisheries University of the Azores 9901-862 Horta, Faial, Azores [https://attachment.outlook.office.net/owa/rebeccaboys at hotmail.com/service.svc/s/GetFileAttachment?id=AQMkADAwATYwMAItODc0NS1kZTg3LTAwAi0wMAoARgAAAwxTEtwuaBlNvx4eALoAwV%2FxBwDv%2BRKZ3mtbRadcA626daXfAAACAQwAAADv%2BRKZ3mtbRadcA626daXfAAGKE2lwAAAAARIAEABe0Nc4hBTBRY5XY50EdIoE&X-OWA-CANARY=C6NYrTKqckCBK87AZ9twWxCgYd5kHNUYstaU--xP8DfZRrjrO-jOB4UvFnsJ1U-WpbFA7DUxoEM.&token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJSUzI1NiIsIng1dCI6ImVuaDlCSnJWUFU1aWpWMXFqWmpWLWZMMmJjbyJ9.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.jNq-2m8qKQ26AHx3E5JEGbdGy4jTRE852AnvBQ2DJcYV7GufGbROLgB3RdvbRMsSyJ7oBjW1WcbF0ilHYl7_TC2Av3fXXo1pUoOLLUzS4bdMCRAyeJuy7gzg_wFwg3zHsqdkCmS8LxP_lkWVvdynJaNbdF9VjMzjyQUB6RLsTOydxQW2AJ0Xhm-WI3nTUE6v45ZURQKAXFS_lutJVmr6jvfoECLjIQpVn73rqPiWf9X3JOroSWiJSHqn597viQ2vWxWjCR4hdwzE3b9Gh5GCw9oa7nICT1dFyNeQ9rGiu_063K7DuSQDjPf2npQClc-jWk4Zcb4m1hpgYhQQ3u44WQ&owa=outlook.live.com&isc=1&isImagePreview=True] -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From smaxwell at odu.edu Thu Nov 2 07:57:40 2017 From: smaxwell at odu.edu (Maxwell, Sara M.) Date: Thu, 2 Nov 2017 14:57:40 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Research Associate/Postdoc Position in Animal Tracking and Modeling Message-ID: <542CC6CE-646A-472E-9B6D-AFD62D164602@odu.edu> The Old Dominion University Research Foundation has a current opportunity for a Research Associate to work in the Department of Biological Sciences at Old Dominion University. The position is in the Marine Sustainability Ecology Lab led by Dr. Sara Maxwell (http://maxwelllab.weebly.com). The project involves investigating marine protected area effectiveness for large marine species and will combine animal movement, environmental data and analytical approaches from ecology, computer science and social science. A strong background in the acquisition and application of remotely-sensed oceanographic data and experience with satellite tracking data is highly desired. The incumbent will collaborate with graduate students, post docs, and faculty to address fundamental questions surrounding marine protected areas and their effectiveness for large marine species. Job Responsibilities: 1. Conducting analytical work with satellite tracking and remotely-sensed data 2. Conducting analyses in Marxan 3. Publication of peer-reviewed manuscripts We are seeking a highly task-oriented, quantitative Ph.D. with significant research experience, particularly in animal movement and modeling. Candidates must possess a Ph.D. in Biology, Ecology, Marine Sciences or similar field. This position is a part of a one-year Pew Charitable Trust grant and has the potential for extension. The position is available immediately; subsequent years depend on funding availability. A Ph.D. degree in Biology, Ecology, Marine Sciences or similar field is required. There is potential for the incumbent to work remotely. Highly motivated and interested candidates are encouraged to visit the ODU Research Foundation Employment page and apply at: http://researchfoundation.odu.edu to position #17-041. Please include a CV and cover letter describing research experience and interests, and contact information for three potential references. The review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Old Dominion University Research Foundation is an equal opportunity employer (AA/EOE/M/F/Disability/VETS/Drug Free). We pledge our full support to equal employment opportunity for all persons as we recruit, employ, train, compensate, and promote without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, physical and/or mental disability, genetic information, age, protected veteran status or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law. Sara M. Maxwell, Ph.D. | smaxwell at odu.edu Assistant Professor Old Dominion University Department of Biological Sciences Mills Godwin Building, Room 302A Norfolk VA 23529 USA http://maxwelllab.weebly.com https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=GXfEF2gAAAAJ&hl=en -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From adwhitt at gmail.com Wed Nov 1 08:10:37 2017 From: adwhitt at gmail.com (Amy Whitt) Date: Wed, 1 Nov 2017 10:10:37 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Net Loss: The Vanishing Vaquita Porpoise Message-ID: *Net Loss: The Vanishing Vaquita Porpoise* Learn about one of the most endangered marine mammal species in the world and the efforts to save it during ?Net Loss: The Vanishing Vaquita Porpoise,? *7-9 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 2* at Collin College?s Spring Creek Campus Living Legends Conference Center in Plano, Texas . This free public event will include a screening of ?Souls of the Vermilion Sea,? a documentary film by Wild Lens about the struggle to save the vaquita, as well as forum addressing related topics. Senior Marine Scientist, Amy Whitt M.E.M., will provide information about the vaquita, discuss the main threats to the species, and provide an update on the unprecedented international conservation effort taking place in the Gulf of California right now. Jennifer O'Loughlin-Brooks, Collin College Professor of Psychology, will discuss how conservation psychology can encourage safeguarding of wildlife and the natural world. You will also learn about ways that you can help save the vaquita. Local environmental organizations will be on hand with helpful information. Refreshments will be available and Collin College student art will be on display. ?Net Loss? is co-sponsored by multiple Collin College organizations, including Psi Beta, Collin Association for Sustainable Efforts, LULAC, and the Honors Institute. You aren?t in the Plano, Texas area? No problem. You can join the event via the webinar. Details are provided below. Webinar Instructions: Join from PC, Mac, Linux, iOS or Android: https://zoom.us/j/144800970 Or iPhone one-tap: US: +16465588656,,144800970# or +16699006833,,144800970# Or Telephone Dial(for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): US: +1 646 558 8656 or +1 669 900 6833 Meeting ID: 144 800 970 International numbers available: https://zoom.us/zoomconference?m=6GfpYA19NkGKsSVKpUnOm55E41dRbRhy -- *Amy D. Whitt, M.E.M.* CEO, Senior Scientist Azura Consulting LLC WOSB | EDWOSB *c* 870-919-2636 *o* 972-905-1416 www.azuraco.com [image: https://www.facebook.com/azuraconsulting/] -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From JStewart at LBAOP.ORG Wed Nov 1 08:47:25 2017 From: JStewart at LBAOP.ORG (James Stewart) Date: Wed, 1 Nov 2017 15:47:25 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Marine Mammal Photo ID internship job post Message-ID: Marine Mammal Photo ID Internship Spring Jan-Apr 2018 This intern will be responsible for assisting the Boats Coordinator on photo IDing blue whales, fin whales, and humpback whales during our daily whale watching cruises, as well as interpreting data to guests at the Aquarium. Commitment: 15-20 hours/week for 15 weeks Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Taking dorsal and caudal fin photos of animals encountered during daily cruises Maintain detailed data logs of sightings and enter them into ACESS databases Answer questions and interpreting for guests on board. Photo processing and IDi'ng individual whales seen during daily trips Create a project to display to Aquarium guests using whale data QUALIFICATIONS Must be 18 or over Major/ed in biology, marine biology, or conservation a plus Lift a maximum of 50 lbs KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS Each applicant must have a broad knowledge of ecological and biological principles, especially those relating to marine habitats, Ability to spend many hours standing especially on a boat Experience working with digital SLR camera's a plus but not required Experience in data entry, preferably with Microsoft Access Comfortable speaking in front of large groups Have excellent oral and written communication skills Be able to demonstrate exceptional leadership qualities and work with a diverse group of people. To apply please follow the link: http://www.aquariumofpacific.org/volunteer/college_internships/ Application deadline for spring season is November 13, 2017 For more information email or call James Stewart Aquarium of the Pacific Long Beach, CA 90802 jstewart at lbaop.org 562-951-1651 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From briana.abrahms at noaa.gov Fri Nov 3 10:16:22 2017 From: briana.abrahms at noaa.gov (Briana Abrahms - NOAA Affiliate) Date: Fri, 3 Nov 2017 10:16:22 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication on success of elephant seal migration strategies under different climate conditions Message-ID: Dear colleagues, We are pleased to share the recent publication of our paper in Ecology Letters: Abrahms, B., Hazen, E.L., Bograd, S.J., Brashares, J.S., Robinson, P.W., Scales, K.L., D. Crocker and Costa, D.P. 2017. Climate mediates the success of migration strategies in a marine predator . Ecology Letters, DOI:10.1111/ele/12871. Abstract: Individual behavioural specialisation has far-reaching effects on fitness and population persistence. Theory predicts that unconditional site fidelity, that is fidelity to a site independent of past outcome, provides a fitness advantage in unpredictable environments. However, the benefits of alternative site fidelity strategies driving intraspecific variation remain poorly understood and have not been evaluated in different environmental contexts. We show that contrary to expectation, strong and weak site fidelity strategies in migratory northern elephant seals performed similarly over 10 years, but the success of each strategy varied interannually and was strongly mediated by cli- mate conditions. Strong fidelity facilitated stable energetic rewards and low risk, while weak fidelity facilitated high rewards and high risk. Weak fidelity outperformed strong fidelity in anomalous climate conditions, suggesting that the evolutionary benefits of site fidelity may be upended by increasing environmental variability. We highlight how individual behavioural specialisation may modulate the adaptive capacity of species to climate change. A read-only online version of the article can be accessed here: http://rdcu.be/x4wm Best wishes, Briana Abrahms and coauthors -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From kpatchett at ifaw.org Fri Nov 3 11:54:39 2017 From: kpatchett at ifaw.org (Patchett, Kristen) Date: Fri, 3 Nov 2017 18:54:39 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Reposting: IFAW Winter Internship Opportunity Message-ID: IFAW Marine Mammal Stranding Internship Winter / Spring session 2018 (January - May) Applications due by November 10, 2017 The International Fund for Animal Welfare's (IFAW) Marine Mammal Rescue and Research Program is currently accepting applications for its Marine Mammal Stranding Internship for the winter / spring session 2018 (January - May). Program Background IFAW is an international non-profit organization. This internship is based out of our International Operations Center in Yarmouth Port, Massachusetts, USA. IFAW's Marine Mammal Rescue and Research Program is a federally authorized program dedicated to marine mammal stranding response on Cape Cod and southeastern Massachusetts. Our mission is to promote the conservation of marine mammal species and their habitat by improving the rescue and humane care of stranded marine mammals, advancing stranding science, and increasing public awareness through education. Cape Cod is a marine mammal stranding "hot spot," with an average of over 240 strandings occurring each year. Internship Duties * Stranding hotline coverage: answer calls, document reports, educate callers, dispatch volunteers, complete associated paperwork and enter data. * Marine mammal stranding response and necropsy: assist staff with all aspects of marine mammal stranding response, including live animal health assessment and supportive care, biological data collection, post-mortem examinations and sampling in both field and laboratory settings. * Stranding / necropsy readiness: cleaning, organizing and maintaining stranding response and necropsy gear, equipment and facilities, restocking kits and supplies. * Data entry / sample processing: assist in entry of stranding data. Assist in organizing, cataloging, disseminating and archiving of photos, videos, datasheets, samples, etc. * Outreach: assist staff with training and outreach material preparation and organization, participate in opportunistic outreach at stranding sites, participate in community events. Internship Focus Areas Each intern will be assigned to a focus area of either Response or Necropsy. Interns are paired with staff members based on these particular focus areas and individual tasks and projects will be related to one of these areas. All interns will be cross-trained in stranding response and necropsy, and every effort will be made for interns to gain a wide-range of experiences. Final determination of each intern's "focus" will be determined by the staff once individuals have been selected for the program. We will make an effort to assign interns based on their preferences. Please indicate in your cover letter your preferred focus area(s). Veterinary Assistant Internship (open to returning interns only) An additional focus area, the Veterinary Assistant Internship, is available to past IFAW marine mammal interns that are in good standing. This internship is an opportunity for interested individuals to increase their marine mammal technical skills and gain experience in applied animal welfare and conservation medicine research. This position reports directly to IFAW's Animal Rescue Veterinarian. For more information on the responsibilities of this position, please contact us at recruitmmrr at ifaw.org. Please indicate in your cover letter if you are interested in this focus area. Requirements * Must be at least 18 years old. * Must possess a valid driver's license and secure reliable transportation. * Be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program, or have graduated within 2 years. * Must be of good physical fitness, able to lift/carry 40lbs, walk long distances in difficult terrain, be comfortable on small boats in nearshore waters, able to swim, and work in harsh weather conditions. * Able to follow written and oral staff directions and protocols effectively and able to work in teams and individually. * Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint. * Must be able to commit to a minimum 3 days a week for 12 weeks during the internship session. Your schedule will include at least 1 weekend day. Preferred candidates will also have: * Undergraduate or graduate study of biology, zoology, ecology, conservation or related field. * Previous marine mammal stranding response/research experience. * Previous necropsy experience (marine mammal or other taxa). * Experience caring for or handling animals. * Experience driving large trucks. * Experience in photo-ID. At least one intern per session may assist in seal photo-ID work. * Flexible daily schedules. (Stranding events are unpredictable. Days may start early or end late.) Important Information * This internship is unpaid and housing and transportation are the responsibility of the intern. If accepted, we will try to provide interns with resources to help find housing. * Interns may be required to work some holidays. * Interns should be prepared to perform in a variety of settings on any given day, including office, beach, on-water, and laboratory. Specialized gear such as dry suits, boots and life jackets will be provided. * Stranding work is unpredictable and changes seasonally. We cannot guarantee the type and number of strandings and experiences you will receive during your internship. We will do our best when possible to give interns a varied experience. * International applicants are responsible for their own VISA arrangements, etc. * Interns intending to receive academic credit are responsible for making all arrangements with their educational institution. * Please email any questions regarding VISA arrangements, academic credits and general questions to: recruitmmrr at ifaw.org. Applications due by November 10, 2017 To apply go to: http://www.ifaw.org/united-states/about-ifaw/employment Select: To see all open positions "click here". Select Marine Mammal Stranding Internship. Only complete applications will be considered. Required application materials (you must provide all 3): 1. Cover Letter (indicate which focus area(s) you prefer) 2. Resume or C.V. 3. One Letter of Recommendation from college professor or supervisor Note: recommendation letters can either be uploaded with your application, or, if your reviewer prefers, they can email it directly to recruitmmrr at ifaw.org . It is your responsibility to ensure your letter of recommendation has been submitted on time. [Orientation New intern orientation will be held January 17-19, 2018. All accepted interns are required to attend.] Kristen Patchett CVT | Stranding Coordinator Marine Mammal Rescue and Research ___________________________________________________________ IFAW - International Fund for Animal Welfare International Operations Center 290 Summer Street - Yarmouth Port, MA 02675 tel. 1.508.744.2171 email. kpatchett at ifaw.org Saving Animals in Crisis Around the World www.ifaw.org The content of this email is intended only for the use of the above-named addressee and may contain information that is confidential, proprietary, and/or legally privileged. Please notify the sender if you received this email in error. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- An embedded message was scrubbed... From: Postmaster <> Subject: image005.emz Date: Fri, 03 Nov 2017 14:54:58 -0400 Size: 1321 URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image006.png Type: image/png Size: 3739 bytes Desc: image006.png URL: From mark.wilke at oregonstate.edu Fri Nov 3 09:08:46 2017 From: mark.wilke at oregonstate.edu (Wilke, Mark W) Date: Fri, 3 Nov 2017 16:08:46 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Position Announcement Director of Marine Mammal Institute-Oregon State University Message-ID: [cid:image002.png at 01D35483.5A30C170] Announcement-Director of Marine Mammal Institute The College of Agricultural Sciences at Oregon State University is seeking a Director of the OSU Marine Mammal Institute (MMI). The MMI uses its resources to understand how marine mammals interact with their environment and human activities affecting them. MMI works to develop solutions which will benefit both marine mammals and human endeavors. The MMI Director provides leadership to a diverse faculty, staff and students of the MMI; hires, oversees, and evaluates personnel; prepares annual work plans and budgets; reports annually to the Marine Mammal Institute Board; and cultivates/stewards donor interest in the MMI. Position Duties Scholarly Research (30%): Conduct original marine mammal research in area of expertise such as behavior, population ecology, habitat ecology, human-wildlife conflict, which improve management decisions and conservation practices. Conduct or direct field work supporting research program. Maintain an active externally funded research program. Manages and Builds the Endowment (30%): Manage and build the endowment. Acquire federal grants and contracts to supplement endowed program funds to accomplish MMI mission. Administration and Management (25%): Provide leadership, supervision and direction for tenure-track faculty, research staff, and graduate students; implement strategic and tactical plans; and establish priorities and organizational structure. Demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. Service (10%): Provide support to agency partners and provide service to the university and community. Identify and develop opportunities for collaboration with organizations, agencies, volunteers, and staff to conduct research or deliver educational materials. Professional Development (5%): Maintain membership and actively participate in appropriate professional organizations. Attend appropriate activities, seminars, workshops, and classes to maintain core competencies in areas related to responsibilities Minimum Qualifications: Ph.D. in Biology, Marine Biology, oceanographic sciences or related field. Marine mammal expertise in specialty area of research. Demonstrated commitment to promote diversity, equity and inclusion. A successful record of securing and administering grant/contract funds to support his/her own work. Demonstrated effectiveness in communicating and working with diverse internal and external groups. National or international reputation for scientific achievements in marine mammal ecology, management, or a closely related field, meriting appointment as at rank for associate or full professor. Preferred Qualifications: Previous administrative experience. Demonstrated ability to attract donors and build mutually beneficial relationships. A demonstrated appreciation for the mission of a Land-, Sea-, Sun-, and Space-Grant institution. Demonstrated leadership abilities and administrative and budget-management experience. To view this position online: https://jobs.oregonstate.edu/ and select Unclassified Faculty Enter the following posting number: P01699UF The Application Due date for Full Consideration is Dec 1, 2017. For More Information: Contact Christina DeWitt, Christina.Dewitt at oregonstate.edu , 503 325-4531 Mark Wilke Business Manager/Fiscal Coordinator Marine Mammal Institute Oregon State University mark.wilke at oregonstate.edu 541-867-0288 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 26783 bytes Desc: image001.png URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image002.png Type: image/png Size: 20290 bytes Desc: image002.png URL: From denise.risch at gmail.com Sun Nov 5 08:57:45 2017 From: denise.risch at gmail.com (Denise Risch) Date: Sun, 5 Nov 2017 16:57:45 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] POLAR2018 session on polar soundscapes: extended abstract deadline Message-ID: Dear colleagues, Please note the extended abstract deadline for a session on polar soundscapes at POLAR2018: ?The acoustic environment of the polar oceans: exploring polar soundscapes? at the upcoming POLAR 2018, A SCAR & IASC Conference in Davos, Switzerland from 19-23 June, 2018. See http://www.polar2018.org/ The new deadline is: *12 November 2017, 6pm CET* The goal of POLAR2018 is to bring together excellent research from both poles, as well as from high altitude areas, focusing on the similar challenges those regions face. The program features 65 sessions, structured into 12 categories spanning topics from oceans and sea ice, cryosphere, atmosphere and climate, geology and geophysics to biology, ecology and more. Please consider submitting an abstract for the Polar Soundscape session outlined below. We hope to see you in Davos! Best Regards, Ilse Van Opzeeland (Alfred-Wegener Institute, Bremerhaven, Germany) Karolin Thomisch (Alfred-Wegener Institute, Bremerhaven, Germany) Sebastian Menze (Institute for Marine Research, Bergen, Norway) Denise Risch (Scottish Association for Marine Sciences, Oban, Scotland, UK) *Session Number OS-1 * *Session Title* The acoustic environment of the polar oceans: exploring polar soundscapes *Session Description* The underwater acoustic environment is created by the superposition of sounds from a multitude of sources of natural biotic and abiotic as well as anthropogenic origin. For aquatic life, marine mammals in particular, their perceived soundscape directly impacts their ability to hunt, communicate and possibly navigate these waters. However, for much of the world oceans, and for polar seas in particular, little is known about the diversity of contributions and the dial and seasonal patterns as well as long-term trends of the acoustic environment. This lack of knowledge hampers our ability to predict how anthropogenic change will impact on populations to which these waters form an essential habitat. The impact of anthropogenic activities on the acoustic environment may be direct, by adding noise, or indirect through global climate change, affecting acoustic propagation conditions and habitat usage. To outline the range of polar acoustic environments and the nature of their main contributories, this session aims at bringing together studies addressing these issues through in-situ recordings, methodological advances and numerical modeling. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From yo_mitani at mac.com Sun Nov 5 22:59:02 2017 From: yo_mitani at mac.com (Yoko Mitani) Date: Mon, 6 Nov 2017 15:59:02 +0900 Subject: [MARMAM] 2nd Oceanoise Asia symposium Message-ID: Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to announce that the 2nd Oceanoise Asia symposium will be held in Hakodate, Hokkaido, a beautiful city of northern Japan, during June 5-7, 2018. This symposium is open for anyone who is interested in marine bioacoustics and/or noise effects on marine fauna. Extensive marine engineering works are on-going in Asian waters, where high marine biodiversity has been documented. We hope this symposium will provide a good forum for discussion on this theme in Asia. For more information, please see http://ubac.jp/OceanoiseAsia.html All the best, Yoko -- ?????Yoko Mitani ????????????????????? ???????? ??????? ????????? ?040-0051 ?????????20?5? ???????????????????219?? Tel: 0138-85-6558; Fax: 0138-85-6625 Email: yo_mitani at fsc.hokudai.ac.jp Yoko MITANI Laboratory of Marine Ecosystem Change Analysis Hakodate Marine Station, Field Science Center for Northern Biosphere, Hokkaido University Hakodate Research Center for Fisheries and Oceans 20-5 Benten-cho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0051, JAPAN TEL: +81-138-85-6558; FAX: +81-138-85-6625 E-mail: yo_mitani at fsc.hokudai.ac.jp From ktc at bios.au.dk Mon Nov 6 02:32:57 2017 From: ktc at bios.au.dk (Karin Tubbert Staal) Date: Mon, 6 Nov 2017 10:32:57 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Marine mammal sightings around oil and gas installations in the central North Sea Message-ID: <778b037888084b988f32a4d53c184c8f@Exch08.uni.au.dk> Dear all, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the following open-access publication: Delefosse, M., Rahbek, M., Roesen, L., & Clausen, K. (2017). Marine mammal sightings around oil and gas installations in the central North Sea. Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom, 1-9. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0025315417000406 Abstract Relatively little is known about the distribution and diversity of marine mammals around offshore anthropogenic structures. We present results obtained from incidental sightings of marine mammals around oil and gas installations located 200 km off the Danish coast. A total of 131 sightings corresponding to about 288 animals were reported between May 2013 and May 2016. A total of seven marine mammal species were identified, five cetaceans: harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena), minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata), white-beaked dolphin (Lagenorhynchus albirostris), killer whale (Orcinus orca), pilot whales (Globicephala spp.) and two species of pinnipeds: harbour (Phoca vitulina) and grey seals (Halichoerus grypus). The most sighted species were harbour porpoise (41%) and minke whale (31%). Relative counts and biodiversity of marine mammals observed around installations corresponded well with the expected distribution in the central North Sea. Several taxon-specific correlations were identified between number of sightings and environmental parameters (depth and latitude) or installation characteristics (installation aerial footprint). Furthermore, 85% of sightings were made during spring and summer and it is unclear whether the pattern observed reflected a natural seasonal occurrence of marine mammals in the area or an effect of reduced effort during autumn and winter. Despite the potential caveats, results obtained during this programme provide an insight into the relationship between marine mammals and oil and gas offshore installations in the North Sea. Enjoy reading it, All the best, Karin Tubbert Clausen Karin Tubbert Clausen PhD student Department of Bioscience - Marine Mammal Research, Aarhus University Frederiksborgvej 399, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark Phone: +45 87158712 Mobile: +45 30260186 http://person.au.dk/en/ktc at bios.au.dk [afsender_logo] -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 3390 bytes Desc: image001.jpg URL: From rebeccaboys at hotmail.com Mon Nov 6 03:51:07 2017 From: rebeccaboys at hotmail.com (Rebecca Boys) Date: Mon, 6 Nov 2017 11:51:07 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] ECS Student Representative position Message-ID: Dear ECS student members, During the next conference in La Spezia, 2018, I will be stepping down from my position as the ECS student representative. I am therefore opening the application for new student members to apply for the position, which will be voted for during the main ECS AGM in April 2018. The general overview of this position is as follows: - Represents the ECS-student-membership at large. - Organises student relevant meetings (student workshop, student meeting at conference, the student party) -Organises student volunteers / their work for the conference. - Maintains student web-pages (in collaboration with the web editor). - Manages the student mailing list (in collaboration with the membership secretary & webmaster). - ECS-contact person for students / student matters. - Presents student-relevant news at the AGM To be eligible to apply you must be under student status during the 2018 conference. If you are interested in applying or would like more information about the position, please don't hesitate to contact me at: ecs.students at gmail.com Thank you, Rebecca Boys -------------------------------------------------------------- Rebecca Boys Marine Biologist ECS Student Representative IMAR - Dept. Oceanography and Fisheries University of the Azores 9901-862 Horta, Faial, Azores [https://attachment.outlook.office.net/owa/rebeccaboys at hotmail.com/service.svc/s/GetFileAttachment?id=AQMkADAwATYwMAItODc0NS1kZTg3LTAwAi0wMAoARgAAAwxTEtwuaBlNvx4eALoAwV%2FxBwDv%2BRKZ3mtbRadcA626daXfAAACAQwAAADv%2BRKZ3mtbRadcA626daXfAAGKE2lwAAAAARIAEABe0Nc4hBTBRY5XY50EdIoE&X-OWA-CANARY=C6NYrTKqckCBK87AZ9twWxCgYd5kHNUYstaU--xP8DfZRrjrO-jOB4UvFnsJ1U-WpbFA7DUxoEM.&token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJSUzI1NiIsIng1dCI6ImVuaDlCSnJWUFU1aWpWMXFqWmpWLWZMMmJjbyJ9.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.jNq-2m8qKQ26AHx3E5JEGbdGy4jTRE852AnvBQ2DJcYV7GufGbROLgB3RdvbRMsSyJ7oBjW1WcbF0ilHYl7_TC2Av3fXXo1pUoOLLUzS4bdMCRAyeJuy7gzg_wFwg3zHsqdkCmS8LxP_lkWVvdynJaNbdF9VjMzjyQUB6RLsTOydxQW2AJ0Xhm-WI3nTUE6v45ZURQKAXFS_lutJVmr6jvfoECLjIQpVn73rqPiWf9X3JOroSWiJSHqn597viQ2vWxWjCR4hdwzE3b9Gh5GCw9oa7nICT1dFyNeQ9rGiu_063K7DuSQDjPf2npQClc-jWk4Zcb4m1hpgYhQQ3u44WQ&owa=outlook.live.com&isc=1&isImagePreview=True] -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From akkayaaylin at yahoo.com Mon Nov 6 05:01:19 2017 From: akkayaaylin at yahoo.com (aylin akkaya) Date: Mon, 6 Nov 2017 13:01:19 +0000 (UTC) Subject: [MARMAM] VOLUNTEER AND INTERN RECRUITMENT FOR THE MONTENEGRO DOLPHIN PROJECT (SOUTH ADRIATIC SEA) References: <1886802113.3092731.1509973279480.ref@mail.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <1886802113.3092731.1509973279480@mail.yahoo.com> VOLUNTEER AND INTERN RECRUITMENT FOR THE MONTENEGRO DOLPHIN PROJECT (SOUTH ADRIATIC SEA) OUR PROJECT The Montenegro Dolphin Project is a scientific project born from the partnership between the Marine Mammals Research Association (DMAD) and the Natural History Association of Montenegro. Our study is the first long term research study of marine mammals in Montenegrin coastal waters. We aim?to address questions about marine mammal abundance, distribution and behavior, define critical habitats and investigate the impact of major threats. Our wider attention focuses on the promotion and implementation of awareness initiatives targeted at the local community, particularly youth. WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR We offer several volunteering and internship positions: this is an extremely valuable opportunity for graduates, that wish to gain experience in the marine mammal research field, and undergraduates, that would like to obtain internship academic credits.?It could be used to develop a scientific project for?BSc?and?MSc thesis.?However, we are also open to accept applications from anyone whose love for dolphins is strong and sincere. Opportunities are available starting from DECEMBER 2017 for whole year.?The minimum duration of the placements is?2 MONTHS, with possible exceptions for skilled candidates. REQUIREMENTS -True interest for marine conservation, self-motivation, maturity and ability to work responsibly; -Ability to cohabit in a dynamic and multicultural environment; -Respect for the organization's rules and willingness to follow standards and procedures; -Proven experience of working effectively as part of a team; -Fluent English (both spoken and written) and good communication skills; -High computer literacy and willingness to learn new software applications. Background in marine biology and previous fieldwork experience are an advantage. FIELD WORK AND RESPONSIBILITIES -Performing land-based surveys at least three times a week, including sunrise and sunset hours; -Performing boat-based surveys at least once a week: boat surveys can be long and often tiring, so you are expected to feel comfortable on board and prepared to handle motion sickness. -Collecting dolphins sighting and behavior data, as well as environmental and anthropogenic data; -Operating theodolite and managing its software Pythagoras; -Data entry and analysis; -Cataloging and matching individuals of target species for photo-ID studies via Discovery software; -Raising stakeholder awareness.-Promoting citizenscience activities TRAINING The Montenegro Dolphin Project team will provide lectures and field work training as well as constant mentoring. You will be given the chance to learn the most popular methodologies used in marine mammals research such as: -Theodolite operation and Pythagoras software; -Photo-ID and Discovery software; -Data entry and analysis; -ArcGIS mapping PROJECT PARTICIPATION FEE The positions are unpaid and require a contribution fee of?600 euros / month?which includes: -Accommodation and expenses -Transportation between the project sites within the country -Internet access -Training and lectures -Scientific support -Field work -Use of the equipment Applicants are responsible for their transportation to/from Montenegro, meals, insurance (all participants should have health and/or travel insurance) and personal expenses. HOW TO APPLY Email your CV and cover letter to info at dmad.org.tr or akkayaaylinn at gmail.com (Aylin Akkaya Bas)?explaining why you are the perfect asset for our team and which goals you hope to achieve with us! Please mention the PERIOD OF INTEREST AND DURATION OF AVAILABILITY! If you wish to have more info about our work and get to know us better follow our websites: www.montenegrodolphinproject. org www.dmad.org.tr www. naturalhistoryassociationofmon tenegro.weebly.com Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ DMADforNature/ Dr. Aylin Akkaya Ba? Research CoordinatorDeniz Memelileri Ara?t?rma Derne?i (DMAD)Marine Mammals Research Association+90 5337739867info at dmad.org.trwww.dmad.org.tr -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From hannanuuttila at gmail.com Sun Nov 5 07:09:24 2017 From: hannanuuttila at gmail.com (Hanna Nuuttila) Date: Sun, 5 Nov 2017 15:09:24 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Fwd: New publication on the spatiotemporal distribution of harbour porpoises off Maryland, USA In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Hello MARMAM community, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce our recent publication in Marine Pollution Bulletin: - Hanna K. Nuuttila, - Chiara M. Bertelli, - Anouska Mendzil, - Nessa Dearle (2017) "Seasonal and diel patterns in cetacean use and foraging at a potential marine renewable energy site". Marine Pollution Bulletin (in press). Online publication complete: 3-NOV-2017. DOI information: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.10.051 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.10.051 Abstract Marine renewable energy (MRE) developments often coincide with sites frequented by small cetaceans. To understand habitat use and assess potential impact from development, echolocation clicks were recorded with acoustic click loggers (C-PODs) in Swansea Bay, Wales (UK). General Additive Models (GAMs) were applied to assess the effects of covariates including month, hour, tidal range and temperature. Analysis of inter-click intervals allowed the identification of potential foraging events as well as patterns of presence and absence. Data revealed year-round presence of porpoise, with distinct seasonal and diel patterns. Occasional acoustic encounters of dolphins were also recorded. This study provides further evidence of the need for assessing temporal trends in cetacean presence and habitat use in areas considered for development. These findings could assist MRE companies to monitor and mitigate against disturbance from construction, operation and decommissioning activities by avoiding times when porpoise presence and foraging activity is highest in the area. Dr Hanna K Nuuttila SEACAMS2 Scientific Officer *Open ocean ecology, marine mammals & marine renewables* College of Science, 138 Wallace Building Swansea University, Singleton Park , Swansea, Wales Coleg Gwyddoniaeth, 138 Adelaid Wallace Prifysgol Abertawe, Parc Singleton, Abertawe, Cymru -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From kaja.wierucka at hdr.mq.edu.au Mon Nov 6 16:20:22 2017 From: kaja.wierucka at hdr.mq.edu.au (Kaja Wierucka) Date: Tue, 7 Nov 2017 11:20:22 +1100 Subject: [MARMAM] =?utf-8?q?New_publication=3A_The_role_of_visual_cues_in_?= =?utf-8?q?mother=E2=80=93pup_reunions_in_a_colonially_breeding_mam?= =?utf-8?q?mal?= Message-ID: Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to share our recent publication in Biology Letters: Wierucka K, Pitcher BJ, Harcourt R, Charrier I. 2017 The role of visual cues in mother?pup reunions in a colonially breeding mammal. Biol. Lett. 13: 20170444. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsbl.2017.0444 Abstract: Parental care is an important factor influencing offspring survival and adult reproductive success in many vertebrates. Parent?offspring recognition ensures care is only directed to filial young, avoiding the costs of misallocated resource transfer. It is essential in colonial mammal species, such as otariids (fur seals and sea lions), in which repeated mother?offspring separations increase the risk of misdirecting maternal effort. Identification of otariid pups by mothers is known to be multi-modal, yet the role of visual cues in this process remains uncertain. We used three-dimensional visual models to investigate the importance of visual cues in maternal recognition of pups in Australian sea lions (Neophoca cinerea). We showed that the colour pattern of pup pelage in the absence of any other sensory cues served to attract the attention of females and prompt investigation. Furthermore, females were capable of accurately distinguishing between models imitating the age-class of their own pup and those resembling older or younger age-classes. Our results suggest that visual cues facilitate age-class discrimination of pups by females and so are likely to play an important role in mother?pup reunions and recognition in otariid species. The online version of the article can be accessed here: http://rsbl. royalsocietypublishing.org/content/13/11/20170444 To request a pdf copy please email me at kaja.wierucka at hdr.mq.edu.au. Best wishes, Kaja -- *Kaja Wierucka* *PhD candidate*Marine Predator Research Group Department of Biological Sciences | Building E8A Room 385 Macquarie University T: +61 2 9850 7975 <+61%202%209850%207975> | M: + 61 435 958 382 Equipe Communications Acoustiques Department of Cognition & Behaviour Institut des Neurosciences Paris Saclay (NeuroPSI), UMR 9197 Universit? Paris Sud, Bat.446, 91405 Orsay, FRANCE M: +33 7 68 08 64 96 <+33%207%2068%2008%2064%2096> -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From nathan.merchant at cefas.co.uk Mon Nov 6 01:38:02 2017 From: nathan.merchant at cefas.co.uk (Nathan Merchant (Cefas)) Date: Mon, 6 Nov 2017 09:38:02 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Marine noise budgets in practice In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to update you that the Version of Record for this paper is now available: Merchant, N.D., Faulkner, R.F., Martinez, R. (2017) Marine noise budgets in practice. Conservation Letters. https://doi.org/10.1111/conl.12420 Abstract: Many countries have made statutory commitments to ensure that underwater noise pollution is at levels which do not harm marine ecosystems. Nevertheless, coordinated action to manage cumulative noise levels is lacking, despite broad recognition of the risks to ecosystem health. We attribute this impasse to a lack of quantitative management targets ? or ?noise budgets? ? which regulatory decision-makers can work towards, and propose a framework of risk-based noise exposure indicators which make such targets possible. These indicators employ novel noise exposure curves to quantify the proportion of a population or habitat exposed, and the associated exposure duration. This methodology facilitates both place-based and ecosystem-based approaches, enabling the integration of noise management into marine spatial planning, risk assessment of population-level consequences, and cumulative effects assessment. Using data from the first international assessment of impulsive noise activity, we apply this approach to herring spawning and harbor porpoise in the North Sea. Kind regards, Nathan Dr Nathan Merchant Principal Scientist, Noise & Bioacoustics Team Pakefield Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk, NR33 0HT, UK Tel: +44(0) 1502 527780 | Mob: +44 (0) 7789 651086 Email: nathan.merchant at cefas.co.uk [cid:image001.jpg at 01D356E2.EFF16A50] https://scholar.google.co.uk/citations?user=XPctSoUAAAAJ&hl=en https://www.cefas.co.uk/services/research-advice-and-consultancy/underwater-noise/ https://www.cefas.co.uk/media/52916/noise-bioacoustics.pdf Follow us on: [cid:image001.gif at 01D09A11.D21ECDA0][cid:image002.gif at 01D09A11.D21ECDA0] ________________________________ 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: image001.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 7314 bytes Desc: image001.jpg URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image004.png Type: image/png Size: 1920 bytes Desc: image004.png URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image005.png Type: image/png Size: 1829 bytes Desc: image005.png URL: From charlotte.boyd at noaa.gov Tue Nov 7 13:36:14 2017 From: charlotte.boyd at noaa.gov (Charlotte Boyd - NOAA Affiliate) Date: Tue, 7 Nov 2017 13:36:14 -0800 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication on estimation of population size and trends for highly mobile species with dynamic spatial distributions Message-ID: Dear MARMAM community My coauthors and I are pleased to share our recent publication in *Diversity and Distributions:* Estimation of population size and trends for highly mobile species with dynamic spatial distributions . Charlotte Boyd, Jay Barlow, Elizabeth A. Becker, Karin A. Forney, Tim Gerrodette, Jeffrey E. Moore and Andr? E. Punt. Version of Record online: 17 OCT 2017 | DOI: 10.1111/ddi.12663 Aim: To develop a more ecologically realistic approach for estimating the population size of cetaceans and other highly mobile species with dynamic spatial distributions. Location: California Current Ecosystem, USA. Methods: Conventional spatial density models assume a constant relationship between densities and habitat covariates over some time period, typically a survey season. The estimated population size must change whenever total habitat availability changes. For highly mobile long-lived species, however, density?habitat relationships likely adjust more rapidly than population size. We developed an integrated population-redistribution model based on a more ecologically plausible alternative hypothesis: (1) population size is effectively constant over each survey season; (2) if habitat availability changes, then the population redistributes itself following an ideal free distribution process. Thus, the estimated relationship between densities and habitat covariates adjusts rather than population size. We constructed Bayesian hierarchical models corresponding to the conventional and alternative hypotheses and applied them to distance sampling data for Dall?s porpoise (Phocoenoides dalli), a highly mobile cetacean with distribution patterns closely tied to cool sea-surface temperatures. Results: The Dall?s porpoise data provided strong support for the hypothesis based on an ideal free redistribution process. Our results indicate that the population size of Dall?s porpoise within the survey region was relatively stable over each summer/fall survey season, but the distribution expanded and contracted with the extent of suitable habitat. Over multiple survey seasons, the model partitioned variation in observed densities among three sources: variation in population size, the density?habitat relationship and measurement error, leading to lower and more ecologically plausible estimates of interannual variation in population size. Main conclusions: We conclude that the integrated population-redistribution model (IPRM) presented here represents an ecologically plausible model for use in future assessments of the population size and dynamics of cetaceans and other highly mobile long-lived species with variable spatial distributions. Keywords: Bayesian hierarchical model, California Current, Dall?s porpoise, distance sampling, habitat model, spatial density model The online version of the article can be accessed here: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ddi.12663/abstract To request a pdf copy please email me at: charlotte.boyd at noaa.gov. All the best Charlotte -- Charlotte Boyd PhD Marine Mammal Laboratory NOAA Alaska Fisheries Science Center 7600 Sand Point Way NE Seattle WA 98115 Phone: 206-526 4046 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From costaf2008 at hotmail.com Tue Nov 7 13:59:48 2017 From: costaf2008 at hotmail.com (ALEXANDRA COSTA) Date: Tue, 7 Nov 2017 21:59:48 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication: Stranding survey as a framework to investigate rare cetacean records of the north and north-eastern Brazilian coasts Message-ID: Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to share the recent publication of our article in Zookeys: Costa AF, Siciliano S, Emin-Lima R, Martins BML, Sousa MEM, Giarrizzo T, Silva J?nior JS (2017) Stranding survey as a framework to investigate rare cetacean records of the north and north-eastern Brazilian coasts. ZooKeys 688: 111-134. https://doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.688.12636 Abstract: Marine mammal stranding events are used as an important tool for understanding cetacean biology worldwide. Nonetheless, there are vast gaps of knowledge to be filled in for a wide range of species. Reputable information is required regarding species from large baleen whales to sperm and beaked whales, as well as pelagic dolphins. This paper describes new cetacean records from north and north-eastern Brazil, which are both the least surveyed areas regarding aquatic mammals. Regular beach surveys were conducted to recover cetacean carcasses along the coast of Par? beginning November 2005. At the coasts of the Maranh?o and Piau? states, the surveys were conducted between 2003 and 2013. From 2003 to 2014, 34 strandings of cetaceans were registered. The study provides four additional species records? in the area based on strandings (Balaenoptera borealis, Balaenoptera physalus, Peponocephala electra, and Pseudorca crassidens). A mass stranding of Guiana dolphins (Sotalia guianensis, N = 12), the most common species for the region, was reported for the first time. The records presented herein are of special concern, since they expand the knowledge on cetaceans from the Brazilian coast. In addition, this study conducted an analysis to verify the similarity between cetacean compositions described for north and north-eastern Brazil and the southern Caribbean region. The results showed a high similarity between these regions, proving the connection with the Caribbean cetacean fauna. Best regards, Alexandra Costa GEF-Mar Project Marine Protected Area ? ?rea de Prote??o Ambiental Costa dos Corais [cid:2eeb7d28-4628-4ba6-a6dc-c0972c49aea8] -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: APACC hor color.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 205835 bytes Desc: APACC hor color.jpg URL: From mark.wilke at oregonstate.edu Wed Nov 8 09:44:33 2017 From: mark.wilke at oregonstate.edu (Wilke, Mark W) Date: Wed, 8 Nov 2017 17:44:33 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT-Postdoctoral Scholar Message-ID: [cid:image005.png at 01D35876.2DB2BCB0] [cid:image006.png at 01D35876.2DB2BCB0] 31 October, 2017 POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT Postdoctoral Scholar Epigenetic aging of beluga whales by next-generation sequencing The Marine Mammal Institute of Oregon State University invites applications for a full- time (1.00 FTE), 12-month, fixed-term Postdoctoral Scholar position funded by a grant from the North Pacific Research Board (NPRB). Reappointment is conditional on funding and at the discretion of the Unit Head. This position will help validate methodology for epigenetic aging of cetaceans using next-generation sequencing to measure the levels of cytosine methylation in candidate genes. The assay will be calibrated using a large set of samples with estimated ages from growth-layer groups in teeth. The age assay will then be applied to biopsy samples from living beluga whales of unknown age to better understand the life history and age structure of the endangered Cook Inlet population of beluga whales. Depending on funding, the incumbent will extend the methods developed for the beluga to other species, subspecies or populations of cetaceans. The position is located at the Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport, Oregon where the Scholar will work with Scott Baker in the Cetacean Conservation and Genomic Laboratory and, remotely, with collaborators, Paul Wade (NOAA), Simon Jarman (Curtin University) and Steve Horvath (UCLA). Required qualifications include a PhD in biological sciences (genetics, ecology or evolution), with an emphasis in molecular ecology, genomics, bioinformatics, statistics or population modeling, and demonstrated publication record. The PhD must have been awarded within the last five years. Preferred qualifications include experience with programming and management of large datasets typical of next-generation sequencing. The minimum stipend for a candidate with no prior postdoctoral experience is $47,484/year with annual increments for experience following NIH guidelines. Starting date is approximately January 15, 2018 (negotiable). For the full announcement and instructions for application, see http://gradschool.oregonstate.edu/postdocs/open-positions For further information, contact Scott Baker by email, using the subject 'NPRB beluga postdoc information' email: scott.baker at oregonstate.edu Mark Wilke Business Manager/Fiscal Coordinator Marine Mammal Institute Oregon State University mark.wilke at oregonstate.edu 541-867-0288 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image005.png Type: image/png Size: 19388 bytes Desc: image005.png URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image006.png Type: image/png Size: 26227 bytes Desc: image006.png URL: From scardinah at TMMC.org Wed Nov 8 11:35:50 2017 From: scardinah at TMMC.org (Hanna Scardina) Date: Wed, 8 Nov 2017 19:35:50 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Spring Marine Mammal Rescue Internship at The Marine Mammal Center, Sausalito, CA Message-ID: Spring Marine Mammal Rescue Internship Sausalito Main Hospital, The Marine Mammal Center, CA The Rescue and Response team at The Marine Mammal Center is seeking applicants for their Spring Marine Mammal Rescue Internship working primarily with stranded pinnipeds, as well as occasional cetaceans and sea otters. This internship is an exciting opportunity for individuals who are interested in increasing their experience and knowledge of marine mammals and the Marine Mammal Stranding Network. To learn more about the Spring Marine Mammal Rescue Internship and apply, follow this link: https://tmmc.recruiterbox.com/jobs/fk0fs7v/ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From anacanadas at alnilam.info Thu Nov 9 06:53:51 2017 From: anacanadas at alnilam.info (Alnilam.Info) Date: Thu, 9 Nov 2017 15:53:51 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication on modelling of Cuvier's beaked whles in the whole Mediterranean sea Message-ID: <007101d3596a$8eca62b0$ac5f2810$@alnilam.info> Dear Marmam community, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce our recent publication in Ecological Indicators: Ca?adas, A., Aguilar de Soto, N., Aissi, M, Arcangeli, A., Azzolin, M., B-Nagy, A., Bearzi, G., Campana, I., Chicote, C., Cotte, C., Crosti, R., Di Natale, A., Fortuna, C., Frantzis, A., Garcia, P., Gazo, M., Gutierrez-Xarxa, R., Holcer, D., Laran, S., Lauriano, G., Lewis, T., Moulins, A., Mussi, B., Notarbartolo di Sciara, G., Panigada, S., Pastor, X., Politi, E., Pulcini, M., Raga, J.A., Rendell, L., Rosso, M., Tepsich, P., Tom?s, J., Tringali, M. 2017. The challenge of habitat modelling for threatened low density species using heterogeneous data: the case of Cuvier?s beaked whales in the Mediterranean. Ecological Indicators, Volume 85, February 2018, Pages 128-136, ISSN 1470-160X, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolind.2017.10.021 Abstract The Mediterranean population of Cuvier?s beaked whale (Ziphius cavirostris), a deep-diving cetacean, is genetically distinct from the Atlantic, and subject to a number of conservation threats, in particular underwater noise. It is also cryptic at the surface and relatively rare, so obtain robust knowledge on distribution and abundance presents unique challenges. Here we use multiplatform and multiyear survey data to analyse the distribution and abundance of this species across the Mediterranean Sea. We use a novel approach combining heterogeneous data gathered with different methods to obtain a single density index for the region. A total of 594,996 km of survey effort and 507 sightings of Cuvier?s beaked whales, from 1990 to 2016, were pooled together from 24 different sources. Data were divided into twelve major groups according to platform height, speed and sea state. Both availability bias and effective strip width were calculated from the sightings with available perpendicular distance data. This was extrapolated to the rest of the sightings for each of the twelve groups. Habitat preference models were fitted into a GAM framework using counts of groups as a response variable with the effective searched area as an offset. Depth, coefficient of variation of depth, longitude and marine regions (as defined by the International Hydrographic Organization) were identified as important predictors. Predicted abundance of groups per grid cell were multiplied by mean group size to obtain a prediction of the abundance of animals. A total abundance of 5799 (CV=24.0%) animals was estimated for the whole Mediterranean basin. The Albor?n Sea, Ligurian Sea, Hellenic Trench, southern Adriatic Sea and eastern Ionian Sea were identified as being the main hot spots in the region. It is important to urge that the relevant stakeholders incorporate this information in the planning and execution of high risk activities in these high-risk areas. With regards Ana Ca?adas anacanadas at alnilam.info ****************************** Alnilam Investigacion y Conservacion Alnilam Research and Conservation Pradillos 29, Navacerrada 28491 Madrid, SPain www.alnilam.info -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From guido.p at archipelago.gr Thu Nov 9 00:20:12 2017 From: guido.p at archipelago.gr (Dr. Guido Pietroluongo) Date: Thu, 9 Nov 2017 10:20:12 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] Research assistant position at Archipelagos Institute - Aegean Sea - Greece Message-ID: *Research assistant position at Archipelagos Institute? Aegean Sea -Greece* Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation is currently looking for research assistants to join our Marine Mammal Team, for the Winter Season 2017/2018 as well the Spring and Summer Season 2018. The applicants will provide scientific support for our projects and gain valuable experience in hands-on Marine Mammal Conservation. Available projects are based on the islands of Samos, Lipsi and Ikaria, in the eastern Aegean Sea. This region supports important populations of Common, Bottlenose, Stripped and Risso?s dolphins, as well as Sperm whales and Cuvier?s beaked whales, which we study with the use of 3 research boats. This project offers a unique opportunity to improve your research skills and utilise your knowledge to make a difference in a targeted conservation project. *What you will gain* Archipelagos internship is a unique opportunity to make a positive contribution to marine and terrestrial conservation and meet new people who share the same interests. You can gain experience in field work, research methods, data processing, writing of publications and reports, public awareness and education programmes. The data you collect will contribute to long-running research studies. *Research projects* *- Cetacean behaviour, abundance and distribution studies* Knowledge of abundance, trends and distribution of cetacean population is needed to increase marine conservation efforts, ecosystem models and spatial planning. Land-based and visual line-transect surveys, conducted along pre-defined track lines, on ships with dedicated observers, will be the method to monitoring cetacean behaviour and occurrence. The aim of this study is to identify how the anthropogenic activities can affect the life of marine mammals and to map important habitats, for example, those used for feeding, resting and nursing. *- Photo-identification* A Photo-ID mark-recapture method is applied to identify individuals and to investigate movement patterns, residency patterns and social structure. Thanks to this method, it is possible to have a complete census of the presence of a population in a specific area helping to create a Photo-ID catalogue for each year. *- Bioacoustics research* The bioacoustics research aims to estimate the noise level and to record the cetacean species calls in different areas of the Aegean Sea. The objective aspires to show a direct correlation between the difference in cetacean communication sounds and the increase in marine traffic in the waters around Samos using bioacoustics. *- Aegean Marine Life Sanctuary* The under-construction Aegean Marine Life Sanctuary aims to be the first refuge in the world providing a solution for the long-term retirement of formerly captive dolphins. It will set the standards for rehabilitation in semi-natural conditions, while also it will operate as a rehabilitation centre for marine mammals and turtles found in strandings. *Qualifications* The ideal candidate has to show great motivation and enthusiasm, strong work ethic, high attention to detail, a positive attitude as well as a genuine interest in wildlife science, self-motivation and availability to work in a team of volunteers independently. Prior experience is not required. This is an unpaid position - see fees, terms and conditions at: http://archipelago.gr/en/get-involved/placements-and-internships/. *Extras* >From 2018 Archipelagos will offer a free scuba diving course to research assistants who join for over 3 months during the winter, spring and autumn (apart from the PADI fees). *To Apply* Send resume, motivation letter (no more than two pages) to Dr. Guido Pietroluongo: guido.p at archipelago.gr *Description of Archipelagos Institute* Archipelagos, Institute of Marine Conservation www.archipelago.gr/en/ is a Greek non-profit, non-governmental organization. Since 1998, Archipelagos has been committed to the scientific research and conservation of the marine and terrestrial environments of the Greek seas and islands, as well as of the North-East Mediterranean region overall. Archipelagos? work focuses on the combination of multi-disciplinary scientific research with effective conservation work, in which the local communities share an active part. Since 2001, our educational activities have hosted over 2,500 participants from around the world. *-------------------------------------------------------* *Dr. Guido Pietroluongo* *Marine Mammals Team Supervisor* *Doctor in Veterinary Medicine* *Environmental impacts and scientific communication expert* *Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation* *www.archipelago.gr * *guido.p at archipelago.gr * Marine Research Base: P.O. Box 42, Pythagorio, Samos 83103, Greece Telephone: +30 22730 61191 Fax: +30 22730 37533 [image: Archipelagos] Virus-free. www.avg.com <#DAB4FAD8-2DD7-40BB-A1B8-4E2AA1F9FDF2> -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From hannanuuttila at gmail.com Tue Nov 7 22:51:17 2017 From: hannanuuttila at gmail.com (Hanna Nuuttila) Date: Wed, 8 Nov 2017 06:51:17 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication on the habitat use patterns of cetaceans at a potential MRE site in Swansea Bay, Wales UK Message-ID: Hello MARMAM community, (apologies for earlier posting with an incorrect subject!) My co-authors and I are pleased to announce our recent publication in Marine Pollution Bulletin: - Hanna K. Nuuttila, - Chiara M. Bertelli, - Anouska Mendzil, - Nessa Dearle (2017) "Seasonal and diel patterns in cetacean use and foraging at a potential marine renewable energy site". Marine Pollution Bulletin (in press). Online publication complete: 3-NOV-2017. DOI information: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.10.051 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.10.051 Abstract Marine renewable energy (MRE) developments often coincide with sites frequented by small cetaceans. To understand habitat use and assess potential impact from development, echolocation clicks were recorded with acoustic click loggers (C-PODs) in Swansea Bay, Wales (UK). General Additive Models (GAMs) were applied to assess the effects of covariates including month, hour, tidal range and temperature. Analysis of inter-click intervals allowed the identification of potential foraging events as well as patterns of presence and absence. Data revealed year-round presence of porpoise, with distinct seasonal and diel patterns. Occasional acoustic encounters of dolphins were also recorded. This study provides further evidence of the need for assessing temporal trends in cetacean presence and habitat use in areas considered for development. These findings could assist MRE companies to monitor and mitigate against disturbance from construction, operation and decommissioning activities by avoiding times when porpoise presence and foraging activity is highest in the area. Dr Hanna K Nuuttila SEACAMS2 Scientific Officer *Open ocean ecology, marine mammals & marine renewables* College of Science, 138 Wallace Building Swansea University, Singleton Park , Swansea, Wales Coleg Gwyddoniaeth, 138 Adelaid Wallace Prifysgol Abertawe, Parc Singleton, Abertawe, Cymru -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From rebeccaboys at hotmail.com Fri Nov 10 10:58:02 2017 From: rebeccaboys at hotmail.com (Rebecca Boys) Date: Fri, 10 Nov 2017 18:58:02 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] ECS Abstracts open Message-ID: Dear MARMAM, We are pleased to announce that the website for the 32nd annual ECS conference in Italy is now online and abstracts are being accepted! The abstract deadline is 8th December. Registartion for the conference will be open shortly. We look forward to seeing you in La Spezia! http://www.europeancetaceansociety.eu/conference/32nd-annual-conference-italy Thank you -------------------------------------------------------------- Rebecca Boys Marine Biologist ECS Student Representative IMAR - Dept. Oceanography and Fisheries University of the Azores 9901-862 Horta, Faial, Azores [https://attachment.outlook.office.net/owa/rebeccaboys at hotmail.com/service.svc/s/GetFileAttachment?id=AQMkADAwATYwMAItODc0NS1kZTg3LTAwAi0wMAoARgAAAwxTEtwuaBlNvx4eALoAwV%2FxBwDv%2BRKZ3mtbRadcA626daXfAAACAQwAAADv%2BRKZ3mtbRadcA626daXfAAGKE2lwAAAAARIAEABe0Nc4hBTBRY5XY50EdIoE&X-OWA-CANARY=C6NYrTKqckCBK87AZ9twWxCgYd5kHNUYstaU--xP8DfZRrjrO-jOB4UvFnsJ1U-WpbFA7DUxoEM.&token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJSUzI1NiIsIng1dCI6ImVuaDlCSnJWUFU1aWpWMXFqWmpWLWZMMmJjbyJ9.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.jNq-2m8qKQ26AHx3E5JEGbdGy4jTRE852AnvBQ2DJcYV7GufGbROLgB3RdvbRMsSyJ7oBjW1WcbF0ilHYl7_TC2Av3fXXo1pUoOLLUzS4bdMCRAyeJuy7gzg_wFwg3zHsqdkCmS8LxP_lkWVvdynJaNbdF9VjMzjyQUB6RLsTOydxQW2AJ0Xhm-WI3nTUE6v45ZURQKAXFS_lutJVmr6jvfoECLjIQpVn73rqPiWf9X3JOroSWiJSHqn597viQ2vWxWjCR4hdwzE3b9Gh5GCw9oa7nICT1dFyNeQ9rGiu_063K7DuSQDjPf2npQClc-jWk4Zcb4m1hpgYhQQ3u44WQ&owa=outlook.live.com&isc=1&isImagePreview=True] -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From eliscientific at gmail.com Mon Nov 6 05:04:47 2017 From: eliscientific at gmail.com (ELI- Scientific) Date: Mon, 6 Nov 2017 07:04:47 -0600 Subject: [MARMAM] LAST CALL: Volunteer Research assistant - Cetacean Conservation of Nicaragua (Joelle De Weerdt) Message-ID: *Volunteer - Cetacean Research Assistant * *About ELI-Scientific* ELI-S is a small nonprofit organization composed of a team of three volunteers based in France that has been created in 2013. Our organization aims at promoting, protecting and conserving cetaceans. We have set up the research project ?Cetacean Conservation in Nicaragua? in 2015. This pioneer project aims to generate knowledge on cetacean presence, population size, distribution and habitat use patterns. The expected output is to generate: 1) scientific data on cetaceans in Nicaragua, 2) environmental awareness to the local communities in order to create a socio-economic relevance in conserving and protecting their natural environment and 3) responsible eco-tourism. ELI-Scientific is recruiting volunteer research assistants for field work, photo-identification and data entry from January 22nd to April 22nd 2018 in Padre Ramos and San Juan del Sur. All team members will have a training beforehand on the field methodologies and protocols as well as on data entry and management. Research assistants should expect to spend time on the computer for data analysis but also to spend some days on the field to gather data during the 12-week field study. The Research Assistant have a unique opportunity to participate to a pioneer research project under the supervision of experienced marine biologists, which gives the opportunity for the assistant to develop both professionally but also personally thanks to the unique experience to live within local communities. A commitment of 3 months is expected. *Locations: *Padre Ramos North-West of Nicaragua San Juan del Sur South-West of Nicaragua *Period: *22 of January to 22 of April (3 months commitment) *Type of agreement: *Full time. *Duties:* - Assist in Boat based and land based surveys in collecting data on cetaceans - Photo-identification of whale and dolphin species - Update photo-ID catalogue - Data entry of collected data - Participate to public outreach and events *Skills and qualifications:* - *Bsc or Mc in biology / environmental sciences* - *Fluency in Spanish (!)* - *Enthusiastic, conscientious and hard working (!)* - Experience of working in developing countries - Proactive with ability to work unsupervised - Interest in wildlife and conservation - Being comfortable on a small boat and spend long hours on a boat in the sun - Excellent verbal and written communication skills - Being able to work in a small team - Being able to live in basic living conditions *Desirable skills :* - Have background in cetacean ecology - An interest and knowledge of marine life - A background in marine biology - Be able to swim *Successful candidate will:* - Gain valuable experience in cetacean survey techniques and behavioral studies - Work in a very dynamic environment - Get insight in running a research project in developing countries This position is an *unpaid position* and requires a contribution fee of 500 euros per month (converted in dollar according to the exchange rate). *This fee includes:* - Accommodation - All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and cook - Water and electricity - Fieldwork expenses - Training to marine mammal survey material and methodologies - Membership to the organization for a year - 2 t-shirts *Fee does not include:* - Travel expenses to come to the study site - Personal expenses: restaurants, bars, telephone, internet, cleaning clothes, etc. *To apply:* Please email a CV, 2 references and cover letter outlining your experience and motivations. Send this to eliscientific at gmail.com with "Research assistant 2018" in the subject line. Interviews via Skype. Deadline: 15th of November 2017. *Contact:* For further information and any queries, please contact *Joelle De Weerdt, Project Director* Email: eliscientific at gmail.com Website: www.nicacetacea.org Find us on : Facebook , Instagram , Twitter -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From interns at aimm-portugal.org Sun Nov 5 16:51:35 2017 From: interns at aimm-portugal.org (AIMM Internships) Date: Mon, 6 Nov 2017 00:51:35 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] HUMPBACK WHALE RESEARCH AND LEARNING PROGRAMME IN CAPE VERDE, AFRICA Message-ID: *HUMPBACK WHALE RESEARCH AND LEARNING PROGRAMME IN CAPE VERDE, AFRICA* *BACKGROUND: *The Marine Environment Research Association is a non-profit, non-governmental organization focused on the research and conservation of marine species, running an ongoing study of cetaceans in southern Portugal (Algarve) and Boa Vista, Cape Verde. This project aims to obtain baseline information on species occurrence, behaviour, and social structure of the local cetacean populations in order to obtain scientific data to support conservation measures and inform marine management policies. The main species observed are Humpback whales (*Megaptera novaeangliae*) and the rough-toothed (*Steno bredanensis*) although more than 14 species of cetacean were describe to the Cape Verde region. Sea turtle could be also find in the ocean, mostly the Green turtle (*Chelonia mydas*), Loggerhead turtle and Leatherback turtle (*Dermochelys coriacea*). AIMM participants are hard-working individuals who are willing to contribute to the association and support on-going activities, while experiencing fieldwork at sea, learning data collection and processing methodologies, and being a part of AIMM's team of researchers and marine biologists for a period of time. All team members and participants share accommodation, house tasks, knowledge and experience in an environmental friendly and multicultural environment. *WHERE:* Boa Vista Island, Cape Verde, ?frica *WHEN:* The field season lasts from 1st of March to 31st of May, 2017. The minimum attendance is 14 days, preferably starting on a Monday. *FIELDWORK: *The field trips are conducted in an opportunistic platforms (commercial whale-watching boats). Fieldwork is dependent on weather conditions and seat availability in the whale-watching boats. Field days can be intense, especially in the peak of season, but are fulfilling and good fun. The participants will be trained to: ? Conduct on-board surveys of marine species occurrence ? Record effort tracks on a handheld GPS ? COllect data on behavior, group size, species, etc. ? Collection of photos to photo-identification and underwater videos while on-board *DATA ANALYSIS: *This will be conducted on a daily basis and will entail entering data into established databases and spreadsheets, photo-identification processing, and preliminary data interpretation. *FEES:* AIMM is a non-profit organization that relies on donations from our volunteers, partners, and conservation-minded people like you so that we may continue our important research and education programs. This Learning Programme requires a monetary contribution which is used to off-set the cost of accommodation and running a non-profit. For more information on the fees for the 2018 season, please contact: interns at aimm-portugal.org with the title ?CAPE VERDE LEARNING PROGRAMME? *Included* in the fee is: ? Accommodation in the research house; ? Transportation to/from the marina ? Fieldwork on a commercial whale-watching vessels *Not included* in the fee is: ? Transportation to/from Boa Vista Island, Cape Verde ? Meals / food ? Visa ? Free time activities ? Personal insurance (all participants should have health and/or travel insurance) ? Personal expenses *PARTICIPANTS** ARE EXPECTED TO:* ? Be above the age of 18 ? Have a mature attitude towards marine mammal research and environment ? Be autonomous and flexible ? Be able to live and work in an international team and mainly outdoors at sea ? Speak English ? Participate for minimum 2 weeks *Preference will be given* to those who have: ? Relevant marine mammal field experience ? Availability to stay for longer periods of time ? Experience working from dolphin/whale watching platforms ? Experience in photo-identification *LEARNING PROGRAMME APPLICATION: * Applicants should send an e-mail to interns at aimm-portugal.org, subject ?*CAPE VERDE LEARNING PROGRAMME*? with your Resume/CV, personal statement on which are your expectations and the period of time that you want do the programme. You will received an e-mail with the availability for the programme and all the others details. Applications will be accepted during all season, however, early application is recommended due to limited vacancies. *Contacts*: interns at aimm-portugal.org | www.aimmportugal.org | -- AIMM - Associa??o para Investiga??o do Meio Marinho / *Marine Environment Research Association* w ww.aimmportugal.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From ivlarkin at ufl.edu Thu Nov 9 07:16:51 2017 From: ivlarkin at ufl.edu (Larkin,Iskande (Iske)) Date: Thu, 9 Nov 2017 15:16:51 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] UF Spring online course - Aquatic Wildlife Health Message-ID: Hi All, Registration is currently open for Spring 2018. The University of Florida, Aquatic Animal Health Program, is offering the following course for those that may be interested. Class begins Jan 8th. Aquatic Wildlife Health Issues is an online course (3 credits) designed to introduce students (upper level undergraduate and graduate) and professionals (with an AA or higher degree) to the natural history, anatomy, physiology, behavior and common health issues of aquatic species: whales and dolphins, seals and sea lions, manatees, sea turtles, crocodilians, fish and invertebrates. For more information about the class or enrollment, contact Dr. Iskande Larkin (ivlarkin at ufl.edu). Sincerely, Dr Iske Larkin [Description: AAH logo blue E-Mail Sig] Iske V. Larkin, PhD Lecturer & Education Coordinator Aquatic Animal Health Program Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine University of Florida PO Box 100136 2015 SW 16th Ave Gainesville, Florida 32610 Office phone - 352-294-4095 Work cell - 352-494-1742 Fax - 352-392-8289 Program web page: http://aquatic.vetmed.ufl.edu -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 3804 bytes Desc: image001.jpg URL: From lizabeth.kashinsky at noaa.gov Thu Nov 9 12:10:25 2017 From: lizabeth.kashinsky at noaa.gov (Lizabeth Kashinsky - NOAA Affiliate) Date: Thu, 9 Nov 2017 10:10:25 -1000 Subject: [MARMAM] Seasonal Field Positions with the Hawaiian Monk Seal Research Program 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 two separate recruitments (*Biological Research Technician and Biological Research Assistant) *for the 2018 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, and collecting and 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 approximately one month 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 begin in early March with a field deployment date in mid April. Field staff will be deployed for approximately 4.5 months with a tentative return date in late August or early September. The position end date is tentatively scheduled for some time in early to mid-September. 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. * Bulletin Board Posting: 11/09/17 RCUH Website: 11/09/17 Hire Net Hawai?i: 11/09/17 *JIMAR PIFSC BIOLOGICAL RESEARCH TECHNICIAN ? ID# 17510*. Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research. (5) Regular, Full-Time, Approximately six to eight (6-8) months in duration, 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, Hawai?i. 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: $2,314/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 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), 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 twenty-five to thirty-five (25-35) pounds of field gear unassisted. Must be able to obtain medical clearance for embarking/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, and maintain throughout duration of employment. 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 Hawai?i'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 mammalogy 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 and click on ?Job Postings.? 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. Hawai?i 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 rcuh_employment at rcuh.com. If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call (808)956-8344 <(808)%20956-8344> or (808)956-0872 <(808)%20956-0872>. CLOSING DATE: November 29, 2017. RCUH?s mission is to support and enhance research, development and training in Hawai?i, with a focus on the University of Hawai?i. Equal Opportunities Employer ? Minorities/Women/Disability/Veteran. Bulletin Board Posting: 11/08/17 RCUH Website: 11/08/17 Hire Net Hawai?i: 11/08/17 *JIMAR PIFSC BIOLOGICAL RESEARCH ASSISTANT ? ID# 17508*. School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology. (10) Regular, Full-Time, Approximately six to eight (6-8) months in duration, 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, Hawai?i. 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: $2,314/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 cleanup 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 the 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: Must have ability to swim. Must be able 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 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, and maintain throughout duration of employment. 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 Hawai?i'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 mammalogy 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 and click on ?Job Postings.? 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. Hawai?i 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 rcuh_employment at rcuh.com. If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call (808)956-8344 <(808)%20956-8344> or (808)956-0872 <(808)%20956-0872>. CLOSING DATE: November 29, 2017. RCUH?s mission is to support and enhance research, development and training in Hawai?i, with a focus on the University of Hawai?i. Equal Opportunities Employer ? Minorities/Women/Disability/Veteran. -- Lizabeth Kashinsky JIMAR/Program 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 2017 *is the **Year of the Monk Seal**!* *Join the celebration: *http://tinyurl.com/2017YOTMS -- Lizabeth Kashinsky JIMAR/Program 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 2017 *is the **Year of the Monk Seal**!* *Join the celebration: *http://tinyurl.com/2017YOTMS -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From michael at graywhalescount.org Tue Nov 7 10:16:12 2017 From: michael at graywhalescount.org (Michael H Smith) Date: Tue, 7 Nov 2017 10:16:12 -0800 Subject: [MARMAM] Seeking Research Assistants for winter/spring Gray Whales Count 2018, Santa Barbara, CA, USA Message-ID: RESEARCH ASSISTANT (RA) POSITIONS AVAILABLE - seeking volunteer Research Assistants in winter/spring to participate in Gray Whales Count (GWC) 2018 survey of the northbound migration of Gray whales (Eschrichtius robustus) migrating through the nearshore of the Santa Barbara Channel. GWC is seeking Research Assistants (RA) to work with Project Coordinator and team of observers to assist in our annual survey, conducted from shore at Counter Point, in the Coal Oil Point Reserve, Goleta, California, USA, adjacent to the campus of the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB). This position is open to citizens of the United States of America and those authorized to work in the United States with an appropriate visa in hand. The 2018 survey begins Wednesday, February 14, 2018 and continues every day through May 27, from 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Sunday. If Gray whale calves are continuing, we may need to extend the survey through May 31. We are looking for passionate, caring individuals who are willing to commit for the entire survey, ~100 survey days, and be available to begin Saturday, February 10 to train and assist with preparations. GWC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization for research and education. The primary goal of research is to estimate the number of Gray whales and Gray whale calves migrating northbound through our corridor and to share our data to complement similar sampling-studies along the California coast. A secondary goal is to document the variety and quantity of other marine mammals in the ocean area around our site, which is now a Marine Protected Area. We are able to monitor human activity, including interactions with marine mammals, including Gray whales. Goals of education are to teach the process of scientific research to Counters and to give them the opportunity to conduct a meaningful study, to experience marine mammals in their natural environment, and to share this process and our enthusiasm with publics through direct interchange, outreach, and various media. RAs will be trained by the Project Coordinator and, in-turn, share the responsibility for training new volunteers and conducting research and education. Applicable skills learned and achieved include: > Process, concepts, and protocols of the survey, including use of equipment and data-entry. > Ability to identify a multitude of marine mammal species from a distance, including but not limited to: Gray whales, Humpback whales, Bottlenose dolphins, Common dolphins, Pacific white-sided dolphins, Harbor seals, California Sea lions, Sea otters, etc. > Identify behaviors of these marine mammals > Distinguish calves from juveniles and adults > Identify vessels and vessel operations > Gather detailed, consistent data, with ability to teach and check others? work > Learn about marine mammals in their natural environment and the forces that affect them, both natural and anthropogenic > Developing responsibility and a working relationship within a team Because of the training required, applicants must be willing to commit full-time to the project for the time period involved, approximately 100 days, which can be extended if the applicant desires to be involved with data entry and analysis). This will entail up to 9 hours of work a day for at least 5 days a week. (With training, RA?s are required to work everyday the first two weeks.) The Count is 7 days per week and the RA may commit additional hours to the Count as desired. The more time you can put in, the more you will get out of your experience. Priority will be given to those candidates with associative career goals. Previous experience is a plus but not a condition. This is an invaluable opportunity to gain extensive experience in real-time, scientific fieldwork in an environment rich with diverse populations of marine mammals. You will work with equally diverse individuals who are caring, attentive, and curious. Gray whales are a sentinel species traveling from temperate lagoons in Mexico, along the dynamic California Current at the eastern edge of the North Pacific Ocean to the Arctic waters of northern Alaska in one of the longest marine mammal migrations. Requirements: > Even though we are situated in Southern California, you must be able to withstand harsh weather conditions. Fieldwork can be, at times, physically and mentally demanding. > Willingness to work long hours. > Commit for a minimum of 100 days, full time (minimum five days per week). > Enrolled in or completed a degree in biology, marine science, zoology, environmental science, animal behavior or a related field. > Previous field experience with marine wildlife and observation is a plus but not required. > Ability to work in a team environment to produce consistent, high quality results. We cannot stress this enough. You will be trained to be a leader of an operation with people of differing experience and dedication. > Be enthusiastic and possess a caring, positive attitude, with a strong desire to learn. > Be adaptable and patient. The migration is characterized by pulses rather than a steady stream; and weather is the unknown factor: wind, rain, and fog can shut us down. > We strive for a perfection that cannot be attained. We are forgiving and learn from experience. This is a volunteer position. The selected RAs will be responsible for their own transportation to and from Santa Barbara/Goleta, California and daily to the survey site. Recognizing that living costs are high in this area, Gray Whales Count will award a $500 stipend to assist each RA with expenses upon successful completion of the RA position. RAs will be responsible for all for living expenses while volunteering for Gray Whales Count. To apply: Please send cover letter/r?sum? to Project Coordinator, Michael Smith michael at graywhalescount.org . We strongly recommend you look over our website: graywhalescount.org to familiarize yourself with our operation. In the cover letter, please address why you wish to participate in Gray Whales Count; how this particular experience will be meaningful to you; and how this might advance your career goals. There is no deadline to apply. The position will remain open until it is filled. Please consider applying early in order to arrange travel plans and to secure room and board. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From patrick.lyne at iwdg.ie Mon Nov 6 09:12:17 2017 From: patrick.lyne at iwdg.ie (Patrick Lyne) Date: Mon, 6 Nov 2017 17:12:17 -0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Irish Mitigation course Message-ID: <5a0097fa.480f1c0a.a234f.3803@mx.google.com> Irish Marine Mammal Mitigation Course An online course is now available for those interested in the Irish guidelines. The aim of this is to clarify some of the misconceptions which seem to occur regarding the guidelines. Including where environmental information and requirements for works may be found from the various regulators, which can include additional mitigation requirements. Reporting requirements are discussed and where the forms required by Irish guidelines as well as the guidelines can be found. We discuss common mistakes made when using the Irish guidelines which include but are not confined to: 1. Inappropriate use of mitigation gun 2. Failure to complete required reports or data forms 3. Lack of, or confusion over licence reference 4. Failure to adhere to delay requirements 5. Lack of awareness of licensing conditions Additionally we pay particular attention to determining distance mammals and using this to determine distance to the source, which is critical for determining mitigation requirements in any jurisdiction. This course does not cover the use of PAM (Passive acoustic Monitoring). The use of PAM does not currently require any qualification or experience in Ireland and mitigation is restricted to daylight usage and only in good weather. The course will be of interest to those wishing to be involved in marine mammal mitigation in Ireland but also those interested in mitigation approaches generally. The cost of the course, including accreditation, is ?100 to non-IWDG (Irish Whale and Dolphin Group) members and ?50 to IWDG members. If interested please email patrick.lyne at iwdg.ie or mmo at manadaenv.com and payment details will be forwarded. While dates are flexible if you have problems it is preferred if the course can be finished before the year end (Dec, 2017). The entire commitment for the course should not exceed two days and is expected to take less time, but will depend on relevant experience. Patrick Lyne Email: patrick.lyne at iwdg.ie / mmo at manadaenv.com Website: www.manadaenv.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From oliverhooker at prstatistics.com Mon Nov 6 07:46:09 2017 From: oliverhooker at prstatistics.com (Oliver Hooker) Date: Mon, 06 Nov 2017 15:46:09 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Course on Spatial Prioritization with Marxan Message-ID: <46049a28c058c11bf7fc51a88a2b28eb@prstatistics.com> Spatial Prioritization with Marxan (MRXN01) https://www.prstatistics.com/course/introduction-to-marxan-mrxn01/ 5th March 2018 - 9th March 2018 The protection of marine mammals can often underpin the decision making related to marine protected areas and 'spatial prioritization'. Marxan (Ian Ball and Hugh Possingham, 2000) is a software program used to support the design of marine and terrestrial reserves.? Marxan is now used by over 6000 people in 150 countries, making it the most the most widely used conservation planning tool in the world. In simple terms, Marxan analyzes scientific and geographic data to help users allocate space in ways that maximize values such as biodiversity, land value, cultural significance, and economic productivity whilst minimizing cost. This hands-on course will provide participants with the basic knowledge and skills necessary to use Marxan in a conservation planning exercise.?The following topics will be covered in the course: 1) Key concepts in systematic conservation planning 2) Problem definition 3) Creation of planning units and using geospatial data 4) Creating the essential Marxan input files 5) Parameter setting in Marxan 6) Understanding and interpreting Marxan results 7) Post-hoc evaluation and performance metrics 8) Advanced topics: Introduction to Marxan with Zones, Marxan with Connectivity, and Marxan with Probability Monday 5th Participant Introductions Introduction to systematic conservation planning and decision support tools Activity: Planning a reserve system by hand Introduction to Marxan and the case study Activity: Input file creation using GIS Tuesday 6th Case study application (finish creating input files) Introduction to Zonae Cogito Activity: Parameter calibration and generating outputs Data chat: common issues Real world examples Wednesday 7th Finalise case study and Discussion Introduction to Advanced Marxan Topics Activity: Post Hoc Evaluation; Protection Equality and Percentage Gap Data chat: Costs Thursday 8th Activity: Marxan with Zones and Marxan with Connectivity toy problems (pending) Beyond Marxan- other tools used in Decision Science for Conservation Participant?s present their projects or ideas for a Marxan problem Discussion Friday 9th Continue with participant presentations (if needed) Final discussions The future of Marxan and its relatives Other up-coming courses 1. November 6th ? 10th 2017 LANDSCAPE GENETIC DATA ANALYSIS USING R #LNDG Margam Discovery Centre, Wales, Prof. Rodney Dyer http://www.prstatistics.com/course/landscape-genetic-data-analysis-using-r-lndg02/ 2. November 20th - 25th 2017 APPLIED BAYESIAN MODELLING FOR ECOLOGISTS AND EPIDEMIOLOGISTS #ABME SCENE, Scotland, Dr. Matt Denwood http://www.prstatistics.com/course/applied-bayesian-modelling-ecologists-epidemiologists-abme03/ 3. November 27th ? December 1st 2017 INTRODUCTION TO PYTHON FOR BIOLOGISTS #IPYB Margam Discovery Centre, Wales, Dr. Martin Jones http://www.prinformatics.com/course/introduction-to-python-for-biologists-ipyb04/ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4. December 4th - 8th 2017 ADVANCING IN STATISTICAL MODELLING USING R #ADVR Margam Discovery Centre, Wales, Dr. Luc Bussiere, Dr. Tom Houslay, Dr. Ane Timenes Laugen, http://www.prstatistics.com/course/advancing-statistical-modelling-using-r-advr07/ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5. January 29t ? February 2nd 2018 INTRODUCTION TO BAYESIAN HIERARCHICAL MODELLING #IBHM SCENE, Scotland, Dr. Andrew Parnell http://www.prstatistics.com/course/introduction-to-bayesian-hierarchical-modelling-using-r-ibhm02/ 6. January 29th ? February 2nd 2018 PHYLOGENETIC DATA ANALYSIS USING R #PHYL SCENE, Scotland, Dr. Emmanuel Paradis https://www.prstatistics.com/course/introduction-to-phylogenetic-analysis-with-r-phyg-phyl02/ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7. February 19th ? 23rd 2018 MOVEMENT ECOLOGY #MOVE Margam Discovery Centre, Wales, Dr Luca Borger, Dr Ronny Wilson, Dr Jonathan Potts https://www.prstatistics.com/course/movement-ecology-move01/ 8. February 19th ? 23rd 2018 GEOMETRIC MORPHOMETRICS USING R #GMMR Margam Discovery Centre, Wales, Prof. Dean Adams, Prof. Michael Collyer, Dr. Antigoni Kaliontzopoulou http://www.prstatistics.com/course/geometric-morphometrics-using-r-gmmr01/ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 9. March 5th - 9th 2018 SPATIAL PRIORITIZATION USING MARXAN #MRXN Margam Discovery Centre, Wales, Jennifer McGowan https://www.prstatistics.com/course/introduction-to-marxan-mrxn01/ 10. March 12th - 16th 2018 ECOLOGICAL NICHE MODELLING USING R #ENMR Glasgow, Scotland, Dr. Neftali Sillero http://www.prstatistics.com/course/ecological-niche-modelling-using-r-enmr02/ 11. March 19th ? 23rd 2018 BEHAVIOURAL DATA ANALYSIS USING MAXIMUM LIKLIHOOD IN R #BDML Glasgow, Scotland, Dr William Hoppitt http://www.psstatistics.com/course/behavioural-data-analysis-using-maximum-likelihood-bdml01/ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12. April 9th ? 13th 2018 NETWORK ANAYLSIS FOR ECOLOGISTS USING R #NTWA Glasgow, Scotland, Dr. Marco Scotti https://www.prstatistics.com/course/network-analysis-ecologists-ntwa02/ 13. April 16th ? 20th 2018 INTRODUCTION TO STATISTICAL MODELLING FOR PSYCHOLOGISTS USING R #IPSY Glasgow, Scotland, Dr. Dale Barr, Dr Luc Bussierre http://www.psstatistics.com/course/introduction-to-statistics-using-r-for-psychologists-ipsy01/ 14. April 23rd ? 27th 2018 MULTIVARIATE ANALYSIS OF ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITIES USING THE VEGAN PACKAGE #VGNR Glasgow, Scotland, Dr. Peter Solymos, Dr. Guillaume Blanchet https://www.prstatistics.com/course/multivariate-analysis-of-ecological-communities-in-r-with-the-vegan-package-vgnr01/ 15. April 30th ? 4th May 2018 QUANTITATIVE GEOGRAPHIC ECOLOGY: MODELING GENOMES, NICHES, AND COMMUNITIES #QGER Glasgow, Scotland, Dr. Dan Warren, Dr. Matt Fitzpatrick https://www.prstatistics.com/course/quantitative-geographic-ecology-using-r-modelling-genomes-niches-and-communities-qger01/ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 16. May 7th ? 11th 2018 ADVANCES IN MULTIVARIATE ANALYSIS OF SPATIAL ECOLOGICAL DATA USING R #MVSP CANADA (QUEBEC), Prof. Pierre Legendre, Dr. Guillaume Blanchet https://www.prstatistics.com/course/advances-in-spatial-analysis-of-multivariate-ecological-data-theory-and-practice-mvsp03/ 17. May 14th - 18th 2018 INTRODUCTION TO MIXED (HIERARCHICAL) MODELS FOR BIOLOGISTS #IMBR CANADA (QUEBEC), Prof Subhash Lele https://www.prstatistics.com/course/introduction-to-mixed-hierarchical-models-for-biologists-using-r-imbr01/ 18. May 21st - 25th 2018 INTRODUCTION TO PYTHON FOR BIOLOGISTS #IPYB SCENE, Scotland, Dr. Martin Jones http://www.prinformatics.com/course/introduction-to-python-for-biologists-ipyb05/ 19. May 21st - 25th 2018 INTRODUCTION TO REMOTE SENISNG AND GIS FOR ECOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS Glasgow, Scotland, Prof. Duccio Rocchini, Dr. Luca Delucchi https://www.prinformatics.com/course/introduction-to-remote-sensing-and-gis-for-ecological-applications-irms01/ 20. May 28th ? 31st 2018 STABLE ISOTOPE MIXING MODELS USING SIAR, SIBER AND MIXSIAR #SIMM CANADA (QUEBEC) Dr. Andrew Parnell, Dr. Andrew Jackson https://www.prstatistics.com/course/stable-isotope-mixing-models-using-r-simm04/ 21. May 28th ? June 1st 2018 ADVANCED PYTHON FOR BIOLOGISTS #APYB SCENE, Scotland, Dr. Martin Jones https://www.prinformatics.com/course/advanced-python-biologists-apyb02/ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 22. June 12th -0 15th 2018 SPECIES DISTRIBUTION MODELLING #DBMR Myuna Bay sport and recreation, Australia, TBC COMING SOON www.PRstatistics.com 23. June 12th ? 15th 2018 MARK RECAPTURE METHODS IN ECOLOGY #MKRC Myuna Bay sport and recreation, Australia, TBC COMING SOON www.PRstatistics.com 24. June 18th ? 22nd 2018 STRUCTURAL EQUATION MODELLING FOR ECOLOGISTS AND EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGISTS USING R #SEMR Myuna Bay sport and recreation, Australia, TBC COMING SOON www.PRstatistics.com -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 25. July 2nd - 5th 2018 SOCIAL NETWORK ANALYSIS FOR BEHAVIOURAL SCIENTISTS USING R #SNAR Glasgow, Scotland, Prof James Curley http://www.psstatistics.com/course/social-network-analysis-for-behavioral-scientists-snar01/ 26. July 8th ? 12th 2018 MODEL BASE MULTIVARIATE ANALYSIS OF ABUNDANCE DATA USING R #MBMV Glasgow, Scotland, Prof David Warton https://www.prstatistics.com/course/model-base-multivariate-analysis-of-abundance-data-using-r-mbmv02/ 27. July 16th ? 20th 2018 PRECISION MEDICINE BIOINFORMATICS: FROM RAW GENOME AND TRANSCRIPTOME DATA TO CLINICAL INTERPRETATION #PMBI Glasgow, Scotland, Dr Malachi Griffith, Dr. Obi Griffith COMING SOON www.prinformatics.com 28. July 23rd ? 27th 2018 EUKARYOTIC METABARCODING Glasgow, Scotland, Dr. Owen Wangensteen http://www.prinformatics.com/course/eukaryotic-metabarcoding-eukb01/ -- Oliver Hooker PhD. PR statistics 2017 publications - Ecosystem size predicts eco-morphological variability in post-glacial diversification. Ecology and Evolution. In press. The physiological costs of prey switching reinforce foraging specialization. Journal of animal ecology. prstatistics.com facebook.com/prstatistics/ twitter.com/PRstatistics groups.google.com/d/forum/pr-statistics-post-course-forum prstatistics.com/organiser/oliver-hooker/ 6 Hope Park Crescent Edinburgh EH8 9NA +44 (0) 7966500340 From alimoulima at gmail.com Tue Nov 14 05:48:51 2017 From: alimoulima at gmail.com (Alice Lima) Date: Tue, 14 Nov 2017 14:48:51 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] New paper: Vocal activities reflect the temporal distribution of bottlenose dolphin activity Message-ID: Dear Colleagues, We are very pleased to share with you our publication in the current issue of Zoo Biology: Lima A, Lemasson A, Boye M, Hausberger M. Vocal activities reflect the temporal distribution of bottlenose dolphin social and non-social activity in a zoological park. Zoo Biology. 2017;1?9. https://doi.org/10.1002/zoo.21387 This is the first description of the time-budget of captive dolphins using vocal and non-vocal data. The work discuss differences in the temporal distribution of social activities with wild animals and highlights the impact of Human-controlled feeding schedules in captive settings. *Abstract* Under natural conditions bottlenose dolphins (*Tursiops truncatus*) spend their time mostly feeding and then travelling, socializing, or resting. These activities are not randomly distributed, with feeding being higher in early morning and late afternoon. Social activities and vocal behavior seem to be very important in dolphin daily activity. This study aimed to describe the activity time-budget and its relation to vocal behavior for dolphins in a zoological park. We recorded behaviors and vocalizations of six dolphins over 2 months. All subjects performed more non-agonistic social interactions and play in the morning than in the afternoon. The different categories of vocalizations were distributed non-randomly throughout the day, with more chirps in the afternoon, when the animals were ?less social.? The most striking result was the strong correlation between activities and the categories of vocalizations produced. The results confirm the association between burst pulses and whistles with social activities, but also reveal that both are also associated with solitary play. More chirps were produced when dolphins were engaged in socio-sexual behaviors, emphasizing the need for further questioning about the function of this vocal category. This study reveals that: (i) in a group kept in zoological management, social activities are mostly present in the morning; and (ii) the acoustic signals produced by dolphins may give a reliable representation of their current activities. While more studies on the context of signal production are needed, our findings provide a useful tool for understanding free ranging dolphin behavior when they are not visible. The paper can be found here: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/zoo.21387/full Or send any requests for copies directly to alice.lima at univ-rennes1.fr Best wishes, Alice Lima -- Alice de Moura Lima Bi?loga - Mestre em Zoologia - PPGZOO/UESC Doctorante / PhD Student Universit? de Rennes 1 UMR CNRS 6552 "Ethologie Animale et Humaine" Station Biologique de Paimpont 35380 Paimpont -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From interns at aimm-portugal.org Mon Nov 13 11:43:14 2017 From: interns at aimm-portugal.org (AIMM Internships) Date: Mon, 13 Nov 2017 19:43:14 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP IN PORTUGAL Message-ID: *DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP IN PORTUGAL* *BACKGROUND: *The Marine Environment Research Association - AIMM, is a non-profit, non-governmental organization focused on the research and conservation of marine species, running an ongoing study of cetaceans in southern Portugal (Algarve). This project aims to obtain baseline information on species occurrence, behavior, and social structure of the local cetacean populations in order to obtain scientific data to support conservation measures and inform marine management policies. The main species observed are Short-beaked common dolphins (Delphinus delphis), Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), and Harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena), although other species such as Minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) and Fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) can also be sighted. AIMM Interns are young, hard-working individuals who are willing to contribute to the association and support on-going activities, while experiencing fieldwork at sea, learning data collection and processing methodologies, and being a part of AIMM's team of researchers and marine biologists for a period of time. All team members and participants share accommodation, house tasks, knowledge and experience in an environmental friendly and multicultural environment. Interns have the additional option to enrich their time with AIMM by beginning or improving their SCUBA skills with a PADI-certified instructor. *WHERE:* Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal *WHEN:* The field season lasts from May 1 - October 31, 2017. The minimum internship attendance is 7 days, preferably starting on a Monday. *FIELDWORK: *The field trips are conducted in AIMM's research vessel, Ketos, or in opportunistic platforms (commercial dolphin-watching boats). Fieldwork is dependent on weather conditions and seat availability in the dolphin-watching boats. Field days can be intense, especially in the peak of summer, but are fulfilling and good fun. The interns will be trained to: ? Conduct on-board surveys of marine species occurrence; ? Record effort tracks on a handheld GPS; ? Collect data on behavior, group size, species, etc.; ? Collection of photo to photo-identification, acoustic recording, and underwater videos while on-board. *DATA ANALYSIS: *This will be conducted on a daily basis and will entail entering data into established databases and spreadsheets, photo-identification processing, and preliminary data interpretation. *INTERNSHIP FEES:* AIMM is a non-profit organization that relies on donations from our volunteers, partners, and conservation-minded people like you so that we may continue our important research and education programs in the Algarve. This internship requires a monetary contribution which is used to off-set the cost of accommodation and running a non-profit. For more information on internship fees for the 2017 season, please contact: interns at aimm-portugal.org *Included* in the fee is: ? Accommodation in the research house; ? Transportation to/from the marina; ? Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner); ? Fieldwork in the research vessel or commercial dolphin-watching vessels. *Not included* in the fee is: ? Transportation to/from Albufeira; ? Meals in restaurants and snacks; ? Free time activities; ? Personal insurance (all participants should have health and/or travel insurance); ? Personal expenses. *INTERNS ARE EXPECTED TO:* ? Be above the age of 16; ? Have a mature attitude towards marine mammal research and environment; ? Be autonomous and flexible; ? Be able to live and work in an international team and mainly outdoors at sea; ? Speak English; ? Participate for minimum 7 days. *Preference will be given* to those who have: ? Relevant marine mammal field experience ? Working experience on research vessels ? Experience working from dolphin/whale watching platforms ? Experience in photo-identification ? Professional cameras that can be used for photo-ID ? Availability to stay for longer periods of time *INTERNSHIP APPLICATION: * Applicants should fill up the online application at: http://www.aimmportugal.org/#!internship-aimm/cw7b After the confirmation e-mail, send your Resume/CV with updated photo and personal statement on which are your expectations and why do you want to work with AIMM to: interns at aimm-portugal.org with the subject ?Internship 2017?. Applicants will be contacted to arrange internship dates and details. Applications will be accepted during all season, however, early application is recommended due to limited vacancies. *Contacts*: interns at aimm-portugal.org | www.aimmportugal.org | -- AIMM - Associa??o para Investiga??o do Meio Marinho / *Marine Environment Research Association* w ww.aimmportugal.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From kdudzinski at dolphincommunicationproject.org Tue Nov 14 05:14:35 2017 From: kdudzinski at dolphincommunicationproject.org (Kathleen M. Dudzinski) Date: Tue, 14 Nov 2017 08:14:35 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Aquatic Mammals 43(6) is available online Message-ID: Dear MARMAM and ECS-talk subscribers, Apologies to those of you who will receive duplicate emails due to cross-posting. The following titles represent the contents of the most recent issue (Volume 43, issue 6, 2017) of Aquatic Mammals. The online issue is now available at this link: http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&id=163&Itemid=157 For individuals with a print subscription, the double print copy of 43.5/43.6 will be mailed in late November. Aquatic Mammals is the longest running peer-reviewed journal dedicated to research on aquatic mammals and is published quarterly with manuscripts available as published PDFs in real time. Further information about the journal can be found at: http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/ To submit a manuscript for publication consideration, please visit: http://am.expressacademic.org/actions/author.php If you subscribe to Aquatic Mammals online, you can visit the journal web site and sign in to download all articles from this volume: http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/ Please do not contact the listserv editors for PDFs or copies of the articles. To obtain a PDF, please subscribe to Aquatic Mammals http://tinyurl.com/AMsubscribe . Links to a purchase page for each article are included below. Please see list below for Volume 43, issue 6 contents. Thank you for your continued interest in the journal and abstract postings. With regards, Kathleen Dudzinski, Ph.D. Editor, Aquatic Mammals business at aquaticmammalsjournal.org Aquatic Mammals 43.6 Articles Kimika Tsuji, Kazunobu Kogi, Mai Sakai, and Tadamichi Morisaka. (2017). Emigration of Indo-Pacific Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) from Mikura Island, Japan. Aquatic Mammals 43(6), 585-593. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.43.6.2017.585 Isabel Baker, Joanne O?Brien, Katherine McHugh, and Simon Berrow. (2017). An Ethogram for Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the Shannon Estuary, Ireland. Aquatic Mammals 43(6), 594-613. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.43.6.2017.594 Gustavo Alves da Costa Toledo, Fabricio Rauan Garcia Furni, Paula Hon?rio Pires Ferreira, Felipe C. Penin Garcia, Renata Gon?alves Ferreira, and Renata S. Sousa-Lima. (2017). Epimeletic Behavior of Guiana Dolphins (Sotalia guianensis) Towards a Calf Supposedly Killed by a Motorboat in Brazil. Aquatic Mammals 43(6), 614-617. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.43.6.2017.614 Amanda J. Ardente, Timothy J. Garrett, James Colee, Brian J. Vagt, Michael T. Walsh, Randall S. Wells, Cynthia R. Smith, Eric D. Jensen, Todd L. Schmitt, and Richard C. Hill. (2017). Differences in Purine Metabolite Concentrations in the Diet of Managed and Free-Ranging Common Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). Aquatic Mammals 43(6), 618-628. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.43.6.2017.618 Diego P?ez-Rosas, Luis A. Valdovinos, and Fernando R. Elorriaga-Verplancken. (2017). Northernmost Record of the Galapagos Fur Seal (Arctocephalus galapagoensis): A Consequence of Anomalous Warm Conditions Around the Galapagos Archipelago. Aquatic Mammals 43(6), 629-634. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.43.6.2017.629 Leslie B. Hart, Kerry Wischusen, and Randall S. Wells. (2017). Rapid Assessment of Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) Body Condition: There?s an App for That. Aquatic Mammals 43(6), 635-644. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.43.6.2017.635 C?sar A. Salinas-Zavala, Mar?a V. Morales-Z?rate, Andr?s Gonz?lez-Peralta, Rosa J. Avi?a-Hern?ndez, and Mariana L. Muzquiz-Villalobos. (2017). New Record of Atypical Coloration in a Gray Whale Calf (Eschrichtius robustus) in Laguna Ojo de Liebre,Baja California Sur, Mexico. Aquatic Mammals 43(6), 644-648. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.43.6.2017.644 Francisco Sekiguchi Buchmann, Felipe Maciel Zurlo, Fabio Stucchi Vannucchi, and Cristiane Cavalcante de Albuquerque Martins. (2017). First Record of a Fossil Blue Whale in S?o Paulo State, Brazil. Aquatic Mammals 43(6), 649-654. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.43.6.2017.649 Christine M. Konrad, Alysha Dupuis, Shane Gero, and Timothy Frasier. (2017). A Sexing Technique for Highly Degraded Cetacean DNA. Aquatic Mammals 43(6), 655-660. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.43.6.2017.655 Jazmin Garcia, Caryn Self-Sullivan, and Nicholas A. Funicelli. (2017). Changes in Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) Distribution and Behavior in the Drowned Cayes, Belize, and Correlation to Human Impacts. Aquatic Mammals 43(6), 661-672. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.43.6.2017.661 Jennifer K. Olson & Alejandro Acevedo-Guti?rrez. (2017). Influence of Human Exposure on the Anti-Predator Response of Harbor Seals (Phoca vitulina). Aquatic Mammals 43(6), 673-681. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.43.6.2017.673 Eve M. Jourdain, Filipa I. P. Samarra, Sara B. Tavares, & Richard E. Karoliussen. (2017). Incidence of Probable Vertebral Column Deformities in Norwegian and Icelandic Killer Whales (Orcinus orca). Aquatic Mammals 43(6), 682-690. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.43.6.2017.682 S. Jonathan Stern, William Keener, Isidore D. Szczepaniak, & Marc A. Webber (2017). Return of Harbor Porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) to San Francisco Bay. Aquatic Mammals 43(6), 691-702. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.43.6.2017.691 Obituary/Tribute William Keener, Isidore Szczepaniak, Marc Webber, Graham Worthy, Frances Robertson, Carolyn Kurle, & Leslie Cornick. (2017). In Memoriam: Dr. Jonathan Stern. Aquatic Mammals 43(6), 703-704. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.43.6.2017.703 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From kimika0926t at gmail.com Tue Nov 14 02:04:49 2017 From: kimika0926t at gmail.com (Kimika Tsuji) Date: Tue, 14 Nov 2017 19:04:49 +0900 Subject: [MARMAM] New Publication: Emigration of Indo-Pacific Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) from Mikura Island, Japan Message-ID: Dear MARMAM colleagues, We are pleased to announce the publication of the following paper in Aquatic Mammals. Kimika Tsuji, Kazunobu Kogi, Mai Sakai, and Tadamichi Morisaka. (2017). Emigration of Indo-Pacific Bottlenose Dolphins (*Tursiops aduncus*) from Mikura Island, Japan. *Aquatic Mammals*, 43(6), 585-593. Abstract: Emigration of individual animals is an important biological phenomenon that depends on both populations and ecosystem attributes. Off Mikura Island, a long-term identification survey of individual Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins has been conducted since 1994 using an underwater video system. Between 1994 and 2014, 277 individual dolphins were identified by this survey, with 41 individuals emigrating from Mikura Island during this period. Adults emigrated significantly more often than younger age classes. The sex and age classes of emigrants in 2008 and 2010 (the years with the greatest amount of emigration) differed, suggesting that social relationships within a population may affect emigration. Emigrants were observed among the Izu Island Chain and in Chiba, Shizuoka, Mie, and Wakayama Prefectures. The greatest distance dolphins emigrated from Mikura Island was 390 km to Tanabe in Wakayama Prefecture. Some individuals were observed to have emigrated to several areas during the period. The most frequent destination was Toshima Island, one of the Izu Islands Chain, where emigrants have been observed to reproduce. Emigrant groups were composed exclusively of individuals from Mikura Island; there were no immigrants to the Mikura Island area during the 20-y period of observation, although six emigrants eventually returned to their original range. Future studies of social relationships and habitat use by emigrants will reveal more about the reasons dolphins leave their habitats. The article is available at https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.43.6.2017.585 Best regards, Kimika Tsuji ------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------ Kimika TSUJI Wildlife Research Center of Kyoto University 2-24 Tanaka-Sekiden-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8203, Japan E-mail: tsuji at wrc.kyoto-u.ac.jp Tel: (+81)75-771-4399 <+81%2075-771-4399> -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From a.c.m.kok at biology.leidenuniv.nl Thu Nov 16 02:59:54 2017 From: a.c.m.kok at biology.leidenuniv.nl (Kok, A.C.M.) Date: Thu, 16 Nov 2017 10:59:54 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication: Spatial avoidance to experimental increase of intermittent and continuous sound in two captive harbour porpoises Message-ID: We are pleased to announce the publication of the following paper in Environmental Pollution. Annebelle C.M. Kok, J. Pamela Engelberts, Ronald A. Kastelein, Lean Helder-Hoek, Shirley Van de Voorde, Fleur Visser, and Hans Slabbekoorn (2017). Spatial avoidance to experimental increase of intermittent and continuous sound in two captive harbour porpoises. Environmental Pollution, DOI: 10.1016 The continuing rise in underwater sound levels in the oceans leads to disturbance of marine life. It is thought that one of the main impacts of sound exposure is the alteration of foraging behaviour of marine species, for example by deterring animals from a prey location, or by distracting them while they are trying to catch prey. So far, only limited knowledge is available on both mechanisms in the same species. The harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) is a relatively small marine mammal that could quickly suffer fitness consequences from a reduction of foraging success. To investigate effects of anthropogenic sound on their foraging efficiency, we tested whether experimentally elevated sound levels would deter two captive harbour porpoises from a noisy pool into a quiet pool (Experiment 1) and reduce their prey-search performance, measured as prey-search time in the noisy pool (Experiment 2). Furthermore, we tested the influence of the temporal structure and amplitude of the sound on the avoidance response of both animals. Both individuals avoided the pool with elevated sound levels, but they did not show a change in search time for prey when trying to find a fish hidden in one of three cages. The combination of temporal structure and SPL caused variable patterns. When the sound was intermittent, increased SPL caused increased avoidance times. When the sound was continuous, avoidance was equal for all SPLs above a threshold of 100 dB re 1 mPa. Hence, we found no evidence for an effect of sound exposure on search efficiency, but sounds of different temporal patterns did cause spatial avoidance with distinct dose-response patterns. The article is available at https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envpol.2017.10.001, or can be requested from the corresponding author (email: a.c.m.kok at biology.leidenuniv.nl). Kind regards, Annebelle Kok, MSc. PhD candidate IBL, Leiden University Sylviusweg 72, Leiden, the Netherlands e-mail: a.c.m.kok at biology.leidenuniv.nl -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From aakmajian at gmail.com Thu Nov 16 11:25:36 2017 From: aakmajian at gmail.com (Adrianne Akmajian) Date: Thu, 16 Nov 2017 11:25:36 -0800 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication: Year-round algal toxin exposure in free-ranging sea lions Message-ID: Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to share our recent Open Access publication in Marine Ecology Progress Series: Akmajian AM, Scordino JJ, Acevedo-Guti?rrez A (2017) Year-round algal toxin exposure in free-ranging sea lions. *Marine Ecology Progress Series* 583:243-258. *Abstract* Harmful algal bloom toxins cause illness and mortality in marine mammals worldwide, yet the potential for year-round exposure to these toxins has not previously been studied. We measured concentrations of domoic acid and saxitoxin in scats from Steller sea lions *Eumetopias jubatus* (n = 383 scats) and California sea lions *Zalophus californianus* (n = 125 scats) over a 2 yr period. Toxin concentrations in the scats were compared to the prey remains in the scats and to concentrations in nearshore bivalves. Saxitoxin was detected in 45% and domoic acid was detected in 17% of all scats tested, and both toxins were detected in all seasons and months of the year. A variety of benthic and pelagic fish were significantly associated with toxins in sea lion scats, including prey with low occurrence in the sea lions? diet. Toxins detected in winter scats confirm that US West Coast marine mammals are exposed to domoic acid and saxitoxin through their prey outside of the expected algal bloom seasons. The publication can be downloaded from: http://www.int-res.com/articles/meps_oa/m583p243.pdf Thank you, Adrianne ----------------------------------------- Adrianne Akmajian Marine Ecologist Makah Fisheries Management marine.ecologist at makah.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From alisongill at intelligentocean.com Mon Nov 13 01:06:15 2017 From: alisongill at intelligentocean.com (Alison Gill) Date: Mon, 13 Nov 2017 09:06:15 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] JNCC MMO (UK) and BOEM PSO (Gulf of Mexico) and PAM Training Courses In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Intelligent Ocean Ltd (http://www.intelligentocean.com/) is running the following training courses November 2017 in Kings Lynn, Norfolk, UK for which we have spaces available. Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) Marine Mammal Observer (MMO) Training for UK - 20th November 2017 - ?130 Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) Protected Species Observer (PSO) Training for Gulf of Mexico, USA - 21st November 2017 - ?60 (when taken in conjunction with the JNCC MMO course). Introduction to Passive Acoustic Monitoring 22nd November 2017 - ?150 (please note there is an online training component to this course that must be completed before this practical day) To book a place please use our online booking system at this link http://www.intelligentocean.com/booking.php Alison Gill Intelligent Ocean Ltd http://www.intelligentocean.com/ --- This email has been checked for viruses by AVG. http://www.avg.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From bruno at thebdri.com Fri Nov 17 14:26:41 2017 From: bruno at thebdri.com (=?UTF-8?Q?Bruno_D=C3=ADaz_L=C3=B3pez?=) Date: Fri, 17 Nov 2017 22:26:41 +0000 (UTC) Subject: [MARMAM] Cetacean Research & Marine Biology Internships in Spain References: <1313098051.470818.1510957601809.ref@mail.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <1313098051.470818.1510957601809@mail.yahoo.com> Cetacean Research & Marine Biology Internships in Spain The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI) , a marine science and education centre, offers unique hands-on research experiences designed to foster success in both undergraduate and postgraduate fields. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION - This internships program enables aspiring marine scientists to work in conjunction with leading marine biologists as they undertake ground-breaking research on the charismatic marine mega-fauna in one of the most productive oceanic regions on the world (Galicia, North-western coast of Spain). No fewer than 22 cetacean species have been recorded in these waters over the years. Some, such as common bottlenose dolphins, short-beaked common dolphins, harbour porpoises, minke whales, Risso's dolphins, long-finned pilot whales, humpback whales, beaked whales, sei whales, fin whales, and blue whales have been recorded by the BDRI team in 2017. BDRI scientists conduct research across a wide range of subject areas that link marine top predators (cetaceans and marine birds) ecology with their physical environment, society and population dynamics; explore their interactions with human activities (such as fisheries, aquaculture and marine traffic); and investigate their behaviour and acoustic communication. With state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, students will be trained to participate with multiple research projects involving a combination of boat-based surveys onboard research vessels, land-based observations, laboratory work (photo-identification, GIS, bioacoustics, diet analysis, diving behaviour, video analysis, database work, etc), and strandings (response, rescue, necropsy, and data collection). The BDRI is a very international environment, and the everyday working language is English. Laboratory work days typically last six hours and field days typically exceed seven hours and occur several times per week (weather dependent). There will be two days off per week. HOW TO APPLY ? The internship is open to all applicants 18 years of age or older. An academic background in biology, veterinary or natural science, coupled with motivation and interest in marine research make the most qualified individuals. Internship start and end dates are flexible but the position requires a minimum of 30 days continuous commitment sometime between 8th January 2018 through to end November 2018. The BDRI is a private and self-funded centre, hence, this internship requires a monetary contribution which is used to off-set the cost of accommodation in an apartment, training, use of research equipment, facilities and research vessels, and other expenses (access to wifi in the apartment, kitchen utensils, electricity, taxes, etc). Successful applicants will be responsible for their own transportation expenses to and from the research centre (O Grove, Galicia, Spain). Interested candidates should submit an application with the following: - A cover letter including your availability; - A resume describing training, experience and relevant skills; - BDRI's application form, you can download from Please send these items as e-mail attachments to: severine at thebdri.com Approved applications are accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. Positions are open until filled. For more information about BDRI's research projects, please visit or our Facebook page. Best regards, and see you in Galicia! Bruno D?az L?pez Chief biologist and Director The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI Avenida Beiramar 192, O Grove 36980, Spain www.thebdri.com 0034 684 248552 This email is confidential to the intended recipient(s) and the contents may be legally privileged or contain proprietary and private informations. 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). Thank you for your cooperation. From cpilenga at zoomarine.it Mon Nov 13 06:26:52 2017 From: cpilenga at zoomarine.it (Cristina Pilenga) Date: Mon, 13 Nov 2017 15:26:52 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] CALL FOR PAPERS_46th EAAM Annual Conference_Zoomarine Italy Message-ID: Cristina Pilenga cpilenga at zoomarine.it 46th EAAM Annual Conference, 13th-16th March 2018 _ Zoomarine Italy CALL FOR PAPARS: Abstract Submission Deadline: 8th of December 2017 www.zoomarine.it www.eaam.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From elsvermeulen5 at gmail.com Fri Nov 17 00:43:40 2017 From: elsvermeulen5 at gmail.com (Els Vermeulen) Date: Fri, 17 Nov 2017 10:43:40 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication: Indian Ocean humpback dolphin movement patterns in South Africa Message-ID: Dear colleagues, On behalf of all the co-authors, we are pleased to announce the new publication regarding the movement patterns of Indian Ocean humpback dolphins in South Africa. Vermeulen E, Bouveroux T, Pl?n S, Atkins S, Chivell W, Cockcroft V, Conry D, Genarri E, H?rbst S, James BS, Kirkman S, Penry G, Pistorius P, Thornton M, Vargas Fonseca A, Elwen S. 2017. Indian Ocean humpback dolphin (*Sousa plumbea*) movement patterns along the South African coast. Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems 2017:1-10. DOI: 10.1002/aqc.2836 *Abstract:* The Indian Ocean humpback dolphin was recently uplisted to ?Endangered? in the recent South African National Red List assessment. Abundance estimates are available from a number of localized study sites, but knowledge of movement patterns and population linkage between these sites is poor. A national research collaboration, the SouSA project, was established in 2016 to address this key knowledge gap. Twenty identification catalogues collected between 2000 and 2016 in 13 different locations were collated and compared. Photographs of 526 humpback dolphins (all catalogues and photos) were reduced to 337 individuals from 12 locations after data selection. Of these, 90 matches were found for 61 individuals over multiple sites, resulting in 247 uniquely, well?marked humpback dolphins identified in South Africa. Movements were observed along most of the coastline studied. Ranging distances had a median value of 120 km and varied from 30 km up to 500 km. Long?term site fidelity was also evident in the data. Dolphins ranging along the south coast of South Africa seem to form one single population at the western end of the species' global range. Current available photo?identification data suggested national abundance may be well below previous estimates of 1000 individuals, with numbers possibly closer to 500. Bearing in mind the poor conservation status of the species in the country, the development of a national Biodiversity Management Plan aimed at ensuring the long?term survival of the species in South Africa is strongly recommended. At the same time, increased research efforts are essential, particularly to allow for an in?depth assessment of population numbers and drivers of changes therein. The present study clearly indicates the importance of scientific collaboration when investigating highly mobile and endangered species. This work has been a collaborative effort of all relevant researchers in the country and has proven to be a great success. To request an electronic copy, please contact me at elsvermeulen5 at gmail.com. Kind regards, Els On behalf of the South African SouSA Consortium ------------------------------------- Els Vermeulen, PhD Research Manager and Post-doctoral research fellow Mammal Research Institute Whale Unit Department of Zoology and Entomology University of Pretoria, South Africa Co-founding director Whalefish -www.whalefish.org PI Sea Search - www.seasearch.co.za Cell: +27 (0)60 9714301 Email: elsvermeulen5 at gmail.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From fiona.read at whales.org Fri Nov 17 05:46:53 2017 From: fiona.read at whales.org (Fiona Read) Date: Fri, 17 Nov 2017 13:46:53 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] EC Regulation 812/2004 report Message-ID: <0DEDA7208F45064DA3BB32D441609E607DA7FC3E@WDCS-CRIMSON.wdcs-net.wdcs.org> Dear Marmam, Whale and Dolphin Conservation (WDC) are pleased to announce the publication of our new report 'Cetacean Bycatch Monitoring and Mitigation under EC Regulation 812/2004 in the Northeast Atlantic, North Sea and Baltic Sea from 2006 to 2014'. The report focuses on 15 EU Member States fishing in the Northeast Atlantic, Baltic and North Seas and their implementation of Regulation 812 over 9 years. All Member States, except one, reviewed their relevant section and table. Overall, we show that more than a decade after implementation of the Regulation, compliance has varied greatly by Members States and also between years. The review also identifies flaws and limitations in the existing Regulation 812 that Member States recognised during their implementation efforts. Recommendations are made towards compliance and improvement of the existing Regulation, or equivalent future measures, when Regulation 812 is repealed. The full report is available at:http://www.wdcs.co.uk/media/submissions_bin/EU-Cetacean-Bycatch-Monitoring-Mitigation-Report.pdf Best wishes, Fiona [http://www.wdcs.org/images/ESM/SignatureImages/Vert_Logo2.png] Fiona Read Policy officer End Bycatch Telephone: +44 (0)791 869 3023 WDC, Whale and Dolphin Conservation Scottish Dolphin Centre Spey Bay Moray IV32 7PJ United Kingdom whales.org [WDC on Facebook] [WDC on Twitter] [WDC on Instagram] [WDC on YouTube] [WDC Blogs] [WDC E-Newsletter] [Registered with Fundraising Regulator] [http://www.wdcs.org/images/ESM/CampaignImages/NWF.png] ________________________________ Whale and Dolphin Conservation ("WDC") is a company registered in England and Wales (No. 02737421) and a registered charity (in England and Wales No. 1014705, in Scotland No. SC040231) WDC Shop is a trading name of WDC (Trading) Ltd, a company registered in England and Wales (No. 02593116) Registered office : Brookfield House, 38 St. Paul Street, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 1LJ. Tel: +44 (0)1249 449 500 This message is private and confidential. 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: 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: 758 bytes Desc: image002.png URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image003.png Type: image/png Size: 946 bytes Desc: image003.png URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image004.png Type: image/png Size: 1139 bytes Desc: image004.png URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... 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Name: image009.png Type: image/png Size: 17495 bytes Desc: image009.png URL: From fvisser at kelpmarineresearch.com Thu Nov 16 01:34:24 2017 From: fvisser at kelpmarineresearch.com (fvisser at kelpmarineresearch.com) Date: Thu, 16 Nov 2017 10:34:24 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] New paper: Pilot whale silence and dinner talk (Fleur Visser) Message-ID: <12f6122b29aa759f512bd5bfdcd85fa2.squirrel@web207.your-webhost.nl> We are pleased to announce the publication of our paper in BEAS: Vocal foragers and silent crowds: context-dependent vocal variation in Northeast Atlantic long-finned pilot whales, by Fleur Visser, Annebelle CM Kok, Machiel G Oudejans, Lindesay AS Scott-Hayward, Stacy L DeRuiter, Ana C Alves, Ricardo N Antunes, Saana Isojunno, Graham J Pierce, Hans Slabbekoorn, Jef Huisman and Patrick JO Miller The paper is published open access and available at: http://rdcu.be/yac2 ABSTRACT Vocalisations form a key component of the social interactions and foraging behaviour of toothed whales. We investigated changes in calling and echolocation behaviour of long-finned pilot whales between foraging and non-foraging periods, by combining acoustic recordings and diving depth data from tagged individuals with concurrent surface observations on social behaviour of their group. The pilot whales showed marked vocal variation, specific to foraging and social context. During periods of foraging, pilot whales showed more vocal activity than during near surface non-foraging periods (rest, travel). In addition to the expected increase in echolocation activity, call rates also increased, suggesting that pilot whales communicate more during foraging. Furthermore, calls with multiple inflections occurred more often immediately before and after foraging dives and during the early descent and late ascent phases of foraging dives. However, these calls were almost never detected at diving depths of the tagged whale beyond 350 m. Calls with no or few inflections were produced at all times, irrespective of diving depth of the tagged whale. We discuss possible explanations for the distinct vocal variation associated with foraging periods. In addition, during near surface periods, the pilot whales were found to be more silent (no calling or echolocation) in larger, more closely spaced groups. This indicates that increased levels of social cohesion may release the need to stay in touch acoustically. Best regards, Fleur Visser fvisser at kelpmarineresearch.com From karen at northcoastmmc.org Thu Nov 16 15:29:10 2017 From: karen at northcoastmmc.org (Karen Helms) Date: Thu, 16 Nov 2017 23:29:10 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] 2018 Northcoast Marine Mammal Center Internship Announcement Message-ID: 2018 Northcoast Marine Mammal Center Internship Announcement The Northcoast Marine Mammal Center is seeking applicants for internships working with stranded Marine Mammals. These positions are unpaid, and no housing is provided. Applicants will be living and working in Crescent City, CA. Program Description: The Northcoast Marine Mammal Center has an exciting opportunity for individuals who are interested in increasing their experience and knowledge of marine mammals and their behavior. Interns will have the opportunity to participate in marine mammal rescues, releases and other field responses as available. In addition, interns will assist in animal care duties (animal intake, feed preparations, medical charting, medication administration, wound care, pen cleaning and other animal husbandry duties as needed) for on-site patients. Interns will also assist with events, fundraising and other administrative duties. Intern Responsibilities & Qualifications: The internship is open to all applicants 21 years of age or older, with an avid interest in marine biology, zoology, general biology, policy or a related field. If the intern intends to receive university credit for their internship, they are responsible for making all arrangements with their educational institution. Interns must be available to work for a minimum of 3 months, 5 days a week, at least 40 hours per week. Work schedule must be flexible and may include evenings, weekends and holidays. This is an unpaid position and all interns are responsible for obtaining housing and transportation. Applicants should demonstrate excellent communication skills and have practical computer knowledge with programs such as Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel. This internship position involves a fair amount of physical activity, such as: cleaning, lifting, restraining and moving animals. Season 2017 Internship Term Application deadline Spring March 1st - June 8th January 15, 2018 Summer June 1st - September 30th April 1, 2018 Notes: The spring term is the busiest and most "hands-on" season at NMMC as this is when we see many new born Pacific Harbor Seal pups. We offer flexible end dates and extensions for excellent candidates. Time off must be arranged in advance. To Apply: To apply, please send a r?sum? that includes the names of three professional references, and a cover letter detailing your experience, and availability. Include the Internship period for which you are applying in the subject line. Please forward all application materials electronically to Volunteer at northcoastmmc.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From jonathan.shannon at noaa.gov Wed Nov 15 13:43:18 2017 From: jonathan.shannon at noaa.gov (Jonathan Shannon - NOAA Federal) Date: Wed, 15 Nov 2017 16:43:18 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] NOAA Fisheries releasable rehabilitated marine mammal draft procedural directive, open for comment until 12/15/17 Message-ID: Hello MARMAM, NOAA Fisheries is accepting comments through December 15, 2017 on a draft procedural directive that would require applicants who want to obtain a *releasable* rehabilitated marine mammal for public display purposes to first apply for a permit to take (*i.e.,* collect) animals from the wild under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. In the event NMFS would decide to grant such a permit, the NMFS OPR Director may then, at his or her discretion, require that a releasable rehabilitated marine mammal be substituted for capturing an animal from the wild, in accordance with 50 CFR 216.27. The draft procedural directive is available on our NOAA Fisheries website . Comments can be submitted two ways through December 15, 2017: 1) Through the Federal e-Rulemaking Portal at www.regulations.gov/#! docketDetail;D=NOAA-NMFS-2017-0096 2) By mail - Send comments to: Chief, Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Conservation Division, Office of Protected Resources, National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910-3226, Attn: Releasable Rehabilitated Marine Mammal Procedural Directive. Thank you, Jonathan Shannon *Outreach Specialist* NOAA Fisheries Office of Protected Resources U.S. Department of Commerce jonathan.shannon at noaa.gov o: 301.427.8431 www.fisheries.noaa.gov/opr -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From matthew.carter at plymouth.ac.uk Tue Nov 14 08:11:12 2017 From: matthew.carter at plymouth.ac.uk (Matthew Carter) Date: Tue, 14 Nov 2017 16:11:12 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication on ontogeny of at-sea behaviour in grey seal pups Message-ID: My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the publication of our study on the ontogeny of foraging skills in grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) pups: "Intrinsic and extrinsic factors drive ontogeny of early-life at-sea behaviour in a marine top predator" Carter, MID; Russell, DJF; Embling, CB; Blight, CJ; Thompson, D; Hosegood, PJ; Bennett, KA. Scientific Reports 7:15505. DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-15859-8 The article is fully open-access and can be downloaded at the following link: http://rdcu.be/ysZd ABSTRACT: Young animals must learn to forage effectively to survive the transition from parental provisioning to independent feeding. Rapid development of successful foraging strategies is particularly important for capital breeders that do not receive parental guidance after weaning. The intrinsic and extrinsic drivers of variation in ontogeny of foraging are poorly understood for many species. Grey seals (Halichoerus grypus) are typical capital breeders; pups are abandoned on the natal site after a brief suckling phase, and must develop foraging skills without external input. We collected location and dive data from recently-weaned grey seal pups from two regions of the United Kingdom (the North Sea and the Celtic and Irish Seas) using animal-borne telemetry devices during their first months of independence at sea. Dive duration, depth, bottom time, and benthic diving increased over the first 40 days. The shape and magnitude of changes differed between regions. Females consistently had longer bottom times, and in the Celtic and Irish Seas they used shallower water than males. Regional sex differences suggest that extrinsic factors, such as water depth, contribute to behavioural sexual segregation. We recommend that conservation strategies consider movements of young na?ve animals in addition to those of adults to account for developmental behavioural changes. Follow the project on Researchgate: https://www.researchgate.net/project/Ontogeny-of-Foraging-in-Grey-Seal-Pups Matt Carter PhD Student Marine Biology and Ecology Research Centre School of Biological and Marine Sciences Plymouth University E-mail: matthew.carter at plymouth.ac.uk Twitter: @MattIDCarter @MarineVerts ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Matt_Carter2 ________________________________ [http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/images/email_footer.gif] This email and any files with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the recipient to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient then copying, distribution or other use of the information contained is strictly prohibited and you should not rely on it. If you have received this email in error please let the sender know immediately and delete it from your system(s). Internet emails are not necessarily secure. While we take every care, Plymouth University accepts no responsibility for viruses and it is your responsibility to scan emails and their attachments. Plymouth University does not accept responsibility for any changes made after it was sent. Nothing in this email or its attachments constitutes an order for goods or services unless accompanied by an official order form. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From education at mmsc.org Wed Nov 15 09:47:49 2017 From: education at mmsc.org (education mmsc.org) Date: Wed, 15 Nov 2017 12:47:49 -0500 (EST) Subject: [MARMAM] 2018 Education/Museum Internships with MMSC Message-ID: <2062158356.82702.1510768069212@webmail.networksolutionsemail.com> The Marine Mammal Stranding Center in Brigantine is seeking interns for the education & museum program for summer of 2018. Internship duties include assisting with programs in both classrooms and on the beach, giving museum tours, and attending fairs/festivals to help share our mission with the public. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and be in good physical condition, including being able to lift 40 lbs. Interns must be available for at least 2 days per week, and will work with the education coordinator to develop a schedule. This summer internship runs from May - Labor Day Weekend. All internships are unpaid. However, students may apply with their college/university to receive college credit. No lodging is provided, and interns must have their own transportation. Experience is not required. Both undergraduates and recent graduates are encouraged to apply. The deadline to apply for the summer internship is March 2nd. Please send your resume, cover letter, and a list of three professional and/or academic references to education at mmsc.org with "Spring Internship" or "Summer Internship" in the subject line. For additional information, contact Dr. Lauren Harshaw at education at mmsc.org. Lauren Harshaw, PhD Education Coordinator Marine Mammal Stranding Center 3625 Brigantine Blvd. Brigantine, NJ 08203 Phone:609-266-0538 Fax:609-266-6300 www.mmsc.org From pack at hawaii.edu Tue Nov 14 16:16:02 2017 From: pack at hawaii.edu (Adam Pack) Date: Tue, 14 Nov 2017 14:16:02 -1000 Subject: [MARMAM] New paper on variations in habitat preferences by individual humpback whale mother-calf pairs in the Hawaiian breeding grounds Message-ID: Aloha Colleagues, My co-authors and I are happy to inform you about the publication of our latest paper *"**Habitat preferences by individual humpback whale mothers in the Hawaiian breeding grounds vary with the age and size of their calves," *in the journal *Animal Behaviour*. The full citation and abstract appear below. The following link may be used to download a pdf of the full paper from *Animal Behaviour* through January 02, 2018. https://authors.elsevier.com/a/1W33FmjLiiNH Alternatively, you can email me for a pdf copy of the paper at pack at hawaii.edu. Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season. Best, Adam Pack, A. A., Herman, L. M., Craig, A. S., Spitz, S. S., Waterman, J. O., Herman, E. Y. K., Deakos, M. H., Hakala, S. & Lowe, C. (2017). Habitat preferences by individual humpback whale mothers in the Hawaiian breeding grounds vary with the age and size of their calves. Animal Behaviour, 133, 131-144. We investigated whether calf age and calf size influence habitat choice by humpback whale mother-calf pairs in their breeding grounds. During 1997-2008, we conducted focal follows of mother-calf pairs in Hawaiian waters. Tail-fluke identification photographs and calf lengths (measured through videogrammetry) were obtained. Water depth and sea-bed terrain type were derived from GPS data. Identification photographs were matched so that the habitat choices could be established within breeding seasons. Across 72 mother-calf pairs resighted over various intervals within a breeding season, magnitude of depth change between initial and final sightings increased significantly with resighting interval. There was a significant increase from initial depth to final depth for relatively long resighting intervals (27-51 days), but no significant difference for relatively short resighting intervals (2-26 days). Although there was no preference for sea-bed terrain type by mother-calf pairs at their initial sighting, there was a preference for rugged terrain at their final resighting. A resource selection model indicated that the relative probability of a location being used by a mother-calf pair increased (as a function of water depth and rugged sea-bed terrain type) from initial to final sighting; a finding supported by subsequent tests of habitat preference versus availability. For 96 measured calves, calf length and water depth were positively correlated, even when ordinal day of measurement was controlled for statistically; a finding confirmed by a general linear model that simultaneously investigated the relationship between water depth, sea-bed terrain type, number of escorts, ordinal day and calf size. Thus, both calf age and size influence habitat choice by mother-calf pairs in their breeding grounds. The movement of mothers and their maturing calves into deeper waters where they favour rugged sea-bed terrain appears to be part of a suite of behavioural changes during the pre-migratory phase of residency in the breeding grounds. -- Adam A. Pack, Ph.D. Professor and Chair (Psychology) Departments of Psychology and Biology University of Hawai'i at Hilo 200 West Kawili Street Hilo, Hawai'i 96720 (Office Voice): 808-932-7076 <(808)%20932-7076> (Email): pack at hawaii.edu (Webpage): https://hilo.hawaii.edu/faculty/adam-a-pack/ "Do or do not; there is no try." Yoda -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From rossiter at csiwhalesalive.org Sun Nov 19 05:27:24 2017 From: rossiter at csiwhalesalive.org (William Rossiter) Date: Sun, 19 Nov 2017 08:27:24 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Alzheimer's disease in dolphins Message-ID: Alzheimer's disease in humans and other animals: A consequence of postreproductive life span and longevity rather than aging. ??? Gunn-Moore, Dani?lle et al. ??? Alzheimer's & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer's Association , Volume 0 , Issue 0 , ??? DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jalz.2017.08.014 Abstract Alzheimer's disease and diabetes mellitus are linked by epidemiology, genetics, and molecular pathogenesis. They may also be linked by the remarkable observation that insulin signaling sets the limits on longevity. In worms, flies, and mice, disrupting insulin signaling increases life span leading to speculation that caloric restriction might extend life span in man. It is our contention that man is already a long-lived organism, specifically with a remarkably high postfertility life span, and that it is this that results in the prevalence of Alzheimer's disease and diabetes. Methods We review evidence for this hypothesis that carries specific predictions including that other animals with exceptionally long postreproductive life span will have increased risk of both diabetes and Alzheimer's disease. Results and Conclusions We present novel evidence that Dolphin, like man, an animal with exceptional longevity, might be one of the very few natural models of Alzheimer's disease. Keywords: Longevity, Insulin signaling, Alzheimer's pathology, Animal models, Tau, Amyloid, GSK-3 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> William Rossiter Cetacean Society International rossiter at csiwhalesalive.org From deirdreyeater at gmail.com Sun Nov 19 07:55:26 2017 From: deirdreyeater at gmail.com (Deirdre Yeater) Date: Sun, 19 Nov 2017 10:55:26 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Deadline Reminder Dec 15: Study Abroad Course Bahamas Message-ID: Hello! Enjoy a hands-on learning course, examining the behavioral and social ecology of Atlantic spotted and bottlenose dolphins. You will also learn about ecotourism and human impacts on the marine environment. Receive 3 credits; visiting students welcome! Sacred Heart University and Dolphin Communication Project are offering a study abroad course for Biology or Psychology course credits this summer 2018. The course will be in offered in The Bahamas on 18 May ? 24 May, with an online learning component before and after the travel abroad. Check out the website and apply for Bahamas Program here:http://studyabroad. sacredheart.edu/ Applications and deposits are due by 15 December 2017! Cheers! Deirdre Yeater yeaterd at sacredheart.edu -- Deirdre Yeater, PhD Associate Professor Sacred Heart University Department of Psychology -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From michael at graywhalescount.org Sun Nov 12 06:31:00 2017 From: michael at graywhalescount.org (Michael H Smith) Date: Sun, 12 Nov 2017 09:31:00 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] Seeking Research Assistants for winter/spring Gray Whales Count 2018, Santa Barbara, CA USA Message-ID: Please post to listserv. Thank you. RESEARCH ASSISTANT (RA) POSITIONS AVAILABLE - seeking volunteer Research Assistants in winter/spring to participate in Gray Whales Count (GWC) 2018 survey of the northbound migration of Gray whales (Eschrichtius robustus) migrating through the nearshore of the Santa Barbara Channel. GWC is seeking Research Assistants (RA) to work with Project Coordinator and team of observers to assist in our annual survey, conducted from shore at Counter Point, in the Coal Oil Point Reserve, Goleta, California, USA, adjacent to the campus of the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB). This position is open to citizens of the United States of America and those authorized to work in the United States with an appropriate visa in hand. The 2018 survey begins Wednesday, February 14, 2018 and continues every day through May 27, from 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Sunday. If Gray whale calves are continuing, we may need to extend the survey through May 31. We are looking for passionate, caring individuals who are willing to commit for the entire survey, ~100 survey days, and be available to begin Saturday, February 10 to train and assist with preparations. GWC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization for research and education. The primary goal of research is to estimate the number of Gray whales and Gray whale calves migrating northbound through our corridor and to share our data to complement similar sampling-studies along the California coast. A secondary goal is to document the variety and quantity of other marine mammals in the ocean area around our site, which is now a Marine Protected Area. We are able to monitor human activity, including interactions with marine mammals, including Gray whales. Goals of education are to teach the process of scientific research to Counters and to give them the opportunity to conduct a meaningful study, to experience marine mammals in their natural environment, and to share this process and our enthusiasm with publics through direct interchange, outreach, and various media. RAs will be trained by the Project Coordinator and, in-turn, share the responsibility for training new volunteers and conducting research and education. Applicable skills learned and achieved include: > Process, concepts, and protocols of the survey, including use of equipment and data-entry. > Ability to identify a multitude of marine mammal species from a distance, including but not limited to: Gray whales, Humpback whales, Bottlenose dolphins, Common dolphins, Pacific white-sided dolphins, Harbor seals, California Sea lions, Sea otters, etc. > Identify behaviors of these marine mammals > Distinguish calves from juveniles and adults > Identify vessels and vessel operations > Gather detailed, consistent data, with ability to teach and check others? work > Learn about marine mammals in their natural environment and the forces that affect them, both natural and anthropogenic > Developing responsibility and a working relationship within a team Because of the training required, applicants must be willing to commit full-time to the project for the time period involved, approximately 100 days, which can be extended if the applicant desires to be involved with data entry and analysis). This will entail up to 9 hours of work a day for at least 5 days a week. (With training, RA?s are required to work everyday the first two weeks.) The Count is 7 days per week and the RA may commit additional hours to the Count as desired. The more time you can put in, the more you will get out of your experience. Priority will be given to those candidates with associative career goals. Previous experience is a plus but not a condition. This is an invaluable opportunity to gain extensive experience in real-time, scientific fieldwork in an environment rich with diverse populations of marine mammals. You will work with equally diverse individuals who are caring, attentive, and curious. Gray whales are a sentinel species traveling from temperate lagoons in Mexico, along the dynamic California Current at the eastern edge of the North Pacific Ocean to the Arctic waters of northern Alaska in one of the longest marine mammal migrations. Requirements: > Even though we are situated in Southern California, you must be able to withstand harsh weather conditions. Fieldwork can be, at times, physically and mentally demanding. > Willingness to work long hours. > Commit for a minimum of 100 days, full time (minimum five days per week). > Enrolled in or completed a degree in biology, marine science, zoology, environmental science, animal behavior or a related field. > Previous field experience with marine wildlife and observation is a plus but not required. > Ability to work in a team environment to produce consistent, high quality results. We cannot stress this enough. You will be trained to be a leader of an operation with people of differing experience and dedication. > Be enthusiastic and possess a caring, positive attitude, with a strong desire to learn. > Be adaptable and patient. The migration is characterized by pulses rather than a steady stream; and weather is the unknown factor: wind, rain, and fog can shut us down. > We strive for a perfection that cannot be attained. We are forgiving and learn from experience. This is a volunteer position. The selected RAs will be responsible for their own transportation to and from Santa Barbara/Goleta, California and daily to the survey site. Recognizing that living costs are high in this area, Gray Whales Count will award a $500 stipend to assist each RA with expenses upon successful completion of the RA position. RAs will be responsible for all for living expenses while volunteering for Gray Whales Count. To apply: Please send cover letter/r?sum? to Project Coordinator, Michael Smith michael at graywhalescount.org . We strongly recommend you look over our website: graywhalescount.org to familiarize yourself with our operation. In the cover letter, please address why you wish to participate in Gray Whales Count; how this particular experience will be meaningful to you; and how this might advance your career goals. There is no deadline to apply. The position will remain open until it is filled. Please consider applying early in order to arrange travel plans and to secure room and board. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From info at mmo-association.org Sat Nov 18 02:45:35 2017 From: info at mmo-association.org (Marine Mammal Observer Association) Date: Sat, 18 Nov 2017 10:45:35 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Marine Mammal Observer Association - Setting the Standards for Marine Mammal Monitoring & Mitigation Worldwide Message-ID: Dear Marine Mammal Observers & Passive Acoustic Monitoring Operators, The Marine Mammal Observer Association (MMOA) is a membership based association with the aim of bringing together and representing individuals who work commercially and professionally as Marine Mammal Observers (MMOs), Protected Species Observers (PSOs) and Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) Operators who implement mitigation measures to protect marine life during industry operations. The MMOA also provides a platform for professional conversation and education. Research has shown that there are many valid reasons to be a part of a professional organisation, these include: - Demonstrating that you have the experience, qualifications and skills in your field[1] - Enhancing individual credibility and dedication to continuous professional development[1] - Providing networking opportunities[1] - Providing access to career development opportunities[1] - Setting a code of conduct and demonstrating individual levels of commitment to maintaining these standards[2] - They also foster the development of professional attitudes, which include[3] : - The professional role we carry out to ensure the protection of endangered/ at risk species - Dedication to the field through acquisition of current knowledge - Using the professional organization as a major reference for professional standards - Self-regulation (through following the code of conduct set by the association) The MMOA strives to stay up to date with the latest research in the field and offer a unified position on mitigation measures. We then represent these views in feedback to regulatory authorities, academics and industry. This is designed to improve the communication between these bodies and to improve the standards of marine mammal mitigation. Most recently, we responded to the JNCC?s call for comments on their suggested updates. We provide a platform for experienced MMOs and PAMs to exchange information, ask questions and discuss relevant issues through the member forum and our information directory. We also encourage newcomers to the field to use the members' information directory to educate themselves on their new role and reach out for support from senior members when necessary. Whether the industry is in a downturn or upturn, you can maintain your connection to the field and your passion for the role you play in mitigation measures by joining our association. Please take a moment to review our website and see how we can provide a service to you and your colleagues by joining. www.mmo-association.org We have an election for our committee once a year and if you are interested in more than just membership, we encourage you to follow-up membership with a more involved role by running for a committee position, which is also a great way to demonstrate your CPD. Sincerely, The Marine Mammal Observer Association Executive Committee ------------------------------ [1] *https://www.ctp.org.uk/resettlement-guide-article/benefits-of-joining-a-399704 * [2] *http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/alumni/careers/graduatecareers/finding/professional-associations.aspx * [3] Yeager, S. J. 1981. *Fostering the development of professionalism: An exchange theory perspective of the decision to join a professional association*. Southern Review of Public Administration (5) 3:314-338 -- The Marine Mammal Observer Association (MMOA) Communications House 26 York Street London W1U 6PZ *info at mmo-association.org * *www.mmo-association.org * * [image: https://www.linkedin.com/company/3028634?trk=tyah&trkInfo=clickedVertical%3Acompany%2CclickedEntityId%3A3028634%2Cidx%3A3-1-10%2CtarId%3A1453856139917%2Ctas%3Amarine%20mamm] * -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From amberdevere at googlemail.com Fri Nov 3 13:24:01 2017 From: amberdevere at googlemail.com (amber) Date: Fri, 03 Nov 2017 20:24:01 -0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Research project participant request Message-ID: Dear MARMAM subscribers, I am a PhD student currently conducting research on pinniped emotions. I am reaching out to the marine mammal community to ask if anyone with relevant experience would be willing to participate in this project. The project aims to assess rater perceptions of California sea lion and harbor seal emotional experiences. I am therefore looking for anyone who has experience working with these species (such as conducting research with, or working as a volunteer, intern, trainer, or keeper) who would be willing to spend 30-45 minutes completing an online questionnaire. If you would be interested in participating in this project, the link below will take you to the online survey. If you have any questions about participation in the project, or the project itself, please contact Amber de Vere at amber.devere at usm.edu. https://usmep.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bOuiRZ0WPaglO3X Please also feel free to forward this information on to anyone of relevance who you think would be suitable and interested in participating in this research. Thank you in advance for your help! Regards, Amber de Vere -- Amber de Vere, M.A. Oxford University, B.A. (Biological Sciences) Ph.D. Candidate in Brain and Behavior Marine Mammal Behavior and Cognition Laboratory University of Southern Mississippi -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From bruno at thebdri.com Fri Nov 17 14:24:27 2017 From: bruno at thebdri.com (=?UTF-8?Q?Bruno_D=C3=ADaz_L=C3=B3pez?=) Date: Fri, 17 Nov 2017 22:24:27 +0000 (UTC) Subject: [MARMAM] Humpback whale photo-identified along the NW coast of Spain References: <1224656774.469692.1510957467998.ref@mail.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <1224656774.469692.1510957467998@mail.yahoo.com> Humpback whale photo-identified along the NW coast of Spain We would like to announce that the BDRI have photo-identified one humpback whale feeding along the NW coast of Spain between 11 and 31 October 2017. We have good pictures of the fluke and colouration patterns. For those colleagues working with this species along the NE Atlantic please contact me and we will send you the pictures in order to match with your catalogue. Kind regards, Bruno D?az L?pez Chief biologist and Director The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI Avenida Beiramar 192, O Grove 36980, Spain www.thebdri.com 0034 684 248552 This email is confidential to the intended recipient(s) and the contents may be legally privileged or contain proprietary and private informations. 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). Thank you for your cooperation. From elettrosanto at hotmail.it Thu Nov 23 02:31:52 2017 From: elettrosanto at hotmail.it (Giovanni de Vincenzi) Date: Thu, 23 Nov 2017 10:31:52 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication on bearded seal vocal complexity in Svalbard Message-ID: Dear colleagues, we are pleased to share the recent publication of our paper in Journal of Acoustical Society of America: Parisi, I., de Vincenzi, G., Torri, M., Papale, E., Mazzola, S., Bonanno, A., Buscaino, G. 2017. Underwater vocal complexity of Arctic seal Erignathus barbatus in Kongsfjorden (Svalbard). Journal of Acoustical Society of America, DOI: https://doi.org/10.1121/1.5010887 Abstract: In this study the description of underwater vocal repertoire of bearded seal in Svalbard (Norway) was extended. Two autonomous passive acoustic recorders were deployed for one year (August 2014?July 2015) in the inner and outer parts of the Kongsfjorden, and 1728 h were recorded and 17 220 vocalizations were found. Nine different vocalization classes were identified and characterized using ten acoustic parameters. The calls showed heterogeneous spectral features, but share the descending trend of frequency modulation. The different classes emerged were discriminated primarily by bandwidth and duration, and then by minimum frequency, central frequency, and maximum frequency in this order. This study represents a step forward to improve the understanding of the acoustic behaviour and the social function of these calls, and identified long passive acoustic monitoring as an effective method to assess vocal complexity and the ecology of marine species producing sounds. To request a pdf copy please email me at: giovanni.devincenzi at iamc.cnr.it or Elena Papale at: elena.papale at iamc.cnr.it All the best Giovanni de Vincenzi _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Giovanni de Vincenzi, Marine Biologist. Institute for Coastal Marine Environment of the National Research Council (IAMC-CNR). Spianata San Raineri, 4, 98122, Messina (ME), ITALY Cofounder of Association eConscience - Art of Soundscape Via Provinciale 610, 90046, Monreale, Palermo, ITALY Mobile: +393393285855 Skype: Giovanni de Vincenzi Alternative e-mail: gioggio.devincenzi at gmail.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From rosen at zoology.ubc.ca Wed Nov 22 11:37:48 2017 From: rosen at zoology.ubc.ca (David Rosen) Date: Wed, 22 Nov 2017 11:37:48 -0800 Subject: [MARMAM] 25th Annual B.C. Marine Mammal Symposium Live on YouTube Message-ID: <3B834CDE-4516-43CE-BA2F-22C46768448F@zoology.ubc.ca> The 25th Annual B.C. Marine Mammal Symposium will be streamed live on YouTube this Saturday, November 25 from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time. Join us for short presentations as well as discussion on issues pertaining to whales, porpoise, sea lions and other marine mammals. This all-day event is open to students, researchers, educators, businesses and others involved with or interested in marine mammals. Anyone is welcome to attend! The entire event will be broadcast live on YouTube, where you are welcome to ask questions and join the discussion. Tune in at any time during the event. You can sign up for a YouTube event reminder and watch the event live here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtoEaTNkAfY To attend in person, please RSVP here: https://goo.gl/iuQojf We hope you will join us! UBC Marine Mammal Research Unit The Pacific Wildlife Foundation Pacific Whale Watching Association Porpoise Conservation Society -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From kathy.james at seawatchfoundation.org.uk Mon Nov 20 08:57:19 2017 From: kathy.james at seawatchfoundation.org.uk (Kathy James) Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2017 16:57:19 -0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Internship positions available for bottlenose dolphin monitoring project in Cardigan Bay, UK. Message-ID: <031201d36220$a0700dd0$e1502970$@seawatchfoundation.org.uk> We are pleased to announce that we are now accepting applications for Research Interns and a Research Assistant to aid our work on bottlenose dolphins in Wales, UK. You'll find further details here: http://www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk/internships/. A little more about us. Sea Watch Foundation The Sea Watch Foundation is a national marine environmental research charity that aims to achieve better conservation of whales and dolphins in the seas around Britain and Ireland, by involving the public in scientific monitoring of populations and the threats they face. It is the longest-running research charity in UK focusing upon cetaceans around the British Isles, and maintains a national sightings database, the largest in Europe. It works closely with all the UK statutory conservation agencies, and advises UK government, the UNEP Regional intergovernmental Conservation Agreement - ASCOBANS, the European Commission, as well as the major conservation charities and marine industries operating in the UK. At Sea Watch Wales, we are dedicated to raising awareness, knowledge and conservation of the marine wildlife of the region. Research in Cardigan Bay The purpose of our research here is to monitor the marine mammal populations inhabiting Cardigan Bay, so as to gain information to aid the conservation and long-term wellbeing of these animals and the local marine environment. This is achieved by conducting various projects including: . Estimating the abundance and distribution of bottlenose dolphins, harbour porpoises and grey seals within Cardigan Bay using distance sampling and opportunistic boat surveys . Maintaining and updating a catalogue of photographically identified bottlenose dolphins in Wales in order to study their abundance, social structure, movements and life histories. We look forward to hearing from you! Kathy James Sightings Officer Sea Watch Foundation Aberystwyth Business Hub 21 Bridge Street Aberystwyth Ceredigion SY23 1PZ Tel: 01970 623906 www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk facebook twitter Ever shop online? Sign up for Easy Fundraising and raise money for the Sea Watch Foundation while you shop at no cost to you! All your donations directly support our research! -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 2402 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image002.png Type: image/png Size: 2728 bytes Desc: not available URL: From kathy.james at seawatchfoundation.org.uk Mon Nov 20 09:02:47 2017 From: kathy.james at seawatchfoundation.org.uk (Kathy James) Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2017 17:02:47 -0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Two outreach positions available for cetacean research charity in UK. Message-ID: <031801d36221$642a4150$2c7ec3f0$@seawatchfoundation.org.uk> We are pleased to announce that we have two outreach opportunities available in Cardigan Bay, Wales. We are looking for a National Whale and Dolphin Watch Assistant from 28th May - 2nd September 2018 and an Education and Outreach Assistant from 16th July - 21st October 2018. For more details on both, please visit: http://www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk/internships/. Please note that the National Whale and Dolphin Watch Assistant role is an opportunity for undergraduates and those new to the field to gain some experience. A little more about us. Sea Watch Foundation The Sea Watch Foundation is a national marine environmental research charity that aims to achieve better conservation of whales and dolphins in the seas around Britain and Ireland, by involving the public in scientific monitoring of populations and the threats they face. It is the longest-running research charity in UK focusing upon cetaceans around the British Isles, and maintains a national sightings database, the largest in Europe. It works closely with all the UK statutory conservation agencies, and advises UK government, the UNEP Regional intergovernmental Conservation Agreement - ASCOBANS, the European Commission, as well as the major conservation charities and marine industries operating in the UK. At Sea Watch Wales, we are dedicated to raising awareness, knowledge and conservation of the marine wildlife of the region. Research in Cardigan Bay The purpose of our research here is to monitor the marine mammal populations inhabiting Cardigan Bay, so as to gain information to aid the conservation and long-term wellbeing of these animals and the local marine environment. This is achieved by conducting various projects including: . Estimating the abundance and distribution of bottlenose dolphins, harbour porpoises and grey seals within Cardigan Bay using distance sampling and opportunistic boat surveys . Maintaining and updating a catalogue of photographically identified bottlenose dolphins in Wales in order to study their abundance, social structure, movements and life histories. We look forward to hearing from you! Kathy James Sightings Officer Sea Watch Foundation Aberystwyth Business Hub 21 Bridge Street Aberystwyth Ceredigion SY23 1PZ Tel: 01970 623906 www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk facebook twitter Ever shop online? Sign up for Easy Fundraising and raise money for the Sea Watch Foundation while you shop at no cost to you! All your donations directly support our research! -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 2402 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image002.png Type: image/png Size: 2728 bytes Desc: not available URL: From cambodiadolphinproject at gmail.com Mon Nov 27 02:18:05 2017 From: cambodiadolphinproject at gmail.com (Sarah Tubbs) Date: Mon, 27 Nov 2017 17:18:05 +0700 Subject: [MARMAM] Irrawaddy Dolphin Research - Gulf of Thailand Message-ID: Marine Conservation Cambodia (MCC) is Cambodia's longest running volunteer marine conservation organisation, pioneering and leading ocean conservation in Cambodia. MCC have new internship positions available on cetacean research. The Cambodia Dolphin Project was established for the purpose of contributing to scientific knowledge on cetaceans for the conservation and sustainable management of marine biodiversity. Despite high cetacean biodiversity in the region, no long-term studies have taken place here. Therefore, the project aims to fulfill the gaps of missing long-term studies by collecting data on cetacean abundance, distribution and residency patterns in order to delineate critical habitats within Cambodia?s Kep Archipelago. The project provides an excellent opportunity for post-grads, students and individuals interested in gaining more experience and knowledge in the field of cetacean research. We are looking for enthusiastic, motivated and hard-working individuals to join our team. The minimum commitment is one month, although for a fuller experience we recommend two or more. A biology background is not mandatory but advantageous, as well as an ability to dedicate yourselves to the study. We will be in the field early in the morning or late into the evening, boat trips can be day long (12 hours), and there is a large amount of data to process and enter. A good level of endurance is necessary as well as the ability to live and work in a multicultural team, living on a basic camp. You will learn about different software used in cetacean research, boat and land survey techniques and photo identification methods amongst other things. There will also be the opportunity for you to contribute to publications we might be working on, get involved in other MCC projects such as our coral gardenor sea horse project and various scientific outreach events. This position is unpaid and requires a contribution fee of US$300/week from the volunteers which covers accommodation, food and project related activities. MCC does not take any profits from this sum, with all money being fed directly back into the project. We have positions available year round and for people staying longer than 3 months there is a discounted price available. To apply please send a cover letter and CV to cambodiadolphinproject@ gmail.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From filalves at rocketmail.com Fri Nov 24 01:52:17 2017 From: filalves at rocketmail.com (Filipe Alves) Date: Fri, 24 Nov 2017 09:52:17 +0000 (UTC) Subject: [MARMAM] New publications on abnormalities in free-ranging cetaceans References: <465317720.2365427.1511517137261.ref@mail.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <465317720.2365427.1511517137261@mail.yahoo.com> Dear colleagues, we are pleased to announce three recent Notes on abnormalities in free-ranging cetaceans: 1) Alves F, JR Towers, RW Baird, G Bearzi, S Bonizzoni, R Ferreira, Z Halicka, A Alessandrini, AH Kopelman, C Yzoard, MH Rasmussen, CG Bertulli, E Jourdain, A Gullan, D Rocha, K Hupman, M-T Mrusczok, FIP Samarra, S Magalh?es, CR Weir, JKB Ford, A Dinis (2017)?The incidence of bent dorsal fins in free-ranging cetaceans.?Journal of Anatomy,?doi: 10.1111/joa.12729A Abstract Laterally bent dorsal fins are rarely observed in free-ranging populations of cetaceans, contrary to captivity, where most killer whale Orcinus orca adult males have laterally collapsed fins. This topic has been poorly explored, and data/information on its occurrence and possible causes are limited. The present study: (i) undertakes a review of the available information on bent dorsal fins in free-ranging cetaceans, and updates it with new records, (ii) reports on the proportion of bent fins in different study populations, and (iii) discusses possible causes. An empirical approach based on bibliographic research and compilation of 52 new records collected worldwide resulted in a total of 17 species of cetaceans displaying bent dorsal fins. The species with the highest number of records (64%) and from most locations was O. orca. On average, individuals with bent dorsal fins represent < 1% of their populations, with the exception of false killer whales Pseudorca crassidens and O. orca. While line injuries associated with fisheries interactions may be the main cause for P. crassidens, and the vulnerability to health issues caused by the evolutionary enlargement of the fin may be the cause for O. orca adult males, factors contributing to this abnormality for other species are still unclear. The occurrence of bent dorsals could be influenced by a set of variables rather than by a single factor but, irrespective of the cause, it is suggested that it does not directly affect the animals' survivorship. While still rare in nature, this incident is more common (at least 101 known cases) and widespread (geographically and in species diversity) than hypothesized, and is not confined only to animals in captive environments. Investigation into the occurrence of bent fins may be an interesting avenue of research. Available at:?http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/joa.12729/abstract 2) Alves F, R Ferreira, L Dias, C Nicolau, D Sousa, C Moura, C Gomes, A Dinis (2017)?Rare records of hypo- and hyper-pigmented individuals in two delphinid species off Madeira island.?Hystrix, doi:10.4404/hystrix-28.1-11888 AbstractSightings of anomalously all-white (leucistic) or all-black (melanistic) individuals are rare innature, with information on hypo- and hyper-pigmented short-beaked common dolphins (Delphinusdelphis) and Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis) being scarce in the literature. Thisstudy describes seven sightings of anomalously pigmented D. delphis and S. frontalis recorded offMadeira Island between 2014 and 2016. This includes: i) four records of a dark-pigmented D.delphis that lacked the distinctive hourglass colour (yellow) pattern, ii) two records of an all-whiteD. delphis, and iii) one record of an all-white S. frontalis. All records consisted of full-sized animalsand were observed displaying the same behaviour as the other individuals in the same group,with no other delphinid species in the vicinities. The all-white individuals had a normal (dark)eye colouration, which indicated that the animals were not true albinos, but rather leucistic individuals.Despite inherent limitations of this condition, the adults observed in this study confirmedthe potential longevity of these anomalously pigmented individuals in the wild. Similar reports asof those described here may provide a framework to better understand these animals. This studyfurther highlights the value of sharing photographs via social media forums (e.g. Facebook). Available at:?http://www.italian-journal-of-mammalogy.it/article/view/11888/pdf?(OPEN ACCESS) 3)?Dinis A, RW Baird, SD Mahaffy, V Mart?n, F. Alves (2017)?Beaked whales with rostrum deformities: Implications for survival and reproduction.?Marine Mammal Science?33(3), 946-954.?doi: 10.1111/mms.12406 Available at:?http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/mms.12406/abstract? Feel free to contact me for pdf requests, preferably to filipe.alves at ciimarmadeira.orgRegards, Filipe?Alves Postdoctoral?fellow Oceanic?Observatory?of?Madeira?/?ARDITI CIIMAR-Madeira Caminho?da?Penteada,?Tecnopolo, 9020-105?Funchal, Portugal +351?291721216 http://home.ciimarmadeira.org/index.php?page=filipealves https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Filipe_Alves/contributions -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From research at pacificwhale.org Tue Nov 21 16:01:41 2017 From: research at pacificwhale.org (PWF Research Department) Date: Tue, 21 Nov 2017 14:01:41 -1000 Subject: [MARMAM] Seeking Film Festival Entries Message-ID: On February 16, 2018 Pacific Whale Foundation is hosting the second annual World Whale Film Festival at the beautiful Ka?anapali Beach Hotel on Maui, Hawaii. The World Whale Film Festival is part of Maui Whale Festival , a series of events and activities that raise awareness and inspire action to protect whales and their ocean habitat. Our goal is to bring together bright and creative minds to present visual media that will promote learning, inspire activism and provoke progressive discussion. Presenters have the option to attend the event and present their film in front of our live audience. We are currently seeking entries for short length films (under 15 minutes). We encourage any members of the MARMAM community who have a film they would like to enter, or recommend as an entrant, to please contact us. *World Whale Film Festival Guidelines* *Eligibility:* Filmmakers from around the world of all skill levels are encouraged to participate. We are looking for powerful storytelling about whales, dolphins and other marine life in their natural ocean environment. Films should be no longer than 15 minutes in duration. *Ethics:* Pacific Whale Foundation supports ethical visual storytelling that accurately represents cultures, ecosystems and wildlife. The welfare of all marine wildlife and the environment must be respected and remain undisturbed. Federal, state and regional regulations must be followed and applicable permits must be valid at time of filming for material to be considered. *Format:* Acceptable formats include video, film, multi-media presentations, photography, illustrations and other moving images. You can send digital files in .mov or .mp4 format. *Rights & Permissions:* By entering the World Whale Film Festival, you acknowledge that the content you submit is your own creative work and does not infringing upon the rights of any other person or entity. You will retain copyright of any submitted work and may continue to use it in any manner you choose. You agree that the work may be used for promotional purposes on Pacific Whale Foundation media platforms, including but not limited to websites, social media sites, and printed materials. *Selection Process:* Entries will be considered for selection based on originality, message, technical excellence, artistic merit, and overall impact. The story behind your work may play a part in the selection process, so please include a brief summary about each submission. Final selections will be announced in January 2018. Selected participants will be invited to present their work at the 2nd Annual World Whale Film Festival on Friday, February 16, 2018. Send your entries by email: filmfestival at pacificwhale.org Or mail: Attn: World Whale Film Festival Pacific Whale Foundation 300 Ma'alaea Rd, Ste 211 Wailuku, HI 96793 *Research Department* Pacific Whale Foundation 300 Ma'alaea Rd., Suite 211 Wailuku, HI 96793, USA Phone: +1 808-856-8338 Email: research at pacificwhale.org Website: www.pacificwhale.org -- https://www.pacificwhale.org/cruises/activities/welcome-home-the-whales-lahaina/ CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission and any accompanying attachments contain information belonging to the sender which may be confidential and legally privileged. This information is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to whom this electronic mail transmission was sent as indicated above. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution, or action taken in reliance on the contents of the information contained in this transmission is strictly prohibited. If you have received this transmission in error, please notify the sender immediately and destroy all copies of this transmission and all attachments. Thank you! -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From abostwick at psocertifications.com Mon Nov 27 00:00:26 2017 From: abostwick at psocertifications.com (abostwick) Date: Mon, 27 Nov 2017 03:00:26 -0500 (EST) Subject: [MARMAM] PSO / MMO Training in S Padre Island TX Feb 24-25 Message-ID: <2122332585.31101.1511769626900.JavaMail.open-xchange@bosoxweb05.eigbox.net> MPSC is offering a training course in South Padre Island, Texas which provides Protected Species Observer (also known as Marine Mammal Observer) certification on February 24-25, 2018. This course will include a two-hour sailing trip aboard the UTRGV Research Vessel Ridley, providing experience in locating and identifying protected species at sea. We will also tour the rehabilitation facilities at Sea Turtle Inc, where we can further discuss key identifying traits and behaviors of the animals while viewing them in person. This training is approved by the federal agencies Bureau of Ocean Energy Management and the Bureau of Safety & Environmental Enforcement to provide Protected Species Observer certification for seismic surveys, and is often accepted in various other industries and regions where mitigation for protected species is needed. PSOs monitor for marine mammals and sea turtles, and advise on the measures required to reduce impacts to the animals worldwide. The course covers the regulations for reducing impacts to marine mammals and sea turtles, how to visually locate and identify the animals, and objectively documenting animal behavior. We will also discuss and practice different manual settings for professional wildlife photography. Lunch is provided each day, along with various identification guides and regulatory documents (yours to keep), the vessel trip, tour of the sea turtle rehabilitation facilities, advice on applying to PSO positions, and the professional certification. Additional information may be found on the MPSC website at http://www.protectedspeciesobservers.com/, by contacting us at ABostwick at PSOCertifications.com , or by phone at 832-523-2402. Thank you, Angela Bostwick / Founder Marine Protected Species Consulting ProtectedSpeciesObservers.com https://Facebook.com/ProtectedSpeciesObservers/ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From heatherh at cawildlife.org Mon Nov 27 14:20:04 2017 From: heatherh at cawildlife.org (Heather Henderson) Date: Mon, 27 Nov 2017 22:20:04 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] 2018 Seasonal Marine Program Assistant at California Wildlife Center Message-ID: 2018 Seasonal Marine Program Assistant California Wildlife Center (CWC) is excited to announce the seasonal staff position - Marine Program Assistant (MPA) ? for the 2018 stranding season. California Wildlife Center is located in Malibu, California, and responds to reports of stranded marine mammals 365 days a year. Our rehabilitation facility, serving California sea lions and Northern elephant seals, is active from January through July, the busiest stranding months. Job Overview This is a full-time (40 hours/week) non-exempt seasonal position, running from January through June. The MPA will perform all duties of a marine mammal rehabilitator including, but not limited to: large animal restraint, patient intakes, oversee and perform marine mammal husbandry tasks, administer medication and fluid therapies, gavage feeding of seals and sea lions, assist with patient releases, maintain all rehabilitation equipment and enclosures. The team member will also be responsible for: Marine animal response and transport. Volunteer and intern training, and general CWC marine mammal program support Qualifications At least two years? direct experience in marine mammal rehabilitation and husbandry. BA/BS or higher degree (preference given to marine or biology related fields of study). Excellent public relations skills. Commitment to professionalism. If you are interested in applying for the position, please visit California Wildlife Center?s website at http://cawildlife.org/employment/ for more details and instructions on how to apply. 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 more than a hundred species of avian and terrestrial wildlife in our hospital. Heather A. Henderson Stranding Coordinator California Wildlife Center P.O. Box 2022 Malibu CA 90265 310-458-WILD (9453) www.cawildlife.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From ACostidi at virginiaaquarium.com Wed Nov 29 10:03:35 2017 From: ACostidi at virginiaaquarium.com (Alexander Costidis) Date: Wed, 29 Nov 2017 18:03:35 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Virginia Aquarium Stranding Technician Opportunity Message-ID: Dear marmamers, We are currently advertising for a Stranding Technician (Exhibits Technician I; Requisition ID: 23758) to join the team at the Virginia Aquarium Foundation's Stranding Response Program. The position will be responsible for assisting with sea turtle and marine mammal stranding response, rehabilitation and necropsy. The posting closes at 11:59pm on 12/18/17. For more information about the job or to apply, please click on the following link: visit https://chp.tbe.taleo.net/chp02/ats/careers/v2/viewRequisition?org=VBGOV&cws=37&rid=23758 OR go to http://www.vbgovcareers.com/ and search for "Technician" under Job Category, and "Museums and Cultural Arts - Aquarium Foundation" under Department/Division. Alexander M. Costidis, Ph.D. Stranding Response Coordinator Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center Email: acostidi at virginiaaquarium.com Office phone: 757.385.6482 Stranding hotline: 757.385.7575 Evening hotline: 757.385.7576 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From adam.frankel at marineacoustics.com Thu Nov 30 06:40:00 2017 From: adam.frankel at marineacoustics.com (Adam Frankel) Date: Thu, 30 Nov 2017 09:40:00 -0500 Subject: [MARMAM] New Publication Message-ID: Hello MARMAM community, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce our recent publication in Endangered Species Research: Frankel, A. S. and C. M. Gabriele (2017). "Predicting the acoustic exposure of humpback whales from cruise and tour vessel noise in Glacier Bay, Alaska, under different management strategies." Endangered Species Research 34: 397-415. https://doi.org/10.3354/esr00857 Abstract Vessel traffic management regimes intended to protect baleen whales can have un- expected consequences on whale exposure to underwater noise. Using the Acoustic Integration Model, we simulated whale and vessel movements in Glacier Bay National Park (GBNP). We esti- mated vessel noise exposures to humpback whales Megaptera novaeangliae while varying the number, speed (13 vs. 20 knots [kn]), and timing of cruise ships, and keeping a constant number, speed, and timing of smaller tour vessels. Using calibrated noise signatures for each vessel and the known sound velocity profile and bathymetry of Glacier Bay, we estimated received sound levels for each simulated whale every 15 s in a 24 h period. Simulations with fast ships produced the highest maximal sound pressure level (MSPL) and cumulative sound exposure levels (CSEL). Ships travelling at 13 kn produced CSEL levels 3 times lower than those traveling at 20 kn. We demonstrated that even in cases where a ship is only a few dB quieter at a slower speed, CSEL is lower, but the ship?s transit may take substantially longer. Synchronizing ship arrival times had lit- tle effect on CSEL or MSPL but appreciably decreased cumulative sound exposure time (CSET). Overall, our results suggest that the most effective way to reduce humpback whale acoustic expo- sure in GBNP is to reduce the numbers of cruise ships or their speed, although adjusting ship schedules may also be beneficial. Marine protected area managers may find these results illustra- tive or adapt these methods to better understand the acoustic effects of specific vessel manage- ment circumstances. KEY WORDS: Acoustic propagation ? Vessel noise ? Chronic exposure ? Management ? Cumulative effects ? Marine Protected Area -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From cecipass8 at gmail.com Tue Nov 28 05:26:27 2017 From: cecipass8 at gmail.com (Ceci Passadore) Date: Tue, 28 Nov 2017 10:26:27 -0300 Subject: [MARMAM] New paper on site fidelity and space use of southern Australian bottlenose dolphins Message-ID: Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce the release of the following publication in *Ecology and Evolution*: Passadore, C., M?ller, L., Diaz-Aguirre, F., & Parra, G. J. (2017). High site fidelity and restricted ranging patterns in southern Australian bottlenose dolphins. Ecology and Evolution, 00, 1-15. doi: 10.1002/ece3.3674 *Abstract:* Information on site fidelity and ranging patterns of wild animals are critical to understand how they use their environment and guide conservation and management strategies. Delphinids show a wide variety of site fidelity and ranging patterns. Between September 2013 and October 2015, we used boat-based surveys, photographic-identification, biopsy sampling, clustering analysis and geographic information systems to determine the site fidelity patterns and representative ranges of southern Australian bottlenose dolphins (*Tursiops *cf. *australis*) inhabiting the inner area of Coffin Bay, a highly productive inverse estuary located within Thorny Passage Marine Park, South Australia. Agglomerative hierarchical clustering of individuals? site fidelity index and sighting rates indicated that the majority of dolphins within the inner area of Coffin Bay are ?regular residents? (n = 125), followed by ?occasional residents? (n = 28), and ?occasional visitors? (n = 26). The low standard distance deviation indicated that resident dolphins remained close to their main centre of use (range = 0.7 ? 4.7 km, X ? SD = 2.3 ? 0.9 km). Representative ranges of resident dolphins were small (range = 3.9 ? 33.5 km 2, X ? SD = 15.2 ? 6.8 km2), with no significant differences between males and females (Kruskal-Wallis, chi2 = 0.426, *p* = 0.808). The representative range of 56% of the resident dolphins was restricted to a particular bay within the study area. The strong site fidelity and restricted ranging patterns among individuals could be linked to the high population density of this species in the inner area of Coffin Bay, coupled with differences in social structure and feeding habits. Our results emphasize the importance of productive habitats as a major factor driving site fidelity and restricted movement patterns in highly mobile marine mammals, and the high conservation value of the inner area of Coffin Bay for southern Australian bottlenose dolphins. Open access: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ece3.3674/full PDF copies are also available upon request to: cecilia.passadore at flinders.edu.au Follow the project at Researchgate for related publications: https://www.researchgate.net/project/Demography-spatial-ecology-and-socio-genetic-structure-of-southern-Australian-bottlenose-dolphins-in-a-marine-park On behalf of all authors, Cecilia Passadore -- Cecilia Passadore PhD. candidate *Cetacean Ecology, Behaviour and Evolution Lab (CEBEL)* *School of Biological Sciences* *Flinders University* *Sturt Road, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042* *GPO Box 2100, Adelaide, South Australia, 5001* *Lab website: **www.cebel.org.au * *Phone: +61 8 8201-3865* *Email:* *cecilia.passadore at flinders.edu.au * -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From dylan at worldcetaceanalliance.org Tue Nov 28 08:30:39 2017 From: dylan at worldcetaceanalliance.org (Dylan Walker) Date: Tue, 28 Nov 2017 16:30:39 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] 2018 WCA Responsible Whale Watching Guides Course - dates announced Message-ID: Dear Marmamers, Next year, the World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) is holding a number of intensive 5-day training programmes to become a certified WCA Responsible Whale Watching Guide. The dates of the first two courses are outlined below. *Dates:* Monday 22nd January to Friday 26th January 2018 and Monday 19th February to Friday 23rd February 2018 *Location:* WCA Headquarters, Brighton, UK *WCA?s Responsible Whale Watching Guide Course* Course modules will include: * Cetacean research onboard whale watching platforms (including citizen science initiatives) * Science interpretation and conservation messaging * Communication and presentation skills training * Responsible whale watching standards - understanding boat operators and destinations The courses will include: * WCA Responsible Whale Watcher course and certification * Lectures and training from seasoned professionals, including: WCA CEO Dylan Walker and Ian Rowlands from WhaleFest and Incredible Oceans * Educational Activities * Guide training * Practical activities * Final presentation/assessment After successful completion of the course, participants will be placed on a database of qualified guides from where WCA Partners and affiliates will be able to select suitable candidates for internship and guiding opportunities. Any successful placement will be subject to the terms and conditions of the WCA Partner or affiliate. *Applications* * Limited places available, so early application is strongly encouraged. * Please send a full CV (maximum two pages) and a cover letter, including: previous experience, why you would like to participate in the course and, what you hope to achieve after completing the course to projects at worldcetaceanalliance.org * Applications for both courses will be open until 7 December 2017 and places will be confirmed by 14th December 2017. Full payment will be required by 31 December to secure your place on the course * Successful applicants will receive a welcome pack, including a WCA t-shirt. * A participation fee of ?350 is required from all successful candidates, with a 10% discount for students and WCA members (?315). Refunds will not be given in respect of any cancellations made after 1st January 2018 for the Janaury course or 1st February 2018 for the February course. Refunds will be made in respect of cancellations made before this date, but will be subject to a ?50 cancellation fee. * Accommodation and travel expenses must be covered by the participants, but we can work with successful candidates to find something suitable. * Whilst the course is open to all, the content is aimed at participants wishing to become marine guides and educators rather than those who are already experienced in these areas. To apply, please email Lynne Burrell at: *projects at worldcetaceanalliance.org * Regards, Dylan Walker Chief Executive Officer World Cetacean Alliance *T* +44 (0)1273 355011 * M* +44 (0)7900 471490 *S* dylan.wca E dylan at worldcetaceanalliance.org W www.worldcetaceanalliance.org *A* Studio 3, Lower Promenade, Madeira Drive, Brighton, BN2 1ET, UK *The World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) is a Partnership of over 70 non-profit organisations, whale and dolphin watching tour operators and individuals in 35 countries worldwide working collaboratively to protect cetaceans and their habitats. World Cetacean Alliance, the Secretariat to the Partnership, is a UK registered Charity no. 1160484. * *The content of this e-mail is intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom it is addressed. If you have received this communication in error, be aware that forwarding it, copying it, or in any way disclosing its content to any other person, is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the author by replying to this e-mail immediately.* *Please consider the environment before printing this email or it's attachments. * -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From heatherh at cawildlife.org Tue Nov 28 17:34:15 2017 From: heatherh at cawildlife.org (Heather Henderson) Date: Wed, 29 Nov 2017 01:34:15 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] 2018 Marine Mammal Rescue & Rehabilitation Internship Opportunities at California Wildlife Center Message-ID: 2018 Marine Mammal Rescue & Rehabilitation Internship Announcement California Wildlife Center is excited to announce the following internship opportunities for 2018! California Wildlife Center is located in Malibu, California, and responds to reports of stranded marine mammals 365 days a year. Our rehabilitation facility is active during the region?s period of highest stranding activity, which is January through July. There are five, 8-week sessions: Session I: January 1st to end of February Session II: February 1st to the end of March Session III: March 1st to the end of April Session IV: April 1st to the end of May Session V: May 1st to the end of June Time Commitment: 40 hours per week. Summary/Program Description 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, and may allow 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. Please visit our website for more information: http://cawildlife.org/volunteer/internshipsexternshipspreceptorships/ Heather A. Henderson Stranding Coordinator California Wildlife Center P.O. Box 2022 Malibu CA 90265 310-458-WILD (9453) www.cawildlife.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From info_ICMMPA5 at wwf.gr Thu Nov 30 04:31:05 2017 From: info_ICMMPA5 at wwf.gr (info_ICMMPA5) Date: Thu, 30 Nov 2017 12:31:05 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] ICMMPA5 Awards at the European Cetacean Society 2018 conference In-Reply-To: <9EAF3C2A840AD54CA71D8DB42C0DAE9E51DEA2@hermes.wwfhellas.local> References: <9EAF3C2A840AD54CA71D8DB42C0DAE9E51DE7A@hermes.wwfhellas.local>, <9EAF3C2A840AD54CA71D8DB42C0DAE9E51DE88@hermes.wwfhellas.local>, <9EAF3C2A840AD54CA71D8DB42C0DAE9E51DEA2@hermes.wwfhellas.local> Message-ID: <9EAF3C2A840AD54CA71D8DB42C0DAE9E51DEB0@hermes.wwfhellas.local> The 5th International Conference of Marine Mammal Protected Areas (http://icmmpa.org) entitled "Celebrating a Decade of MMPA Collaboration" will be co-organized with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Greece and it will be held for the first time in the Mediterranean region, and specifically in Greece, between the 8-12th of April 2019. The International Committee of Marine Mammal Protected Areas announces three Awards to be awarded to 3 participants selected among the presenters (oral presentation, short talk, poster) at the 32nd European Cetacean Society (ECS) conference in La Spezia, Italy (http://www.europeancetaceansociety.eu/conference/32nd-annual-conference-italy), fulfilling the following criteria: ? Maximum age: 30 ? Marine mammal conservation focus ? Connotation to place-based conservation ? Commitment to attend ICMMPA5 and present their work (either as a talk or a poster) Priority will be given to scientists and practitioners of countries from Southeastern Europe Mediterranean countries, Middle East, North Africa The 1st Award winner will receive a FREE conference registration, transportation and accommodation for attending the ICMMPA5. The 2nd and 3rd Awards winners will receive a FREE conference registration. The selection of the Awards will be made during the 32nd ECS conference in La Spezia Italy between the 6-10th of April 2018 by members of the ICMMPA Planning Committee. All Awards will be announced at the ECS Awards ceremony. Candidates are encouraged to attend the ceremony. Those who have received a message from the ECS confirming their abstract acceptance by the ECS Conference Organizers and who are willing to be considered for the ICMMPA Award and fulfill the eligibility criteria should contact Amalia Alberini, (info_ICMMPA at wwf.gr) with their abstracts and personal details (Name, ECS Presentation type, Affiliation, Country, Age at the time of the Conference). For more information about the ICMMPA Awards and ICMMPA: Amalia Alberini, Conference Co-Host, WWF Greece (info_ICMMPA5 at wwf.gr), WWF Greece or Naomi McIntosh, Chair, ICMMPA (naomi.mcintosh at noaa.gov) -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From nwingers at disl.org Tue Nov 28 10:04:23 2017 From: nwingers at disl.org (Noel Wingers) Date: Tue, 28 Nov 2017 12:04:23 -0600 Subject: [MARMAM] =?utf-8?q?Spring_2018_Marine_Mammal_Stranding_Internship?= =?utf-8?b?IOKAkyBBTE1NU04=?= Message-ID: January ? May 2018 (3 month minimum; start/end dates are flexible) The Alabama Marine Mammal Stranding Network (ALMMSN), located at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab (DISL) in Dauphin Island, AL, is recruiting a highly motivated intern to assist with marine mammal stranding response in coastal Alabama waters. ALMMSN is a cooperative regional stranding network partner, and works in conjunction with NOAA's NMFS and USFWS to respond to dolphin, whale and manatee strandings. The primary goal of ALMMSN is to enhance reporting and response efforts for marine mammal strandings in order to ensure collection of consistent, high-quality data which are used to evaluate causes of strandings and/or death. This internship is a physically demanding position, as field response and necropsy events often occur on long days in a variety of weather conditions. Interns will gain useful skills and experience in the fields of marine biology and marine mammalogy. *Daily duties include*: Field stranding response, data collection, data management, participation in necropsy events, sample handling, and equipment maintenance. Interns will also have the opportunity to assist DISL Manatee Sighting Network staff with projects including data entry, sonic and radio telemetry, and photo-identification to gain a broader set of skills. *Qualification requirements*: Student or recent graduate (0-2 years) of a biology/marine biology, marine science, oceanography, zoology or related program; interest in marine mammal biology, physiology and anatomy; valid driver?s license and clean driving record; 18 years or older; physically fit, able to lift at least 50 lbs and strong swimmer; ability to endure unpleasant field conditions including temperatures between 30?F-100?F, rain, humidity and biting insects; knowledge of digital SLR cameras and lenses; ability to work at least 30 hrs/week including one weekend day per week (nights and holidays may be required as necessary with fieldwork). This position is unpaid and interns are responsible for providing their own housing and transport to DISL. Assistance finding housing can be provided. Applicant must be eligible to legally reside in the U.S. for the duration of the internship period. International applicants are encouraged, however no visa assistance can be provided. Interested applicants must send a cover letter, CV and dates of availability to almmsn at disl.org before December 24, 2017 to be considered. Preference will be given to applicants who can stay through the entire internship period. Application review will begin immediately. More information about ALMMSN and the Marine Ecosystem Response Laboratory can be found at http://almmsn.disl.org/ and http://www.disl.org/about/faculty/rcarmichael/ or by contacting Noel Wingers at almmsn at disl.org. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From rculloch at gmail.com Wed Nov 29 12:58:46 2017 From: rculloch at gmail.com (Ross Culloch) Date: Wed, 29 Nov 2017 20:58:46 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New paper on simulating collision probabilities of animals with marine renewable energy devices Message-ID: <493F40E9-0C5E-4D0A-BE4D-823D665D94BB@gmail.com> Dear MARMAM subscribers, My coauthors and I are pleased to announce the recent publication: Schmitt P, Culloch R, Lieber L, Molander S, Hammar L, Kregting L (2017) A tool for simulating collision probabilities of animals with marine renewable energy devices. PLoS ONE 12(11): e0188780. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0188780 Abstract The mathematical problem of establishing a collision probability distribution is often not trivial. The shape and motion of the animal as well as of the the device must be evaluated in a four-dimensional space (3D motion over time). Earlier work on wind and tidal turbines was limited to a simplified two-dimensional representation, which cannot be applied to many new structures. We present a numerical algorithm to obtain such probability distributions using transient, three-dimensional numerical simulations. The method is demonstrated using a sub-surface tidal kite as an example. Necessary pre- and post-processing of the data created by the model is explained, numerical details and potential issues and limitations in the application of resulting probability distributions are highlighted. The paper is open access: http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0188780 If you have any issues accessing the paper or have any questions, please do not hesitate in contacting either the corresponding author, Pal Schmitt, or any co-author. Best wishes, Ross Dr. Ross Culloch Marine Mammal Scientist Marine Scotland Science Scottish Government Marine Laboratory 375 Victoria Road Aberdeen AB11 9DB w: http://www.gov.scot/marinescotland -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From thea.bechshoft at ualberta.ca Tue Nov 28 05:39:25 2017 From: thea.bechshoft at ualberta.ca (Thea Bechshoft) Date: Tue, 28 Nov 2017 14:39:25 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication on the incorporation of eco. and physiol. in toxicology research Message-ID: Dear all, I am pleased to share our recent publication in Environmental Reviews, discussing the incorporation of ecological and physiological variables in toxicology research. The paper is a systematic review of the polar bear literature, but the results are symptomatic of ecotox research across most marine mammals. For a pdf copy, please either contact me or follow the links below. Best, Thea *Open acces version* - https://tspace.library.utoronto.ca/handle/1807/78825 *Journal version* - http://www.nrcresearchpress.com/doi/abs/10.1139/er-2016-0118#.Wh1j13lrycw *Citation* Bechshoft T, Derocher AE, Viengkone M, Routti H, Aars J, Letcher RJ, Dietz R, Sonne C, Jenssen BM, Richardson E, Lunn NJ. On the integration of ecological and physiological variables in polar bear toxicology research: a systematic review. *Environmental Reviews*. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1139/er-2016-0118 * * *Abstract* Ecotoxicology evolved as a scientific field as awareness of the unintended effects of anthropogenic pollutants in biota increased. Polar bears (Ursus maritimus) are often the focus of Arctic contaminant exposure studies because they are apex predators with high contaminant loads. While early studies focused on describing and quantifying pollutants, present-day polar bear toxicological papers often incorporate ecological variables. This systematic literature review investigates the ecological and physiological variables that have been integrated in such studies. The systematic literature search resulted in 207 papers, published between 1970 and 2016. Representation of each of the 19 polar bear subpopulations varied from 0 to 72 papers; East Greenland, Barents Sea, Southern Beaufort Sea, and Lancaster Sound had the most published research, with over 30 papers each. Samples were collected between 1881 and 2015, primarily from harvested bears (66%); most from the 1990s and 2000s. Adipose tissue, liver, and blood were the most common tissues examined, and mean number of bears analyzed per paper was 76 (range 1?691). Papers investigating temporal trends did so using a mean sample of 61 bears over a 6-year period.The frequency with which ecological and physiological variables were integrated into toxicological papers varied. Age and (or) sex was the only ecological variable(s) considered in 51% of papers. Further, a total of 37% of the papers included in the review investigated physiological effects in relation to contaminant concentrations. Of the papers, 98% dealt with contaminant exposure at the individual level, leaving population level effects largely unstudied. Solitary subadult and adult polar bears were included in 57% and 79% of the papers, respectively. Younger bears were included in fewer papers: yearlings in 20% and cubs-of-the-year in 13%. Only 12% of the papers examined reproduction relative to contaminants. Finally, body condition was included in 26% of the research papers, whereas variables related to polar bear diet were included in ?9%. Based on our findings, we suggest future polar bear toxicology studies increase sample sizes, include more ecological variables, increase studies on family groups, and increase the applicability of studies to management and conservation by examining pollution effects on reproduction and survival. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From research at pacificwhale.org Mon Nov 27 16:41:07 2017 From: research at pacificwhale.org (PWF Research Department) Date: Mon, 27 Nov 2017 14:41:07 -1000 Subject: [MARMAM] Job Opening: Research Assistant Message-ID: Pacific Whale Foundation (PWF) has one opening for a Research Assistant. This is a newly created position as our department continues to grow. PWF is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting whales and other marine life through research, education, and conservation. Our researchers have studied whales and dolphins throughout the Pacific for over 30 years and currently conduct projects in Hawaii, Australia, and Ecuador. The Research Assistant assists with our ongoing Hawai?i and Australia research projects. This position is based at the PWF headquarters in Maui, Hawai?i, where the majority of our research takes place. This is not an entry-level position. The RA is expected to assist the research staff in maintaining a productive Research Department. Specific responsibilities include data collection, data management, statistical analyses, writing of reports and manuscripts for publication, public outreach events, and assisting with marketing and fundraising efforts. The successful applicant must be available to begin in January 2018. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES - Data entry and archival tasks - Data processing and analysis - Data quality control - Photo-identification, matching of whale flukes and/or dolphin dorsal fins - Maintenance of photo-id catalogs - Integration of disparate data (photographs, attribute data, and geospatial information) into a relational database (e.g., Discovery, Access) - Data collection aboard a dedicated research vessel - Data collection using a theodolite - Skipper and trailer the research vessel - Maintenance of research equipment - Written preparation of publishable materials, for which appropriate credit will be given - Assistance with public outreach programs (e.g. interpretive education programs) - Assistance with marketing and fundraising efforts - Supervision of volunteers and/or interns - Training of staff and/or interns - Temporary re-location to any of our various field sites (e.g. Australia) may be required - Further duties may be assigned as necessary according to the needs and requirements of the Research Department. QUALIFICATIONS - Graduate degree, such as M.Sc., in marine biology or a related field and a minimum of 3 years of working experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience - Excellent knowledge of marine mammalogy - Experience operating small vessels around marine mammals - Proven ability to publish and present scientific research and translate findings for a general audience - Intermediate or advanced knowledge of database management and statistical software (eg. R, Microsoft Access, SQL, ArcGIS, Distance, Mark-Recapture software) - Scientific programming in R and/or Python - Experience integrating geospatial datasets in GIS/ArcGIS and other geographic information systems - Previous experience with photo-identification - Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing - Excellent organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines - Mental and physical stamina to ensure long days in the field, under intense sunlight, while collecting data according to a set protocol - Applicants must possess a valid driver?s license and be able to pass a background check APPLICATION PROCESS Please send your CV and covering letter as e-mail attachments (PDF preferred) to *research at pacificwhale.org * - No phone calls or drop-ins, please. Applicants must be citizens of the United States of America or legally authorized to work in the U.S.A. *Closing Date: December 1, 2017.* *The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by an employee in this classification. It is not to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory, or all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications of employees assigned to this job. Management has the right to add to, revise, or delete information in this description at any time. Pacific Whale Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.* *Research Department* Pacific Whale Foundation 300 Ma'alaea Rd., Suite 211 Wailuku, HI 96793, USA Phone: +1 808-856-8338 Email: research at pacificwhale.org Website: www.pacificwhale.org -- CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission and any accompanying attachments contain information belonging to the sender which may be confidential and legally privileged. This information is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to whom this electronic mail transmission was sent as indicated above. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution, or action taken in reliance on the contents of the information contained in this transmission is strictly prohibited. If you have received this transmission in error, please notify the sender immediately and destroy all copies of this transmission and all attachments. Thank you! -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From SGBarco at virginiaaquarium.com Tue Nov 28 06:14:38 2017 From: SGBarco at virginiaaquarium.com (Susan Barco) Date: Tue, 28 Nov 2017 14:14:38 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Internships and fellowships (with stipend) with the Virginia Aquarium's Research & Conservation Division Message-ID: Please see below for details of internship & fellowship opportunities with the Virginia Aquarium Research & Conservation Division Susan G. Barco Research Coordinator &Senior Scientist Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center Foundation Office (757.385.6476) Stranding Hotline (757.385.7575) 2018 Virginia Aquarium Batten Fellowships & Internships Fellowships for Undergraduate/Graduate Students Deadline 2018 positions ? Jan 15, 2018 The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center offers Fellowship opportunities stranding response and sea turtle research for college seniors and graduate students. These 480 or 960 hr Fellowships include a stipend to help offset personal and incidental expenses. Batten Fellowships fund students to complete work in the Aquarium?s Research & Conservation Division. Unpaid Internships for Undergraduate and post graduate Students Deadlines: spring semester-Dec 15th summer semester-Jan 30th fall semester ? August 1st The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center also offers internship opportunities in stranding response to college or post-graduate students. Internships require a minimum of 250hrs over 10 weeks but can be longer, and one or more intern position is available spring, summer and fall semester. How to apply: Batten Fellow candidates are required to provide a cover letter indicating the specific Batten Fellowship opportunity, resume (including GPA, completed coursework and previous experience), expectations letter (what you expect to do and get from your experience), two reference letters (one must be from an advisor or professor that may speak on your academic background) and an interview. Forward complete documentation to: Volunteer Services Office Re: Batten Fellowship or Internship aquavols at virginiaaquarium.com Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center Office: (757) 385-0274 717 General Booth Boulevard Fax: (757) 437-6055 Virginia Beach, VA 23451 AND email a second copy of your application and expectations letter to: vaqstranding at gmail.com with the subject line: Batten 2018 or Internship Information on all current Batten Fellowship opportunities can also be viewed on-line at the Virginia Aquarium website: www.virginiaaquarium.com/get-involved Batten Fellowships for Sea Turtle and Marine Mammal Stranding Response and Research & Conservation (Stipend provided) The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center?s Research & Conservation Division is offering Fellowship positions with Research & Conservation and the Stranding Response Program (VAQS) during the busy summer/fall seasons (May ? October). Qualified students and recent post-graduates can compete for one of two Batten Fellowship positions which include a stipend to help offset personal and incidental expenses. The position with the research team is approximately 12 weeks long (480 hours), and the stranding response position combined two fellowships into one 24-30 week program (960 hours). Batten Fellows are expected to bring a high level of dedication and scientific interest to the program and will be integrated more fully into staff activities compared to our unpaid internship positions. Successful candidates will be required to complete a final report on their fellowship work which will be submitted to the Aquarium?s Batten Fellowship Endowment Committee and a presentation to staff and volunteers. Those not accepted for a Batten Fellowship may also 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 currently pursuing a post-graduate degree in a science-based (or veterinary) program * Demonstrate interest in a career in marine or veterinary science * Have some experience in stranding response, field research and/or wild/exotic animal care * Have basic math and computer skills using MS spreadsheets, relational databases and data entry (advanced programs such as SQL, GIS, R, etc. preferred) * Have a valid U.S. driver?s 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 and 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, sick and injured animals, euthanasia, etc. * Be available to perform support activities (24-7) as needed during the period of appointment Applicants applying for a Batten Fellowship position may also submit an application for a general internship (no stipend), if interested. Applicants also interested in the possibility of a general internship are encouraged to include the general intern application information with the Fellowship application and indicate their interest in both programs in the required letter of interest, OR complete a separate internship application that is available online at the Aquarium?s website, www.virginiaaquarium.com/get-involved. Specific positions Six-month Batten Fellowship for Sea Turtle and Marine Mammal Stranding Response: We are looking for a self-motivated, detail-oriented individual to assist with all aspects of marine mammal and sea turtle stranding response in Virginia. Fellowship applicants will be assessed on their completed coursework, GPA, cover letter, resume, expectations letter, reference letters (one must be from an advisor or professor who can speak about your academic background), previous relevant experience and interview. Stranding Response Batten Fellow duties: * 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 * Assist in the collection and submission of Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Stranding Network data * Participate in postmortem data collection and necropsies (animal autopsies) * Assist with the care of animals in rehabilitation, including but not limited to: food preparation, feeding, extensive cleaning (mopping floors, laundry, dishes, cleaning tanks), restraint during exams/procedures, and other animal husbandry duties * Assist with research and field activities involving sea turtles and marine mammals Our Expectations: Stranding Response Batten Fellows will be treated as professionals and will be expected to work side by side with staff members, volunteers and interns on a daily basis. We expect stranding response fellows to treat this position as if it were a full-time position for the length of the fellowship. Each fellow will be expected to study a topic selected following 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. We hope that fellows can begin their work with us in spring (April or May) but lack of availability during that time does not disqualify applicants. This competitive position includes a stipend to help offset personal and incidental expenses over the course of the appointment period. Spring/Summer Stranding Response Batten Fellow application materials are due by 15 Jan 2018 and notification of acceptance will occur no later than 20 Feb 2018. 3 month Summer Batten Fellowship for Sea Turtle Research: We are looking for a self-motivated, detail-oriented individual to assist with several aspects of on-going sea turtle research and data collection. Applicants will be assessed on their completed coursework, GPA, cover letter, resume, expectations letter, references letters (one must be from an advisor or professor who can speak about your academic background), previous relevant experience, skills (such as GIS, statistics, programming) and an interview. Research & Conservation Batten Fellow duties: * Assist VAQS volunteers and staff with research projects including capture, tagging, sampling, sample management and field data collection for wild and incidentally captured sea turtles * Assist with surveys of local recreational fishers under the Virginia Pier Partner Program * Assist VAQS staff with data entry and processing * Assist with sample inventory, preparation and dissemination * Assist with stranding response, rehabilitation efforts, and field activities involving sea turtles and marine mammals Expectations: Research Program Batten Fellows will be treated as professionals and will be expected to work side by side with staff members, volunteers and interns on a daily basis. We expect research fellows to treat this position as if it were a full-time position for the length of the fellowship. Research Program Batten Fellows will be expected to study a topic selected following 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. Summer Research Program Batten Fellow application materials are due by 15 Jan 2018 and notification of acceptance will occur no later than 20 Feb 2018. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From danielle.kreb1 at gmail.com Tue Nov 28 05:36:02 2017 From: danielle.kreb1 at gmail.com (Danielle Kreb) Date: Tue, 28 Nov 2017 13:36:02 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Advice on whale rescues Message-ID: Dear colleagues, I am looking for some advice on succesful rescue dealings with stranded whales. A team of marine mammal researchers and conservationists are trying to update an existing national protocol for marine mammals strandings in Indonesia. Earlier we developed a protocol that provided guidelines to rescue smaller cetaceans whereas the last few years several cases of larger whale strandings occurred and ad-hoc methods were applied. The last case being the stranding of ten sperm whales earlier this month where 6 were released in deeper sea and four died. These whales were towed with rope attached to their flukes. Although these whales have not restranded we are concerned whether this is the correct way and may not have inflicted serious injuries to their flukes and perhaps result in less succesful dives. After this event our team was asked to prepare a stranding protocol for larger whales that are stranded alive and we would like to use best practices. Therefore we would very much welcome any proven best practices that we could adopt. Thank you very much, Kind regards, Danielle -- -------------------------- Danielle Kreb (Ph.D.) Scientific Program Advisor Yayasan Konservasi RASI Rare Aquatic Species of Indonesia Komplek Pandan Harum Indah (Erlyza) Blok C, No. 52 Samarinda 75124 Kalimantan Timur, Indonesia Tel/ fax: + 62.541.744874 Mobile: 081346489515 http://www.ykrasi.org Facebook group/page: Rare Aquatic Species of Indonesia Member of IUCN/SSC Cetacean Specialist Group *?To the dolphin alone, nature has given that which the best* *philosophers seek: friendship for no advantage. Though it has no* *need of help from any man, it is a genial friend to all and has helped mankind.?* *?Plutarch* -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From jmb.mmbks at gmail.com Wed Nov 29 14:00:55 2017 From: jmb.mmbks at gmail.com (Jeff Breiwick) Date: Wed, 29 Nov 2017 14:00:55 -0800 Subject: [MARMAM] Marine Mammal Books for Sale Message-ID: Dear MARMAM, I have a collection of *marine mammal (mostly cetacean) books* (and some magazine issues) that I am selling, most of them for about 75% of the lowest cost found on several online book sites. These books mainly deal with marine mammal biology and whaling history. The catalogue is an Excel spreadsheet with several tabs. If you would like a copy of the catalogue (.zip file) you can send me a request at: *jmb.mmbks at gmail.com*. I will only charge the Post Office media shipping rate for the books (plus shipping envelope or box). I sent an earlier I post to MarMam in August; I have a little over half (266) of the books left. There are about 26 books availabe for $1: see the tab 'To_Bookstore ($1)' . There are also some books in Japanese (photo of book cover provided). There is a tab labelled 'IWC' which contains Annual Reports (Scientific Committee) of the International Whaling Commission from 1950-1998 (old series - hardbound) and 1999-2012 (new series - softbound). There are also JCRM (Journal of Cetacean Research and Management) issues: 1999-1012. I have not set a price for the IWC publications but if you are interested we can work something out. In addition, there is a separate file, mm.pamphlets,magazines,journals,etc.docx, that has magazine/journal issues on marine mammals for sale. The zip file contains a Read Me doc that explains the catalogue. Below is a sample of some of the books available (under Main List tab). - Andersen, H. T. [ed.] 1969. The Biology of Marine Mammals. New York and London Academic Press. Pp. xii + [1]-511 ($7.50) Beale, T. 1973. The Natural History of the Sperm Whale ... To Which is Added, a Sketch of a South-Sea Whaling Voyage. London, The Holland Press Limited. Pp. i-xvi + 1-393 + 3 pls ($16) - Beddington, J. R.; R. J. H. Beverton; D. M. Lavigne (eds.). 1985. Marine Mammals and Fisheries. London, Boston and Sydney. George Allen & Unwin, Pp. [i]-xxi + 1-354 ($10) - Bockstoce, J. R. 1986. Whales, Ice, and Men. The History Whaling in the Western Arctic. Seattle and London, in assoc. with New Bedford Whaling Museum & Univ. of Washington Press. Pp. 1-400 ($15) - Bonner, W. Nigel. 1989. The Natural History of Seals. Bromley, Kent. Christopher Helm (Publ.) Ltd. pP. [i]-xvi + 1-196 ($2.75) - Budker, Paul. 1959 Whales and Whaling. New York, The MacMillan Co. Pp. [1]-182 + [2]. (belonged to (signed by) Karl Kenyon of sea otter fame) ($5) - Ellis, R. 1980. The Book of Whales. New York. Alfred A. Knopf, Inc. Inscribed by author ($4.50) - Heide-J?rgensen, Mads Peter; Christian Lydersen (eds.). 1998. Ringed Seals in the North Atlantic. NAMMCO Scientific Publications, Vol. 1. Troms?, The North Atl. Mar. Mamm. Comm. Pp. [1]-273 ($10) - Huntley, A. C.; D. P. Costa; G. A. J. Worthy; M. A. Castellini. 1987. Approaches to Marine Mammal Energetics. SMM Special Publication No. 1. Lawrence, KS. Soc.for Mar. Mammalogy. Pp. [i]-xviii + 1-253 ($40) Thank you. Jeff Breiwick -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From rtfieldi at sewanee.edu Mon Nov 20 14:28:58 2017 From: rtfieldi at sewanee.edu (Russell Fielding) Date: Mon, 20 Nov 2017 16:28:58 -0600 Subject: [MARMAM] seeking laboratory collaboration Message-ID: Dear MARMAM list, Several months ago I posted a request for collaboration in analyzing cetacean tissue samples collected from the artisanal whaling operation at St. Vincent in the Caribbean for contaminants. I got a good response but thus far have not made contact with a lab that could do targeted analysis for certain compounds. I'm interested in finding a lab that can detect and measure concentrations of POPs, major organochlorines (e.g. DDT, DDE, PCPs), and perhaps fluorinated and brominated compounds. I have ~120 samples of muscle, blubber, kidney, and liver tissues from a variety of small cetacean species (*Orcinus orca, Grampus griseus, Globicephala macrorhychus, *and* Pseudorca crassidens*) and a few samples from an unknown *Stenella* species). At this point I am only interested in collaborating with labs in the US since my CITES permits are not valid for export. Finding one US-based lab that can do all of the analyses mentioned above would be ideal. If you're interested, please contact me at the email address or phone number below. Thanks very much, Russell Fielding --- Russell Fielding, Ph.D. Department of Earth and Environmental Systems The University of the South Sewanee, TN 37383 USA office: Snowden Hall 211B phone: 931-598-1815 email: russell.fielding at sewanee.edu web: sewanee.edu/faculty/fielding -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: