From admissions at archipelago.gr Fri Jun 1 03:51:04 2018 From: admissions at archipelago.gr (archi admissions) Date: Fri, 1 Jun 2018 13:51:04 +0300 Subject: [MARMAM] Marine Mammal Research and Conservation Internship with Archipelagos Institue of Marine Conservation Message-ID: *Internship position with Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation ( www.archipelago.gr ):* *Marine Mammal Research and Conservation * *Background: *The eastern Aegean is a region rich in marine biodiversity, including cetacean (dolphins and whales), monk seals and sea turtles. Numerous of these species are listed as at risk, vulnerable and/or endangered by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature), as their habitats have been significantly impacted by human presence and activities. *Description: *The goal of the Archipelagos marine mammal research team is to monitor the regional status of marine mammal populations and their habitats in the eastern Aegean, a region where data relating to these species is largely lacking. By gathering knowledge on species populations and their respective threats, the research team identifies critical habitats that are especially susceptible to human and environmental impacts. Projects have a wide range of focus, including: ? Collecting and analysing data on cetacean presence, abundance, distribution and behavioural studies through boat, ferry and land surveys ? Collecting and analysing data on species movement, residency pattern and social structure using mark recapture photo-ID techniques ? Monitoring and recording cetacean bioacoustics ? Collecting and analysing data on the presence, abundance, distribution and behavioural tendencies of Mediterranean monk seals and various sea turtle species ? Analysing microplastic content in marine animal digestive system ? Monitoring and assessing marine litter on shore and at sea ? Aegean Marine Life Sanctuary: the creation of an in-sea rehabilitation facility for marine mammals and turtles, but also for dolphins rescued from captivity. ? Cetacean and sea turtle basic first aid and stranding response *Applicant profile:* ? At least one year of college or university studies in the fields of marine, ecological, environmental sciences and/or veterinary science ? Capacity for accurate and consistent data collection and analysis ? Comfortable working under low supervision as well as leading a project independently ? Ability to write scientific reports and papers ? Ability to work both individually and as part of a dynamic, multi-cultural, multidisciplinary team ? Excellent organizational and time-management skills ? High standard of work ? Fluency in English ? Sincere desire to work towards Archipelagos? conservation efforts ? Motivation to live in a small island community *Duration:* A minimum duration of 3 months is highly recommended for all participants, although shorter placements can be tailored to the needs of groups and individuals. Placements can last as long as 12 months. *Location:* Archipelagos? research bases and stations in the eastern Aegean Sea, on the islands of Samos, Lipsi, Ikaria, Leros, Arki, Marathi and Oinousses. Placements may also include working on board of one of our research boats. *Placement fee:* Monthly fees of 650 euro include: Living expenses (shared accommodation, all meals, wi-fi) Use of equipment & research boats Transport for working purposes Greek language lessons Students and recent graduates are advised to explore possible funding through their universities, by getting in touch with the Finance / International Relations / Placement/ Erasmus+ Offices at their Universities or other relevant grant providing organizations in their region. *Travelling costs are NOT included and are covered by the participant. *Application details:* Please submit CV and covering letter to admissions at archipelago.gr Best regards, Archipelagos Team Marine Research Base: P.O. Box 42, Pythagorio, Samos 83102 @ admissions at archipelago.gr; www.archipelago.gr Tel. +30 2273061147, +30 2273061191 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From JANET.CLARKE at leidos.com Fri Jun 1 10:45:36 2018 From: JANET.CLARKE at leidos.com (Clarke, Janet) Date: Fri, 1 Jun 2018 17:45:36 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication on bowhead and beluga whales in the western Beaufort Sea Message-ID: My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the publication of our paper in Arctic: Clarke, JT, Ferguson, MC, Willoughby, AL, and Brower, AA. 2018. Bowhead and Beluga Whale Distributions, Sighting Rates, and Habitat Associations in the Western Beaufort Sea in Summer and Fall 2009 - 16, with Comparison to 1982 - 91. Arctic 71(2). ABSTRACT. We analyzed data from line-transect aerial surveys for marine mammals conducted in the western Beaufort Sea (shore to 72? N, 140? - 157? W) from July to October of 2009 - 16 to investigate the distribution, behaviors, sighting rates, and habitat use preferences of bowhead and beluga whales. The habitat use data allowed for direct comparison with data collected in the same area from 1982 to 1991. Both species are ice-adapted, migrating through leads in sea ice in spring, and are seasonal inhabitants of the western Beaufort Sea during summer and fall. From 2009 to 2016, bowhead whales were seen in all survey months, with the highest overall sighting rate (whales per km) in August. Bowhead sighting rates were highest in the whales? preferred habitats: outer shelf habitat (51 - 200 m depth) in July and inner shelf-shallow habitat (? 20 m depth) in August, September, and October. Beluga whales were also seen in all survey months, with highest overall sighting rate in July. Beluga whales were overwhelmingly associated with continental slope habitat (201 - 2000 m depth) in all months. Bowhead whale distribution and depth preferences in summer months of 2009 - 16 differed from those observed in 1982 - 91, when bowheads were not seen during limited survey effort in July and preferred outer continental shelf habitat in August. These differences indicate that bowhead whale preference for shallow shelf habitat now occurs earlier in summer than it used to. Beluga whale distribution and depth preference remained similar between 1982 - 91 and 2009 - 16, with strong preference for continental slope during both periods. Differences in sea ice cover habitat association for both species are likely due more to the relative lack of sea ice in recent years compared to the earlier period than to shifts in habitat preference. Habitat partitioning between bowhead and beluga whales in the western Beaufort Sea remained evident except in July, when both species used continental slope habitat. In July - October 2009 - 16, the distribution, sighting rates, and behavior of both bowheads and belugas in the western Beaufort showed considerable interannual variation, which underscores the importance of annual sampling to accurate records of the complex western Beaufort Sea ecosystem. The full article is available to AINA online subscribers: https://arctic.journalhosting.ucalgary.ca/arctic/index.php/arctic/issue/view/298 A pdf copy may be requested from janet.clarke at leidos.com. Regards - Janet Clarke Research Biologist, Leidos -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From Mahaffys at cascadiaresearch.org Fri Jun 1 08:59:50 2018 From: Mahaffys at cascadiaresearch.org (Sabre Mahaffy) Date: Fri, 1 Jun 2018 15:59:50 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Cascadia Research Collective internship announcement Message-ID: Cascadia Research Collective in Olympia, Washington is now accepting interns for U.S. west coast and Hawai?i research for fall of 2018, and winter and spring of 2019! Cascadia Research Collective (CRC) is a 501(c)3 non-profit research and education organization founded in 1979. Most of our research is focused on whale and dolphin populations along the west coast of North America and in Hawai?i. For more information about Cascadia and our research please visit www.cascadiaresearch.org [http://www.cascadiaresearch.org/sites/all/themes/nexus/images/slide-image-2.jpg?v31zA] Cascadia Research www.cascadiaresearch.org Cascadia Research, a non-profit Washington State corporation recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization, has conducted scientific research and education for the past 39 years. We are seeking interns to help with our U.S. west coast and Hawai?i research projects. Both internships are office-based positions in Olympia, Washington. We are currently filling positions for: Fall 2018 (September-December) Winter 2019 (January-March) Spring 2019 (April-June) Internships are unpaid, office-based positions in Olympia, WA and housing is not provided. International applicants will also be considered, but it is the responsibility of the applicant to acquire necessary visas and documentation. Internship Details: CRC gives priority to juniors or seniors with a science background who are seeking academic credit as well as those enrolled in (or planning to attend) graduate school in a marine science-related field. A full time commitment (40 hours per week) is preferred. Internships are generally three months in length, although exceptions can be made depending on the academic calendar of the college or university. Much of CRC?s work involves photo identification, using natural markings unique to each individual to catalog and track individuals over time. This allows us to study association patterns and movements over extended periods of time, revealing information on population structure and social organization. Interns will spend a large portion of their time comparing new photographs to those in our existing catalogs, and may additionally be involved in digital image processing and data entry. Additionally, interns may have opportunities to participate in Washington state stranding response, which may include beach surveys, data and specimen collection, data entry, and assisting in necropsies of pinnipeds & cetaceans. US West Coast Research: Interns will assist staff on our long-term photo-ID studies of baleen whales, including humpback, blue, and gray whales off the US West Coast and the inside waters of Washington state. For more information, see www.cascadiaresearch.org Hawai?i Research: Interns will assist staff on our long-term photo-ID studies of a variety of species of odontocetes (e.g., rough-toothed dolphins, false killer whales, beaked whales) found in Hawaiian waters. For more information, see www.cascadiaresearch.org/hawaii.htm For a full description of the internships available, please visit: www.cascadiaresearch.org/interns.htm Photo identification requires a high degree of focus and attention to detail, and interns can expect to spend the majority of their time comparing photographs. Successful applicants should have the following skills: - strong communication skills - focus and attention to detail - willingness to spend long hours in front of a computer - ability to work independently If you are interested in interning with Cascadia, please visit our website and send a CV (including references and their contact information), two professional letters of recommendation and a letter of interest that describes why you are applying for the position and how the experience will help you be successful in meeting long-term goals. For a US west coast project internship please send the information to: Kiirsten Flynn: kflynn at cascadiaresearch.org For a Hawai?i project internship please send the information to: Sabre Mahaffy: mahaffys at cascadiaresearch.org If you would like to be considered for either, please indicate that in your letter and send to both. ----------------------------------------- Sabre Mahaffy, M.Sc. Research Biologist Cascadia Research Collective 218 1/2 W. 4th Ave. Olympia, WA 98501 Office 360-943-7325 www.cascadiaresearch.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From olivier.adam at upmc.fr Sat Jun 2 03:23:32 2018 From: olivier.adam at upmc.fr (Olivier ADAM) Date: Sat, 02 Jun 2018 12:23:32 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] Conference on Marine Mammals and Acoustics Message-ID: <20180602122332.109872gpg7r0imsc@courriel.upmc.fr> Dear MARMAM Community, The 2018 International Workshop on Detection, Classification, Localization and Density Estimation of Marine Mammals using passive acoustics (DCLDE) will take place at Sorbonne University (www.sorbonne-universite.fr) in Paris, France, 4-8 June 2018. The program is now on line: http://sabiod.univ-tln.fr/DCLDE/ Monday, 2 tutorial sessions (full day, starting at 8:30am) on tools to observe marine mammals and to automatically extract features about their population and their marine environment: - Machine learning - Deep learning - Density estimation. We are very happy to combine science and art by inviting the famous choregrapher Camille Hanson (http://www.camillehanson.com/) to perform the Sacrifice of Giants during the banquet evening the 7th of June. Thank you to our financial funders to make this scientific event possible: - French Ministry of Foreign Affairs: https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr - Office of Naval Research: https://www.onr.navy.mil - CeSigma: http://www.cesigma.eu/ - Navfac: https://www.navfac.navy.mil - CGG / Sercel : www.cgg.com - Acoustical Society of America: https://acousticalsociety.org Photos of the conference are provided by - Cetamada : https://www.cetamada.org/ - Baleines et Cie: http://www.baleinesetcompagnie.com/ See you soon in Paris! Olivier ---------------------------------------------------------------- This message was sent using IMP, the Internet Messaging Program. From posters at acsonline.org Sat Jun 2 02:12:49 2018 From: posters at acsonline.org (posters at acsonline.org) Date: Sat, 2 Jun 2018 05:12:49 -0400 (EDT) Subject: [MARMAM] American Cetacean Society conference call for abstracts Message-ID: <1527930769.55683599@webmail.memberclicks.com> Dear MARMAM subscribers, We are pleased to announce the American Cetacean Society's 16th International Conference to be held November 2-4, 2018 in Newport Beach, CA. Whales & Us: The Next Generation ACS's International Conference is a highly respected gathering of scientists, educators, conservationists, students, hobbyists and anyone with an interest in cetaceans and their ocean environment.This conference will focus on the future of whale, dolphin and porpoise conservation. Activities will include speaker sessions with world-renowned experts, a poster session including a student research poster contest, a photography contest, a silent auction, book signings, an art show, vendor exhibits, and much more. We will also hold our traditional pre-conference all-day whale watching trip on Friday November 2nd, and will venture out into the rich southern California waters between Catalina Island and Orange County. CALL FOR ABSTRACTS: Abstracts for the Poster Session and Student Research Poster Contest will be accepted through August 5th, 2018. - Poster Session: This session will showcase a variety of programs and projects based out of educational institutions, agencies, and non-profit organizations. It isintended to encourage discussion and facilitate the exchange of current information pertaining to cetacean research, conservation, policy, and education. - Student Research Poster Contest: We invite graduate and undergraduate students to present their work in the ACS Conference Student Contest. The contest is for poster presenters, with a $250 First-Place prize for the top presenter, a $150 Second-Place prize, and a $100 Third-Place prize. First, second- and third-place winners will be recognized at the conference Sunday morning and will be featured in an upcoming issue of the ACS Spyhopper newsletter. The student contest provides an opportunity for students at universities and institutions to gain presentation experience in a professional environment and provides a forum in which existing professionals and scientists may meet their rising peers. Abstract submissions will be accepted from current undergraduate or graduate students, student interns, and recently graduated students (within the past year) who conducted their work prior to graduation. Student authors must be from accredited institutions of higher education. For submission guidelines and details, please visit : http://www.acsonline.org/assets/docs/ACS_2018_Conference/poster%20session%20guidelines%202018%20ACS.final.pdf Poster session-related inquiries can be sent to [ posters at acsonline.org ]( mailto:posters at acsonline.org ) See you in November! Sincerely, The American Cetacean Society Conference Poster Committee AMERICAN CETACEAN SOCIETY P.O. Box 51691 Pacific Grove, CA 93950 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From bruno at thebdri.com Mon Jun 4 03:25:54 2018 From: bruno at thebdri.com (Bruno Diaz Lopez) Date: Mon, 4 Jun 2018 10:25:54 +0000 (UTC) Subject: [MARMAM] New article - Abundance and demographic parameters of bottlenose dolphins in a highly affected coastal ecosystem References: <1156379175.1848711.1528107954450.ref@mail.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <1156379175.1848711.1528107954450@mail.yahoo.com> We are delighted to bring to your attention the publication of our last scientific article published in Marine and Freshwater Research. Methion, S. & Diaz Lopez, B. (2018) Abundance and demographic parameters of bottlenose dolphins in a highly affected coastal ecosystem. Marine and Freshwater Research. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1071/MF17346 Abstract: This study presents the first robust estimates of abundance and demographic parameters of common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in a highly affected coastal ecosystem along the north-eastern Atlantic. Seasonal abundance, apparent survival and temporary emigration rates were estimated using Pollock?s robust design models. Photographic identification data were collected from 2014 to 2016 along the north-western Iberian coast (Spain). Bottlenose dolphins were present year-round and with a high degree of occurrence in the study area, which is highly affected by human activity but is also a highly productive coastal ecosystem. Local abundance of bottlenose dolphins ranged from 56 in autumn 2014 to 144 in winter 2015. Apparent survival rate was high and constant, indicating no mortality and no permanent emigration. Temporal emigration rates varied seasonally and were lower from autumn to winter, suggesting that dolphins had a high probability of returning during the winter period. The observed changes inabundance and emigration rates most likely reflect seasonal fluctuations in abundance of prey species in this area. These results provide important baseline information in an area subject to significant anthropogenic pressures and for future comparisons with other populations of similar characteristics under the pressure of human activities, such as fisheries and aquaculture. If you cannot download the publication, you can request a pdf by emailing to: bruno at thebdri.com or severine at thebdri.com Please feel free to contact us for any question regarding the study, Best regards, Bruno Diaz Lopez Ph.D Chief biologist and Director The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI Avenida Beiramar 192, O Grove 36980, Pontevedra, Spain www.thebdri.com 0034 684248552 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 ritabferreira at gmail.com Mon Jun 4 01:33:43 2018 From: ritabferreira at gmail.com (Rita Ferreira) Date: Mon, 4 Jun 2018 09:33:43 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] LAST MINUTE CALL - CETUS Project in Madeira Island, Portugal Message-ID: Oceanic Observatory of Madeira (OOM/ARDITI) is currently opening LAST-MINUTE INTERNSHIPS FOR SUMMER in Madeira Island (Portugal) The Oceanic Observatory of Madeira (OOM) is a research unit within the Regional Agency for the Development of Research, Technology and Innovation (ARDITI), located in Madeira Island, Portugal. OOM seeks to become a centre of excellence dedicated to research and permanent monitoring of the ocean. This initiative brings together a multidisciplinary scientific community, joining several institutions with the aim of promoting cooperation and resource optimization. http://oom.arditi.pt *OOM/ARDITI is looking for 2 interns to help with our marine mammals? research project based in Madeira Island, Portugal.* We are currently filling positions for *1st July - 10th August 2018* *Internship Details:* The interns will be enrolled in data collection on board ferries with a fixed route between Madeira Island and Porto Santo Island. Food on board is provided. These positions are unpaid but we encourage candidates to seek grants where we can post as host institution. In order to cover for logistic expenses, there is a monthly fee of 75eur. Non-European candidates must cover their own insurance expenses. *Internship description:* - An intensive training on monitoring protocol, cetacean identification and data processing and analysis; - Sea surveys Madeira-Porto Santo; - Data processing and analysis; - Educational activities in local schools or to the general public (when possible); - Free time to visit Madeira and Porto Santo; - Accident insurance. Successful applicants should possess or be enrolled in a BS or MS course in biology or related, be reliable, dedicated, adaptable and patient, as this work is highly weather dependent and requires consecutive days of work at sea. If you are an undergraduate or graduate student interested in pursuing a career in marine mammal research, this is an excellent opportunity to learn and gain experience at sea. Application deadline is 14th June. If you are interested in interning with OOM/ARDITI, please send a CV and a letter of interest to rita.ferreira at oom.arditi.pt. Thank you, Rita Ferreira, MsC OOM-ARDITI Phone: +351291721246 <+351%20291%20721%20246> -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From sclymene at aol.com Sat Jun 2 06:51:18 2018 From: sclymene at aol.com (Thomas Jefferson) Date: Sat, 2 Jun 2018 09:51:18 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] Looking for a copy of F. Cuvier's 1836 monograph on cetaceans Message-ID: <163c0c445b5-c8f-10bba@webjas-vad220.srv.aolmail.net> Dear MARMAM, I am looking for an original first edition copy of the following 2-volume book: Cuvier, F. 1836. De l'Histoire Naturelle des Cetaces, ou Recureil et Examen des Faits. Libraire Encyclpopedique de Roret, Paris. 416 pp. + 22 plates in two volumes (I: text, II: atlas) If you know of anyone who has a copy they would be willing to donate or sell, please let me know. Best wishes, ThomasA. Jefferson, Ph.D. ClymeneEnterprises / ?VIVA Vaquita! Email: sclymene at aol.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From dana.louise.wright at gmail.com Mon Jun 4 09:01:59 2018 From: dana.louise.wright at gmail.com (Dana Wright) Date: Mon, 4 Jun 2018 09:01:59 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] New paper on North Pacific right whales (Dana Wright - NOAA Affiliate) Message-ID: Dear colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the recent publication of the following Note in Marine Mammal Science: Acoustic detection of the North Pacific right whale in the northern Bering Sea Wright DL, Berchok CL, Crance JL, Clapham PJ (2018) Acoustic detection of the North Pacific right whale in the northern Bering Sea. Mar Mamm Sci http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/mms.12521 This Note describes the acoustic detection of the critically endangered (n~30) North Pacific right whale (NPRW; *Eubalaena japonica*) at one recording station in the northern Bering Sea (61.59?N, 171.33?W) from September 2009 to September 2016. A total of 139 upcalls and 15,575 gunshot calls were heard between 27 July and 24 September 2016, with the majority of calling in September. It is unclear at this time why NPRW only recently and briefly were detected in the passive acoustic recordings in the northern Bering Sea. Nevertheless, the degree to which the presence of NPRW in this region is linked to changing climatic conditions needs to be explored given the present paucity of individuals in this population and the relatively rapid rate of climate change in the Arctic. Please contact me for a copy of the publication at dana.wright at noaa.gov. Best wishes, Dana Research Scientist Joint Institute for the Study of the Atmosphere and Ocean and The Marine Mammal Laboratory AFSC | NMFS | NOAA 7600 Sand Point Way NE, Bldg 4 Seattle, WA 98115 206-526-4023 | dana.wright at noaa.gov -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From vanessa.pirotta at hdr.mq.edu.au Mon Jun 4 23:08:38 2018 From: vanessa.pirotta at hdr.mq.edu.au (Vanessa Pirotta (HDR)) Date: Tue, 5 Jun 2018 06:08:38 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Virological Sampling of Inaccessible Wildlife with Drones Message-ID: Dear MARMAM colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the publication of the following manuscript now available online: Virological Sampling of Inaccessible Wildlife with Drones Geoghegan, J.L.; Pirotta, V.; Harvey, E.; Smith, A.; Buchmann, J.P.; Ostrowski, M.; Eden, J.-S.; Harcourt, R.; Holmes, E.C. Virological Sampling of Inaccessible Wildlife with Drones. Viruses 2018, 10, 300. Abstract: There is growing interest in characterizing the viromes of diverse mammalian species, particularly in the context of disease emergence. However, little is known about virome diversity in aquatic mammals, in part due to difficulties in sampling. We characterized the virome of the exhaled breath (or blow) of the Eastern Australian humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae). To achieve an unbiased survey of virome diversity, a meta-transcriptomic analysis was performed on 19 pooled whale blow samples collected via a purpose-built Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV, or drone) approximately 3 km off the coast of Sydney, Australia during the 2017 winter annual northward migration from Antarctica to northern Australia. To our knowledge, this is the first time that UAVs have been used to sample viruses. Despite the relatively small number of animals surveyed in this initial study, we identified six novel virus species from five viral families. This work demonstrates the potential of UAVs in studies of virus disease, diversity, and evolution. Keywords: whale; virome; drone; mammalian host; virosphere Publication available here: http://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/10/6/300 Best regards, Vanessa Pirotta Vanessa Pirotta | PhD Candidate Marine Predator Research Group Department of Biological Sciences Faculty of Science and Engineering Macquarie University, NSW 2109, Australia Twitter: @VanessaPirotta -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From jte at bios.au.dk Tue Jun 5 03:16:51 2018 From: jte at bios.au.dk (Jonas Teilmann) Date: Tue, 5 Jun 2018 10:16:51 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New paper on porpoise detections in noisy environments Message-ID: <7882f11bebe74d39b07b24e31f7fa3d5@Exch14.uni.au.dk> Dear colleagues, I am pleased to announce the publication of the following open access paper in Bioacoustics: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/09524622.2018.1477071 https://doi.org/10.1080/09524622.2018.1477071 Karin Tubbert Clausen, Jakob Tougaard, Jacob Carstensen, Matthieu Delefosse & Jonas Teilmann (2018): Noise affects porpoise click detections - the magnitude of the effect depends on logger type and detection filter settings, Bioacoustics, DOI: 10.1080/09524622.2018.1477071 Abstract Automatic click detectors and full-bandwidth sound recorders are widely used in passive acoustic monitoring of small cetaceans. Detection of these signals depends on a variety of factors, including signal to noise ratio. Passive acoustic monitoring is often used to study impact of underwater noise on small cetaceans, but as detection probability is affected by changes in signal to noise ratio, variable noise levels may affect conclusions drawn from these experiments. Therefore, we examine how different detectors and filters perform in varying ocean noise conditions. C-PODs and full-bandwidth recorders (Wildlife Acoustics, SM2M+) were deployed at two stations in an environment with fluctuating ambient noise for 42 days. Noise level and harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) click trains simultaneously recorded on both loggers were compared. Overall, we found that porpoise click detections by the algorithm used to analyse full-band recorder data (Pamguard) paralleled detections by the C-POD. However, Pamguard detected significantly more clicks than the C-POD. A decrease in detections was seen for both loggers with increasing noise in the band 20 -160 kHz, in particular for levels above 100 dB re 1?Pa rms. We also found that the Pamguard detection function changed the least over varying noise conditions when compared to the C-POD detectors. This study sheds light on the fact that inference of animal presence/absence or density that are based on echolocation cues (here, Porpoise Positive Minutes) shall account for the acoustic environments where probability of detecting signals may be affected by variability in ambient noise levels. Best regards Jonas Teilmann _______________________________________________ Jonas Teilmann Senior Scientist, Ph.D. Phone: (+45) 21 42 42 91 Fax: (+45) 87 16 87 51 E-mail: jte at bios.au.dk Marine Mammal Research Section Department of Bioscience Aarhus University Frederiksborgvej 399 DK-4000 Roskilde Denmark http://bios.au.dk/en/about-bioscience/organisation/marine-mammal-research/ https://www.facebook.com/Aarhus-University-Section-for-Marine-Mammal-Research-1481125835511699/ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From laurinhaz at hotmail.com Tue Jun 5 19:22:55 2018 From: laurinhaz at hotmail.com (Laura Reisfeld) Date: Wed, 6 Jun 2018 02:22:55 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication - Fusariosis in a captive South American sea lion Message-ID: Dear Colleagues, On behalf of all co-authors, I am pleased to announce the publication of our article about fusariosis in a captive South American sea lion. Laura Reisfeld, Carlos Sacristan, Paloma Canedo, Bruna Schwarz, Ana Carolina Ewbank, Fernando Esperon, Jose Luiz Catao-Dias (2018). Fusariosis in a Captive South American Sea Lion (Otaria flavescens): A Case Report. Mycopathologia, doi: 10.1007/s11046-018-0270-9 In this manuscript we described the clinical signs, associated lesions and diagnosis (thermography, imprint cytology, histopathology, culture, electron microscopy, PCR) of a fusariosis case by Fusarium sp. in the nails and skin of an adult male captive South American sea lion (Otaria flavescens) recently transferred from another zoological institution, and its successful long-term treatment with Ketoconazole PO (60 days) and Miconazole solution spray TO, followed by Itraconazole PO (30 days). Herein we provide a successful approach to the diagnosis and treatment of fusariosis. You can discover more in the links: https://rdcu.be/OhV4 and https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11046-018-0270-9 The article is available at link above or email: lauravet at aquariodesaopaulo.com.br Best regards Laura Reisfeld DVM, MSc, Aquario de Sao Paulo Laboratory of Wildlife Comparative Patholog y - LAPCOM School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences - FMVZ University of S?o Paulo (Brazil) -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From sandro.mazzariol at unipd.it Wed Jun 6 11:50:05 2018 From: sandro.mazzariol at unipd.it (Sandro Mazzariol) Date: Wed, 6 Jun 2018 20:50:05 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] 5 PhDs in Aquatic Animal Health including 1 on marine mammals Message-ID: <48d44bef-d2ce-91c1-44bf-2df6ac4a5675@unipd.it> Dear all I'd like to announce that Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science of the University of Padova - Italy opens a call for 5 PhD students with a degree in biology or veterinary medicine. One of the possible projects is focused on marine mammal tissue banking, cell cultures and metagenomic. All these PhD courses are organized within a largest project funded by the Italian Ministry for Research focusing on Aquatic Animal's Health including the implementation of drones for sampling, big data and machine learning, augmented reality and biobanking. General information on: http://www.unipd.it/bandi-graduatorie-dottorati. PhD call http://www.unipd.it/sites/unipd.it/files/2018/Sc%20veter_34.pdf _*Deadline June 26th 13:00 Rome Time *_ Sandro Mazzariol -- Dr. Sandro Mazzariol, DVM, PhD Dipartimento di Biomedicina Comparata e Alimentazione (BCA) Universit? degli Studi di Padova Cetaceans strandings Emergency Response Team (CERT) AGRIPOLIS - Ed. Museo Viale dell'Universit? 16 35020 - Legnaro (PD) tel.: +39 049 827 2963 fax: +39 049 827 2973 skype: smazzariol -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From ana.rubiogarcia at zeehondencentrum.nl Thu Jun 7 01:08:19 2018 From: ana.rubiogarcia at zeehondencentrum.nl (=?UTF-8?Q?Ana_Rubio_Garc=C3=ADa_=7C_Zeehondencentrum?=) Date: Thu, 7 Jun 2018 10:08:19 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] Sealcentre Pieterburen Vet Internships 2018 & 2019 Message-ID: Dear all, We are pleased to announce: VETERINARY DEPARTMENT INTERNSHIP ? SEALCENTRE PIETERBUREN The Sealcentre Pieterburen, the Netherlands, has an exciting opportunity for *two Veterinary Interns *to work in our Veterinary and Seal Care Departments. Both positions last one year, one is scheduled to start in October 2018, and the other in April 2019. Previous marine mammal or wildlife experience is a plus. The Sealcentre?s Veterinary Department includes two veterinarians and two veterinary interns. We are looking for a highly motivated and dynamic candidate who will join our team and will work closely in a team setting with staff and volunteers to assist with all aspects of veterinary care and husbandry of sick and injured seals. Other responsibilities include but are not limited to: daily care of animals, transport of live/dead marine animals, maintenance of daily nutritional and medical records, sampling for various research projects, and data entry. Additional duties and projects may be assigned by staff. The interns are required to find their own transportation to Pieterburen and we provide housing (fully equipped), meals, and health insurance. These positions are unpaid. The interns should expect to be scheduled to cover a variety of shifts including weekdays, nights, weekends, and holidays. The ideal candidate should be mature and motivated, and possess a strong work ethic and excellent observational and communication skills (a fluent English level is required). Due to Visa requirements we are currently only able to accept applicants with a European passport. The deadline for applications is July 31st 2018. Interested applicants should submit a copy of the CV, an intention letter, and two recommendation letters. Note that the application materials should be in English. Applications and questions should be submitted to vet at zeehondencentrum.nl indicating in the subject VETERINARY INTERN 2018/2019. For more information about the Sealcentre Pieterburen visit www.zeehondencentrum.nl *Ana Rubio Garc?a* *Head of the Veterinary & Research Department* Mobile phone: +31 (0)6 12 981154 Email: ana.rubiogarcia at zeehondencentrum.nl Zeehondencentrum Pieterburen. Healthy sea, happy seal. Hoofdstraat 94a 9968 AG Pieterburen T +31 (0)595 526 526 E: info at zeehondencentrum.nl I: www.zeehondencentrum.nl [image: cid:image004.jpg at 01D1D2D4.6A844C90] P Please consider the environment. Think before printing. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image004.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 1309 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image003.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 1218 bytes Desc: not available URL: From giovanni.bearzi at gmail.com Thu Jun 7 21:24:52 2018 From: giovanni.bearzi at gmail.com (Giovanni Bearzi) Date: Fri, 8 Jun 2018 06:24:52 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] Now available online: Whale and dolphin behavioural responses to dead conspecifics Message-ID: Dear colleagues, the final version of our article "Whale and dolphin behavioural responses to dead conspecifics" is now available online, containing full bibliographic details. The Share Link below provides 50 days' free access to our article. Anyone clicking on this link before July 27, 2018 will be taken directly to the final version of the article (no sign up, registration or fees are required) *Share Link: https://authors.elsevier.com/a/1XB203MhxMSrGv * If the link does not work, you may still contact the first author ( giovanni.bearzi at gmail.com) to receive a pdf file. Highlights ? Effort-weighted study of 'postmortem attentive behaviour' (PAB) in cetaceans. ? Dolphins (Delphinidae) accounted for 92.3% of 78 PAB records, baleen whales 1.3%. ? Encephalisation was an important predictor of PAB across taxa. ? Female PAB towards dead calves (75%) may have been rescue attempts or grieving. ? Male PAB was rare and possibly not caregiving. Abstract The scientific study of death across animal taxa?comparative thanatology?investigates how animals respond behaviourally, physiologically and psychologically to dead conspecifics, and the processes behind such responses. Several species of cetaceans have been long known to care for, attend to, be aroused by, or show interest in dead or dying individuals. We investigated patterns and variation in cetacean responses to dead conspecifics across cetacean taxa based on a comprehensive literature review. We analysed 78 records reported between 1970 and 2016, involving 20 of the 88 extant cetacean species. We adopted a weighted comparative approach to take observation effort into account and found that odontocetes (toothed cetaceans) were much more likely than mysticetes (baleen whales) to attend to dead conspecifics. Dolphins (Delphinidae) had the greatest occurrence of attentive behaviour (92.3% of all records), with a weighed attendance index 18 times greater than the average of all other cetacean families. Two dolphin genera, Sousa and Tursiops, constituted 55.1% of all cetacean records (N?=?43) and showed the highest incidence of attentive behaviour. Results of analyses intended to investigate the reasons behind these differences suggested that encephalisation may be an important predictor, consistent with the "social brain" hypothesis. Among attending individuals or groups of known sex (N?=?28), the majority (75.0%) were adult females with dead calves or juveniles (possibly their own offspring, with exceptions), consistent with the strong mother-calf bond, or, in a few cases, with the bond between mothers and other females in the group. The remaining records (25.0%) involved males either showing sexual interest in a dead adult or subadult, or carrying a dead calf in the presence of females. Because an inanimate individual is potentially rescuable, responses to dead conspecifics?especially by females?can be explained at least in part by attempts to revive and protect, having a clear adaptive value. In some cases such responses are followed by apparently maladaptive behaviour such as the long-term carrying of, or standing by, a decomposed carcass, similar to observations of certain terrestrial mammals. Among the possible explanations for the observed cetacean behavioural responses to dead conspecifics are strong attachment resulting in a difficulty of "letting go"?possibly related to grieving?or perhaps individuals failing to recognise or accept that an offspring or companion has died. Our current understanding is challenged by small sample size, incomplete descriptions, and lack of information on the physiology and neural processes underpinning the observed behaviour. We provide research recommendations that would improve such understanding. - - - - - - - Giovanni Bearzi President, Dolphin Biology and Conservation -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From interns at aimm-portugal.org Fri Jun 1 02:14:16 2018 From: interns at aimm-portugal.org (AIMM Internships) Date: Fri, 1 Jun 2018 10:14:16 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP IN PORTUGAL Message-ID: *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, 2018. 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 2018 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: www.aimmportugal.org/dolphin-research-internship AIMM will send a confirmation e-mail with all the details about the internship and asking for your Resume/CV, motivation letter (small statement on which are your expectations and why do you want to work with AIMM) and the period of time that you want do the program. OR Applicants should send an e-mail to: interns at aimm-portugal.org, with the subject ?*DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP*?. You will receive and e-mail with the availability 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* Website: www.aimmportugal.org Youtube: https://Youtube/AIMMPortugal Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AIMM.org/ Instagram: http://instagram.com/aimmportugal_org Twitter: https://twitter.com/AIMMPortugal -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From sara.heimlich at oregonstate.edu Thu Jun 7 12:01:45 2018 From: sara.heimlich at oregonstate.edu (Sara Heimlich) Date: Thu, 7 Jun 2018 12:01:45 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] Detection of Marine Mammal Sounds: A Passive Acoustic Training Workshop In-Reply-To: <922f54ae-84c3-385c-d4e5-8e3325cfde3b@oregonstate.edu> References: <922f54ae-84c3-385c-d4e5-8e3325cfde3b@oregonstate.edu> Message-ID: There is still room! Detection of Marine Mammal Sounds: A Passive Acoustic Training Workshop. Join Oregon State University and The University of Rhode Island for a hands-on workshop exploring new and improved detection capabilities of Ishmael, a free sound analysis software system. This free 2.5 day workshop, sponsored? by LMR, will feature: * Basics of Sound Analysis * Overview of Detection and Classification * Advanced Detection Techniques * Performance Comparison * Detection in Ishmael using MATLAB * Lab: Detect calls in your own data set WHEN: Tuesday June 19 - Thursday June 21, 2018 (9am to 5pm T,W and 9am to 12 pm Th) WHERE: University of Rhode Island, in the Engineering Computing Center, Kirk Hall, 90 Upper College Road, Kingston, RI. Contact Sharon Nieukirk to register: Sharon.Nieukirk at oregonstate.edu -- Sara Heimlich CIMRS/NOAA Hatfield Marine Science Center Newport,OR. 97365 USA (541)867-0328 office (541)961-1737 cell sara.heimlich at noaa.gov -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: Ish_2018-Wrkshp-URI-FLYER.pdf Type: application/pdf Size: 290362 bytes Desc: not available URL: From stephanie.king at uwa.edu.au Fri Jun 8 16:20:44 2018 From: stephanie.king at uwa.edu.au (Stephanie King) Date: Fri, 8 Jun 2018 23:20:44 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication on individual vocal labels in multi-level dolphin alliances Message-ID: Hi all, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce our new publication in Current Biology: King SL, Friedman W, Allen SJ, Gerber L, Jensen F, Wittwer S, Connor RC, Kr?tzen M (2018) Bottlenose dolphins retain individual vocal labels in multi-level alliances. Current Biology. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2018.05.013 Summary: Cooperation between allied individuals and groups is ubiquitous in human societies, and vocal communication is known to play a key role in facilitating such complex human behaviours. In fact, complex communication may be a feature of the kind of social cognition required for the formation of social alliances, facilitating both partner choice and the execution of coordinated behaviours. As such, a compelling avenue for investigation is what role flexible communication systems play in the formation and maintenance of cooperative partnerships in other alliance-forming animals. Male bottlenose dolphins in some populations form complex multi-level alliances, where individuals cooperate in the pursuit and defence of an important resource, access to females. These strong relationships can last for decades and are critical to each male?s reproductive success. Convergent vocal accommodation is used to signal social proximity to a partner or social group in many taxa, and it has long been thought that allied male dolphins also converge onto a shared signal to broadcast alliance identity. Here, we combine a decade of data on social interactions with dyadic relatedness estimates to show that male dolphins that form multi-level alliances in an open social network retain individual vocal labels that are distinct from those of their allies. Our results differ from earlier reports of signature whistle convergence among males that form stable alliance pairs. Instead, they suggest that individual vocal labels play a central role in the maintenance of differentiated relationships within complex nested alliances. The paper can be accessed here: https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(18)30615-8 All the best, Stephanie ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Stephanie L. King, PhD Branco Weiss Fellow - Society in Science Centre for Evolutionary Biology School of Biological Sciences University of Western Australia 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009 Ph 0864881773 (W) 0447 265840 (M) www.sharkbaydolphins.org [49454AF0-085F-47E1-BF1C-A677692EEBF4.png] Please visit my homepage to find out more about my research. ?Because in the end, you won?t remember the time you spent working in the office or mowing your lawn. Climb that goddamn mountain.? ? Jack Kerouac -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: 0A2CF8E0-4673-4C78-82AE-C646BE9C3C3F[1].png Type: image/png Size: 26790 bytes Desc: 0A2CF8E0-4673-4C78-82AE-C646BE9C3C3F[1].png URL: From isabella.kratzer at thuenen.de Sun Jun 10 03:33:03 2018 From: isabella.kratzer at thuenen.de (Isabella Kratzer) Date: Sun, 10 Jun 2018 12:33:03 +0200 (CEST) Subject: [MARMAM] Opportunity for students in Baltic Sea Message-ID: <1395848286.4963748.1528626783714.JavaMail.zimbra@thuenen.de> Dear MARMAM-members, as summer is coming up we have an exciting research project going on in the Baltic Sea in Denmark. We are looking at behavioral reactions of harbor porpoises to (modified) gillnets as well as gillnet components in order to identify tools for an efficient by-catch reduction in the gillnet fishery. We will be on the beautiful island Fyn and the weather so far has been very promising! We are looking for (student) volunteers in the period between July 23rd and Sept 9th to help us watching for porpoises via theodolite as well as aerial observations via Helikite and also using hydrophones. Duties comprise a variety of tasks ranging from simply watching out for porpoises to helping when deploying/retrieving gear from the boat and other tasks. We will provide room and board and lots of fun, unfortunately there cannot be a compensation. If you are interested - also for just one or two weeks in the given period - let me know. We will be happy to provide an opportunity to learn more about these fascinating animals. Please let me know if you have any questions. Looking foward to hearing from you! Kind regards, Isabella -- Isabella Kratzer Th?nen-Institut f?r Ostseefischerei/ Th?nen Institute of Baltic Sea Fisheries Alter Hafen S?d 2 18069 Rostock (Germany) Tel: +49 381 8116 147 Fax: +49 381 8116 199 Mail: isabella.kratzer at thuenen.de Web: www.thuenen.de/of/ Das Johann Heinrich von Thu?nen-Institut, Bundesforschungsinstitut fu?r La?ndliche Ra?ume, Wald und Fischerei ? kurz: Thu?nen-Institut ? besteht aus 14 Fachinstituten, die in den Bereichen O?konomie, O?kologie und Technologie forschen und die Politik beraten. The Johann Heinrich von Thu?nen Institute, Federal Research Institute for Rural Areas, Forestry and Fisheries ? Thu?nen Institute in brief ? consists of 14 specialized institutes that carry out research and provide policy advice in the fields of economy, ecology and technology. From simo_liste at tiscali.it Sun Jun 10 15:15:27 2018 From: simo_liste at tiscali.it (simo_liste at tiscali.it) Date: Mon, 11 Jun 2018 00:15:27 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] SECOND CALL: marine megafauna of the Falklands - Volunteer opportunity Message-ID: <1f475bd879ade40207b2851c3ea39a76@tiscali.it> VOLUNTEERS FIELD HELPERS RECRUITMENT - SECOND CALL ------------------------------------ PROJECT: Long term study of MARINE MEGAFAUNA of the FALKLAND ISLANDS. POSITION: Volunteer (unpaid) field helper. DURATION: about 3 months and a half, two shifts: 1) late August 2018 to early December 2018, and 2) early December 2018 to late March 2019; exact dates in the field to be established later. LOCATION: Sea Lion Island, Falkland Islands, Southern Atlantic Ocean. Sea Lion Island on Google maps: https://www.google.com/maps?q=Sea%25Lion%25Island,%2520Falkland%25Islands>https://www.google.com/maps?q=Sea%25Lion%25Island,%2520Falkland%25Islands DUTIES: - Southern elephant seals: counts, marking, mapping, observation of behavior, pup handling, collection of samples, sedation and handling of females for TDR and satellite tag deployment - Killer whales: photoidentification, observation and videotaping of behavior, necropsies of preys - Falklands skuas: counts, nest identification and mapping, observation of behavior - Raptors: counts, nest identification and mapping, observation of behavior - Marine birds: counts and mapping of different species (different species of penguins, cormorants, gulls, geese, and ducks) - Environmental monitoring: collection of microclimatic data, habitat classification, collection of GIS data DEADLINE: June 17th 2018; please note that, capabilities being equal, positions will be allocated with a first come first served policy. DESCRIPTION Volunteer field helpers are required for the 2018-2019 field season of various long-term research projects on marine megafauna of the Falkland Islands, carried out by the Elephant Seal Research Group. The field work site is Sea Lion Island. Successful applicants will receive adequate training and will help with: - a long term project (23 years) on individual life histories and breeding strategies of southern elephant seals - a long term project (5 years) on social and hunting behaviour of mammal-eating killer whales - a study of Falklands skua demography, behavior and vocal communication - various monitoring projects on the different marine and raptor bird species breeding on Sea Lion Island - general environmental monitoring of the island, including the collection of data for the Sea Lion Island GIS Volunteers will be supervised by the PIs and/or by trained technicians. Previous experience of field work is appreciated but not essential. We are recruiting helpers for two shifts; - late August to early December: focus is elephant seals breeding, killer whales predation on weaned elephant seal pups, establishment of pairs and territories by skuas - early December to late March: focus are elephant seal weaned pups and moulters, general killer whales activity and behavior, study of skuas behavior and communication, monitoring of breeding of marine birds and raptors, collection of general environmental data Only applicants who can stay for a whole shift (about 3 months and a half) can be taken into consideration. No volunteer is allowed to apply to stay for both shifts, so please state clearly in your cover letter for which one you are applying (first or second) or, if you are available for both, which of the two you prefer (although we cannot guarantee to meet your preference). Applicants are required to pay all expenses to get to Sea Lion Island, and telephone/Internet expenses while there. Accommodation and food at SLI will be provided by the ESRG. Accommodation on SLI is rather basic and self-catering, but comfortable for a field research setting (heating, hot water, shower, Internet connection hotspot in the nearby lodge). We are asking volunteers a 300 GBP contribution to help us with management expenses and individual research equipment repair/maintenance. Applicants will be required to work in the field for the whole length of the day, seven days per week, with just an half day of rest per week. Volunteers are required to help with cooking, cleaning of their cabin and general maintenance tasks. The data collection protocol is complex, the field work is physically demanding, and the weather is often not very good. People without a good tolerance to cold are discouraged to apply. It is a very rewarding, but demanding, experience. The island is a wonderful place with large unspoiled sandy beaches, and a very rich and very tame wildlife. It is the best hot spot for wildlife watching in the Falklands, it is an Important Birds Area and an Important Plants Area, a RAMSAR convention site, and a National Nature Reserve. APPLICATION To apply please send 1) a cover letter describing your interest in the position and summarizing your qualifications for it, 2) a detailed CV, and 3) a copy of an identification document (with picture). Reference letters (3 maximum) are appreciated, but not essential, and should be sent directly to the email address mentioned below. If you think you may have extra documentation that can be relevant (eg, copy of a thesis, certificates, etc.) please mention them in your email, but don't send them unless we ask. Please put all documents in a single PDF file, name it as "your_surname - ESRG2018 - application", and email it as an attachment of an email to Dr. Filippo Galimberti (fil_esrg at eleseal.org). Deadline for first call applications is June 17th, 2018. Due to the limited number of positions available we warmly suggest perspective candidates to apply as soon as possible. Further details about the position are available here: http://www.eleseal.org/info_helpers_eng.html Thanks The ESRG team Con Mobile Open 6 GB hai 6 Giga, 600 minuti e 300 SMS per il tuo smartphone a 9? al mese per sempre. Passa ora a Tiscali Mobile, il nostro mese ? vero! http://tisca.li/Open6GB0318 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From eringutbrod at gmail.com Mon Jun 11 11:56:56 2018 From: eringutbrod at gmail.com (Erin Meyer-Gutbrod) Date: Mon, 11 Jun 2018 11:56:56 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication: Right whale distribution shift and extinction risk Message-ID: Dear MARMAM subscribers, We are pleased to announce the publication of the following article in Oceanography: Meyer-Gutbrod, E.L., C.H. Greene, and K.T.A. Davies. 2018. Marine species range shifts necessitate advanced policy planning: The case of the North Atlantic right whale. *Oceanography*31(2), https://doi.org/10.5670/oceanog.2018.209. Abstract: Rising global temperatures are causing a poleward shift in species distribution. Range shift velocities are higher in the marine environment, with observed rates of 30?130 km per decade. Both protected and exploited species will be at risk if marine species management policies are not structured to anticipate these range shifts. The 2017 mass mortality event of the North Atlantic right whale showcases the detrimental impact of unanticipated climate-mediated behavior in a species protected by geographically and seasonally fixed policies. Based on the results of a demographic capture-?recapture model, right whales may face extinction in fewer than 30 years unless protective policies are expanded to cover their shifting distribution. Increased support of long-term monitoring programs paired with environmental modeling research is critical to developing more proactive conservation management strategies and preventing further ecological crises. -- Erin Meyer-Gutbrod, Ph.D. http://meyer-gutbrod.weebly.com/ Marine Science Institute; Rm 3405 University of California, Santa Barbara Santa Barbara, CA 93106-6150 eringutbrod at gmail.com 216-548-9082 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From janet_neilson at nps.gov Mon Jun 11 12:07:21 2018 From: janet_neilson at nps.gov (Neilson, Janet) Date: Mon, 11 Jun 2018 11:07:21 -0800 Subject: [MARMAM] Humpback whale monitoring in Glacier Bay & Icy Strait, Alaska - 2017 annual progress report Message-ID: The following report is now available, summarizing our 33rd consecutive year of humpback whale population monitoring in Glacier Bay and Icy Strait in southeastern Alaska: Neilson, J. L., C. M. Gabriele, and L. F. Taylor-Thomas. 2018. Humpback whale monitoring in Glacier Bay and adjacent waters 2017: Annual progress report. Natural Resource Report NPS/GLBA/NRR?2018/1660. National Park Service, Fort Collins, Colorado. https://irma.nps.gov/DataStore/DownloadFile/602012 [2.8 MB] *ABSTRACT* Migratory humpback whales (*Megaptera novaeangliae*) use southeastern Alaska as summer feeding habitat, including the waters in and around Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve (GBNPP). This report summarizes GBNPP?s humpback whale monitoring program in Glacier Bay and Icy Strait (GB-IS) in 2017, our 33rd consecutive year of consistent data collection in June-August. We documented 128 unique whales, our lowest count since 2003, and effort-corrected counts also revealed steep decreases. By all measures, humpback whale abundance has declined >40% since peaking in 2013. We documented decreases in within-year and between-year site fidelity, with 44% (29 of 66) of whales exhibiting long-term (2004-2013) fidelity to GB-IS interrupting their regular annual return in 2014-2017. This was the fourth consecutive year of calving anomalies, with only two mother/calf pairs in GB-IS (one lost her calf by mid-July), resulting in the second lowest crude birth rate (1.6%) since 1985. We documented no known juveniles (ages 1-4), indicating a possible decline in recruitment, as well as many abnormally thin whales (24%). This was the first year that a reduced vessel speed limit (13 kts) was not warranted in lower GB. The Point Adolphus ?core group? was not sighted and the fate of many group members is unknown. Within Alaska, the long-term, consistent monitoring of humpback whales is limited to GB-IS, making it difficult to determine over what geographic scale these declines in abundance, site fidelity, calving, recruitment, and physical condition are occurring, however there is evidence that declines may be occurring throughout the central North Pacific. For reports from past years, go to https://www.nps.gov/glba/learn/nature/whale_acoustic_reports.htm -- Janet Neilson Humpback Whale Monitoring Program Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve PO Box 140 Gustavus, Alaska 99826 907-697-2658 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From sarahtubbs123 at gmail.com Tue Jun 12 21:17:09 2018 From: sarahtubbs123 at gmail.com (Sarah Tubbs) Date: Wed, 13 Jun 2018 11:17:09 +0700 Subject: [MARMAM] Call for Marine Mammal Research Interns in Kep, Cambodia. Message-ID: Call for Marine Mammal Research Interns in Kep, Cambodia. Marine Conservation Cambodia (MCC) is an NGO based on the island of Koh Ach Seh, in Cambodia's Kep Archipelago. The organisation has many facets, including working to stop illegal fishing practices, ecological and social science research and collecting data to use in the implementation of conservation legislation. In September 2017, MCC introduced *The Cambodian Marine Mammal Conservation Project* in collaboration with the *DMAD Marine Mammals Research Association * and the Dolphin Division of Cambodia's Fisheries Administration. The project's primary aim is to collect data on abundance, distribution and residency to delineate and protect critical habitats for the endangered Irrawaddy dolphin in Cambodia's Kep Archipelago. We are looking for marine mammal research interns to join the team between August and December 2018. * Project activities: * ? a minimum of 3 observational land surveys per week using a Theodolite and Pythagoras software; ? a minimum of 1 observational boat survey per week; ? aerial surveys using a DJI drone; ? photo-identification techniques using Discovery software; ? passive acoustic monitoring using a C-POD and CPOD.exe software; ? social science techniques; ? data entry, processing and analysis; ? education and outreach; ? running a marine mammal stranding network; ? scientific writing for peer-reviewed journals and government reports; ? designing marine mammal legislation. *Basic internship training schedule* Session 1: Introduction to MCC and The Cambodian Marine Mammal Conservation Project. Session 2: Research method training on observational land and boat surveying techniques. Session 3: Marine mammal identification and behaviour training. Session 4: Marine vessel identification training. Session 5: Data sheet and data entry training. Session 6: Drone footage analysis training. Session 7: Training feedback and debrief. Session 8: Practice observational land and boat survey. Session 9: Theodolite introduction and training. Session 10: Pythagoras and Theodolite station setting training. Depending on your skill set and interest, you may want to become involved in other project related activities, however this will be dependent on the length of your internship. *Internship requirements:* We are looking for dedicated, motived and hard-working interns, ready to commit to early mornings and late nights, with a keen interest in marine mammals and their conservation. You must be: ? positive; ? adaptable; ? self-motivated; ? resourceful; ? a team player; ? eager to learn; ? good at time management; ? and comfortable living in shared accommodation within a multicultural team. *Project site description:* The project is based on the island of Koh Ach Seh, a 40-minute boat trip from Kep Town, Cambodia. The island is inhabited only by MCC, a team made up of a mixture of interdisciplinary international and local staff. The accommodation and facilities on the island are basic but well-maintained. You will be in shared and catered accommodation with fellow interns and staff members. All project related resources are provided. *Application process and fees:* There is an internship fee of $400 USD/week, which will cover: ? all food, water, accommodation; ? transport to and from the mainland to the project island; ? marine mammal research training; ? scuba diving (if qualified); ? and the opportunity to get involved in activities and training at MCC, such as seahorse research or artificial reef management. Discounts are available for those committing to longer durations or for individuals with significant relevant experience. There are limited spaces available, if interested, please send a CV/resume and covering letter to *cambodiadolphinproject at gmail.com * to apply. *Sarah Tubbs* Project Coordinator of 'The Cambodian Dolphin Project', Marine Conservation Cambodia +855 97 642 5886 | cambodiadolphinproject at gmail.com https://www.marineconservationcambodia.org/ Create your own email signature -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From panti4 at unisi.it Wed Jun 13 00:34:00 2018 From: panti4 at unisi.it (Cristina Panti) Date: Wed, 13 Jun 2018 09:34:00 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] paper on cetaceans and marine debris Message-ID: <001f01d402e8$e645cf70$b2d16e50$@unisi.it> Dear Colleagues, I would like to share with you our last publication as a mini-review on the interaction of cetaceans and marine debris: "A Review of Plastic-Associated Pressures: Cetaceans of the Mediterranean Sea and Eastern Australian Shearwaters as Case Studies" by Fossi MC, Panti C, Baini M and Lavers JL. Front. Mar. Sci., 23 May 2018 | https://doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2018.00173 https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmars.2018.00173/full Abstract: Impacts of debris on marine fauna occur throughout the marine ecosystems, with adverse impacts documented on over 1,400 species; impacts can be divided into those arising from entanglement, and those from ingestion. Ingestion of, and entanglement in, debris has been documented in over 60% of all cetacean species. Seabirds are also impacted by debris predominately through entanglement and ingestion, with the number of species negatively impacted increasing from 138 to 174 over the past two decades. In the marine environment, cetaceans and seabirds are widely regarded as reliable sentinels due to their position near the top of the marine food web, conspicuous nature, and reliance on marine resources; for this reason, this paper is focused on seabirds and cetaceans as sentinels of ocean change. In particular, two case studies are considered in relation to different levels of environmental anthropogenic impact: the cetaceans of the Mediterranean Sea and seabirds of eastern Australia. Here we describe two recent studies used to diagnose the toxicological stress related to debris-associated pressures in cetaceans and seabirds. These studies highlight the diversity and scale of impacts being felt by marine species and the role these organisms can play in our society as charismatic sentinels of ocean health. Seabirds and marine mammals are exposed, in these key areas, to a variety of adversities that potentially decrease their survival or reproductive success. These include weather, food shortages, predators, competitors, parasites, disease, and human-induced effects and plastic pollution. Each factor affects seabirds and marine mammals in a different way, but more importantly, factors can also interact and create impacts far greater than any one factor alone. The Australian and Mediterranean case studies presented here emphasize the need to consider multiple sources of mortality when developing management plans for the conservation of vulnerable species. Best regards, Cristina ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> Cristina Panti, PhD Department of Environmental, Earth and Physical Sciences University of Siena Via P.A. Mattioli, 4 53100, Siena Italy Ph. +39 0577 232883 Fax. +39 0577 232930 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From Matthew.Bowers2 at colostate.edu Wed Jun 13 10:14:39 2018 From: Matthew.Bowers2 at colostate.edu (Bowers,Matthew) Date: Wed, 13 Jun 2018 17:14:39 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication on the selective reactions to killer whale calls by two delphinid species Message-ID: Hi All, My co-authors and I are please to announce our new publication in the Journal of Experimental Biology: Selective reactions to different killer whale call categories in two delphinid species Matthew T. Bowers, Ari S. Friedlaender, Vincent M. Janik, Douglas P. Nowacek, Nicola J. Quick, Brandon L. Southall, Andrew J. Read Journal of Experimental Biology 2018 221: jeb162479 doi: 10.1242/jeb.162479 Published 12 June 2018 Abstract: The risk of predation is often invoked as an important factor influencing the evolution of social organization in cetaceans, but little direct information is available about how these aquatic mammals respond to predators or other perceived threats. We used controlled playback experiments to examine the behavioral responses of short-finned pilot whales (Globicephala macrorhynchus) off Cape Hatteras, NC, USA, and Risso's dolphins (Grampus griseus) off the coast of Southern California, USA, to the calls of a potential predator, mammal-eating killer whales. We transmitted calls of mammal-eating killer whales, conspecifics and baleen whales to 10 pilot whales and four Risso's dolphins equipped with multi-sensor archival acoustic recording tags (DTAGs). Only playbacks of killer whale calls resulted in significant changes in tagged animal heading. The strong responses observed in both species occurred only following exposure to a subset of killer whale calls, all of which contained multiple non-linear properties. This finding suggests that these structural features of killer whale calls convey information about predatory risk to pilot whales and Risso's dolphins. The observed responses differed between the two species; pilot whales approached the sound source while Risso's dolphins fled following playbacks. These divergent responses likely reflect differences in anti-predator response mediated by the social structure of the two species. The paper can be accessed here: http://jeb.biologists.org/content/221/11/jeb162479 Cheers, Matthew Matthew Bowers, PhD Research Scientist Dept. of Fish, Wildlife and Conservation Biology Colorado State University 136 Wagar Building Fort Collins CO 80523 mtbowers at colostate.edu -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From solene.derville at ird.fr Wed Jun 13 16:08:51 2018 From: solene.derville at ird.fr (solene derville) Date: Thu, 14 Jun 2018 10:08:51 +1100 Subject: [MARMAM] New publication: Comparative cetacean distribution models Message-ID: <54355aec-0e74-c99f-5fba-2027ec7e3935@ird.fr> Dear MARMAM community, We are pleased to announce the publication of the following article in Diversity and Distributions: *Derville S, Torres LG, Iovan C, Garrigue C. Finding the right fit: Comparative cetacean distribution models using multiple data sources and statistical approaches. Divers Distrib. 2018;00:1?17. https://doi.org/10.1111/ddi.12782* ***Abstract*** *Aim. *Accurate predictions of cetacean distributions are essential to their conservation but are limited by statistical challenges and a paucity of data. This study aimed at comparing the capacity of various statistical algorithms to deal with biases commonly found in nonsystematic cetacean surveys and to evaluate the potential for citizen science data to improve habitat modelling and predictions. An endangered population of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in their breeding ground was used as a case study. *Location.* New Caledonia, Oceania. *Methods. *Five statistical algorithms were used to model the habitat preferences of humpback whales from 1,360 sightings collected over 14 years of nonsystematic research surveys. Three different background sampling approaches were tested when developing models from 625 crowdsourced sightings to assess methods accounting for citizen science spatial sampling bias. Model evaluation was conducted through cross?validation and prediction to an independent satellite tracking dataset. *Results.* Algorithms differed in complexity of the environmental relationships modelled, ecological interpretability and transferability. While parameter tuning had a great effect on model performances, GLMs generally had low predictive performance, SVMs were particularly hard to interpret, and BRTs had high descriptive power but showed signs of overfitting. MAXENT and especially GAMs provided a valuable complexity trade?off, accurate predictions and were ecologically intelligible. Models showed that humpback whales favoured cool (22?23?C) and shallow waters (0?100 m deep) in coastal as well as offshore areas. Citizen science models converged with research survey models, specifically when accounting for spatial sampling bias. *Main conclusions.* Marine megafauna distribution models present specific challenges that may be addressed through integrative evaluation, independent testing and appropriately tuned statistical algorithms. Specifically, controlling overfitting is a priority when predicting cetacean distributions for large?scale conservation perspectives. Citizen science data appear to be a powerful tool to describe cetacean habitat. The paper may be downloaded on https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/ddi.12782 Feel free to contact me directly for a PDF copy: solene.derville at ird.fr Best, -- Sol?ne Derville PhD student - Spatial Ecology UMR Entropie - Institut de Recherche pour le D?veloppement Universit? Pierre et Marie Curie Association Op?ration C?tac?s ---------- 101 Promenade Roger Laroque, BPA5 98848 Noumea cedex, New Caledonia Phone: +687 912299 https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Solene_Derville -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From oliverhooker at prstatistics.com Tue Jun 12 20:59:27 2018 From: oliverhooker at prstatistics.com (Oliver Hooker) Date: Wed, 13 Jun 2018 04:59:27 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] Fwd: Part funded scholarships for Social Network Analysis for Behavioural Scientists using R (SNAR01) In-Reply-To: <3bf9a13bb2372d5537708408a6d99306@prstatistics.com> References: <3bf9a13bb2372d5537708408a6d99306@prstatistics.com> Message-ID: PS statistics are offering some part funded scholarships for their upcoming course on Social Network Analysis for Behavioural Scientists using R (SNAR01) which may interest people studying social behaviour in marine mammals. https://www.psstatistics.com/course/social-network-analysis-for-behavioral-scientists-snar01/ SCHOLARSHIPS CONTRIBUTE TOWARDS COURSE AND ACCOMMODATION FEES WITH 5 ALL INCLUSIVE PLACES (accommodation and meals included) AVAILABLE AT ?450.00 (Fees have been subsidised from ?750.00). Applications should be sent to oliverhooker at psstatistics.com and contain the following. 1. Full name 2. Institute name 3. Masters/PhD subject title or Post doc research questions 4. Do you hold a funded position 5. 150 words why this course would be relevant to your research or how it would help. Application deadline is 17 June 2018. We have 'normal' places available as well. -- Oliver Hooker PhD. PR statistics 2018 publications - Phenotypic and resource use partitioning amongst sympatric lacustrine brown trout, Salmo trutta. Biological Journal of the Linnean Society. DOI 10.1093/biolinnean/bly032 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 Shelby.Beard at MyFWC.com Thu Jun 14 09:00:47 2018 From: Shelby.Beard at MyFWC.com (Beard, Shelby) Date: Thu, 14 Jun 2018 16:00:47 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] FWC Manatee Internship Availability Message-ID: The Southeast manatee field station is currently seeking candidates for one Fall/Winter 2018 and one Winter/Spring 2019 internship! Application deadline is Sunday, July 8th Interns will assist with manatee rescue, carcass salvage, and research in South Florida. The Southeast Field lab is offering two internships: one 6 month term for the fall/winter 2018 session and one 4-6 month term for the Winter/Spring 2019 session. The expected start date for the Fall/Winter 2018 internship will be around October 1st and January 2nd for the Winter/Spring 2019 internship. Start dates will be flexible. Working hours are typically five days a week, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some nights and weekends required. The position is located in Tequesta (east coast of Florida, just north of Palm Beach). The intern's duties include assisting with manatee rescue, carcass salvage, and research in South Florida. Interns will assist with manatee and cetacean field necropsies, temperature monitoring research, and conduct manatee photo ID. Interns will also complete mortality and rescue reports and assist with other office and public outreach work as needed. To perform the duties of the position, interns will operate trucks, trailers, and boats up to 22' in length. The intern is required to complete a project and present a 10-15 minute presentation at the end of their internship. Qualifications: Junior or senior college students and recent graduates are eligible. Applicants should have some research field experience; be able to drive large trucks; be computer literate; be comfortable speaking to the public; and be proficient in the use of digital cameras, telephoto lenses, and filters. Previous animal-handling experience is desirable. Ability to trailer flatbeds and boats, as well as operate watercraft up to 22' in length is desirable. Interns must possess a valid driver's license, be able to lift 50 pounds, and be able to swim. Applicants should understand that this internship will require them to be wet, dirty, and outdoors in all weather conditions. This position is unpaid and housing is not provided. Interns must provide their own transportation to and from the field station. If you are interested in applying for an internship with the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, the following information is required: * A cover letter describing area(s) of interest and the dates, days, and hours of availability * A r?sum? describing training and experience * A list of three references * An unofficial copy of your academic transcript Please send these items as e-mail attachments to: Interns at MyFWC.com Or mail hard copies to: Internship Coordinator Fish and Wildlife Research Institute 100 Eighth Avenue SE St. Petersburg, FL 33701-5020 http://myfwc.com/research/manatee/research/internships-volunteers/se-fl-intern/ Shelby Beard Biological Scientist Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Marine Mammal Section 19100 SE Federal Highway, Tequesta, FL 33469 Wildlife Alert Hotline: 1-888-404-3922 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From Paula.Moreno at usm.edu Thu Jun 14 14:01:29 2018 From: Paula.Moreno at usm.edu (Paula Moreno) Date: Thu, 14 Jun 2018 21:01:29 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] recent publications Message-ID: Dear MARMAM members, We are pleased to announce the following two publications published in the ICES Journal of Marine Science: Punt, A.E., Moreno, P., Brandon, J. R. and Mathews, M.A. Conserving and recovering vulnerable marine species: a comprehensive evaluation of the US approach for marine mammals ICES Journal of Marine Science, fsy049, https://doi.org/10.1093/icesjms/fsy049 Published: 11 June 2018 Abstract Human-caused mortality due primarily to bycatch in fisheries is considered a major threat to some long-lived, slow-growing, and otherwise vulnerable marine species. Under many jurisdictions these species are designated as "protected", and fisheries are subject to a management system that includes monitoring and assessment of bycatch impacts relative to management objectives. The US management system for marine mammals is one of the most sophisticated in the world, with a limit on human-caused mortality computed using the potential biological removal (PBR), formula. Fisheries are categorized according to their impact relative to PBR, and take reduction teams established to develop take reduction plans (TRPs) when bycatch exceeds PBR. The default values of the parameters of the PBR formula were selected in the late 1990s using management strategy evaluation (MSE), but the system, in particular the classification of fisheries, has yet to be evaluated in its entirety. A MSE framework is developed that includes the PBR formula, as well as the processes for evaluating whether a stock is "strategic", assigning fisheries to categories, and implementing TRPs. The level of error associated with fisheries classification was found not to impact the ability to achieve the conservation objective established for a stock under the US Marine Mammal Protection Act (i.e. maintain or recover the stock to/at optimum sustainable population). However, this ability is highly dependent on the life history and absolute abundance of the species being managed, as well as on the premise that bycatch is reduced if bycatch is estimated to exceed the PBR. The probability of correctly classifying fisheries depends on both the coefficient of variations (CVs) of the estimates of bycatch and the marine mammal stock's abundance because classification depends on the ratio of the estimate of bycatch by fishery-type to the stock's PBR, and the precision of the former depends on the bycatch CV and the latter on the abundance estimate CV. Moreover, the probability of correctly classifying a fishery decreases for smaller populations, particularly when a fishery has low to moderate impact. Brandon, J. R., Punt, A. E., Moreno, P., and Reeves, R. R. 2017. Toward a tier system approach for calculating limits on human-caused mortality of marine mammals. ICES Journal of Marine Science, 74: 877-887. https://doi.org/10.1093/icesjms/fsw202 Abstract The Potential Biological Removal (PBR) management strategy is used for the assessment, relative to management objectives, of human-caused mortality of marine mammal stocks. PBR has been used to provide scientific advice on limits on human-caused mortality of marine mammals as well as other long-lived marine vertebrates worldwide. Current values for the parameters of this reference limit were obtained using a Management Strategy Evaluation (MSE) approach, where computer simulation is used to model a range of scenarios representing different scientific uncertainties. An assumption underlying the current management strategy, as originally evaluated, is that only the single most recent estimate of abundance is used to calculate PBR. We extend the original MSE and introduce a tiered hierarchy of data availability, from data-rich to data-poor. Alternative approaches for deriving values used to calculate PBR in each tier (e.g. incorporating multiple abundance estimates for data-rich stocks) are evaluated relative to the management objectives of the United States Marine Mammal Protection Act. A PBR tier system would allow the best available information to be used for each stock, recognizing the different types and levels of uncertainty that exist among stocks. It is shown that if the sex ratio of human caused mortality is not one, PBR may not perform as expected. Likewise, an alternative value for the NMIN percentile could be adopted when survey estimates are imprecise and multiple abundance estimates are available. The standard approach, using only a single abundance estimate, is less flexible in this regard. Additionally, incorporating multiple abundance estimates for data-rich stocks can lead to increased stability of calculated values for PBR through time. Reduction in variability could reduce regulatory uncertainty that may be associated with some human activities managed according to PBR. Therefore, including multiple abundance estimates, when possible, into the calculation of PBR may prove desirable. Regards, Paula Moreno, Ph.D. Fisheries, Protected Resources and Marine Spatial Ecology University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Coast Research Laboratory 300 Laurel Oak Drive, Ocean Springs, MS 39564 ph: (228)818.8013 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From jte at bios.au.dk Fri Jun 15 09:02:36 2018 From: jte at bios.au.dk (Jonas Teilmann) Date: Fri, 15 Jun 2018 16:02:36 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Incredible porpoise movements in the Atlantic Message-ID: <189a8ae3169246448a09b50782f82ed2@Exch14.uni.au.dk> Dear All, We are pleased to announce our new publication in Marine Ecology Progress Series: Oceanic movements, site fidelity and deep diving in harbour porpoises from Greenland show limited similarities to animals from the North Sea Nynne H. Nielsen, Jonas Teilmann , Signe Sveegaard , Rikke G. Hansen , Mikkel-Holger S. Sinding , Rune Dietz , Mads Peter Heide-J?rgensen Marine Ecology Progress Series Volume 597, page 259 ABSTRACT: Harbour porpoises Phocoena phocoena are common in continental shelf areas of the North Atlantic, but little information is available on their occurrence outside coastal areas. In this study, 30 harbour porpoises were actively caught in West Greenland and instrumented with satellite transmitters to document their seasonal movements and diving behaviour. The porpoises displayed long-range oceanic movements within the North Atlantic, especially during winter/spring where they moved over areas with water depths >2500 m. While offshore, 2 females demonstrated an average maximum dive depth of 248 m, with the deepest dive reaching 410 m. This behaviour is in contrast to 71 porpoises tagged in Danish waters of the North Sea which did not leave the continental shelf but showed a preference for areas with shallow waters year round, even when at the edge of the continental shelf where greater depths were available. Six tags from Greenland transmitted long enough (up to 3 yr) to demonstrate extensive movements and strong site fidelity to the tagging site in West Greenland the following summer. This study documents that harbour porpoises use oceanic habitats and can dive to depths that enable mesopelagic foraging, while repeatedly demonstrating summer site fidelity to coastal areas. The paper can be downloaded here: https://int-res.com/abstracts/meps/v597/p259-272/ or I can send you a pdf. All the best, Nynne Elmelund Lemming Ph.D. student -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From wally at oceania.org.au Fri Jun 15 17:07:33 2018 From: wally at oceania.org.au (Wally Franklin) Date: Sat, 16 Jun 2018 10:07:33 +1000 Subject: [MARMAM] Franklin et al 2018: Site-specific female-biased sex ratio of humpback whales during a stopover early in the southern migration Message-ID: <1FB92B59-191D-4E03-9451-0AFFAB979F7A@oceania.org.au> Hi MARMAM, Further to our posting of 7th February 2018, on behalf of all Authors I am pleased to announce publication in Volume 96, Issue 6, pp533-544, Canadian Journal of Zoology of: Site-specific female-biased sex ratio of humpback whales during a stopover early in the southern migration Trish Franklin; , Wally Franklin; , Lyndon Brooks; , Peter L Harrison Published on the web 20 December 2017. Received March 28, 2017. Canadian Journal of Zoology, https://doi.org/10.1139/cjz-2017-0086 <> ABSTRACT Previous research on humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae (Borowski, 1781)), in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, has reported site-specific male-biased sex ratios in breeding grounds and along migratory corridors. However, one recent Southern Hemisphere study reported a female-biased sex ratio in a feeding area within a coastal migratory corridor, indicating that females may preferentially occupy some habitats. We investigated the classes and relative seasonal timing of humpback whales using Hervey Bay as a stopover early in the southern migration. Modeling and analyzes were undertaken using data from resighting histories of 361 individually identified whales between 1992 and 2009. The data consisted of 2,131 sightings categorized by either sex, age, reproductive or maturational status. A female-biased sex ratio of 2.94:1 indicates that Hervey Bay is a preferential stopover for females. The data revealed that the bay is important for mature females who co-occur with immature males and females during August. While during September and October mothers with calves accompanied by a few escorts dominate the Bay. Immature males and females socialize with mature females during August and September. The data support the hypothesis that habitat preferences and differential migration of females and males provides a plausible explanation for site-specific sex-bias in breeding grounds, migratory stopovers and along migratory corridors. A PDF of the article and supplementary information is available at: https://doi.org/10.1139/cjz-2017-0086 Any enquiries regarding the manuscript please contact: trish at oceania.org.au Regards, Trish Franklin, on behalf of all Authors ........................................................................ Trish Franklin PhD The Oceania Project PO Box 646 Byron Bay NSW 2481 Australia ABN 73 052 470 630 ACN 052 470 630 Phone: 0418 797 326 Skype: oceania.org.au Email: trish at oceania.org.au Web: The Oceania Project iWhales.org Songlines - Songs of the eastern Australian humpback whales The Oceania Project | Facebook The Oceania Project | Vimeo The Oceania Project | SoundCloud The Oceania Project? |? YouTube Southern Cross University Whale Research Centre Dr Trish Franklin |? PhD Thesis Google Scholar Citations Dr Wally Franklin ? |? PhD Thesis ? Google Scholar Citations Humpback whales - Spread the Story -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From alexandra.jones1 at sydney.edu.au Sat Jun 16 14:59:11 2018 From: alexandra.jones1 at sydney.edu.au (Alexandra Jones) Date: Sat, 16 Jun 2018 21:59:11 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Humpback whale research Jervis Bay, NSW - Seeking Research Assistants Message-ID: Dear all, We are seeking Research Assistants for humpback whale research in Jervis Bay, NSW. The research project aims to investigate the habitat usage patterns of mother-calf humpback whale groups in a proposed resting ground during their southern migration, as well as the use of UAVs (drones) in detecting whales. The study will be undertaken in Jervis Bay, approximately 3 hours south of Sydney, from approximately September 14th to November 4th, 2018 (please note these are estimated start and end dates and actual dates may vary slightly). Full-time volunteers are required to participate in land-based observations of whales. Preference will be given to volunteers available for the full 7 weeks; however, if availability is limited, then consideration may be made for individuals with field experience for the first or second half of the fieldwork block (minimum 3 weeks). Land-based theodolite surveys will be undertaken from the lighthouse at Point Perpendicular Jervis Bay, to record the abundance, behaviour and distribution of whales in the Bay and compare with UAV flights. Participants will spend approximately five hours per day (in two shifts) taking observations and about two hours in data checking and processing data. Volunteers will also have the opportunity to participate in data-collection surveys on board vessels in Jervis Bay (one day every one to two weeks). Candidates need to be sociable and outgoing, as they will be expected to work and live as part of a team, with shared cooking and cleaning duties, living fairly isolated on the grounds of the lighthouse. Volunteers must organise and pay for their own transport to Jervis Bay, accommodation will be provided. We may ask for a small contribution to cover part of the food expenses, but the intention is to cover all expenses if funding is adequate. As meals are communal, fussy eaters are discouraged from applying (vegetarians are fine). This project will suit people with a background in science (including recent graduates and graduate students as well as higher level undergraduate students) keen to gain experience in cetacean survey techniques. Applicants should also be highly motivated and able to concentrate for several hours at a time. Those with previous survey experience, particularly with marine mammals, will be preferred. To apply, please email clearly stating previous relevant experience, availability and suitability, and why you would like to participate, including any other relevant details. Include your CV and details of two professional referees. Closing date for applications is 8 July 2018, and successful applicants will be notified at the end of July. Kind regards, Alex Jones PhD Candidate School of Geosciences The University of Sydney alexandra.jones1 at sydney.edu.au -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From kylie.owen at uqconnect.edu.au Mon Jun 18 06:27:06 2018 From: kylie.owen at uqconnect.edu.au (Ms Kylie Owen) Date: Mon, 18 Jun 2018 13:27:06 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New paper on baleen whale foraging behaviour in the Antarctic Message-ID: Dear All, My coauthors and I are pleased to announce the publication of our recent paper: Owen K, Jenner KCS, Jenner MNM, McCauley RD, Andrews RD (2018) Water temperature correlates with baleen whale foraging behaviour at multiple scales in the Antarctic. Marine and Freshwater Research doi.org/10.1071/MF17288 Abstract How baleen whales locate prey and how environmental change may influence whale foraging success are not well understood. Baleen whale foraging habitat has largely been described at a population level, yet population responses to change are the result of individual strategies across multiple scales. This study aimed to determine how the foraging behaviour of individual whales varied relative to environmental conditions along their movement path. Biotelemetry devices provided information on humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) movement at two spatial scales in East Antarctica, and a mixed modelling approach was used at a medium scale (tens of kilometres) to determine which environmental factors correlated with a change in foraging behaviour. Water temperature was linked to a change in foraging behaviour at both spatial scales. At the medium scale, warmer water was associated with the resident state, commonly assumed to represent periods of foraging behaviour. However, fine-scale analyses suggested that cooler water was associated with a higher feeding rate. Variation in whale foraging behaviour with changes in water temperature adds support to the hypothesis that whales may be able to track environmental conditions to find prey. Future research should investigate this pattern further, given the predicted rise in water temperatures under climate-change scenarios. It is available online here: http://www.publish.csiro.au/mf/MF17288 Kind regards Kylie Owen -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From cdmacleod at GISinEcology.com Mon Jun 18 02:24:38 2018 From: cdmacleod at GISinEcology.com (Colin D. MacLeod) Date: Mon, 18 Jun 2018 10:24:38 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] First Call: Training Course - An Introduction To Using GIS/QGIS In Biological Research, 1-2 October 2018 Message-ID: This is the firs call for attendees for our upcoming introductory training course for those who wish to learn how to use GIS in biological research, and it will provide an introduction to using GIS in a wide variety of biological research situations, including marine mammal research, and the course includes two marine-mammal-specific practical exercises (one based around calculating the observed abundance per unit survey effort of dolphins using a grid-based approach, and one based around mapping species richness for North Atlantic beaked whales). It is primmarily based around a GIS software package called QGIS, which is free to use. As a result, it is one of the best options for doing GIS for self-employed MMOs, small environmental consultancies, NGOs, those working on small marine mammal research projects with limited budgets for purchasing software licences and students working at universities who do not have access to commercial GIS software packages. The course will be held in Glasgow, Scotland, on the 1st and 2nd of October 2018, and it will be taught by Dr Colin D. MacLeod, who has more than 15 years experience in using GIS for a wide variety of biological purposes. For those who cannot attend this course in person, a shorter online course based on the same materials is available from our sister site www.GISforBiologists.com. The course will primarily be based around QGIS (also known as Quantum GIS), which provides a user-friendly, open-source, free alternative to commercial GIS software packages, and it is becoming increasingly widely used in both academic and commercial organisations As a result, it is aimed at both those with no GIS experience, but wish to learn how to do GIS with QGIS, and also those who are familiar with using commercial GIS software, such as ArcGIS, but who wish to learn how to use QGIS as an alternative. However, this course is taught using software-independent approach, and it is also open to those who wish to learn how to use ArcGIS to do biological GIS. The practical exercises on this course will be based on those in the recently published GIS For Biologists: A Practical Introduction For Undergraduates by Dr MacLeod, and a free copy of this book will be provided to all participants. Attendance will be limited to a maximum of 16 people, and the course will cost ?295 per person (?200 for students, the unwaged and those working for registered charities). The course fees can be paid by bank transfer, PayPal, credit/debt card, Bitcoin, Etherium, Litecoin or through your institution. To book a place, or for more information, email info at GISinEcology.com. Glasgow has great transport links and is within half a days travel by car or by fast train links from most cities in the UK. For example, it can be reached in as little as 4h 30mins from London by train. It can also be reached by direct flights from many European cities and the flight time is generally under four hours. The course will be held in central Glasgow at the IET Glasgow Teacher Building (14 St Enoch Square, Glasgow, G1 4DB, UK). Attendees will be responsible for their own accommodation. However, Glasgow provides a wide range of accommodation options to fit most budgets. ================================================================================== GIS IN ECOLOGY - Providing Training, Advice And Consultancy On The Use Of GIS In Ecology Web: www.GISinEcology.com Email: info at GISinEcology.com Need to ask a question about using GIS? Try the GIS In Ecology Forum: www.GISinEcology.com/GIS_in_Ecology_forum.htm Books From GIS In Ecology Staff: GIS For Biologists: A Practical Introduction For Undergraduates; RRP: ?24.99 An Introduction To Using GIS In Marine Biology; RRP: ?44.99 An Introduction To Using GIS In Marine Biology: Supplementary Workbook One - Creating Maps Of Species Distribution; RRP: ?19:99 If you wish to purchase these books, visit: http://www.gisinecology.com/Book_Shop.htm To help the environment, please do not print out this email unless it is unavoidable. ================================================================================== --- This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. https://www.avast.com/antivirus -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From simon.elwen at gmail.com Mon Jun 18 13:08:21 2018 From: simon.elwen at gmail.com (Simon Elwen) Date: Mon, 18 Jun 2018 21:08:21 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] African Bioacoustics Conference (3-7 Dec 2018) Message-ID: *African Bioacoustics Community conference: Call for Abstracts And Registration now open!* 3-7 December 2018 Cape Town We are excited to announce that the first *African Bioacoustics Community conference will be held in Cape Town on the **3rd-7th December 2018*. The conference is open to marine mammal researchers working throughout the globe, but we are particularly interested in hearing from those researchers working within the region and those studying migratory species moving through the region. All aspects of marine mammal acoustic behaviour, effects of noise on marine mammals and issues related to detection, classification, localisation & density estimation of marine mammals would be welcome. ?The goal of the conference and ABC is to build links between researchers working? on all taxa but using the common approach of bio-acoustic methods. The ABC conference 2018 is hosted by the University of Cape Town, the Centre for Statistics in Ecology, the Environment and Conservation ( http://www.seec.uct.ac.za/), and Sea Search Research and Conservation ( www.seasearch.co.za ). For further details please refer to the *Website:* https://africanbioacoustic.wixsite.com/abcommunity , join the associated facebook group ( https://www.facebook.com/africanbioacousticscommunity ?? / ) , or email directly on : africanbioacoustics at gmail.com We look forward to welcoming delegates to Cape Town! ABC Conference Organis e rs ?Tess Gridley?, Anna Bastian, Simon Elwen -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From peter.madsen at aias.au.dk Mon Jun 18 12:14:58 2018 From: peter.madsen at aias.au.dk (Peter Teglberg Madsen) Date: Mon, 18 Jun 2018 19:14:58 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Why are whales so big? Message-ID: <8e83e2c50a8d460081df92facbccb8b2@Exch15.uni.au.dk> Jeremy and I have given that question some thought in the paper below that may be of interest. Pdf can be downloaded from link or by writing one of us an email. best Jeremy and Peter jergold at stanford.edu / peter.madsen at bios.au.dk The evolution of foraging capacity and gigantism in cetaceans J. A. Goldbogen, P. T. Madsen Journal of Experimental Biology 2018 221: jeb166033 doi: 10.1242/jeb.166033 Published 12 June 2018 ABSTRACT The extant diversity and rich fossil record of cetaceans provides an extraordinary evolutionary context for investigating the relationship between form, function and ecology. The transition from terrestrial to marine ecosystems is associated with a complex suite of morphological and physiological adaptations that were required for a fully aquatic mammalian life history. Two specific functional innovations that characterize the two great clades of cetaceans, echolocation in toothed whales (Odontoceti) and filter feeding in baleen whales (Mysticeti), provide a powerful comparative framework for integrative studies. Both clades exhibit gigantism in multiple species, but we posit that large body size may have evolved for different reasons and in response to different ecosystem conditions. Although these foraging adaptations have been studied using a combination of experimental and tagging studies, the precise functional drivers and consequences of morphological change within and among these lineages remain less understood. Future studies that focus at the interface of physiology, ecology and paleontology will help elucidate how cetaceans became the largest predators in aquatic ecosystems worldwide. http://jeb.biologists.org/lookup/doi/10.1242/jeb.166033. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From amooney at whoi.edu Wed Jun 20 03:39:32 2018 From: amooney at whoi.edu (Aran Mooney) Date: Wed, 20 Jun 2018 06:39:32 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] New publications on odontocete hearing and soundscapes Message-ID: <231258b3-b12a-fff7-798e-6c38789b5d8b@whoi.edu> New publications on odontocete hearing and soundscapes We are pleased to announce two new publications on hearing in wild belugas, variation within a population, and a comparison to natural noise in their soundscapes. Abstracts and information on accessing the articles can be found below. Mooney, T.A., Castellote, M., Quakenbush, L., Hobbs, R., Gaglione, E. and Goertz, C., 2018. Variation in hearing within a wild population of beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas). Journal of Experimental Biology, 221(9), p.jeb171959. doi: 10.1242/jeb.171959. The article can be found here: https://doi.org/10.1242/jeb.171959 or by contacting Aran Mooney at amooney at whoi.edu Abstract:? Documenting hearing abilities is vital to understanding a species? acoustic ecology and for predicting the impacts of increasing anthropogenic noise. Cetaceans use sound for essential biological functions such as foraging, navigation and communication; hearing is considered to be their primary sensory modality. Yet, we know little regarding the hearing of most, if not all, cetacean populations, which limits our understanding of their sensory ecology, population level variability and the potential impacts of increasing anthropogenic noise. We obtained audiograms (5.6?150 kHz) of 26 wild beluga whales to measure hearing thresholds during capture?release events in Bristol Bay, AK, USA, using auditory evoked potential methods. The goal was to establish the baseline population audiogram, incidences of hearing loss and general variability in wild beluga whales. In general, belugas showed sensitive hearing with low thresholds (<80 dB) from 16 to 100 kHz, and most individuals (76%) responded to at least 120 kHz. Despite belugas often showing sensitive hearing, thresholds were usually above or approached the low ambient noise levels measured in the area, suggesting that a quiet environment may be associated with hearing sensitivity and that hearing thresholds in the most sensitive animals may have been masked. Although this is just one wild population, the success of the method suggests that it should be applied to other populations and species to better assess potential differences. Bristol Bay beluga audiograms showed substantial (30?70 dB) variation among individuals; this variation increased at higher frequencies. Differences among individual belugas reflect that testing multiple individuals of a population is necessary to best describe maximum sensitivity and population variance. The results of this study quadruple the number of individual beluga whales for which audiograms have been conducted and provide the first auditory data for a population of healthy wild odontocetes. T. Aran Mooney, Manuel Castellote, Ian T. Jones, Lori Quakenbush, Roderick Hobbs, Eric Gaglione, Caroline Goertz. 2018. Local acoustic habitat relative to hearing sensitivities in beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas). Journal of Ecoacoustics. 2, doi.org/10.22261/JEA.QZD9Z5. This is a free-open access article. Download it here: https://doi.org/10.22261/JEA.QZD9Z5 and feel free to contact Aran Mooney with any questions at: amooney at whoi.edu Abstract:?? Background noise can have a substantial effect on communication signals, however far less is known about how natural soundscapes may influence hearing sensitivity. Here we compare the audiograms of 26 wild beluga whales measured in their natural environment to a series of ecoacoustic measurements within a primary portion of their Bristol Bay summer habitat, the Nushagak Estuary in Bristol Bay, AK, USA. Environmental acoustic measurements were made during 2012 and 2016 using two different methods: a moored recorder and drifter buoys. Environmental noise curves varied substantially. Drifter recordings from the middle of Nushgak Estuary had the highest spectrum levels during ebb tides with acoustic energy from sediment transport extending well into higher frequencies (ca. 60 kHz), likely due to rapidly moving tidal flow and shifting sediment in that location. Drifter recordings near the estuary mouth and shallow tidal flats were lower amplitude. Noise levels generally varied during drifts (in one case up to ca. 6 dB) reflecting acoustic cues available to the local belugas. The moored recorder showed a substantially different spectral profile, especially at lower frequencies, perhaps due to its attachment to a pier piling and subsequent pier noise. Hearing sensitivity varied by individual and thresholds often fell above 1/3 octave-band noise levels, but not overall noise spectral density. Audiograms of the most sensitive animals closely paralleled the lowest ambient noise power spectral density curves, suggesting that an animal?s auditory dynamic range may extend to include its habitat?s quietest conditions. These data suggest a cautious approach is necessary when estimating the sound-sensitivity of odontocetes found in quiet environments as they may have sensitive auditory abilities that allow for hearing within the lowest noise-level conditions. Further, lower level ambient noise conditions could provide a conservative estimate of the maximal sensitivity of some cetacean populations within specific environments. -- ------------- BioAcoustics and Sensory Ecology (BASE) Lab Biology Department Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution www.whoi.edu/sites/amoooney sensoryecology.blogspot.com From austen.thomas at gmail.com Mon Jun 18 13:05:27 2018 From: austen.thomas at gmail.com (Austen Thomas) Date: Mon, 18 Jun 2018 13:05:27 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] How to use scat DNA sequence data in diet studies: Opinion in Molecular Ecology Message-ID: Counting with DNA in metabarcoding studies: How should we convert sequence reads to dietary data? Bruce E. Deagle, Austen C. Thomas, Julie C. McInnes, Laurence J. Clarke, Eero J. Vesterinen, Elizabeth L. Clare, Tyler R. Kartzinel, J. Paige Eveson Molecular Ecology. 2018;00:1?16. https://doi-org.ezproxy.library.ubc.ca/10.1111/mec.14734 Abstract Advances in DNA sequencing technology have revolutionized the field of molecular analysis of trophic interactions, and it is now possible to recover counts of food DNA sequences from a wide range of dietary samples. But what do these counts mean? To obtain an accurate estimate of a consumer?s diet should we work strictly with data sets summarizing frequency of occurrence of different food taxa, or is it possible to use relative number of sequences? Both approaches are applied to obtain semi-quantitative diet summaries, but occurrence data are often promoted as a more conservative and reliable option due to taxa-specific biases in recovery of sequences. We explore representative dietary metabarcoding data sets and point out that diet summaries based on occurrence data often overestimate the importance of food consumed in small quantities (potentially including low-level contaminants) and are sensitive to the count threshold used to define an occurrence. Our simulations indicate that using relative read abundance (RRA) information often provides a more accurate view of population-level diet even with moderate recovery biases incorporated; however, RRA summaries are sensitive to recovery biases impacting common diet taxa. Both approaches are more accurate when the mean number of food taxa in samples is small. The ideas presented here highlight the need to consider all sources of bias and to justify the methods used to interpret count data in dietary metabarcoding studies. We encourage researchers to continue addressing methodological challenges and acknowledge unanswered questions to help spur future investigations in this rapidly developing area of research. Article available upon request: austen.thomas at gmail.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From bartoncjs at gmail.com Tue Jun 19 11:20:16 2018 From: bartoncjs at gmail.com (Carolyn Barton) Date: Tue, 19 Jun 2018 19:20:16 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] MMO and PSO training courses, Inverness (UK) Message-ID: MMO and PSO training courses are running in Inverness, Scotland, in August: JNCC-recognised MMO course for UK waters, 6 August 2018, GBP 130 PSO course for the Gulf of Mexico, meets BOEM/ BSEE requirements, 7 August 2018, GBP 55 (when taken in conjunction with the MMO course). These courses will cover all the information needed for work as a Marine Mammal Observer (MMO) in UK waters or Protected Species Observer (PSO) in the US Gulf of Mexico. Taught by an MMO instructor with twenty years experience, course content includes the impact of sound on marine mammals, legislation protecting marine mammals, the requirements of the relevant mitigation measures and the role of the MMO/ PSO. Visual monitoring, an introduction to passive acoustic monitoring and identification of marine mammals (and sea turtles for the PSO course) are also covered. For full details of course content and to download a booking form, see www.carolynbarton.co.uk or e-mail info at carolynbarton.co.uk . -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From Craig.Reiser at smulteasciences.com Tue Jun 19 11:47:02 2018 From: Craig.Reiser at smulteasciences.com (Craig Reiser) Date: Tue, 19 Jun 2018 18:47:02 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] PSOs and PAM Operators for Offshore Wind Energy Projects Message-ID: PSOs and PAM Operators for Offshore Wind Energy Projects Smultea Sciences is seeking qualified PSOs and certified PAM Operators for vessel-based surveys in support of OFFSHORE WIND ENERGY. Deployments are primarily in the Atlantic Ocean but also in other regions. These are W2 positions and you must be eligible for employment in the United States; visas are not feasible. Rotations are typically 30-45 days in duration. Day rates and related compensation are dependent on experience, project, and position. --Candidates must provide proof of the following, up-to-date credentials: 1.) BOSIET, 2.) Physical or Seafarer's Exam, 3) Negative drug screen, and, 4.) Eligibility for employment in the US (e.g., US Passport, driver's license PLUS social security card, etc.). --Candidates must have PSO/PAM or comparable experience in the Atlantic Ocean or Gulf of Mexico. --PAM Operators must have experience with PAMGuard and deploying/monitoring towed arrays for whales and dolphins. Please email your CV, contact information, 2 professional references (name, phone number, email, and position), and a short statement about yourself to: craig.reiser at smulteasciences.com. For additional information about what we do at Smultea Sciences, see www.SmulteaSciences.com and our Facebook page. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From immacoordinator at gmail.com Tue Jun 19 07:39:53 2018 From: immacoordinator at gmail.com (MMPATF IMMA) Date: Tue, 19 Jun 2018 15:39:53 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] IMMA Communications and Outreach Internship - 6 Month Volunteer Post Message-ID: *IMMA Communications and Outreach Internship (6 Month Volunteer Post)* IUCN Marine Mammal Protected Areas Task Force (MMPATF) *Type: *Volunteer (Part-Time) *Contact:* immacoordinator at gmail.com (Michael J. Tetley - IMMA Programme Coordinator) *Sectors: *Conservation & Wildlife; Marine Conversation *Closing date*: Midnight June 30th - 2018 *Summary of Position* The IUCN Joint SSC/WCPA Marine Mammal Protected Areas Task Force (MMPATF or ?Task Force?) is seeking a Communications and Outreach volunteer for a 6-month Internship with the Important Marine Mammal Area (IMMA) initiative. IMMAs are a place-based conservation prioritisation scheme identifying discrete areas, important to marine mammal species, which have the potential to be delineated for the purposes of conservation and management. The Task Force requires a remote working desk-based volunteer to join the IMMA Communications and Outreach team for assisting in the preparation of informative IMMA factsheets, website and e-Atlas updates, news articles and social media posts. Expected tasks will include: - Creation of Informative Factsheets of IMMAs displayed on the IUCN MMPATF online e-Atlas. - Assisting the IMMA Coordinator with the preparation of maps, presentations, and other knowledge products for promoting the IMMA initiative global programme of work. - Moderating IUCN MMPATF social media channels and creation of news content. For additional information please download the full position summary at tinyurl.com/y79ypkba and visit the IUCN MMPATF website at www.marinemammalhabitat.org, or please contact the IMMA Coordinator at immacoordinator at gmail.com. Please send your CV and Cover Letter stating your interest in the position to the IMMA Coordinator by the deadline of Midnight, Saturday 30th of June. Dr. Michael J. Tetley - IMMA Coordinator IUCN Joint SSC-WCPA Marine Mammal Protected Areas Task Force (MMPATF) Email: immacoordinator at gmail.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From ksanchez at cmaquarium.org Thu Jun 21 07:50:47 2018 From: ksanchez at cmaquarium.org (Kerry Sanchez) Date: Thu, 21 Jun 2018 14:50:47 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Clearwater Marine Aquarium Rescue/Stranding Internship Message-ID: Clearwater Marine Aquarium seeks interns for the Fall 2018 internship position. Orientation will be held August 6th and the program will run through January 13th, 2019. Interested applicants should review the position description below. Questions can be sent to Kerry Sanchez, Senior Rescue Biologist at Ksanchez at cmaquarium.org. Well-qualified candidates can apply: https://www.seewinter.com/about/internships/internship-application/ Rescue Intern Position Description POSITION TITLE: Rescue Team Intern REPORTS TO: Senior Rescue Biologist, Rescue Staff PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Be comfortable around water and in extreme weather conditions (hot, humid, rain). Have the ability to lift 60 lbs, kneel, bend, and stand for periods in excess of one hour, walk, and reach. Have the ability to pass the Stranding Team swim test. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY: Support the mission of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and the work of the Stranding Department through attending, teaching, and developing department trainings as assigned, representing the aquarium at outreach events, and promoting stewardship of the marine environment. Interns will assist with day-to-day department functions including equipment management, monitoring the emergency Stranding Response Hotline, responding to distressed and injured marine life, and data entry. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: * Provide exceptional guest and public interaction during all stranding-related responses and in-house events. * Assist in public outreach to promote conservation within the community. * Communicate clearly and professionally both verbally and through written communication. * Attend, teach, and develop department training sessions as assigned. * Educate the public about marine conservation issues primarily related to the mission of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium's target species (cetaceans, sea turtles, and North American river otters). * Participate in operations required for 100% stranding response preparedness including equipment management, supply inventory, data management. * Participate in the daily operations of the Stranding Department including, but not limited to, completion of checklists, conducting public stranding demonstrations, and guest programs. * Assist monitoring the 24-hour CMA Emergency Stranding Hotline. * Aid in the rapid response to stranded animal events and provide support rescue efforts. * Recover carcasses, complete documentation, and sanitation of equipment. * Maintain a flexible schedule with availability during days, nights, weekends, and holidays. * Conduct behavioral observations on resident animals in conjunction with the Animal Care Departments. * Conduct diet preparation and habitat maintenance of resident animals in conjunction with the Animal Care Departments. QUALIFICATIONS: * Possess comprehensive knowledge of stranding policies, Standard Operating Procedures, and day-to-day functions. * Complete required online training as assigned. * Complete certification for all stranding response-training modules. * Maintain full-time commitment to stranding department each week. * Pass the Stranding Team swim test. * Demonstrate ability to educate the public about marine conservation issues primarily related to the mission of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium's target species (cetaceans, sea turtles, and North American river otters). * Demonstrate ability to operate stranding vehicles under the direction of department staff. * Maintain a valid driver's license. Kerry S?nchez Senior Rescue Biologist /Education Specialist Clearwater Marine Aquarium 249 Windward Passage Clearwater, FL 33767 727-441-1790 www.SeeWinter.com [cid:3CC8C79C-80D8-41B4-846D-9591EEFEB493] -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.png Type: image/png Size: 11006 bytes Desc: image001.png URL: From logan.pallin at gmail.com Wed Jun 20 13:19:37 2018 From: logan.pallin at gmail.com (Logan Pallin) Date: Wed, 20 Jun 2018 13:19:37 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] New Publication: Validation of a blubber-based endocrine pregnancy test for humpback whales Message-ID: Dear colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce our recent publication in the Journal of Conservation Physiology *Pallin L*, Robbins J, Kellar N, B?rub? M, Friedlaender A (2018) Validation of a blubber-based endocrine pregnancy test for humpback whales. *Conserv Physiol* 6(1): coy031; https://doi.org/10.1093/conphys/coy031 The article is available online at: https://doi.org/10.1093/conphys/coy031 Abstract: Baleen whales have few identifiable external indicators of pregnancy state, making it challenging to study essential aspects of their biology and population dynamics. Pregnancy status in other marine mammals has been determined by measuring progesterone concentrations from a variety of sample matrices, but logistical constraints have limited such studies in free-swimming baleen whales. We use an extensive blubber sample archive and associated calving history data to retrospectively identify samples that correspond to pregnant females and develop a progesterone-based pregnancy test for humpback whales. The lowest pregnant blubber progesterone concentration was 54.97 ng g?1, and the mean for the known-pregnant group was 198.74 ? 180.65 ng g?1. Conversely, females known to be below the minimum age of sexual maturity (juvenile females) had an overall low mean progesterone concentration (0.59 ? 0.25 ng g?1), well below the known-pregnant range. Of the mature females that did not return with a calf (*n* = 11), three fell within the known-pregnant range (320.79 ? 209.34 ng g ?1), while the levels for the remaining eight were two orders of magnitude below the lowest known-pregnant level (1.63 ? 1.15 ng g?1). The proportion of females that did not return with a calf but had values similar to known-pregnant females are consistent with rates of calf mortality, but other potential explanations were considered. Our findings support a validated blubber endocrine assignment of pregnancy corroborated with field life history information, a first for any baleen whale species. The progesterone values we measured were similar to those found in different pregnancy states of other cetaceans and support using blubber biopsy samples for assigning pregnancy in humpback whales. This method can be applied to existing archives or new samples to better study life history and population demography broadly across species and populations. cheers, Logan Pallin *Logan J. Pallin *| PhD Student NSF Graduate Research Fellow Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology University of California, Santa Cruz Bio-Telemetry & Behavioral Ecology Lab lpallin at ucsc.edu | (218) 591-0615 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From amy.scholik at noaa.gov Wed Jun 20 07:25:24 2018 From: amy.scholik at noaa.gov (Amy SCHOLIK - NOAA Federal) Date: Wed, 20 Jun 2018 10:25:24 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] 2018 Revised Technical Guidance for Assessing the Effects of Anthropogenic Sound on Marine Mammal Hearing Message-ID: NOAA Fisheries, per approval of the Secretary of Commerce, is releasing the 2018 Revision to: Technical Guidance for Assessing the Effects of Anthropogenic Sound on Marine Mammal Hearing ? Underwater Thresholds for Onset of Permanent and Temporary Threshold Shifts (NOAA Technical Memorandum NMFS-OPR-59) in relation to section 10 of the Presidential Executive Order (EO) 13795, ?Implementing an America-First Offshore Energy Strategy.? The Notice of Availability for the 2018 Revision to: Technical Guidance is available here ? (https://www.federalregister.g ov/documents/2018/06/21/2018-13313/guidance-2018-revision-to -technical-guidance-for-assessing-effects-of-anthropogenic-sound-on-marine) and will publish on Thursday, June 21. . The Technical Guidance is a science-based document that compiles, interprets, and synthesizes scientific literature to produce updated acoustic thresholds for assessing the effects of underwater sound on marine mammal hearing. It is intended for use by NOAA Fisheries? managers and other relevant user groups/stakeholders, when seeking to determine whether and how their activities are expected to result in hearing impacts to marine mammals via acoustic exposure. The Technical Guidance does not represent the entirety of NOAA Fisheries? comprehensive effects analysis but rather serves as one tool to help evaluate a proposed action. We recommend its use but note that user groups/stakeholders are not required to use the Technical Guidance; other scientifically rigorous methods are acceptable. We completed a 45-day public comment period and hosted a Federal Agencies? forum to gather feedback to inform our revision of the Technical Guidance under section 10 of E.O. 13795. The comments received during the Technical Guidance review affirmed that the Guidance is based on the best available science while also providing suggestions to improve its implementation. No commenter or federal agency suggested rescinding the document. The acoustic thresholds for onset of permanent threshold shift (PTS) and temporary threshold shifts (TTS) in marine mammal hearing for all sound sources in the 2018 Revision (NOAA Technical Memorandum NMFS-OPR-59) will remain the same as the 2016 Technical Guidance. Nevertheless, this 2018 revision of the Technical Guidance (NOAA Technical Memorandum NMFS-OPR-59) addresses implementation and facilitates its use applicants, thereby further advancing the policy in section 2 of E.O. 13795. To accompany the revised Technical Guidance (NOAA Technical Memorandum NMFS-OPR-59), NOAA Fisheries is issuing an updated User Spreadsheet tool with additional capabilities for applicants and a new companion User Manual for the Spreadsheet tool that provides detailed instructions, definitions, and appropriate defaults to use when data are unavailable. The 2018 Revision to the Technical Guidance (NOAA Technical Memorandum NMFS-OPR-59), as well as the updated User Spreadsheet tool and the new companion User Manual will be available in electronic form via the Internet at https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/national/marine-mammal-pro tection/marine-mammal-acoustic-technical-guidance. We will continue to improve this Technical Guidance using the best available science and refine the User Manual based on your input. NOAA Fisheries plans to submit the User Manual for the Spreadsheet tool for public comment (anticipated later in 2018) to gain your input and inform future versions of the User Manual. Additionally, NOAA Fisheries will re-evaluate implementation of the 24-h accumulation period in the Technical Guidance by convening a working group to investigate means for deriving more realistic accumulation periods (anticipated later in 2018). NOAA Fisheries will also convene a working group (anticipated later in 2018) to explore the impacts of sound on baleen whale hearing and incorporate recommendations from this working group in future updates to the Technical Guidance. Thank you for your interest in the Technical Guidance. For more information, please contact Amy Scholik-Schlomer (amy.scholik at noaa.gov or 301 427-8449). *Amy R. Scholik-Schlomer, Ph.D.* Fishery Biologist (Protected Resources Acoustic Coordinator) NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service Office of Protected Resources Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Conservation Division 1315 East-West Hwy. SSMC3, Rm. 13605 Silver Spring, MD 20910 (301) 427-8449 Email: *Amy.Scholik at noaa.gov http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/acoustics/ * -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From recruitment at osc.co.uk Thu Jun 21 00:01:19 2018 From: recruitment at osc.co.uk (Recruitment) Date: Thu, 21 Jun 2018 07:01:19 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Vacancies for MMOs & PAM operators resident in Guyana or neighbouring countries Message-ID: Dear MMOs and PAM Operators, OSC requires MMOs and PAMOs who are resident in Guyana for a project with an estimated duration of 2-3 months. Applicants from neighbouring countries can also be considered, but it would be preferable to avoid any requirement to arrange work visas. Opportunities for MMOs and PAMOs in other geographical locations arise periodically, so general applications are always welcome, but residents in Guyana should indicate this at the beginning of email responses, as these applications will be prioritised. If you are interested and available, and not already on OSC's database, please provide copies of your CV, passport, driving licence (probably not needed, but useful for future reference), offshore survival and medical certificates, MMO and/or PAM and degree certificates. For documents not already in electronic format, please scan these, as photographs of documents are not often accepted. Please use relevant software programmes to minimise any scanned file sizes so that they remain clearly legible, yet require minimal file storage to simplify sharing by email. When submitting your personal details, please confirm whether OSC is permitted to store these files on record and any caveats - personal details would not be shared with any third party without an applicant's consent. Please apply by email only to recruitment at osc.co.uk; recruitment enquiries to other OSC email addresses will not be considered. Please feel free to circulate this email amongst colleagues seeking contract (freelance) employment. Thanks and kind regards, --- Recruitment Ocean Science Consulting Limited (OSC) Spott Road, Dunbar, East Lothian, EH42 1RR, Scotland, UK T: +44 (0)1368 865 722 W: www.osc.co.uk From benjamin.laws at noaa.gov Thu Jun 21 09:07:18 2018 From: benjamin.laws at noaa.gov (Benjamin Laws - NOAA Federal) Date: Thu, 21 Jun 2018 12:07:18 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] NOAA Fisheries Seeks Public Review/Comment on Proposed Incidental Take Regulations for Gulf of Mexico Message-ID: Today, NOAA Fisheries released for public review and comment proposed Incidental Take Regulations pursuant to the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), related to geophysical surveys in the Gulf of Mexico. NOAA Fisheries is taking action in response to an October 2016 petition from the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), to promulgate regulations governing the authorization of take of marine mammals incidental to oil and gas industry geophysical surveys conducted in support of hydrocarbon exploration and development on the outer continental shelf in the Gulf of Mexico from approximately 2018 through 2023. NOAA Fisheries proposes to issue regulations including appropriate mitigation and monitoring measures to reduce impacts to marine mammals. The proposed regulations are based on extensive reviews of scientific literature on the effects of noise on marine mammals and their habitat as well as public comment received on BOEM?s petition. BOEM has responsibility for permitting these surveys and is the agency charged with making decisions about energy development in waters of the outer continental shelf. Under the MMPA, NOAA Fisheries is charged with the conservation and protection of marine mammals, including the appropriate authorization of otherwise prohibited incidental take of marine mammals. We are accepting public comment on the proposed regulations until 08-21-2018. You can find the proposed regulations, supporting documentation, and links to provide public comment here ( https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/action/incidental-take-authorization-oil-and-gas-industry-geophysical-survey-activity-gulf-mexico ). -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From sullivan.florence.a at gmail.com Thu Jun 21 09:30:01 2018 From: sullivan.florence.a at gmail.com (Florence Sullivan) Date: Thu, 21 Jun 2018 09:30:01 -0700 Subject: [MARMAM] Paper announcement: Assessment of vessel disturbance to gray whales to inform sustainable ecotourism. Message-ID: Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to announce the recent publication of our paper in the Journal of Wildlife Management: Sullivan, F. A. and Torres, L. G. (2018), Assessment of vessel disturbance to gray whales to inform sustainable ecotourism. Jour. Wild. Mgmt., 82: 896-905. doi:10.1002/jwmg.21462 The paper can be found online here: https://doi.org/10.1002/jwmg.21462, or we are happy to send you a pdf upon request. Abstract Ecotourism is a movement that seeks to sustain local communities by uniting conservation, travel, and education. To minimize effects on animal behavior, ecotourism operations must be carefully managed. Local management efforts that can be tailored to the specific area and animals may be more successful than broad?scale efforts that may be unknown to users of the environment, or inappropriate for the species. A profitable and growing whale?watch industry exists in Oregon, USA, but prior to this project, no state guidelines existed to protect animals and maintain sustainability of the industry. This project integrated research and outreach regarding gray whale (Eschrichtius robustus) behavioral response to vessels, and translated results into community?developed vessel operation guidelines. We tracked whales and vessels in summer 2015 using non?invasive, shore?based theodolite and photo identification techniques. We monitored 2 sites along the Oregon coast with differing levels of vessel traffic for 4 weeks each. We analyzed tracks of whales using Markov chains to assess behavior state changes relative to location, individual, vessel presence, vessel type, and distance between whale and vessel. We documented significant differences in gray whale activity budgets between control and impact conditions, and between study sites. We did not observe significant differences in individual responses to vessel disturbance. Researchers and stakeholders collaboratively applied these results to create scientifically informed vessel operation guidelines that aim to balance the economic and educational gains of a whale?watch industry with adequate protection of the exploited whale population to enhance sustainability. Fair winds, Florence Sullivan, MSc Sullivan.Florence.a at gmail.com Geospatial Ecology of Marine Megafauna Lab Oregon State University Marine Mammal Institute -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From jobs at oceanassoc.com Thu Jun 21 18:32:53 2018 From: jobs at oceanassoc.com (Jobs.Ocean.Associates) Date: Thu, 21 Jun 2018 15:32:53 -1000 Subject: [MARMAM] Job opening: MMPA/ESA/NEPA policy analyst Message-ID: <5CF614AF-92BC-4129-8076-1B850EC64EAE@OceanAssoc.com> Ocean Associates Inc. is seeking a MMPA & NEPA Policy Analyst who will provide professional support to the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) in Honolulu, Hawaii. The position does not require a presence in Hawaii but can be accomplished remotely. For more information please see our website. http://www.oceanassoc.com/Jobs/jobslist.html -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From SCourbis at ene.com Thu Jun 21 13:20:09 2018 From: SCourbis at ene.com (Courbis, Sarah) Date: Thu, 21 Jun 2018 20:20:09 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Ecology & Environment, Inc, seeks Marine Acoustician Message-ID: <4664B0B24119B445AA9DF5CEE5A5A38E0B8B34A8@SEA-S-EXCH-1.corp.ene.com> Ecology and Environment, Inc. is seeking a full time Marine Acoustician in our Portland, OR; New York City, NY; Houston, TX; Arlington, VA; Virginia Beach, VA; or any of our Florida regional offices (other locations will be considered). This position will be responsible for marine acoustic propagation modeling associated with take estimation, parabolic modeling, and marine acoustic research. Our successful candidate will have experience with passive acoustic monitoring devices and analysis of passive acoustic monitoring data. Responsibilities: * Conduct marine acoustic propagation modeling for stationary and mobile noise sources in varied oceanic environments and integrate with statutory requirements and associated regulations * Assist with noise-related impact assessments and take estimation analyses for marine organisms * Conduct and/or interpret marine noise monitoring, research, and analyses * Support with report writing and preparation of environmental documentation/analyses and permit requests Requirements: * Master's Degree in Oceanography, Engineering, or related discipline * 5+ years of experience in modeling acoustic propagation of sound sources in marine environments * Experience with marine mammal science and evaluation of impacts of noise on marine organisms * Experience conducting or interpreting passive and/or active acoustic monitoring in marine environments * Experience with density models and marine mammal noise thresholds * Familiarity with NOAA Fisheries acoustic criteria for protected marine species, and the principles of underwater acoustics including attenuation, transmission loss, and methods to determine Zones of Influence a plus * Experience preparing environmental documents for submission to NOAA Fisheries, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Agency, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, U.S. Department of Energy, or Bureau of Ocean Energy Management a plus * Excellent verbal communication, technical writing, and research skills * Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work independently and as part of a team * Proficient in Microsoft Office * Ability to travel to support business needs * Experience working in Latin America and Spanish/Portuguese language skills a plus We are a global network of innovators and problem solvers, dedicated professionals and industry leaders in scientific, engineering, and planning disciplines working together with our clients to develop technically sound, science-based solutions to the leading environmental challenges of our time. E&E offers opportunities for growth in a team-oriented environment. Candidates must be eligible to work in the U.S.; Visa sponsorship will not be provided. Please view our website at www.ene.com to apply on-line. Applications will not be accepted by email. The direct link to this opportunity is http://www.careers.ene.com/Home/Details/741. Ecology and Environment, Inc. is an EO and AA employer - M/F/Vets/Disabled/and other protected categories. [cid:image001.jpg at 01D3B7B9.E7ECE090] Sarah Courbis, Marine Mammal Specialist 333 SW 5th Ave Suite 606 Portland, OR 97204 Phone: 503-284-5600 * Cell: 971-888-9226 scourbis at ene.com * www.ene.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 17632 bytes Desc: image001.jpg URL: From simon.elwen at gmail.com Fri Jun 22 03:39:22 2018 From: simon.elwen at gmail.com (Simon Elwen) Date: Fri, 22 Jun 2018 11:39:22 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] Field Internships with the Namibian Dolphin Project - August 2018 Message-ID: Dear Marmammers - The Namibian Dolphin Project is a research and conservation organization run by several independent scientists based in southern Africa. We are running ?an intensive field season this year and still have some places available for interns to join between 01 and 31 August 2017 in Walvis Bay, Namibia. Interns will join an active research programme during an intensive period of field work aiming to tackle a number of research questions including long-term population monitoring (photo ID and static acoustic monitoring), behavioural acoustics of bottlenose dolphins (linking sounds to behaviours), behavioural and acoustic responses to anthropogenic activities and response to strandeded cetaceans (refloatation/data colleciton). Our focal study species are Heaviside's dolphin, a small population of common bottlenose dolphins and humpback whales with additional data collection on right whales, sunfish (Mola mola), African Penguins and sea turtles ?, jackals and Cape fur seals. Internships are research focused with an emphasis on learning (and using) field skills used in cetacean research such as photo-identification, acoustic and behavioural data collection, as well as data management and team work. Interns will work closely with the project leaders Dr Tess Gridley and Dr Simon Elwen. We are amenable to students using data collected during internships for student projects. If you are interested in joining our research team during one of these periods please ?contact us with a ? brief? motivation and your CV in an email with the subject Research Internship 20 1 ?8? _Namibia to nam.dolphin.edu at gmail.com. More information can be found on the Namibian Dolphin Project and our umbrella organisation Sea Search ?(including publications) ? by following these links (www.namibiandolphinproject. ?org www.seasearch.co.za) Please do not hesitate to contact us should you have any questions regarding this training opportunity. ?? Kind regards Namibian Dolphin Project Team www.namibiandolphinproject.com namibiandolphinproject.blogspot.com -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- Simon Elwen Ph.D. NRF Research Fellow at the Mammal Research Institute, University of Pretoria Based at Sea Search Africa - 4 Bath Rd, Muizenberg, Cape Town. Phone: +27 21 788 1206 (Office SA), +27 71 139 5951 (Mob SA) www.seasearch.co.za & www.namibiandolphinproject.org The first *African Bioacoustics Community conference will be held in Cape Town on the **3rd-7th December 2018*. https://africanbioacoustic.wixsite.com/abcommunity https://www.facebook.com/africanbioacousticscommunity/ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From dylan at worldcetaceanalliance.org Wed Jun 20 03:23:46 2018 From: dylan at worldcetaceanalliance.org (Dylan Walker) Date: Wed, 20 Jun 2018 11:23:46 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] =?utf-8?q?BRIGHTON_DOLPHIN_PROJECT_=E2=80=93_Volunteer_P?= =?utf-8?q?roject_and_Research_Lead?= Message-ID: Dear Marmamers, An initiative of the World Cetacean Alliance, the Brighton Dolphin Project Discovery Centre, (United Kingdom), was launched on 26th May 2018. We require a dedicated volunteer able to work full time for 12 weeks beginning Monday 9th July 2018 to manage the centre and grow the citizen science research programme over the summer period. The person in this role will report directly to the CEO, work closely with colleagues at WCA HQ, and will manage a team of volunteers and volunteer assistants. The goals of the Brighton Dolphin Project are to: 1) Further our understanding of cetaceans off the coast of Brighton/Sussex through photo-identification and the collection of anecdotal sightings by growing a citizen science research programme. 2) Improve awareness of the importance of local marine ecosystems and species through educational experiences and outreach. 3) Link with local stakeholders to encourage sustainable practices in local communities such as low carbon usage, reductions in plastic use and ghost fishing gear, and responsible tourism. *Responsibilities* *Community Engagement* ? Build relationships, engage community, and represent the Brighton Dolphin Project and our partners, colleagues and supporters. ? Link with local boat users to discuss possibilities of carrying out boat surveys and placing marine educators on existing tours. *Research* ? Encourage and support collaborations with local stakeholders, including fishers and recreational boat users to gather effort and sightings-related data, photographs, and video footage of cetaceans and other megafauna off the Sussex coast. ? Expand on the framework for developing a long-term dataset using standardised methodology. ? Work with experts to analyse data and disseminate all findings through displays and activities at the Visitor Centre, on social media, through the press and publications when possible. ? Expand on photo ID catalogue of Brighton dolphins using dorsal fins for identifcation. *Management* ? Guide the project in the achievement of its goals. ? Manage the Brighton Dolphin Project budget in coordination with the Office Manager. ? Liaise with WCA staff to ensure coordinated planning, collaborative work efforts, integrated programming and shared success. ? Lead, supervise and support the dynamic development of the Discovery Centre, working with a dedicated team of volunteers. *Communication* ? Lead and coordinate communication among Brighton Dolphin Project volunteers. ? Foster and develop community engagement and awareness in Brighton and along the Sussex coast. ? Collaborate with local media to promote communication of research and conservation messaging. ? Represent the Brighton Dolphin Project to the press, local businesses, donors, staff, volunteers, and the public. *Funding Development* ? Partner with colleagues to support and lead efforts to raise funds through donor cultivation, donor events, retail sales, public and corporate funding opportunities. *Knowledge* ? Experience and knowledge of cetaceans and marine conservation issues. ? Track record in handling data and building on existing data sets. ? Experience in creating methodologies for new data sets. ? Very strong communication skills and ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team to advance the mission of the Brighton Dolphin Project. ? Highly organized and detail-oriented with a strong ability to prioritize and deliver against responsibilities and duties. ? Strong management experience. ? Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate a team through shared mission and goals. ? Ability to thrive in a multi-tasking, high energy environment with shifting priorities. ? Ability to excite and engage prospective supporters of the organisation through public speaking, meetings, and personal outreach. *Qualifications* ? Degree or higher qualification in environmental / biological / educational subject. Applicants still studying will be considered. ? Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to supervise and motivate volunteers and team members. ? A proven track record of communicating with different audiences and age groups. *Background* The status of cetaceans off the Sussex Coast remains poorly understood. Sightings are irregular and often go unreported, and there is no information on site fidelity or population parameters for key species, including bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) or harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena). Local communities would benefit from increased understanding of marine megafauna present in the area, as a way to encourage further pride and care for marine conservation. Please send applications to Dylan Walker with the title 'BDP Lead' to: dylan at worldcetaceanalliance.org no later than Friday 29 June. Regards, *Dylan Walker*Chief Executive Officer *World Cetacean Alliance* Studio 3, Lower Promenade Madeira Drive, Brighton, BN2 1ET, UK. t: +44 (0) 1273 355011 c: +44 (0) 7900 471490 e: dylan at worldcetaceanalliance.org [image: http://worldcetaceanalliance.org/get-involved/become-a-partner/] The World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) is a Partnership of over 100 organisations and individuals in 40 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 dylan at worldcetaceanalliance.org Thu Jun 21 05:16:32 2018 From: dylan at worldcetaceanalliance.org (Dylan Walker) Date: Thu, 21 Jun 2018 13:16:32 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] Survey request: Areas of Concern for Whale and Dolphin Watching Message-ID: Dear Marmamers, In the lead up to the publication of WCAs new Global Guidelines for Responsible Whale and Dolphin Watching, the World Cetacean Alliance is asking scientists, NGOs, tourism representatives and other stakeholders to identify ?Areas of Concern for Whale and Dolphin Watching? through a simple online survey. This short survey requests respondents to: 1. Identify up to three areas/sites/locations; 2. Highlight the key threats; 3. Identify potential solutions. Information provided will be treated anonymously, with collective survey results provided to all participants. The WCA intends to use the information provided to highlight priority areas where advice, funding, and the sharing of best practice will benefit both cetaceans and local communities. Please complete the survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/whalewatch The survey will close on 15 July 2018. The World Cetacean Alliance works to ensure that tourism is a force for good, benefitting wild whales and dolphins and their habitats through sustainable practices. Cetacean tourism in all its forms, when poorly managed, has been shown to negatively impact cetaceans, compromising welfare, and potentially even causing declines in populations, with likely implications for the health of associated ecosystems. Best practice operation must therefore be a priority for both operators and destinations looking to achieve long-term sustainable ecotourism with associated benefits for local communities and marine conservation. For further information please contact dylan at worldcetaceanalliance.org *Dylan Walker*Chief Executive Officer *World Cetacean Alliance* Studio 3, Lower Promenade Madeira Drive, Brighton, BN2 1ET, UK. t: +44 (0) 1273 355011 c: +44 (0) 7900 471490 e: dylan at worldcetaceanalliance.org [image: http://worldcetaceanalliance.org/get-involved/become-a-partner/] The World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) is a Partnership of over 100 organisations and individuals in 40 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 felix.marx at monash.edu Fri Jun 22 06:38:31 2018 From: felix.marx at monash.edu (Felix Marx) Date: Fri, 22 Jun 2018 15:38:31 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] New paper on fossil pygmy right whale Message-ID: Dear colleagues, please find below the abstract and link to our recently published, open access paper on a new pygmy right whale fossil from Australia: Marx FG, Park T, Fitzgerald EMG, and Evans AR. 2018. A Miocene pygmy right whale fossil from Australia. PeerJ 6:e5025 Link: https://peerj.com/articles/5025/ Abstract: Neobalaenines are an enigmatic group of baleen whales represented today by a single living species: the pygmy right whale, Caperea marginata, found only in the Southern Hemisphere. Molecular divergence estimates date the origin of pygmy right whales to 22?26 Ma, yet so far there are only three confirmed fossil occurrences. Here, we describe an isolated periotic from the latest Miocene of Victoria (Australia). The new fossil shows all the hallmarks of Caperea, making it the second-oldest described neobalaenine, and the oldest record of the genus. Overall, the new specimen resembles C. marginata in its external morphology and details of the cochlea, but is more archaic in it having a hypertrophied suprameatal area and a greater number of cochlear turns. The presence of Caperea in Australian waters during the Late Miocene matches the distribution of the living species, and supports a southern origin for pygmy right whales. Kind regards, Felix Marx _____________________________ *Felix G. Marx* PhD Marie Sk?odowska-Curie Postdoctoral Fellow *Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels, Belgium *Monash University, Melbourne, Australia *Museum Victoria, Melbourne, Australia Address: Institut royal des Sciences naturelles de Belgique D.O. Terre et Histoire de la Vie, Evolution de la Pal?obiosph?re 29 rue Vautier, 1000 Brussels, Belgium Phone: +32 (0)488 897314 -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From ahmedshawky_7 at hotmail.com Fri Jun 22 17:00:29 2018 From: ahmedshawky_7 at hotmail.com (Ahmed M. Shawky) Date: Sat, 23 Jun 2018 00:00:29 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Dugong Photo ID paper in the Egyptian Red Sea Coast Message-ID: Dear Marmam, It is from my pleasure to share my new article entitled "PHOTO IDENTIFICATION OF DUGONGS IN MARSA ALAM AND WADI EL GEMAL NATIONAL PARK, EGYPTIAN COAST OF THE RED SEA". The Abstract: A total of 30 dugongs were recorded at the Egyptian Red Sea coast between December 2015 and October 2017 using Photo ID technique. Out of them, 16 individuals were identified at Marsa Alam and 14 at Wadi El Gemal National Park. Males were seven times more than females and calves were also recorded. A Photo ID catalogue was prepared for the individuals with records of their occurrence among sites and the presence of particular dugongs for specific sites was confirmed. Long and short distance movement among the study sites were recorded for eight different dugongs. This is the first study to document the population number of dugongs in the inshore area of the Egyptian Red Sea coast. Further studies are recommended offshore sites in WGNP for better documentation of this group of animals. You can download the article from the link below: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/325908659_PHOTO_IDENTIFICATION_OF_DUGONGS_IN_MARSA_ALAM_AND_WADI_EL_GEMAL_NATIONAL_PARK_EGYPTIAN_COAST_OF_THE_RED_SEA [https://i1.rgstatic.net/publication/325908659_PHOTO_IDENTIFICATION_OF_DUGONGS_IN_MARSA_ALAM_AND_WADI_EL_GEMAL_NATIONAL_PARK_EGYPTIAN_COAST_OF_THE_RED_SEA/links/5b2c05390f7e9b0df5ba4c4c/largepreview.png] (PDF) PHOTO IDENTIFICATION OF DUGONGS IN MARSA ALAM AND WADI EL GEMAL NATIONAL PARK, EGYPTIAN COAST OF THE RED SEA PDF | A total of 30 dugongs were recorded at the Egyptian Red Sea coast between December 2015 and October 2017 using Photo ID technique. Out of them, 16 individuals were identified at Marsa Alam and 14 at Wadi El Gemal National Park. Males were seven times more than females and... www.researchgate.net Best Regards Ahmed PhD Candidate, Environmental Researcher Technical Office of Minister of the Environment Master Instructor PADI #639747 -EFR Instructor Trainer [https://ipmcdn.avast.com/images/icons/icon-envelope-tick-round-orange-animated-no-repeat-v1.gif] Virus-free. www.avast.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From c8johnson at ucsd.edu Sat Jun 23 16:21:37 2018 From: c8johnson at ucsd.edu (Johnson, Christine) Date: Sat, 23 Jun 2018 23:21:37 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] New paper on Dolphin Social Cognition Message-ID: Greetings! My colleagues and I are please to announce the publication of a new paper on social cognition in bottlenose dolphins. See link and abstract below. Pdfs also available upon request. http://journals.sagepub.com/eprint/tefSdw5dqicgIPBUuSui/full Johnson, C.M., Sullivan, J., Jensen, J., Buck, C., Trexel, J. & St. Leger, J. (2018). Prosocial predictions by bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops spp) based on motion patterns in visual stimuli. Psychological Science, 1-9. doi: 10.1177/0956797618771078 Abstract In this study, paradigms that test whether human infants make social attributions to simple moving shapes were adapted for use with bottlenose dolphins. The dolphins observed animated displays in which a target oval would falter while moving upward, and then either a ?prosocial? oval would enter and help or caress it or an ?antisocial? oval would enter and hinder or hit it. In subsequent displays involving all three shapes, when the pro- and antisocial ovals moved offscreen in opposite directions, the dolphins reliably predicted?based on anticipatory head turns when the target briefly moved behind an occluder?that the target oval would follow the prosocial one. When the roles of the pro- and antisocial ovals were reversed toward a new target, the animals? continued success suggests that such attributions may be dyad specific. Some of the dolphins also directed high arousal behaviors toward these displays, further supporting that they were socially interpreted. Christine M. Johnson PhD Dolphin Cognition Lab Dept. of Cognitive Science University of California, San Diego -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From dylan at worldcetaceanalliance.org Wed Jun 20 03:49:48 2018 From: dylan at worldcetaceanalliance.org (Dylan Walker) Date: Wed, 20 Jun 2018 11:49:48 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] Responsible Whale Watch Guides Courses Aug/Sep Message-ID: Dear Marmamers, The World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) is running 5-day intensive training courses to become a certified WCA Responsible Whale Watching Guide or Marine Educator. Certified guides enjoy links to volunteer guiding opportunities with WCA Partners worldwide. The dates are outlined below. *Dates:* Monday 13th August to Friday 17th August 2018 (Whale Watch Guide Course) Monday 10th September to Friday 14th September (Marine Educators Course) *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 Includes: * WCA Responsible Whale Watcher course and certification * Lectures and training from seasoned professionals * 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. *WCA?s Marine Educators Course* Course modules will include: *Responsible marine life watching standards *Communication and presentation skills *Citizen science initiatives *Communication and presentation skills training *Science interpretation and conservation messaging. Includes: *WCA Marine Educators course and certification *Lectures and training from seasoned professionals *Practical assessments and activities *Reserve your place* For more info go to: http://worldcetaceanalliance.org/capacity-building/training-courses/ * Limited places available, so early application is strongly encouraged. Regards, *Dylan Walker*Chief Executive Officer *World Cetacean Alliance* Studio 3, Lower Promenade Madeira Drive, Brighton, BN2 1ET, UK. t: +44 (0) 1273 355011 c: +44 (0) 7900 471490 e: dylan at worldcetaceanalliance.org [image: http://worldcetaceanalliance.org/get-involved/become-a-partner/] The World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) is a Partnership of over 100 organisations and individuals in 40 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 marmam.ru at gmail.com Mon Jun 25 00:31:16 2018 From: marmam.ru at gmail.com (Marine Mammal Council) Date: Mon, 25 Jun 2018 10:31:16 +0300 Subject: [MARMAM] Conference Marine Mammals of Holarctic Message-ID: Dear colleagues, X International Conference "Marine mammals of the Holarctic" dedicated to the memory of A. V. Yablokov will be held on October 29 - November 02, 2018 in Arkhangelsk. We hereby inform you that registration and submission of materials for Conference started on March 30, 2018. Submission of abstracts and materials is carried out only in electronic form through the Conference website after registration ( http://marmam.ru/en/conference/mmg-x/) (you will get the letter on your e-mail with link to pay the registration fee). Registration fees should be paid through the official conference service agency website (Monomax PCO). Deadline for submission of abstracts and materials ? July 1, 2018. The Organizing Committee of the X International Conference "Marine mammals of the Holarctic" dedicated to the memory of A. V. Yablokov marmam.ru at gmail.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From sean at wildlensinc.org Sun Jun 24 11:28:17 2018 From: sean at wildlensinc.org (Sean Bogle) Date: Sun, 24 Jun 2018 12:28:17 -0600 Subject: [MARMAM] International Save the Vaquita Day Message-ID: Good day MARMAMers, Wild Lens is a non-profit conservation media organization. Our mission is to build conservation-minded communities and produce content documenting the efforts of researchers, citizens scientists, and other organizations focused on the conservation of our natural world. Many of you are aware that the vaquita porpoise is approaching imminent extinction. This does not mean that we should accept this outcome. With International Save the Vaquita Day just around the corner, July 7, 2018 there's never been a better time to all raise our voices and take action to do more than our best in trying to save this species. We want to continue to share our film project, Souls of the Vermilion Sea, and all of our resources for everyone to use. Since releasing the film, we've encouraged interested parties to contact us and organize screenings, helping the vaquita's story to reach as many people as possible. We've been contacted by people all around the globe who have organized screenings, many of which have been followed by panel discussions. These discussions are crucial to the screening events and we encourage and provide guidance on this component when we are contacted. Our screening package consists of all media content and educational materials and activities. With ISTVD taking place on July 7, we're hoping to raise as much awareness as we can and have joined forces with Viva Vaquita, a charity dedicated to saving this unique endangered species. There are events happening all over the world and we'd love to continue seeing more screenings of our film joining the ever-growing list of events. To see where the events are happening or organise one of your own, visit: http://www.vivavaquita.org/international-save-the-vaquita-day-2018.html Or if you'd like to hold a screening of our film, visit: http://vaquitafilm.com/screenings/ If you can't hold a screening but want to show your support for the vaquita on July 7, you can help by sharing one of the videos below. To choose from, there's a 10-minute version of the full-length film, trailer, and a PSA in English and Spanish that you can embed on a website. 10-minute film: http://wildlensinc.org/vaquitafilm/10min Trailer (Spanish): http://wildlensinc.org/almasdelmarbermejo/trailer/spanish Trailer (English): http://wildlensinc.org/soulsofthevermilionsea/trailer/english Vaquita PSA (English): http://wildlensinc.org/wildlifespeaks/vaquitapsa/english Vaquita PSA (Spanish): http://wildlensinc.org/wildlifespeaks/vaquitapsa/spanish If you want to share any of these videos online, please consider using the sample post below as it would be great to get as many people visiting our website as possible so that others can continue learning about this highly endangered species. "Have you ever heard of the vaquita? It's the world's smallest porpoise and one of its most endangered species. Want to find out more? Visit http://vaquitafilm.com ? Available ISTVD graphics for social media platforms and websites: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/f1c9e3qx4mmqhw0/AAAeO8pgR-kYdqhh1rH_f5hea?dl=0 For more information about our vaquita film project please contact: Sean Bogle, Eyes on Conservation Project Director Email: sean at wildlensinc.org Viva Vaquita! -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From filalves at rocketmail.com Tue Jun 26 02:59:56 2018 From: filalves at rocketmail.com (Filipe Alves) Date: Tue, 26 Jun 2018 09:59:56 +0000 (UTC) Subject: [MARMAM] =?utf-8?q?NEW_PUBLICATION=3A_Analysis_of_occurrence_patt?= =?utf-8?q?erns_and_biological_factors_of_cetaceans_based_on_long=E2=80=90?= =?utf-8?q?term_and_fine=E2=80=90scale_data_from_platforms_of_opportunity?= =?utf-8?q?=3A_Madeira_Island_as_a_case_study?= References: <324226720.2440815.1530007196811.ref@mail.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <324226720.2440815.1530007196811@mail.yahoo.com> Dear All,? Please find below a new publication in Marine Ecology,? ? Alves F, R Ferreira, M Fernandes, Z Halicka, L Dias, A Dinis, 2018. Analysis of occurrence patterns and biological factors ofcetaceans based on long?term and fine?scale data from platforms of opportunity: Madeira Island as a case study. MarEcol. 39: e12499. ? Abstract Management and conservation issues are addressed through the identification of areas of particular importance, which requires the acquisition of baseline information on species distribution and dynamics. These types of data are particularly difficult to obtain at high resolution for large marine vertebrates like cetaceans, given that dedicated surveys are complex and logistically expensive. This study uses daily presence?absence sighting data of cetaceans collected year?round from whale?watching boats to support the theory that fine?scale data obtained from platforms of opportunity can provide valuable information on species occurrence and group dynamics. Data from 7,551 (daily) sightings comprising 22 species were collected from 3,527 surveyed days over 11?years (mean of 321?days per year,?SD?=?17) in the pelagic environment of Madeira Island. Cetaceans were observed on 92% of the surveyed days, and a mean of 15.4 (SD?=?1.5), 8.2 (SD?=?2.0) and 2.1 (SD?=?1.2) species were recorded per year, month, and day, respectively. There were significant differences in the number of species per month (p? From pernille2301 at gmail.com Tue Jun 26 08:55:47 2018 From: pernille2301 at gmail.com (Pernille Meyer) Date: Tue, 26 Jun 2018 17:55:47 +0200 Subject: [MARMAM] new publication on harbour porpoise click communication Message-ID: Dear MARMAM community, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the publication of our new paper in *Scientific Reports:* S?rensen, P. M., Wisniewska, D. M., Jensen, F. H., Johnson, M., Teilmann, J. and Madsen, P. T. (2018). Click Communication in wild harbour porpoises (*Phocoena Phocoena*). Scientific Reports. DOI:10.1038/s41598-018-28022-8. Abstract: Social delphinids employ a vocal repertoire of clicks for echolocation and whistles for communication. Conversely, the less social and acoustically cryptic harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) only produce narrow-band high-frequency (NBHF) clicks with properties that appear poorly suited for communication. Nevertheless, these small odontocetes likely mediate social interactions, such as mate choice and mother-calf contact, with sound. Here, we deployed six tags (DTAG3) on wild porpoises in Danish waters for a total of 96 hours to investigate if the patterns and use of stereotyped NBHF click trains are consistent with a communication function. We show that wild porpoises produce frequent (up to 27 min?1), high-repetition rate click series with repetition rates and output levels different from those of foraging buzzes. These sounds are produced in bouts and frequently co-occur with emission of similar sounds by nearby conspecifics, audible on the tags for >10% of the time. These results suggest that social interactions are more important to this species than their limited social encounters at the surface may indicate and that these interactions are mediated by at least two broad categories of calls composed of short, high-repetition rate click trains that may encode information via the repetition rate of their stereotyped NBHF clicks. The paper can be accessed at: www.nature.com/articles/s41598-018-28022-8 All the best and on behalf of all authors, Pernille M. S?rensen -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From eknight at pewtrusts.org Tue Jun 26 12:32:06 2018 From: eknight at pewtrusts.org (Emily Knight) Date: Tue, 26 Jun 2018 19:32:06 +0000 Subject: [MARMAM] Project announcement: Exploring the relationship between northern fur seals, pollock, and climate change Message-ID: Hello, We are pleased to announce a new project being led by the University of Washington (JISAO) and the Alaska Fisheries Science Center (AFSC) to examine the relationships between northern fur seals, walleye pollock, and climate change in the Bering Sea. The project webpage, including a downloadable two-pager summary of the project is here. In this project, a team of researchers led by Dr. Jeremy Sterling will develop a new spatially explicit bioenergetic model to estimate the dietary needs of northern fur seals and link this model to AFSC/JISAO's bioenergetic model of the Bering Sea (FEAST) and AFSC's multi-species stock assessment model (CEATTLE) to estimate past, current, and future diets given different climate and fishing scenarios. The project began 24 February 2018, will span the next three years, and is funded by the Lenfest Ocean Program with in kind support from AFSC. Please join us for a webinar featuring the research team to discuss the project, and answer any questions on Wednesday, July 25 at 10:00 AM Alaska time/11:00 AM Pacific time/2:00 PM Eastern time. To register for the webinar, visit this link. Instructions to join the webinar are also provided below. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about this project, the webinar, or the Lenfest Ocean Program. Copied here is Jeremy Sterling and Ivonne Ortiz. You can find the other collaborators contact information listed on the 2 page summary. Best, Emily Manager, Lenfest Ocean Program -------------------------------- Webinar Instructions: Date: Wednesday, July 25, 2018 Time: 10:00 AM Alaska time/11:00 AM Pacific time/2:00 PM Eastern time For remote access: Please fill out the registration form before the event is scheduled to begin. Event number: 792 459 866 Event password: furseals2018 For teleconference audio after you join the webinar, either: 1. Select "Call Using Computer" 2. Select "Call me" and provide your phone number (recommended over option #3) 3. Call the number below and enter the access code. In the U.S. and Canada, dial 1-855-214-7745. Enter conference code 639 080 0317 After dialing the conference code, be sure to enter the Attendee ID that will appear on your screen. You will not be prompted to do so. Emily Knight Manager, Lenfest Ocean Program [LenfestOceanProgram-Logo-Color-(2)] 901 E Street NW, 10th Floor Washington, DC 20004 SIGN UP FOR LENFEST OCEAN NEWS w: 202-540-6389 | c: 202-384-6534 | e: eknight at pewtrusts.org www.lenfestocean.org|twitter: @lenfestocean -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image003.png Type: image/png Size: 9934 bytes Desc: image003.png URL: From dreeblet at gmail.com Wed Jun 27 00:49:12 2018 From: dreeblet at gmail.com (Desray Reeb) Date: Wed, 27 Jun 2018 03:49:12 -0400 Subject: [MARMAM] International Save the Vaquita Day Rally - Washington, DC - July 5, 2018 Message-ID: Dear MARMAM community, In honor of International Save the Vaquita Day, we will be holding a rally outside the Mexican Embassy in Washington, D.C. (1911 Pennsylvania Ave, NW) on July 5, 2018 from 8-10:00am. The latest CIRVA report estimates that there are less than 30 (*THIRTY*) vaquita left in existence. >From December 2017 through May 2018, Operation Milagro IV, run by the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, removed almost 78 kilometers of illegal fishing nets from the Gulf of California, the vaquita?s only habitat. The vaquita plight is far from over, but time is not on their side. Without enforcement and dedicated efforts to vanquish illegal fishing from the Gulf and continued efforts to remove deadly fishing nets, the only vaquitas to be seen will be those in pictures and on banners asking for protection we never demanded for them! Come put on a t-shirt and help us educate and motivate to save the vaquita! It?s their very last chance...Now is the time for your voice to be heard and counted. If you've ever wanted to come to a Save the Vaquita Day rally, don't wait. Next year may be too late. *For more information on the rally go to:* Facebook event, https://www.facebook.com/events/201162623850689/, and the page on the AWI website, https://awionline.org/action- ealerts/awis-annual-rally-save-vaquita. *Rally details:* *Where*: Mexican Embassy, 1911 Pennsylvania Ave, NW, Washington, DC *When*: 8:00-10:00 AM, Thursday, July 5 *Directions:* Click here for the Google Map *Nearest Metro:* Farragut West (blue, orange, silver lines) *What to wear:* participants will receive a free Save the Vaquita T-shirt (while supplies last) *What to bring:* water, sunscreen, enthusiasm! We'll have signs, but feel free to bring your own tasteful sign (nothing rude or overly negative). Please do not block the sidewalk or step into the road during the rally. *RSVP:* awi at awionline.org or on Facebook For more information on vaquita go to: https://awionline.org/content/report-only-30-vaquita-porpoises-remain-earth http://www.vivavaquita.org/assets/thomasetal.2017(jasa)2.pdf http://www.iucn-csg.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/CIRVA-8-Report-Final.pdf ?Viva la Vaquita! ------------------------------ -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From interns at aimm-portugal.org Wed Jun 27 01:15:54 2018 From: interns at aimm-portugal.org (AIMM Internships) Date: Wed, 27 Jun 2018 09:15:54 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP IN PORTUGAL Message-ID: *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, 2018. 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 2018 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: www.aimmportugal.org/dolphin-research-internship AIMM will send a confirmation e-mail with all the details about the internship and asking for your Resume/CV, motivation letter (small statement on which are your expectations and why do you want to work with AIMM) and the period of time that you want do the program. OR Applicants should send an e-mail to: interns at aimm-portugal.org, with the subject ?*DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP*?. You will receive and e-mail with the availability 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* Website: www.aimmportugal.org Youtube: https://Youtube/AIMMPortugal Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AIMM.org/ Instagram: http://instagram.com/aimmportugal_org Twitter: https://twitter.com/AIMMPortugal -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From ritabferreira at gmail.com Wed Jun 27 03:45:06 2018 From: ritabferreira at gmail.com (Rita Ferreira) Date: Wed, 27 Jun 2018 11:45:06 +0100 Subject: [MARMAM] Internships for Summer and Autumn in Madeira island - CETUS-Madeira Project Message-ID: Oceanic Observatory of Madeira (OOM/ARDITI) is currently opening INTERNSHIPS FOR SUMMER AND AUTUMN in Madeira Island (Portugal) The Oceanic Observatory of Madeira (OOM) is a research unit within the Regional Agency for the Development of Research, Technology and Innovation (ARDITI), located in Madeira Island, Portugal. OOM seeks to become a centre of excellence dedicated to research and permanent monitoring of the ocean. This initiative brings together a multidisciplinary scientific community, joining several institutions with the aim of promoting cooperation and resource optimization. http://oom.arditi.pt *OOM/ARDITI is looking for 2 interns to help with our marine mammals? research project based in Madeira Island, Portugal.* We are currently filling positions for *20th August - 31st October & 1st November - 24th December 2018* *Internship Details:* The interns will be enrolled in data collection on board ferries with a fixed route between Madeira Island and Porto Santo Island. Food on board is provided. These positions are unpaid but we encourage candidates to seek grants where we can post as host institution. In order to cover for logistic expenses, there is a monthly fee of 75eur (does not cover accommodation). Non-European candidates must cover their own insurance expenses. *Internship description:* - An intensive training on monitoring protocol, cetacean identification and data processing and analysis; - Sea surveys Madeira-Porto Santo; - Data processing and analysis; - Educational activities in local schools or to the general public (when possible); - Free time to visit Madeira and Porto Santo; - Accident insurance. Successful applicants should possess or be enrolled in a BS or MS course in biology or related, be reliable, dedicated, adaptable and patient, as this work is highly weather dependent and requires consecutive days of work at sea. If you are an undergraduate or graduate student interested in pursuing a career in marine mammal research, this is an excellent opportunity to learn and gain experience at sea. Application deadline is 8th July. If you are interested in interning with OOM/ARDITI, please send a CV and a letter of interest to rita.ferreira at oom.arditi.pt. Thank you, Rita Ferreira, MsC OOM-ARDITI Phone: +351291721246 <+351%20291%20721%20246> -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: From primate at wildtracksbelize.org Mon Jun 25 11:01:49 2018 From: primate at wildtracksbelize.org (Primate Conservation Programme) Date: Mon, 25 Jun 2018 12:01:49 -0600 Subject: [MARMAM] Amendment: Manatee volunteer opportunities in Belize Message-ID: <007d01d40cae$982fcfa0$c88f6ee0$@wildtracksbelize.org> Same info, smaller attachment OPPORTUNITIES FOR WORK EXPERIENCE WITH ANTILLEAN MANATEES IN BELIZE Do you want to play an active part in manatee rehabilitation and conservation in Belize - to make a difference? Are you looking for hands-on work with manatee rehabilitation to build your capacity and experience in this field? Are you willing to put in long days of wet, muddy manatee care, with a one month minimum commitment? Wildtracks, a Belize non-profit conservation organization, has been managing the Manatee Rehabilitation Centre in Belize since 1999 in partnership with Belize's government Wildlife Programme, as a tool towards fulfilling Belize's commitments to preventing species extinctions. We have high levels of success in rearing neonate orphaned calves, and in returning both injured and orphaned manatees to the wild - success that cannot be achieved without the care provided to the rehabilitation animals by our incredibly committed team of Wildtracks volunteers. We have volunteer placements available from October 2018 onwards, and have subsidised placements available for capacity building for regional participants (Mexico / Central America). if you are interested, contact Alysha McGrattan at volunteer at wildtracksbelize.org for more information and an application form. Find out more about what we do. www.wildtracksbelize.org www.facebook.com/wildtracksbelize.org -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: Manatee Volunteer Flyer.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 229109 bytes Desc: not available URL: