April 2006 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

A pod of pygmy killer whale stranded in Bali (19 April 2006)
by Putu Liza 21 Apr '06

21 Apr '06

Dear all, Have a blessed Earth Day today. Sorry for the late update. Another pod of cetacean stranded again in Indonesia. This time, they were 8 pygmy killer whales (Feresa attenuata); stranded in Padanggalak beach in Bali, approximately 20 minutes drive from the heart of Denpasar, in the morning (around 7am) of April 19, 2006. I was not in Bali at that time, but the joint rescue team has managed a more than 8 hours of rescue effort to save the stranded whales. At around 11:30am, three rubber boats and one truck from the Denpasar Police Squad arrived at the ground zero to help the rescue. The original plan was to guide the whales back to the sea with the rubber boats. However, the high waves of 2-3 m had hindered the rescue process. Thus, the whales were then transferred to Sanur Beach (approx 10 min from Padanggalak beach) by truck, as Sanur had milder sea condition. Along the journey, the rescue team covered the whales with soaked clothes to prevent dehydration. The joint rescue team had also measured two whales for the total length (192 cm and 210 cm). By 3pm, all whales have been returned back to the sea. However, I received a phonecall from Reef Check that by 5pm, one of the whales made an attempt to re-strand. Apparently, it was exhausted. The rough tidal waves did not help its rescue either. So, I suggested that the whale be guided to the open sea, away from the afternoon tidal current. I suppose, the last effort helped, as there was no additional news of another stranded whale afterwards. >From May 2004 to April 2006, my colleagues and I have recorded three cetacean strandings in Bali, out of 7 whale stranding events in Indonesia. This stranding event has again indicated how important Bali's position in cetacean migratory routes in Indonesia. Again, I'm sorry that I could not provide more information on their health condition (other than that they seemed not to experience any significant external injuries), or harsh weather condition (other than the high waves). My assumption was that the pod leader (might be the last one who returned back) was sick or injured, and hence, the stranding. Special thanks to Imam Mustopha (WWF Indonesia) who provided me a detailed story of this event, Pariama Hutasoit and Naneng Setiasih (Reef Check Indonesia) for their continuous coordination, and Putu Widyastuti (MAC Indonesia) for providing me pictures for species identification. Also my great gratitude to the Denpasar Police Squad (including the Special Bomb Unit of the Denpasar Police Department), local Fisheries Agency, private marine tour operators in Sanur and of course the whole communities of Sanur and Padanggalak regions in Bali who had joint their efforts to safely returned the whales back to the sea. Their care for these animals have been a gift to Mother Earth today. sincerely, Putu Liza (Icha) Master candidate of Environmental Management James Cook University - North Queensland Townsville putu.liza(a)jcu.edu.au, putuliza(a)yahoo.com

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first announcement "Cetaceans, sea turtles and sharks of the northern Adriatic Sea"
by Marco Affronte 21 Apr '06

21 Apr '06

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New paper on cetacean brain size and diving
by Lori Marino 20 Apr '06

20 Apr '06

Dear Fellow Marmam Members, I'd like to call your attention to a new paper entitled "Does diving limit brain size in cetaceans?" by Marino et al. appearing in Marine Mammal Science, 2006, 22(2), p. 413-425. In this paper we address a longstanding hypothesis in the marine mammal field about whether the oxygenation demands of diving have placed a constraint on cetacean brain size. This notion - originally termed the Dive Constraint Hypothesis and introduced by Robin (1973) - has been addressed in various excellent papers through the years but a question remained as to the status of the hypothesis up until now. In our paper we apply a variety of statistical methods to a phylogenetically-controlled sample of cetacean brain and body size data to draw a final - and more definitive - conclusion about this hypothesis that we discuss in the context of these previous findings. Thanks for your time. Regards, Lori Marino -- Lori Marino, Ph.D.Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology Program 1462 Clifton Road, Suite 304 Emory University Atlanta, GA 30322 Phone: (404) 727-7582 Fax: (404) 727-7471 To protect the nature that is all around us, we must think long and hard about the nature we carry inside our heads."-- William Cronin

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Manatee Photo-identification Research Staff Openings - St. Petersburg, FL
by Higgs, Kari 20 Apr '06

20 Apr '06

> Manatee Photo-identification Research Staff > > Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission > Fish and Wildlife Research Institute > > Section - Wildlife Research > Project - Manatee Photo-identification > > Location - St. Petersburg, FL > > Position type - Full-time (40 hrs/week) > > Rate of pay - $10.00 per hour, no benefits included (hourly wage is > negotiable for highly qualified candidates) > > Number of available positions - 2 > > Close date - Review of applications will begin May 19, 2006 > > Contact - Kari A. Higgs > Kari.Higgs(a)MyFWC.com > > Description - Assist in all aspects of the manatee > photo-identification project. Responsibilities include, but are not > limited to: photographing manatees, collecting environmental and > behavioral data, matching images to known animals, drawing composite > scar sketches of manatees, data entry and verification, equipment > maintenance, management of volunteers/interns, and public outreach. > Travel and working on weekends and holidays will be required > periodically. > > Qualifications - A bachelor's degree with a major in one of the > biological sciences. The successful candidate must have strong > computer skills, preferably including experience with Microsoft Office > applications (particularly Microsoft Access) and > photo-editing/management software. Previous experience in > photo-identification, in the operation of digital SLR cameras, and in > boat handling and trailering is strongly desired. Patience, > organizational skills, attention to detail, strong oral and written > communication skills, and the ability to work successfully with a > number of different cooperators are essential qualifications for this > position. > > Qualified applicants should submit their cover letter, resume, and a > list of three references via email to kari.higgs(a)myfwc.com or standard > mail to the following address. > > Fish and Wildlife Research Institute > Attn: Kari Higgs > 100 8th Avenue S.E. > St. Petersburg, FL 33701 > > http://research.myfwc.com/ > > FWC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/ADA Employer. If you > require an accommodation to participate in the application/selection > process, please contact the hiring authority in advance. Federal law > requires that we hire only U.S. citizens and lawfully authorized > aliens who can provide proof of their identity and employment > eligibility. > > Kari A. Higgs > Manatee Photo-identification > Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission > Fish and Wildlife Research Institute > 100 8th Avenue S.E. > St. Petersburg, FL 33701 > (727) 896-8626 x1912, Suncom 523-1912 > kari.higgs(a)MyFWC.com > http://myfwc.com > http://research.myfwc.com > >

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Cetacean Observers for Northlink Ferries
by Hanna Nuuttila 20 Apr '06

20 Apr '06

Dear Cetacean Enthusiast, Please read the following letter from Ian Hay about Volunteering as Cetacean Observer on Northlink Ferries and a training day this Saturday!! Hanna Nuuttila Sightings Officer Sea Watch Foundation Dear All I am writing to invite you to a training day for volunteers on the 2006 Ferry Watch Project. This will be held on the 22nd of April meeting at the offices of Northlink Ferries. Over the last 3 years the Seawatch Foundation, Aberdeen University and the East Grampian Coastal Partnership have been conducting transect cetacean surveys of the waters between Aberdeen and the Northern Isles on board the Northlink Hascossay. These surveys have increase our knowledge of the variety of species in these waters with notable sightings including Humpback Whale, Orca, Common Dolphin and Basking Shark. These surveys are carried out be a mixture of experienced watchers and Volunteers. Each survey generally lasts for one and a half days and is free to volunteers thanks to the kind support of Northlink Ferries. The aim of the day will be to ensure that all volunteers are aware of the practical details of the surveys and ensure that everyone is using the same methodology for recording sightings data. If you would like to attend this training session please contact Ian Hay on 01224 498251 or by email on i.hay(a)macaulay.ac.uk With thanks Ian Hay Project Officer East Grampian Coastal Partnership

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Advert for Marine and Coastal Coordinator in South Africa
by Shanan Atkins 20 Apr '06

20 Apr '06

Marine and Coastal Conservation Group Coordinator NPO 015502 PBO 93000177 www.ewt.org.za The Endangered Wildlife Trust, based in Johannesburg, South Africa, has grown over the past thirty-two years into one of the major non-governmental conservation organisations operating throughout southern Africa. The Endangered Wildlife Trust seeks to appoint a Marine and Coastal Conservation Group (MCCG) Coordinator. This challenging position requires a dedicated and organised individual who is able to develop the group and oversee and implement various projects relating to marine and coastal conservation and research in southern Africa. The successful candidate must have relevant experience in project management, strategic planning and research and field-based programme coordination. Strong communication and negotiation abilities are required to develop and nurture effective partnerships with various stakeholders, including the private sector, conservation/environmental organisations and governmental agencies. The successful candidate is expected to develop, guide, oversee and implement MCCG research projects producing regular peer-reviewed publications on MCCG projects and ensuring timely delivery of effective conservation outcomes from all projects. Strong fundraising skills and experience are required to ensure the financial stability of the MCCG and effective administration skills to ensure the smooth running of the group. Strong communication skills are required and bilingualism is an advantage. The successful candidate will have a minimum of a Masters degree in Zoology, Conservation Biology or a related, relevant field and a proven scientific track record in applied research and field work as well as in producing peer-reviewed publications. Applicants must demonstrate a passion for conservation and the environment, a sound knowledge of the threats facing the marine and coastal environment throughout the region, with a good understanding of international marine and coastal issues, and an understanding of and/or willingness to work in a non-profit non-governmental organisation. This is a contract appointment. The remuneration package is negotiable based on experience. The Endangered Wildlife Trust is an equal opportunity employer. Successful applicants will be required to attend interviews in Johannesburg. This position will be based in Johannesburg. Applicants are to submit a comprehensive CV, as well as a short motivation as to how they see their role in this post. All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. Candidates who have not been contacted within 14 days of the closing date, must please assume that their applications were not successful. The EWT reserves the right not to make an appointment. Closing date: 2 May 2006 To apply please e-mail your CV to alisond(a)ewt.org.za Or post to "Administration Manager", Private Bag X11, Parkview, 2122. Or fax to +27 (11) 485 1506

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Job Opportunity - Leadership Position for State of Florida Marine Mammal Research Program
by Huff, Alan 19 Apr '06

19 Apr '06

Agency Name: FWC - Fish&Wildlife Cons Comm Description: OCCUPATION PROFILE Working Title: Program Administrator FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION - FISH AND WILDLIFE RESEARCH INSTITUTE ANTICIPATED VACANCY (4/21/06) Closing Date: 4/28/2006 Location: SAINT PETERSBURG, FL County: Pinellas County POSITION #: 071320 HIRING RATE: $55,046 - $60,000 annually, depending on qualifications DIVISION: Fish and Wildlife Research Institute SECTION: Wildlife Research SUBSECTION: Marine Mammal Research TO APPLY State of Florida Application forms are being accepted through the closing date at the People First web site: https://jobs.myflorida.com/index.html JOB DESCRIPTION Direct and supervise the scientific activities of the state-wide marine mammal research program and supervise assigned staff. Participate in the development of long-term goals and strategies for the program in conjunction with state and federal managers. Recommend cooperative research programs with other governmental agencies and private labs. Oversee program research and design and ensure timely and quality publications. Develop and monitor the program budget ensuring expenditures do not exceed the spending authority. Assist in the preparation of legislative budget requests and budget amendments. Represent Florida and the FWC at conferences and serve on related committees at the state, federal and regional level, as assigned. REQUIRED, ENTRY LEVEL, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES Knowledge of: the terminology, principles, procedures and techniques used in scientific research, analysis or testing, program management, budgeting, supervision, and in wildlife research and management. Skill in: written and verbal communications and in the use of personal computers and associated software. Ability to: manage research programs effectively, establish and maintain effective professional relationships, assess budgetary needs, resolve problems and travel. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major course of study in one of the physical or natural sciences plus 5 years of professional experience in one of the physical or natural sciences, two years which must have been supervisory; OR a master's degree as described above plus fours years of professional experience, two years of which must have been supervisory; or a doctorate from an accredited college or university as described above plus two years professional supervisory experience as described above. Experience with state and federal agencies (preferably in environmental matters) and demonstrable leadership experience required. Certain veterans and spouses of veterans receive preference in employment by the state as provided by Chapter 295, F.S. and are encourage to apply. FWC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/ADA employer. If you require an accommodation to participate in the application/selection process, please contact the hiring authority in advance. Alan Huff, Program Administrator FWC Fish and Wildlife Research Institute 100 8th Avenue SE Saint Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 896-8626 SC 523-20126 www.floridamarine.org

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Sea Lion Skulls
by Amber Bifolck 17 Apr '06

17 Apr '06

Dear List, I am a graduate student conducting research on California Sea Lions, and I need to remove the upper canines from the cleaned skulls. I am having difficulty extracting the teeth; I would prefer not to cut into the bone so that the rest of the skull remains intact. So far we have tried macerating and also using a tooth-extraction tool, but there has not been a great deal of progress as the roots are so large. Any suggestions that you may have are greatly appreciated. Thank-you, Amber Bifolck American University

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www.EuropeanCetaceanSociety.EU
by Jan Willem Broekema 16 Apr '06

16 Apr '06

The European cetacean Society has its own URL www.EuropeanCetaceanSociety.EU (or www.europeancetaceansociety.eu if you prefer lowercase). If you manage a list of links on a website, or if you know of link lists, please change any old URL, like web.inter.nl.net/users/J.W.Broekema/ecs or www.broekemaweb.nl or any other into http://www.EuropeanCetaceanSociety.EU Thank you, Jan Willem Broekema ECS Council E j.w.broekema(a)inter.nl.net

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Course about Photo-identification and social structure of bottlenose dolphins in the Mediterranean Sea
by Bruno Diaz 16 Apr '06

16 Apr '06

COURSE ABOUT PHOTO-IDENTIFICATION AND SOCIAL STRUCTURE OF BOTTLENOSE DOLPHINS This research course, organized by BDRI (Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute), offers an opportunity for enthusiastic and motivated individuals to obtain field and laboratory training in methodology and analysis for the study of photo-identification and social structure of wild bottlenose dolphins under the mentorship of BDRI's researchers. PLACE: GOLFO ARANCI (north-eastern Sardinia - Italy) where since 1991 the Non-profit "Accademia del Leviatano" and Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute have carried out a long term study about this coastal population. The recognition of individual bottlenose dolphins can be used as a tool for a large variety of information (group composition, fidelity of certain dolphins to the group, area distribution and use of habitat preferences, individual behaviour, etc...). Students gain hands-on experience during the boat surveys studying the bottlenose dolphin social structure using photo-id methods. LANGUAGES: English, Spanish or Italian. DATES: 29 May - 03 June; 19 - 24 June; 04 - 09 September. PRICE: 450 Euro (Special price for Students 400 Euro). The course fee will cover you for full board (all your accommodation and food costs in the base), seminars fee, and ALL associated field costs during your stay with us. You'll simply need to arrange your own travel itinerary to us in Golfo Aranci (see How to reach the BDRI in our website: www.geocities.com/B_D_R_I) If you are interested in the course, or for further information, please visit our website or feel free to contact us: http://www.geocities.com/B_D_R_I Email: B_D_R_I(a)yahoo.com Tel: + 39 346 0815414 --------------------------------- Yahoo! Messenger with Voice. PC-to-Phone calls for ridiculously low rates. __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com

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