May 2006 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New paper about Bottlenose Dolphins and fish farms
by Bruno Diaz 05 May '07

05 May '07

Dear All, The following paper is now available. PDF reprints are available upon request (contact email: B_D_R_I(a)yahoo.com) THE IMPACT OF A FISH FARM ON A BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN POPULATION IN THE MEDITERRANEAN SEA. Bruno Díaz López, Luca Marini & Federico Polo. Thalassas, An international Journal of marine sciences. Vol 21 (2), 2005. ABSTRACT The increasing presence of aquaculture in coastal waters calls for a better understanding of its environmental effects. Despite a number of studies focusing on the impact of aquaculture on marine mammals, the interaction between common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) with fish farms has been the subject of few investigations. In this paper we report the results of our research on the interaction between bottlenose dolphins with a fish farm on the Sardinian coast (Italy) from 1991 to 2004. We divided the study area latitudinally into two sections: southern (Gulf of Olbia) and northern (Gulf of Congianus). In the southern section in November 1995 the plant of a small fish farm was completely increased and transformed. Data were pooled into two periods (1991 to 1994 and 1999 to 2004). All years but 2003 were sampled. During the first and second research periods the same land-based searches were conducted under fair to excellent weather conditions. A total of 255 sightings were carried out in over 1320 hours of research of dolphins: in the first period 52 sightings were recorded in 517 hours of research, in the second period 203 sightings were realized in 803 hours of research. The presence of bottlenose dolphins changed dramatically between the two research periods. Observations of dolphins indicate that they are mainly present in the southern area during the second period. The preference for the southern section seemed to be consistent after the transformation of the fish farm, since 1995. Keywords: bottlenose dolphins, aquaculture, fish farm, marine mammals, Sardinian coast Best regards, Bruno Díaz López Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute www.geocities.com/B_D_R_I B_D_R_I(a)yahoo.com V.Diaz 4 Golfo Aranci (SS) Italy tel: 00 39 346 0815414 --------------------------------- Yahoo! Messenger with Voice. PC-to-Phone calls for ridiculously low rates. --------------------------------- Get amazing travel prices for air and hotel in one click on Yahoo! FareChase

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Marine Mammal Rehabilitation Summer Internship
by Marine Animal Lifeline 13 Aug '06

13 Aug '06

MARINE MAMMAL REHABILITATION INTERNSHIP ANNOUNCEMENT The Marine Animal Lifeline in Portland, Maine, seeks applicants for a summer internship working with stranded harbor seal pups. The internship will begin on May 20th and end August 13th. This is a full time internship position with some flexibility of the start and end date of the internship. The internship is an unpaid position and interns are responsible for all travel and housing expenses. Job Summary/Program Description: This internship is designed to provide a dynamic educational experience in the marine mammal field while offering valuable career experience. The interns will have a leadership role in the rehabilitation team and interns will be responsible for a number of support tasks with rehabilitating stranded seals throughout the course of the internship. The positions will involve working under the Veterinary Technicians in providing medical care, feeding, cleaning and completing medical records in the rehabilitation program. The intern will be integrated into the department with assigned duties allowing them to progressively take on more responsibility. Interns may also have the opportunity to assist in marine mammal rescues as they arise. In addition, they will provide support to the animal care staff in animal physicals, and assist in a number of other marine mammal care procedures. Intern Responsibilities & Qualifications: The internship is open to all applicants at least 18 years of age or older. Undergraduate students and non-students alike are encouraged to apply. If the intern intends to receive academic credit, the intern will be responsible for making all arrangements with their educational institutions. The internship is 5 days a week, 40 hours per week, however, due to the unpredictable nature of animal care, interns may sometimes be required to work beyond their normal scheduled hours. Daily operations at the rehabilitation facility begin at 6:30 am and go until at least 8:30 pm often later, on a case-by-case basis. The Marine Animal Lifeline is an extremely busy rehabilitation facility and the animals often require late-night or overnight care. Interns must be able and willing to work long and flexible hours including weekends, holidays and occasional nights. Interns will be required to have fair physical strength and be in good health. Successful applicants will have leadership skills, or posses the ability to learn proper leadership skills quickly. Interns need to have the ability to multitask and work in a fast paced environment. Animal care and/or marine mammal experience is a plus but not required. Duties Include: * Daily animal diet preparations, routine cleaning of work areas. * Assisting with veterinary examinations and treatments. * Assisting with rescues and releases of injured or abandoned marine animals. * Assisting with the taking and processing of X-rays. * Assisting with blood handling and collection. * Assisting with necropsies. * Updating medical and laboratory records and logs. * Maintaining veterinary and rehab supplies and equipment. * Assisting in the feeding, cleaning and daily operations of the rehab area. * Other duties relating to the Center's goals and mission as required. Application Process: Interested individuals must send the following: - Letter of intent including reasons for wanting to do the internship. - Resume - 3 references Submit the above items through one of the following 3 ways: 1. Email: jjakush(a)stranding.org (via pdf file or MSWord) 2. Regular mail: Marine Animal Lifeline c/o Jennifer Jakush P.O. Box 621 Portland, ME 04104 3. Fax: 207-541-1936 The application submission deadline is March 15th and selection of applicants will be complete by March 31st. If you have any further questions, contact Jennifer Jakush at (207) 773-7377, Ext. 413 or email at jjakush(a)stranding.org If you would like to learn more about the Marine Animal Lifeline, visit our website at www.stranding.org Jennifer Jakush Veterinary Technician Marine Animal Lifeline P.O. Box 621 Portland, ME 04104 Phone: (207) 773-7377, Ext. 413 Fax: (207) 541-1936 jjakush(a)stranding.org www.stranding.org

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UK Cetacean Survey Training Courses
by Hanna Nuuttila 31 May '06

31 May '06

Sea Watch Foundation Cetacean Survey Training Courses in New Quay, West Wales July - September 2006 Join a short course to learn all about British cetaceans, how to survey for them, and contribute to their conservation! Book Now! Introductory weekend course 15th – 16th July 2006 5th-6th August 2006 Extended 4-day course 2nd -5th September 2006 Courses will consist of illustrated lectures and video presentations as well as headland watches and boat surveys aboard a local whale-watching vessel. There are two types of course: a weekend course for those with little previous knowledge or experience of cetaceans; and an extended 4-day course for those who already have some knowledge of cetacean watching. For the introductory course, the programme will include an extra lecture introducing cetaceans – their biology, ecology and behaviour. For the extended course, there will be more "in-depth" lectures including research studies, and, weather permitting, extended time at sea, with additional training in field techniques like photo-identification. Both courses will include lectures/videos on conservation issues facing UK cetaceans, species identification, and recommended survey methods for monitoring cetaceans. The course will be based at New Quay, Ceredigion, West Wales, and will provide an unparalleled opportunity to see marine mammals in the wild and to contribute to cetacean conservation in Britain. The practical element of the course will combine both land and boat-based watches allowing participants to directly learn how to conduct systematic watches and fill in standardised recording forms. Boat-based work will also teach participants the skills needed for: (r) estimating group size and distinguishing calves, juveniles and adults (r) assessing sea state and other key environmental details (r) photographic techniques There will also be the chance to practice species field identification and the recording of different behaviours. All participants will receive a detailed manual on how to record and monitor cetaceans. The courses will be taught by experienced and enthusiastic staff from the Sea Watch Foundation. Cost of workshop, per person (excluding accommodation and meals) Introductory weekend course - £150 Organisations; £120 Individuals Extended 4-day course - £200 Organisations; £170 Individuals On both courses, there are discounts available as follows: - £10 for members of the Sea Watch Foundation - £10 for unwaged participants (incl. students) - £10 for people sent by other charities These discounts can be added together. Outline of the course Indoor Session 1: - introduction to cetaceans: biology, ecology and behaviour (beginners course only) - cetaceans in UK: methods and applications for surveying and monitoring cetaceans, including acoustics - species identification: introductory lecture and video Indoor Session 2: - conservation problems currently faced by UK cetaceans - methods for monitoring conservation threats ( followed by video and discussion session) - cetacean research in Cardigan Bay: a review of survey and photo-ID studies Boat Trips - how to use recording forms, conduct watches, identify species, record group size and behaviour, and record environmental parameters - estimate range, measure bearing to sighting (extended course only) - how to use a camera to photograph cetaceans, key ID features to be photographed - photo-ID: individual features to photograph, how to develop and maintain ID catalogues (extended course only) Land-based Watches - watches from a nearby headland will enable participants to practise their identification skills - learn how to monitor boat activity and their possible effects on cetaceans To book, please use the form overleaf The Sea Watch Foundation is a registered marine environmental research charity dedicated to monitoring the status and the distribution of cetaceans throughout the UK and Ireland, running training courses, and various research projects as well as managing the National Sightings Database. To book on a course, obtain more information about the work of the charity, or take part in surveys, please contact: The Sea Watch Foundation, Paragon House, Wellington Place, New Quay, Ceredigion SA45 9NR Tel: 01545-561227 • www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk • info(a)seawatchfoundation.org.uk ____________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________ Hanna Nuuttila Sightings Officer Sea Watch Foundation Paragon House, Wellington Place New Quay SA45 9NR Tel: 01545 561227 hanna.nuuttila(a)seawatchfoundation.org.uk www.seawatchfoundation.org. uk <http://www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk/> ------------------------------

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Fiordland bottlenose dolphins: new publication
by David Lusseau 31 May '06

31 May '06

Dear Marmamers, we are pleased to announce the publication of the first in a series of papers looking at the potential communicative value of physical behavioural events in Fiordland bottlenose dolphins: R. Ferrer i Cancho and D. Lusseau 2006. Long-term correlations in the surface behavior of dolphins. Europhysics Letters DOI: 10.1209/epl/i2005-10596-9 Abstract Here we study the sequences of surface behavioral patterns of dolphins (Tursiops sp.) and find long-term correlations. We show that the long-term correlations are not of a trivial nature, i.e. they cannot be explained by the repetition of the same surface behavior many times in a row. Our findings suggest that dolphins have a long collective memory extending back at least to the 7-th past behavior. As far as we know, this is the first evidence of long-term correlations in the behavior of a non-human species. The paper is available in the E-first section of the Journal (http://www.edpsciences.org/articles/epl/abs/first/contents/contents.html) and will be shortly available at lusseau.org David David Lusseau, PhD Killam Postdoctoral Research Fellow Dalhousie University Department of Biology 1355 Oxford Street Halifax, NS B3H 4J1 Tel: (902) 494 3723 E-mail: d.lusseau(a)dal.ca david.lusseau(a)gmail.com Website: http://www.lusseau.org

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Abstracts and contents - Aquatic Mammals, 32(1), 2006 (fwd)
by MARMAM Editors 30 May '06

30 May '06

Dear Marmam and ECS-mailbase subscribers, Apologies in advance to those of you who will be receiving cross-postings. The following is a list of contents of the most recent issue of _Aquatic Mammals_. This publication is supported through a partnership between the European Association for Aquatic Mammals and the European Cetacean Society. For more information on _Aquatic Mammals_, I refer you to the new website for the publication (that includes author guidelines) which not only also has links to both societies: http://www.wiu.edu/users/aquamamm/index/home.htm The abstracts are posted as a courtesy to the journal editors: Managing Editor: Dr. Jeannette Thomas, Department of Biological Sciences, Western Illinois University-Quad Cities, 3561 Street, Moline, Illinois 61265, USA (J-Thomas(a)wiu.edu; tel: 309-762-9481; fax: 309-762-6989) and Co-Editor and Book Review Editor: Dr. Kathleen Dudzinski, Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration, 55 Coogan Avenue, Mystic, Connecticut 06355, USA (kdudzinski(a)mysticaquarium.org; tel: 860-572-5955; fax: 860-572-5969). The addresses to whom reprint inquiries should be directed is included with each article. No email addresses were provided with any of the articles. Thank you for your continued interest in this journal and publication postings in general. With warm regards, Dagmar Fertl Geo-Marine, Inc. dfertl(a)geo-marine.com http://www.geo-marine.com ____________________________________________________________________________ Neumann, D.R.*, and M.B. Orams. 2006. Impacts of ecotourism on short-beaked common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) in Mercury Bay, New Zealand. Aquatic Mammals 32(1):1-9. *Luisenstrasse 2, 76530 Baden-Baden, Germany Short-beaked common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) often are found in large aggregations offshore from the eastern coast of New Zealand. They are the primary target of at least six marine mammal tourism operations from Whakatane to the Hauraki Gulf. This report details the first long-term investigation of interactions between tourists and common dolphins. During a 3-y study offshore from Whitianga on the Coromandel Peninsula, 105 focal group follows, totaling 118 h of observations were conducted from a 5.5-m, rigid-hull inflatable boat. Seventy-two of these observations were conducted in the absence of the tour boat (baseline), and 33 with the tour boat. Baseline data were compared with "tour boat" data to assess changes in dolphin behaviour resulting from the tour boat approaching and swimmers entering the water to snorkel with the dolphins. Common dolphins responded with a relatively predictable pattern to approaching boats. Initial attraction (mean duration 8 min) typically was followed by neutral behaviour (mean duration 57 min) and eventually replaced by boat avoidance. Smaller dolphin groups showed boat avoidance sooner and more frequently than larger groups. When swimmers entered the water, dolphins only spent an average of 2 min in their vicinity. Throughout encounters, they maintained a distance of at least 3 m from the nearest swimmer. During half of the attempted swims, dolphins did not change their course or their activity in response to swimmers. Swimmers had a better chance of a sustained interaction when the group of dolphins was large (> 50 individuals) and/or the number of swimmers in the water was small (< 5). The results of this study suggested that common dolphins can be affected by tourism; however, adherence to New Zealand's Marine Mammals Protection Regulations and the current low level of tourism appear to minimise the impact on this species. ******************************************************************* Weiss, J.* 2006. Foraging habitats and associated preferential foraging specializations of bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) mother-calf pairs. Aquatic Mammals 32(1):10-19. Current address: Geo-Marine, Inc. 2713 Magruder Boulevard, Suite D, Hampton, VA 23666, USA Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) use a variety of foraging specializations to detect and pursue prey. Like other mammals, individual dolphins may use specialized foraging techniques that are shaped in response to habitat type or prey resources. The long duration of the mother-calf bond presents an opportunity for mothers to transmit such specializations to their calves. This study explored how the use of foraging specializations may influence selection of foraging habitats and how such specializations may spread within a dolphin community. Focal animal follows were used to document the foraging behavior of five resident females and their calves from June to August 2003 in Sarasota Bay, Florida. Sarasota Bay was classified into six habitat types based upon bathymetry and bottom topography. Individual females differed in their selection of foraging habitats. Three of the five focal females used one of two foraging specializations—kerplunking and barrier-feeding—and exhibited a preference for only one type of behavior. A significant difference in the frequency of observations of foraging specific behaviors was found between different habitat types. Limited observations, as well as anecdotal evidence from past studies, suggest that maternal transmission may play a role in the spread of foraging techniques, such as kerplunking and barrier-feeding, within the community. My findings suggest that the use of foraging specializations is associated with foraging habitat preferences in Sarasota Bay. The importance of seagrass areas to foraging dolphins and the significance of the mother-calf bond to the development of the use of foraging specializations is emphasized. *********************************************************************** Reyes, L.M.* 2006. Cetaceans of central Patagonia, Argentina. Aquatic Mammals 32(1):20-30 *Universidad Nacional de la Patagonia San Juan Bosco, Boulevard Brown 3700, (9120) Puerto Madryn, Chubut, Argentina The aim of this study was to produce the first annotated checklist of cetaceans found in the coastal waters of central Patagonia, Argentina, in the Southwestern Atlantic, encompassing approximately 700 km of coastline. Personal records of sightings and strandings, personal communications with trained individuals, photographs, unpublished abstracts from meetings, scientific publications, newspaper articles, and specimen collections from academic institutions were considered. Thirteen species were reported in the area, including ten odontocetes and three mysticetes. Reports of eight species had been published previously, including Cephalorhynchus commersonii, Lagenorhynchus obscurus, L. australis, Orcinus orca, Globicephala melas, Physeter macrocephalus, Mesoplodon layardii, and Ziphius cavirostris. Five species were formally documented for the first time in this coastal area, including Grampus griseus, M. grayi, Eubalaena australis, Balaenoptera bonaerensis, and B. musculus. The number of odontocete species and the presence of three species of pinnipeds breeding or moulting on several islands (Otaria flavescens, Arctocephalus australis, and Mirounga leonina) highlight the importance of the area in terms of biodiversity of top predators and the need for the creation of a new Marine Protected Area, considering present uses and trends in coastal development. *********************************************************************** McFadden, K.W.*, G.A.J. Worthy, and T.E. Lacher. 2006. Photogrammetric estimates of size and mass in Hawaiian monk seals (Monachus schauinslandi). Aquatic Mammals 32(1): 31-40. *current address: National Marine Fisheries Service, Office of Protected Resources Division, Silver Spring, MD 20910, USA A non-invasive photographic technique was developed to estimate the body mass of Hawaiian monk seals (Monachus schauinslandi). Newly weaned monk seal pups (n = 31) were photographed and measured at Kure Atoll in the northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Length, side area, anterior/posterior area, and perimeter were measured from photographs to establish predictive relationships with body mass using regression analyses. Photographs were ranked subjectively in terms of quality, based on the degree to which the seal's body position deviated from the ideal position used to obtain standardized photographs. Results indicated that deviations in body positioning (e. g., a seal rolled on its side) did not significantly alter photogrammetric (surface area or perimeter) values compared to those obtained in a standard position. Although the most reliable models (based on information criterion analysis and 95% CIs) were based on directly measured morphological variables, models using only photogrammetric variables also yielded practical and reliable models with 95% CI, ranging from ± 4.95 to 9.12 kg and R2 values from 0.93 to 0.77. This finding indicated that the use of photogrammetry alone to assess body condition is suitable to estimate body mass in 10- to 120-kg weaned Hawaiian monk seal pups. *********************************************************************** Ortiz, R.M.*, and G.A.J. Worthy. 2006. Body composition and water turnover rates of bottle-fed West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus) calves. Aquatic Mammals 32(1):41-45. *current address: Division of Natural Sciences, University of California, Merced, CA 95344-0039, USA Estimation of body composition and water turnover rates can provide important indices of an animal's health and well-being. This data becomes especially important for a highly endangered species, such as the West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus). Information on body composition and water turnover rates in nursing manatee calves is unavailable; therefore, the present study describes a unique opportunity to estimate, by isotopic dilution, body composition and water flux in vivo in bottle-fed calves of the West Indian manatee held in captivity. A calf held in fresh water was measured at 9 mo (124.8 kg) and 12 mo (152.6 kg) to examine the effects of growth. Over this 3-mo period, absolute fat mass (FM) increased 70.4% and absolute water turnover rate increased from 4.7 to 9.7 l/d, illustrating how these parameters change as a function of the animal's growth. To examine the effects of salinity on water flux, another calf (110.0 kg), held in salt water, was restricted from fresh water. During freshwater restriction, the calf's water turnover rate was 2.9 l/d and could be accounted for solely by dietary and metabolic water. When the animal was given access to fresh water, turnover rate increased to 4.0 l/d, for which 1.3 l/d could not be accounted, suggesting that nursing calves do not drink salt water. Collectively, the results provide a unique data set for nursing manatee calves and suggest that nursing calves, similar to adults, do not engage in mariposia. In addition, nursing calves will drink when given access to fresh water; however, the contribution of drinking fresh water to the growth and development of nursing calves remains to be examined. These data should provide useful information when implementing the proper husbandry and management plans for both fresh- and saltwater habitats of such a highly endangered species as the West Indian manatee. ********************************************************** Turner, J.P.*, L.S. Clark, E.M. Haubold, G.A.J. Worthy, and D.F. Cowan. 2006. Organ weights and growth profiles in bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) from the northwestern Gulf of Mexico. Aquatic Mammals 32(1):46-57. *current address: Department of Marine Science, University of Hawai’i at Hilo, Hilo, HI 96720, USA Systematic necropsies were performed on 63 bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), and data on organ mass, standard body length (SBL), body mass (BM), gender, sexual maturity, and age were measured and/or estimated. Animals were extremely fresh and recovered from along the Texas and Louisiana coastline in the northwestern Gulf of Mexico. Organ reference tables were established for this species to facilitate comparisons with other bottlenose dolphins and to provide a baseline for other cetacean species. Organs examined included lungs, adrenal glands, kidneys, testes, ovaries, heart, liver, pancreas, brain, pituitary, thyroid, thymus, and spleen. Individuals were separated into three size classes: < 175 cm, 175-225 cm, and > 225 cm, based on SBL to further facilitate comparisons. Growth rates of length and mass were described using Gompertz nonlinear models as a function of gender. No sexual dimorphism was identified in BM or organ weights, and SBL was only significantly larger for older mature males. SBL and BM were strongly correlated with age when all animals were included in analyses, although this is not an accurate predictor of age, especially in older individuals. Organ weights were significantly correlated with both SBL (except thymus and spleen) and BM (except left ovary, spleen, and thymus). Age was significantly correlated with all organ weights (except thymus, thyroid, and ovaries). There were no significant differences in the weight of any paired organs (adrenal glands, kidneys, lungs, ovaries, testes), and all were significantly correlated with BM. These data on organ weights of bottlenose dolphins, when interpreted with SBL, BM, and age, are significant tools for pathologists and veterinarians interpreting animal health status. ******************************************************************* Mellish, J.E.*, D.G. Calkins, D.R. Christen, M. Horning, L.D. Rea, and S.K. Atkinson. 2006. Temporary captivity as a research tool: Comprehensive study of wild pinnipeds under controlled conditions. Aquatic Mammals 32(1):58-65. *School of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, University of Alaska-Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA A new approach to the study of free-ranging, endangered western stock Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus) was implemented at the Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward, Alaska. Groups of up to four juvenile (n = 16) Steller sea lions were held in temporary quarantine for research periods of up to three months. Hematological and blood chemistry parameters were collected at the beginning and end of captivity and compared to free-ranging juvenile controls to determine if animals in temporary captivity can provide accurate physiological data representative of their wild counterparts. Free-ranging pups and juveniles were compared for hematological differences related to developmental stage. Overall, temporarily captive animals did not differ from free-ranging juveniles. Seven of 17 blood parameters measured changed significantly during captivity, likely as a function of a regular schedule and low-impact nutritional studies (e.g., increased mass, cholesterol, total protein, and globulins). A decrease in white blood cells during the study period (10.4 ± 0.59 to 7.9 ± 0.33 m/mm3) to levels lower than that of free-ranging animals (10.7 ± 0.40 m/mm3) indicated a drop in overall stress during captivity despite research and handling procedures. Calcium increased with captivity duration, suggesting that physiological changes can begin in even limited time frames. Eight parameters related to immune status and diet differed significantly between juveniles and pups from the same geographical region. A strategy that combines the benefits of an extended research design with temporary holding of free-ranging animals is proposed as an alternative to traditional field methods for some types of focused physiological studies. ******************************************************************** Fellner, W.*, K. Odell, A. Corwin, L. Davis, C. Goonen, I. Larkin, and M.A. Stamper. 2006. Response to conditioned stimuli by two rehabilitated and released West Indian manatees (Trichechus manatus latirostris). Aquatic Mammals 32(1):66-74. *The Living Seas, Epcot, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830, USA U.S. regulations discourage research that requires training with West Indian manatees (Trichechus manatus latirostris) due to the concern that trained manatees would become accustomed to approaching humans for food and would continue to approach people once released back to the wild. Learning theory suggests that behaviors acquired while in captivity may not transfer well to the new context of the wild habitat, however. In this study, two female, rehabilitating manatees were trained to perform up to five husbandry behaviors. Prior to their release, the behaviors were no longer reinforced. Response to training signals was reduced for all behaviors when reinforcement was with-held. In post-release observations, the manatees were located by satellite and radio-telemetry, and training signals were presented. Neither manatee performed any of the trained behaviors. The results of this case study suggest that training releasable manatees may be a viable option. ******************************************************************** Kjeld, M.*, Ö Ólafsson, G. Víkingsson, and J. Sigurjónsson. 2006. Sex hormones and reproductive status of the North Atlantic fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) during the feeding season. Aquatic Mammals 31(2):75-84. *The University Hospital, Department of Clinical Chemistry, K-bygging, Landspítalinn v Hringbraut, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland Reproductive fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) (448 females and 278 males), classified by anatomical/histological methods, were studied for serum sex hormones. Of the 207 females classified as pregnant by anatomical methods, 95% had progesterone (P) levels higher than 9.0 nmol/l with a near symmetrical distribution of log10 P-levels around the mean of 1.55 (35.5 nmol/l geometric mean). More than half of the sexually immature females (n = 157) had P-levels ≤ 0.1 nmol/l. Nonpregnant mature cows were older on average than pregnant cows, suggesting the beginning of reproductive senescence in females before the age of 30 y. The mean serum testosterone (T) of mature males (3.1 nmol/l) was significantly higher than that of immature males (1.0 nmol/l). In mature males, T-levels were positively associated with testicular size, as well as time (day-count) during the summer whaling season. For fin whales, serum P- and T-levels agreed closely with anatomical studies of reproduction and may be decisive when anatomical indexes fail. Furthermore, the serum T-level appears to be an excellent index for monitoring the latter part of the annual male reproductive cycle. *********************************************************************** Trites, A.W.*, B.P. Porter, V.B. Deecke, A/P. Coombs, M.L. Marcotte, D.A.S. Rosen. 2006. Insights into the timing of weaning and the attendance patterns of lactating Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus) in Alaska during winter, spring, and summer. Aquatic Mammals 32(1):85-97. *Marine Mammal Research Unit, Fisheries Centre, University of British Columbia, Room 247, AERL, 2002 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T IZ4 Behavioral observations of lactating Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus) and their offspring were recorded at four haulout sites in Alaska to determine (1) whether sea lions wean during winter while they are 7 to 9 mo old and (2) whether sea lions using sites in the Gulf of Alaska (the declining endangered population) made longer foraging trips than sea lions in southeast Alaska (where the population appeared larger and healthier). Longer foraging trips are commonly thought to be an indicator of nutritional stress. Eight sets of behavioral observations were made using focal and scan-sampling techniques at haulouts from 1995 to 1998 during three seasons (winter, spring, and summer). Counter to expectations, we found no significant differences between haulout populations in the time that lactating Steller sea lions spent at sea or on shore. This suggests that lactating sea lions did not have more difficulty capturing prey from winter through summer in the area of decline compared to where sea lion numbers increased. Lactating Steller sea lions in both regions did make longer foraging trips in winter than they did in spring and summer. These changes in foraging patterns among seasons were consistent among all years and sites. The proportion of time that immature Steller sea lions suckled declined through the spring to early summer, suggesting that sea lions began supplementing their milk diet with solid food in the spring. We did not observe any sea lions weaning during winter; rather, most appeared to wean at the start of the breeding season when they were 1 or 2 y old. Sea lions observed in southeast Alaska during the late 1990s while population growth was slowing suggest that most males weaned at 2 y and that about 50% of females weaned at 1 y and the remainder at 2 y. ******************************************************** Cooper, L.W.*, C.J. Ashjian, S.L. Smith, L.A. Codispoti, J.M. Grebmeier, R.G. Campbell, and E.B. Sherr. Rapid seasonal sea-ice retreat in the Arctic could be affecting Pacific walrus (Odobenus rosmarus divergens) recruitment. Aquatic Mammals 32(1):98-102. *Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA Under conditions of rapid sea-ice retreat and dissolution, we observed at least nine Pacific walrus calves separated from adult females in waters as deep as 3,000 m in July and August 2004 in the Canada Basin of the Arctic Ocean. Given limited sea surface visibility from the ship, we surmise that many additional calves may have been separated in the overall study area. These conditions appear to have been related to the transport of unusually warm (7° C) Bering Sea water into this area north of Alaska. Walruses invest considerable maternal resources while caring for calves on seasonally ice-covered continental shelves for periods of up to 2 y or more and only rarely separate from their young. Therefore, these observations indicate that the Pacific walrus population may be ill-adapted to rapid seasonal sea-ice retreat off Arctic continental shelves. ____________________________________________________________________________ Lanyon, J.M.*, K.. Newgrain, and T. Sahir Syah Alli. 2006. Estimation of water turnover rate in captive dugongs (Dugong dugon). Aquatic Mammals 32(1):103-108. *School of Integrative Biology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia Water turnover rate was measured for two captive dugongs (Dugong dugon) using deuterated water. Body water content of 69.5% in a dugong was high compared to other marine mammals. A water turnover of 257.2 ml kg−1 day−1 measured in one dugong was almost twice as high as the highest rates measured in studies of captive West Indian manatees (Trichechus manatus) and was high compared to those measured in carnivorous marine mammals. The other dugong's estimated water turnover rate of 134 ml kg−1 day−1 was comparable to the highest rates in manatees. Two alternative explanations are offered for the high water turnover: (1) the incidence of mariposia or voluntary drinking of sea water by the dugong or (2) a metabolic rate that is significantly higher than predicted, based on its phylogeny. ************************************************************************ Pérez, M.J.*, F. Thomas, F. Uribe, M. Sepúlveda, M. Flores, and R. Moraga. 2006. Fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) feeding on Euphausia mucronata in nearshore waters off north-central Chile Aquatic Mammals 32(1):109-113. *Eutropia, Centro de Investigacion de Aves y Mamíferos Marinos de Chile, Uno Poniente 960, Departmento 1102, Vina del Mar, Chile This paper reports the presence and feeding activity of fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) during the austral summers of 2004 and 2005 in coastal waters near the Reserva Nacional Pinguino de Humboldt, north of Chile. The main prey item of the species was identified as the euphausiid Euphausia mucronata. The presence of B. physalus is associated with a high concentration of potential prey probably produced by an upwelling system that is frequently detected slightly south of the study area during summer. This information is a contribution to the knowledge of distribution, feeding behavior, and diet of B. physalus. Additionally, it constitutes the first record of a direct observation of feeding activity of B. physalus along the Chilean coast. ************************************************************************** Schusterman, R.J. 2006. Book review: Entanglements: the Intertwined Fates of Whales and Fishermen. Author: Tora Johnson. Aquatic Mammals 32(1):114-115. *Long Marine Laboratory, University of California at Santa Cruz, 100 Shaffer Road, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA *********************************************************************** Blomqvist, C. 2006. Book review: The Encyclopedia of Animal Behavior. Editor: Marc Bekoff. Aquatic Mammals 32(1):116-117. *Department of Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, University of Linkoping, SE-581 83 Linkoping, Sweden ------------------------------------------------------------------- -To submit a message to MARMAM, send it to: marmam(a)lists.uvic.ca -Please include your name and e-mail address in the body of the text of all submissions, and ensure your message has an appropriate subject heading (ie., not "Message for MARMAM") -Do not submit attached files or HTML/MIME messages. -To subscribe to MARMAM, go to lists.uvic.ca/mailman/listinfo/marmam -To contact the MARMAM editors, write to: marmamed(a)uvic.ca -MARMAM Editorial Policy & FAQ: http://whitelab.biology.dal.ca/marmam.htm

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New paper on sperm whale diving and foraging behavior
by Stephanie L. Watwood 30 May '06

30 May '06

The following paper on the diving and foraging behavior of sperm whales was recently published: Watwood, Stephanie L., Miller, Patrick J.O., Johnson, Mark, Madsen, Peter T., and Tyack, Peter L. 2006. Deep-diving foraging behaviour of sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus). Journal of Animal Ecology 75: 814-825. Pdf reprints for those interested are available from swatwood(a)whoi.edu. Summary 1. Digital tags were used to describe diving and vocal behaviour of sperm whales during 198 complete and partial foraging dives made by 37 individual sperm whales in the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico and the Ligurian Sea. 2. The maximum depth of dive averaged by individual differed across the three regions and was 985 m (SD = 124·3), 644 m (123·4) and 827 m (60·3), respectively. An average dive cycle consisted of a 45 min (6·3) dive with a 9 min (3·0) surface interval, with no significant differences among regions. On average, whales spent greater than 72% of their time in foraging dive cycles. 3. Whales produced regular clicks for 81% (4·1) of a dive and 64% (14·6) of the descent phase. The occurrence of buzz vocalizations (also called 'creaks') as an indicator of the foraging phase of a dive showed no difference in mean prey capture attempts per dive between regions [18 buzzes/dive (7·6)]. Sperm whales descended a mean of 392 m (144) from the start of regular clicking to the first buzz, which supports the hypothesis that regular clicks function as a long-range biosonar. 4. There were no significant differences in the duration of the foraging phase [28 min (6·0)] or percentage of the dive duration in the foraging phase [62% (7·3)] between the three regions, with an overall average proportion of time spent actively encountering prey during dive cycles of 0·53 (0·05). Whales maintained their time in the foraging phase by decreasing transit time for deeper foraging dives. 5. Similarity in foraging behaviour in the three regions and high diving efficiencies suggest that the success of sperm whales as mesopelagic predators is due in part to long-range echolocation of deep prey patches, efficient locomotion and a large aerobic capacity during diving. -- ><> <>< ><> <>< ><> <>< ><> <>< ><> <>< Stephanie L. Watwood Postdoctoral Investigator Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Marine Research Facility MS#50 Woods Hole MA 02543 508-289-3463 (phone) 508-457-2138 (fax) www.whoi.edu/people/swatwood <>< ><> <>< ><> <>< ><> <>< ><> <>< ><>

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New publications week 20
by Jan Herrmann 29 May '06

29 May '06

Dear all, here are some new publications of week 20 / 2006, which haven't been announced on MARMAM earlier AFAIK. By clicking the following link you are guided to a website, where the following references are linked to their according journal homepages. There you can find abstracts and contact information: http://www.mmbib.com/news.html Please do not contact MARMAM, the MARMAM editors or me for reprints. Thank you. Kindest Regards, Jan Herrmann CETACEA Holt, S. (2006): Propaganda and pretext. Marine Pollution Bulletin 52(4): 363-366. Janik, V.M., L.S. Sayigh, and R.S. Wells (2006): Signature whistle shape conveys identity information to bottlenose dolphins. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America 103(21): 8293-8297. Kjeld, M. et al. (2006): Sex Hormones and Reproductive Status of the North Atlantic Fin Whales (Balaenoptera physalus) During the Feeding Season. Aquatic Mammals 32(1): 75-84. McKinney, M.A. et al. (2006): Organohalogen contaminants and metabolites in beluga whale (Delphinapterus leucas) liver from two Canadian populations. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry 25(5): 1246-1257. Neumann, D.R. and M.B. Orams (2006): Impacts of Ecotourism on Short-Beaked Common Dolphins (Delphinus delphis) in Mercury Bay, New Zealand. Aquatic Mammals 32(1): 1-9. Nikaido, M. et al. (2005): Baleen Whale Phylogeny and a Past Extensive Radiation Event Revealed by SINE Insertion Analysis. Molecular Biology and Evolution 23(5): 866-873. Pérez, M.J. et al. (2006): Fin Whales (Balaenoptera physalus) Feeding on Euphausia mucronata in Nearshore Waters off North-Central Chile. Aquatic Mammals 32(1): 109-113. Reyes, L.M. (2006): Cetaceans of Central Patagonia, Argentina. Aquatic Mammals 32(1): 20-30. Schusterman, R.J. (2006): Entanglements: the Intertwined Fates of Whales and Fishermen. Tora Johnson. Aquatic Mammals 32(1): 114-115. Sourisseau, M., Y. Simard, and F.J. Saucier (2006): Krill aggregation in the St. Lawrence system, and supply of krill to the whale feeding grounds in the estuary from the gulf. Marine Ecology Progress Series 314(): 257-270. Turner, J.P. et al. (2006): Organ Weights and Growth Profiles in Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) from the Northwestern Gulf of Mexico. Aquatic Mammals 32(1): 46-57. Weiss, J. (2006): Foraging Habitats and Associated Preferential Foraging Specializations of Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) Mother-Calf Pairs. Aquatic Mammals 32(1): 10-19. PINNIPEDIA Cooper, L.W. et al. (2006): Rapid Seasonal Sea-Ice Retreat in the Arctic Could Be Affecting Pacific Walrus (Odobenus rosmarus divergens) Recruitment. Aquatic Mammals 32(1): 98-102. Haulena, M. et al. (2006): Lesions associated with a novel Mycoplasma sp. In california sea lions (Zalophus californianus) undergoing rehabilitation. Journal of Wildlife Diseases 42(1): 40-45. McDonald, B.I. and D.E. Crocker (2006): Physiology and Behavior Influence Lactation Efficiency in Northern Elephant Seals (Mirounga angustirostris). Physiological and Biochemical Zoology 79(3): 484-496. McFadden, K.W., G.A.J. Worthy, and T.E. Lacher (2006): Photogrammetric Estimates of Size and Mass in Hawaiian Monk Seals (Monachus schauinslandi). Aquatic Mammals 32(1): 31-40. Mellish, J.-A.E. et al. (2006): Temporary Captivity as a Research Tool: Comprehensive Study of Wild Pinnipeds Under Controlled Conditions. Aquatic Mammals 32(1): 58-65. Nollens, H.H. et al. (2006): Pathology and preliminary characterization of a parapoxvirus isolated from a california sea lion (Zalophus californianus). Journal of Wildlife Diseases 42(1): 23-32. Trites, A.W. et al. (2006): Insights into the Timing of Weaning and the Attendance Patterns of Lactating Steller Sea Lions (Eumetopias jubatus) in Alaska During Winter, Spring, and Summer. Aquatic Mammals 32(1): 85-97. OTHER MARINE MAMMALS Fellner, W. et al. (2006): Response to Conditioned Stimuli by Two Rehabilitated and Released West Indian Manatees (Trichechus manatus latirostris). Aquatic Mammals 32(1): 66-74. Lanyon, J.M., K. Newgrain, and T. Sahir Syah Alli (2006): Estimation of Water Turnover Rate in Captive Dugongs (Dugong dugon). Aquatic Mammals 32(1): 103-108. Ortiz, R.M. and G.A.J. Worthy (2006): Body Composition and Water Turnover Rates of Bottle-Fed West Indian Manatee (Trichechus manatus) Calves. Aquatic Mammals 32(1): 41-45. Ross, S.R. (2006): Issues of choice and control in the behaviour of a pair of captive polar bears (Ursus maritimus). Behavioral Processes 73(1): 117-120. Yan, J. et al. (2006): Application of fracture mechanics to failure in manatee rib bone. Journal of Biomechanical Engineering 128(3): 281-289. -- --> jan.herrmann -at - cetacea.de

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Training Course about vocalizations and diving behaviour of free ranging wild bottlenose dolphins
by Bruno Diaz 28 May '06

28 May '06

TRAINING COURSE ABOUT VOCALIZATIONS AND DIVING BEHAVIOUR OF FREE RANGING WILD 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 bottlenose dolphin vocalizations and diving behaviour 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 BDRI have carried out a long term study about this coastal resident population. This course will explore the relationship between dolphin vocalizations and behavior. Visual observations on the behaviour of coastal bottlenose dolphins are often obscured by the turbidity of coastal water conditions, the substantial amount of time these dolphins spend submerged, and by the darkness of nocturnal periods. In contrast, dolphin vocalizations may be monitored and recorded under a wide range of water conditions, when dolphins are at the surface or submerged, and at night. If a relationship between dolphin vocalizations and behavior can be documented, then vocal activity may be used to provide access to important behavioral processes under a broader range of environmental and daytime conditions. The recognition of individual animals can be used as a tool for the descriptions of diving behaviour (surfacing cycles), and their correlation to general behaviour patterns such feeding, travelling, socializing, resting. LANGUAGES: English, Spanish or Italian. DATES: 10 - 15 July, 31 July - 05 August, 14 - 19 August, 30 October - 04 November PRICE: 450 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 - Olbia (Sardinia) (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 --------------------------------- Talk is cheap. Use Yahoo! Messenger to make PC-to-Phone calls. Great rates starting at 1¢/min. --------------------------------- Sneak preview the all-new Yahoo.com. It's not radically different. Just radically better.

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IWDG express concern about NATO Operation Steadfast Jaguar in Cape Verde
by Simon Berrow 25 May '06

25 May '06

Sorry, After posting this original message our attentuion has been drawn to some mis-information. This revised posting has incorporated these sugestions. The conclusions are concerns expressed are unchanged. Simon IWDG express concern about NATO Operation Steadfast Jaguar in Cape Verde The Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG) have recently learnt that NATO intend to use a range of active sonar systems during their forthcoming training exercise Steadfast Jaguar in the Cape Verde Islands. There has been considerable concern over the impact of Low Frequency Active Sonar (LFAS) on cetaceans from marine mammal experts from around the world including North America and Europe. In addition, there is considerable evidence that active sonar systems, particularly mid-frequency ones, have been a major factor in the mass stranding of cetaceans, including the poorly understood and rarely seen, beaked whales. Recent pathological evidence suggests these deep diving species may suffer air embolisms or "the bends" due to rapid surfacing after reacting to strong acoustic sources, such as active sonars. The US Navy admitted the potential of mid-frequency active sonars to kill marine mammals after a mass stranding event in the Bahamas during a NATO exercise in 2000, while LFAS has been the subject of numerous court cases in the US, with US judges ruling against the deployment and use of LFAS on a number of occasions. As a volcanic archipelago, the seabed around the Cape Verde Islands slope steeply away into great depths. The islands are surrounded by deep-water canyons and shelf slopes which are a prime habitat for beaked whale species. Recent modeling data also suggest that the Cape Verde Islands may be important habitat for a number of beaked whale species. The IWDG have recently returned from their second expedition to the Cape Verde Islands. The primary objective of both expeditions was to obtain fluke images of humpback whales in order to locate the feeding grounds of the Cape Verde breeding population. It is the opinion of the IWDG, that Cape Verde might be the breeding ground of the humpback whales being observed, with increasing frequency, in Irish waters. The IWDG have a long-term interest in the ecology and conservation of cetaceans in Cape Verde Islands and are concerned over the possible impacts of Steadfast Jaguar. The IWDG call on NATO to ensure that there is no impact of their sonar systems, particularly LFAS and mid-frequency ones, and other military equipment on marine mammals around Cape Verde during this operation. The IWDG will work together with local groups in Cape Verde to monitor for any effects of this exercise on marine mammals during and after the forthcoming NATO exercises. Irish Whale and Dolphin Group Tel: 00353 86 8545450 Email: Simon.Berrow(a)iwdg.ie Website: www.iwdg.ie ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Steadfast Jaguar website: http://www.nato.int/shape/issues/shape_nrf/steadfast_jaguar.htm Statement from Ian Bailey, Lt UK N, PIO, JFC HQ Brunssum on 11 May 2006 NATO takes the impact of any of its operations on the environment and wildlife very seriously. Consequently, the Alliance has developed a general policy for military principles and policies for Environmental Protection. This doctrine establishes the mandatory integration of environmental risk management at the initial stages of the planning process for operations and exercises. Furthermore, NATO requires that the co-operating host nation's environmental laws be respected during all NATO operations and exercises. During the extensive planning process for the NATO Response Force Live Exercise, Steadfast Jaguar 06 (SFJR06) in Cape Verde, all of these guidelines have been utilized to ensure that both the national and NATO requirements for the protection of cetaceans are met. Naval units participating in SFJR 06 are fitted with the usual variety of sonar military systems, both passive and active, and ranging from low to high frequencies. All these systems will be subject to restrictions during this exercise in accordance with NATO and Cape Verdian guidelines. Cognizant of concerns from environmental protection institutions regarding possible risks to marine life produced by sonar transmission, NATO recently created a Specialist Team on Maritime Mammal Protection at its Headquarters in Brussels. The Team will co-operate in this area with academics, industries and NGOs and promote among the member nations the introduction of further effective measures and equipment to minimize the impact of sonar transmissions on maritime mammals.

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New Publication: Sea Level Rise and Monk Seals: Endangered Species Research
by Brendan Godley 24 May '06

24 May '06

Dear Marine Mammal List Members Apologies if you receive this more than once but, given its importance to monk seals, I thought members would be interested in the most recent publication (today) in the conservation journal Endangered Species Research (ESR): Baker JD, Littnan CL, Johnston DW (2006) Endangered Species Research Number 4 Potential effects of sea level rise on the terrestrial habitats of endangered and endemic megafauna of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands It looks at one of the key cross-cutting themes of the journal ie climate change and how potential sea level rise may impact monk seals, birds and sea turtles in the biologically rich NW Hawaiian islands. The paper can be downloaded free of charge at the journal website: http://www.int-res.com/journals/esr/contents/ It follows the recent publication of: McGowan A, Broderick AC, Gore S, Hilton G, Woodfield NK, Godley BJ (2006) Endangered Species Research Number 3 Breeding seabirds in the British Virgin Islands. Eguchi T, Seminoff JA, Garner SA, Alexander-Garner J, Dutton PH (2006) Endangered Species Research Number 2 Flipper tagging with archival data recorders for short-term assessment of diving in nesting female turtles Frias Torres (2006) Endangered Species Research Number 1 Habitat use of juvenile goliath grouper Epinephelus itajara in the Florida Keys, USA Additional journal information: We are a relatively new journal but growing fast with 15 original articles under review including manuscripts on plants, molluscs, turtles, otters, cetaceans as well as those relating to issues such as bushmeat and traditional use. We welcome submissions on all taxa and ecosystems of conservation concern in terrestrial, freshwater and marine realm. Submissions should be via the Managing Editor Penny Khun at esr-submissions(a)int-res.com. We have recently expanded our scope http://www.int-res.com/journals/esr/information/ and are growing our international editorial board. If you would like to receive additional updates about contents to ESR you can subscribe for e-mail updates by sending a message to: esr-contents-subscribe(a)int-res.com containing the subject line "SUBSCRIBE" . If you have any additional queries about the journal, drop me a line. Best B Dr. Brendan J. Godley Editor-in-Chief, Endangered Species Research <http://www.int-res.com/journals/esr/> Centre for Ecology & Conservation School of Biosciences University of Exeter Homepage <http://www.seaturtle.org/mtrg/>

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