November 2007 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Cape Town hotel room available
by Amy C. Hirons 13 Nov '07

13 Nov '07

Hello all, If you're attending the Biology of Marine Mammals conference later this month in Cape Town, South Africa, I have a double room available at the Cullinan Hotel (very nice!). Unfortunately, a work pseudo-crisis is preventing me from attending the meeting and Grosvenor Tours will not refund the 6 nights that I have paid for the room. The room's available for check-in 28 November and check-out on 4 December. If you, or anyone you know, would like to stay here, please let me know at hirons(a)nova.edu. Thanks. Amy Amy C. Hirons, PhD Research Professor Oceanographic Center Nova Southeastern University 8000 North Ocean Drive Dania Beach, FL 33004-3078 (o) 954-262-3620 (f) 954-262-4098 hirons(a)nova.edu

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Commentary on Japanese scientific whaling
by Phillip.Clapham＠noaa.gov 13 Nov '07

13 Nov '07

The following has just been published on Nature's "Precedings" site at: http://precedings.nature.com/documents/1313/version/1 Gales, N.J., Clapham, P.J. and Baker, C.S. A case for killing humpback whales? Abstract: During the austral summer of 2007/08, hunting of Southern Hemisphere humpback whales will recommence after almost half a century of protection. The stated rationale for this hunt, by the Government of Japan, is to gather important scientific information for use in management. If the scientific need was defensible, and the proponents had accommodated reasonable conservation concerns, then criticisms of the hunt would be limited to philosophical issues. This is not the case. The program’s research objectives are unlikely to be achieved by lethal methods and do not address the principal research needs for SH humpback whales identified by the International Whaling Commission. The complete pdf document can be downloaded free at the wesbite. Phil Clapham Alaska Fisheries Science Center 7600 Sand Point Way NE Seattle, WA 98115 USA email: phillip.clapham(a)noaa.gov

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porpoise pictures
by dulfin831＠aol.com 13 Nov '07

13 Nov '07

Hello, ? I am looking for pictures of porpoise dorsal fins, rostrums, and teeth for a museum exhibit we are designing.? The exhibit is a large color graphic showing the differences between dolphins and porpoises.? Complete credit will be given to the photographer of any picture that we use.??? Photo criteria are as follows: ?- live porpoises? ?-?pictures (or files) must be large enough that they can be blown up to at least 8"x10" ?-?does not matter which species (Burmeister's Porpoise, Vaquita, Spectacled Porpoise, Finless Porpoise, Harbor Porpoise, or Dall's Porpoise) ?-?at least 3 separate photos are needed: one that clearly shows the spade-shaped teeth, one that shows the rounded rostrum, and one that shows the rounded or triangular dorsal fin I have searched the internet to the best of my ability, i.e. "google images" etc.? I have not yet been able to find pictures that are large enough for us to use.? Since there aren't any porpoise species that reside in the Gulf of Mexico (where our facility is located), our porpoise resources are very limited. Is there anyone out there who can help me find these photos?? Perhaps there is a facility that studies porpoises that I can contact. Thank you for your time, Emma Jarvis Research Assistant and Volunteer Supervisor INSTITUTE FOR MARINE MAMMAL STUDIES PO Box 207 Gulfport, MS 39502 (228) 896-9182 dulfin831(a)aol.com ________________________________________________________________________ Email and AIM finally together. You've gotta check out free AOL Mail! - http://mail.aol.com

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WINTER 2008 MARINE MAMMAL MANAGEMENT COURSE ANNOUNCEMENT
by J&B 12 Nov '07

12 Nov '07

WINTER 2008 MARINE MAMMAL MANAGEMENT COURSE ANNOUNCEMENT WELCOME- to all those interested in marine mammals. This is an opportunity for you to consider our unique offering in the study of a fascinating but curiously unknown aquatic form of life through: THE OCEANOGRAPHIC CENTER OF NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY'S GLOBAL DISTANCE EDUCATION COURSE IN MARINE MAMMAL MANAGEMENT (MMM). # CZMT 0636-DE1 THIS COURSE IS OFFERED TO ANYONE, ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD THROUGH DISTANCE LEARNING. Registration starts December 3, 2007, closes on January 11, 2008 There are four versions: a) full three credit graduate level - $695/credit hour. 3 credit course = $2085. b) an undergraduate credit - $950 c) a general interest (audit) diploma - $1042.50 d) as part of the graduate certificate - contact the coordinator at douganj(a)nova.edu <mailto:douganj@nova.edu>). MMM runs from JANUARY 7 TO MARCH 28, 2008, and covers a range of pertinent topics as indicated by the Table of Contents: Information for Current Term Chapter 1. Introduction to Marine Mammals Chapter 2. Marine Mammal Management Chapter 3. Introduction to Cetaceans Chapter 4. Beluga Whale, and “toxic soups” Chapter 5. Dolphins, non-consumptive use Chapter 6. Bowheads, the subsidence balance Chapter 7. Orcas, of killers and Keikos Chapter 8. Pilots, stranding and utilization Chapter 9. Introduction to Pinnipeds Chapter10 Monk Seals Chapter11. California Sea Lion, Big Sur and survival Chapter12. Harp Seal, to hunt or not to hunt? Chapter13. Introduction to Sirenids Chapter14. Manatee, the harassed herbivore Chapter15. Introduction to Marine Fissipeds Chapter16. Polar Bear, the Inuit, success and hope Chapter17. Acoustic Stimuli of Marine Mammals Chapter18. Marine Mammal Conservation & Future Management There are two essay assignments for those taking the credit versions. First is due on FEBRUARY 11th with a value of 30%; the last on MARCH 21st for 60% of the final mark. The remaining 10% is held for Interaction evaluation – how well the candidate participates within any class e-mail discussion and replies to requests. Candidates will receive comments on the first assignment, mainly as an aid in the final essay, and evaluation. The last essay is equivalent of a final exam and is not returned. Those taking the diploma program may submit the assignments and participate in the Interaction; however, not for marks, but certainly for comment. As communication and interaction throughout the term will be mainly via e-mail, it is essential that all have some electronic means of communication and submitting essays. Essays should be sent using "MS Word" format. For general information on the course, contact: http://www.nova.edu/ocean/marmam/marmam.html and http://www.nova.edu/ocean/disted.html for general information on the Oceanographic Center's distance education programs. For registration http://www.nova.edu/ocean/distedregform.html Thank you. Professor Keith Ronald and Barra L. Gots Instructors for the Marine Mammal Management Distance Education course. For further informtion, please reply to Barra Gots: gots(a)nova.edu <mailto:johnbarra@sympatico.ca>

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IMATA sponsorship of Aquatic Mammals
by Jeanette Thomas 12 Nov '07

12 Nov '07

We are pleased to announce that the International Marine Animal Trainer's Association has joined the European Association of Aquatic Mammals and the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums to support the peer-reviewed journal, *Aquatic Mammals*. This focuses the journal to emphasize research conducted on marine mammal husbandry, veterinary care, research in a captive environment, and training. Please visit our new website at * http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org* ** We will have a booth at the SMM conference, so stop by and discuss your ideas for future articles or a whole special issue. Dr. Jeanette Thomas Department of Biological Sciences Western Illinois University-Quad Cities 3561 60th St. Moline, IL 61265 E-mail: aquaticmammals(a)gmail.com and Editor of Aquatic Mammals same address See Aquatic Mammals website at: http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/ Because I teach at two locations, email is the best method of communication

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SPECIAL OFFER ON NEW BOOK WHALES & DOLPHINS OF GREAT BRITAIN
by Dylan Walker 12 Nov '07

12 Nov '07

Dear Marmamers, Publishing House Cetacea Publishing have recently produced a new book entitled Whales and Dolphins of Great Britain by Dylan Walker and Alex Wilson. This is the first comprehensive guide to the whales, dolphins and porpoises of England, Scotland and Wales and it is available to MARMAM members for just £9.95 including postage and packing reduced from £11.95. Illustrated with stunning colour photography, this book is an easy-to-use field guide to all of the regularly seen species. It also shows you how, where, and when to go and see these spectacular marine mammals, with 38 boat operators and 16 outstanding land-based viewpoints listed. The text is packed with information on how to book a trip; including the species that are likely to be seen, how to get there, and what photographic opportunities are available. The result is a must-have guide for anybody with an interest in cetaceans and whale and dolphin watching. To order a copy simply visit www.cetaceapublishing.com and order online by entering the coupon code UKCetnet during the ordering process. Alternatively telephone 0044 (0)845 3883053 or send a postal payment to: CETACEA Publishing, Nook Farmhouse, Ashby Road, Shepshed, Loughborough, LE12 9BS United Kingdom --------------------------------- For ideas on reducing your carbon footprint visit Yahoo! For Good this month.

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FINS 3(2)
by Anne Tappa 12 Nov '07

12 Nov '07

Dear List, The ACCOBAMS Secretariat has the pleasure of announcing you that FINS 3(2) is available as a downloadable pdf file (1.2 Mb) from the ACCOBAMS website at the following URL : http://www.accobams.org/2006.php/newsletter/all Should you encounter any difficulties in downloading FINS, the Secretariat will be happy to send you it as an email attachment. FINS 3(2) Table of content : Editorial - The Scientific Commettee of ACCOBAMS : roles, composition, and functionning - Cetacean population ecology in the ACCOBAMS area - Species-based conservation approach -

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JOB OPPORTUNITY: Executive Director, American Cetacean Society
by ACS-ED_search 11 Nov '07

11 Nov '07

Save the whales! World's oldest whale, dolphin, and porpoise conservation organization seeks a dynamic non-profit leader. If you have a bachelor's degree and two years of leadership experience in a nonprofit organization, are adept at raising money and managing fundraising programs, and have good fiscal management skills, the American Cetacean Society needs you! For a full job description and application instructions, visit the ACS website at: www.acsonline.org <http://www.acsonline.org/> . Position open until filled. Kathy Zagzebski, on behalf of the Executive Director Search Committee American Cetacean Society www.acsonline.org

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2008 Stranding Department Internships at The Marine Mammal Center
by Erin Brodie 10 Nov '07

10 Nov '07

THE MARINE MAMMAL CENTER STRANDING DEPARTMENT INTERNSHIP PROGRAM OPPORTUNITIES FOR 2008 The Marine Mammal Center is seeking applicants for its 2008 Stranding Department Internship Program. Interns will assist staff and volunteers in the rescue, rehabilitation and release of stranded marine mammals (pinnipeds, cetaceans and sea otters). Stranding intern positions are unpaid. The Marine Mammal Center is an equal opportunity employer and volunteer organization. Program Description: The Stranding Department Internship Program is an exciting opportunity for individuals who are interested in increasing their experience and knowledge of marine mammal behavior and the Marine Mammal Stranding Network. Stranding interns will be responsible for answering the animal hotline and rotating responsibility for the after hours on-call. They will coordinate rescue and triage response throughout the Center's 600-mile rescue range; and will have the opportunity to participate in marine mammal rescues and releases. In addition, Stranding interns will be required to assist with animal care duties (feed preparations, medical charting, and pen cleaning) for all on-site pinnipeds. Other duties may include: participation in training classes, data entry and tracking, maintaining rescue equipment and assorted miscellaneous tasks. Stranding Intern Responsibilities & Qualifications: Stranding internships are open to all applicants 18 years of age or older, with an avid interest in marine biology, zoology, general biology, or a related field. Non-citizens must have a current visa. If the intern intends to receive university credit for their internship, they are responsible for making all arrangements with their educational institution. Interns must be able to work for a minimum of 3 months, 5 days a week, at least 40 hours per week. Work schedule must be flexible and may include weekends and holidays. These are unpaid positions and all Stranding interns are responsible for arranging for their own housing and transportation. Applicants should demonstrate excellent communication skills and have practical computer knowledge with programs such as Word, Access, and Excel. This internship position involves a fair amount of physical activity, such as: lifting, restraining and moving animals and other physical tasks. Interested applicants are encouraged to submit a résumé that includes the names of three references, and a cover letter detailing interests, experience, housing accommodations, and availability. Please forward all application materials to: The Marine Mammal Center Stranding Department, Attn: Erin Brodie 1065 Fort Cronkhite Marin Headlands Sausalito, California 94965 Or email to: brodiee(a)tmmc.org There is some flexibility on the start date of each position, with the earliest start date of February 1 and the last available internship beginning October 15. Internship Period Application Deadline Interviews Notification of acceptance Approximate Internship Time Winter December 12, 2007 December 13-14, 2007 December 21, 2007 February - April Spring February 27, 2008 March 3-5, 2008 March 10, 2008 April - June Summer April 23, 2008 April 28-30, 2008 May 5, 2008 June - August Fall June 25, 2008 June 30-July 2, 2008 July 7, 2008 August - October Winter August 20, 2008 August 25-27, 2008 September 1, 2008 October - December Celebrating its 33rd year in 2008, The Marine Mammal Center is a non-profit hospital dedicated to the rescue and release of ill and injured marine mammals, and to research about marine mammal health and diseases. Volunteers and staff have treated more than 12,000 California sea lions, elephant seals, porpoises, and other marine life. The Center uniquely combines its rehabilitation program with scientific discovery and education programs to advance the understanding of marine mammal health, ocean health and conservation. For more information, please visit our website at www.marinemammalcenter.org. Erin Brodie Stranding Coordinator The Marine Mammal Center 1065 Fort Cronkhite Sausalito, Ca 94965 phone: 415-289-7371 fax: 415-289-7376 email: brodiee(a)tmmc.org

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do Kogia float or sink upon death?
by Robin W Baird 10 Nov '07

10 Nov '07

Greetings, >From a review of the literature, it appears only right whales and sperm whales typically float upon death. I'm looking for information on whether freshly dead dwarf or pygmy sperm whales (Kogia) sink or float upon death, to try to interpret stranding patterns of Kogia in Hawaii. Stranded animals are often found dead on the beach, but the question is whether these animals live stranded and died before being found, moved into shallow water before dying (so that if they did die and sink immediately, the carcasses might re-float after decomposition sets in), or if they may have died offshore, floated, and were washed in to the beach? I assume that if animals die in deep water but sink, they are unlikely to re-float (see Allison et al. 1991). If anyone has experience with live strandings or net entanglements of Kogia, where animals are returned to the water but succumb or are disposed of at sea after death, or have other experience that may be relevant, please let me know. Thanks very much, Robin Allison, P.A., C.R. Smith, H. Kukert, J.W. Deming, and B.A. Bennett. 1991. Deep-water taphonomy of vertebrate carcasses: a whale skeleton in the bathyal Santa Catalina Basin. Paleobiology 17:78-89. ======================================================== Robin W. Baird, Ph.D. Research Biologist Cascadia Research Collective 218 1/2 W. 4th Avenue Olympia, WA 98501 USA Phone 1-360-943-7325 Fax 1-360-943-7026 e-mail: rwbaird(a)cascadiaresearch.org www.cascadiaresearch.org/robin/robin.htm

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