February 2008 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New paper - Dolphins and African apes: comparisons of sympatric socio-ecology
by Maddalena Bearzi 24 Jun '09

24 Jun '09

Dear Colleagues, This is to announce a new paper in the current issue of Contributions of Zoology entitled " Dolphins and African apes: comparisons of sympatric socio-ecology " co-authored by myself and Craig B. Stanford. Abstract Dolphins and African apes are distantly related mammalian taxa that exhibit striking convergences in their socioecology. In both cetaceans and African apes, two or more closely related species sometimes occur in sympatry. However, detailed reviews of the ways in which sympatric associations of dolphins and apes are similar have not been done. As fi eld studies of dolphins and apes have accumulated, comparisons of how the two groups avoid direct food competition when in sympatry have become possible. In this paper we review sympatric ecology among dolphins and African apes, and examine convergences in species-associations in each taxa. We review evidence for hypotheses that seek to explain avoidance of food competition, and consider whether ape-dolphin similarities in this area may be related to the way in which social groups in both taxa optimally exploit their food resources. For a free PDF copy please visit: http://dpc.uba.uva.nl/cgi/t/text/get-pdf?c=ctz;idno=7604a03 or send requests to: mbearzi(a)earthlink.net Regards, Maddalena Bearzi ______________________________ Maddalena Bearzi, Ph.D. Ocean Conservation Society, President P.O. Box 12860 Marina del Rey, CA 90295 - USA ph.310.8225205, fax 310.8225729 mbearzi(a)earthlink.net http://www.oceanconservation.org

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Marine Wildlife Volunteers required
by CBMWC 16 Jan '09

16 Jan '09

Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre, New Quay, Wales www.cbmwc.org <http://www.cbmwc.org/> Marine Wildlife Volunteers required Are you planning a career in the marine environment or conservation volunteering is a great way to develop skills and gain essential experience! Enthusiastic volunteers needed to help with our ongoing research, education and interpretation programmes concerning the marine wildlife of Cardigan Bay. We primarily study the bottlenose dolphins through photo-identification, and also monitor harbour porpoise and Atlantic grey seal populations. Volunteers play a vital role in the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centres work. The centre relies on the generous help of volunteers to undertake its work and greatly appreciates your time. We welcome people with all sorts of skills to offer, and enthusiasm is as valued as experience, since training is provided. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to make a positive contribution to marine wildlife conservation and to gain knowledge and experience of the species and habitats in Cardigan Bay. It can be a great chance to gain experience of field work, research methods and public awareness and education programmes, gain essential skills for a career in the environment or conservation and meet people who share your interests. If you have any specific skills or experience such as in website creation, fundraising, the media, DIY skills, exhibition, interior or graphic design and would like to help with project development, please contact us. We also welcome undergraduate and postgraduate students who need boat support and office space to conduct their research projects. Please contact us to discuss whether your project ideas are feasible. For further information To find out more about the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre and what activities you would be involved in visit www.cbmwc.org <http://www.cbmwc.org/> , email volunteer(a)cbmwc.org or call Sarah on 01545 560032. Volunteering at CBMWC Desired skills An interest in wildlife and conservation is most important, along with enthusiasm and willingness to work in a conscientious and responsible manner. It is also important that you are fluent in speaking English. We welcome people with experience working with the public or in environmental interpretation or education, however this is not essential. Indeed this is a great opportunity to gain skills in these areas. Good verbal and written communication skills and IT skills are likewise useful but not essential. Time commitment Volunteers are needed from April until November 2007. We ask for a minimum commitment of 2 weeks (due to training). Volunteers living locally who are available on a part-time basis are also welcome year round and are greatly appreciated. Accommodation and expense arrangements Accommodation can be arranged for committed volunteers (approx £50 per week). Volunteers are responsible for their own food, travel and accommodation costs. How to get involved Its easy to get involved just contact us by email at volunteer(a)cbmwc.org (preferred) with volunteer application 2008 in your subject line or post, enclosing a copy of your CV detailing your background and relevant experience together with a covering letter indicating your motivations for volunteering, please include when and for how long you are available to volunteer. We look forward to hearing from you. Postal address: FAO: Sarah Perry Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre Patent Slip Building, Glanmor Terrace New Quay, Ceredigion Wales, SA45 9PS As seen on: Iolos Welsh Safari, BBC1 Wales Autumn 2007 http://www.bbc.co.uk/wales/nature/sites/behindthescenes/pages/newquay.shtml & BBC Natures Calendar Summer 2007 http://www.bbc.co.uk/naturescalendar/summer/coast/cardigan_bay/cardigan_acce ss.shtml ______________________________________________ Sarah Perry Project Manager Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre Patent Slip Building Glanmor Terrace New Quay Ceredigion SA45 9PS <http://www.cbmwc.org> www.cbmwc.org E-bost/E-mail: <mailto:info@cbmwc.org> info(a)cbmwc.org Ffôn/Tel. 01545 560032 Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre is supported by the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Group, a Marine interest group of the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales Helping to conserve Cardigan Bay's Marine Wildlife through education and research Cynorthwyo i gadw Bywyd gwyllt Moral Bae Aberteifi trwy addysg ac ymchwil. ______________________________________________ The contents of this e-mail are confidential and are solely for the use of the intended recipient. If you receive this e-mail in error, please delete it and notify us either by e-mail or telephone. It is prohibited to copy, forward or otherwise disclose the content of the e-mail.

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Managing Interactions between Humans and Seals (Fisheries, Aquaculture and Tourism) [SEC=UNCLASSIFIED]
by Stewardson, Carolyn - BRS 28 Feb '08

28 Feb '08

Dear Recipients, The following Australian Government publication may be of interest to those working on interactions between marine mammal and marine industries: 'Managing Interactions between Humans and Seals A National Seal Strategy to minimise adverse interactions between humans and seals in the fisheries, aquaculture and tourism sectors' 1. PDF: http://affashop.gov.au/product.asp?prodid=13879 <http://affashop.gov.au/product.asp?prodid=13879> 2. Free hard copies: http://affashop.gov.au/product.asp?prodid=13882 <http://affashop.gov.au/product.asp?prodid=13882> 3. Further information on this issue: http://www.daff.gov.au/fisheries/environment/bycatch/seals <http://www.daff.gov.au/fisheries/environment/bycatch/seals> Humans and seals interact in a number of ways that may adversely affect seals or humans or both. The challenge facing governments and industry is how to minimise adverse interactions while protecting seals and maintaining sustainable and profitable businesses. A national strategy has been developed that identifies objectives and actions to minimise adverse impacts on Australian seal populations and on the fisheries, aquaculture and tourism sectors. With kind regards, Carolyn Stewardson Dr Carolyn Stewardson Scientist Marine Environment Fisheries and Marine Sciences Program Bureau of Rural Sciences Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry GPO Box 858 Canberra ACT AUSTRALIA 2601 Phone: +61 2 6272 5173 Mobile: 041 886 7944 Fax: +61 2 6272 3882 Email: carolyn.stewardson(a)brs.gov.au ------IMPORTANT - This message has been issued by The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF). The information transmitted is for the use of the intended recipient only and may contain confidential and/or legally privileged material. It is your responsibility to check any attachments for viruses and defects before opening or sending them on. Any reproduction, publication, communication, re-transmission, disclosure, dissemination or other use of the information contained in this e-mail by persons or entities other than the intended recipient is prohibited. The taking of any action in reliance upon this information by persons or entities other than the intended recipient is prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error please notify the sender and delete all copies of this transmission together with any attachments. If you have received this e-mail as part of a valid mailing list and no longer want to receive a message such as this one advise the sender by return e-mail accordingly. Only e-mail correspondence which includes this footer, has been authorised by DAFF ------

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Temporary research assistants required
by Lacey, Claire 28 Feb '08

28 Feb '08

Temporary Research Assistant for summer 2008 cetacean survey in the north-eastern Atlantic. IFAW's Song of the Whale research team are seeking experienced and enthusiastic individual(s) to join the team as temporary field work assistant(s) during a project in the north-eastern Atlantic during the summer of 2008. Working in close collaboration with other research groups the project will take place between May and mid October (with a break between 27th July and 20th August) and will primarily focus on the detection of beaked whales using acoustic techniques, although other cetaceans will be documented and recorded. The project will be conducted from IFAW's dedicated sailing research vessel, Song of the Whale. SOTW is a 22 m long, purpose- built sailing research vessel with accommodation for 10. For further information about the SOTW team and projects please see www.ifaw.org/sotw <http://www.ifaw.org/sotw> . Specific information about life on board for interns is also posted on the website. Availability for all or part of the project will be considered for the right candidate(s). The successful applicant will have experience in boat based field work and of using computers for data collection in the field. Previous experience of acoustic research would be an advantage. The team onboard will be made up of IFAW staff, visiting scientists and volunteers/student interns. Please email a letter of interest and CV, outlining your previous experience, why you think you should be considered for the post and your availability to the following email address; sotwteam(a)IFAW.org <mailto:sotwteam@IFAW.org> by 25th March 2008. Tim Lewis and Claire Lacey, SOTW Research Scientists will be at the ECS Conference in the Netherlands if you are attending and would like to have an informal chat about the position. Claire Lacey Research Assistant Song of the Whale team International Fund for Animal Welfare www.ifaw.org/sotw --------------------------------------------------------- Disclaimer: The International Fund for Animal Welfare works to improve the welfare of wild and domestic animals throughout the world by reducing commercial exploitation of animals, protecting wildlife habitats, and assisting animals in distress. IFAW seeks to motivate the public to prevent cruelty to animals and to promote animal welfare and conservation policies that advance the well-being of both animals and people. This transmission is intended only for use by the addressee(s) named herein and may contain information that is proprietary, confidential and/or legally privileged.

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photographs for a new guidebook
by ruth leeney 27 Feb '08

27 Feb '08

Dear Marmamers, WWF Senegal are putting together a basic field guide to the cetaceans of West Africa, for distribution primarily to local researchers and government agencies dealing with the marine environment. The guide covers the region from Morocco to Sierra Leone. We do not have photographs of all the species detailed in the guide and would like to enquire whether anyone would have any of the following: Atlantic spotted dolphin; Fraser's dolphin; Risso's dolphin; Sei whale. Ideally, photographs should be of good quality and taken from a boat or the land (ie. not an aerial perspective). No budget has been provided to pay for photographs, but we will be happy to send a copy of the completed guide to anyone whose photograph is included. If you would like to provide a photograph, please contact Ruth Leeney at rleeney(a)coastalstudies.org . Many thanks! Ruth H. Leeney Right Whale Aerial Survey Team Provincetown Center for Coastal Studies 5 Holway Avenue Provincetown MA 02657 USA E: rleeney(a)coastalstudies.org W: www.coastalstudies.org T: 508-487-6323 x109 M: 808-205-5638 Skype: ruth.leeney --------------------------------- Rise to the challenge for Sport Relief with Yahoo! for Good

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Volumetric Neuroimaging of Atlantic white-sided dolphin brain
by Eric Montie 27 Feb '08

27 Feb '08

Dear Interested Colleagues, I would like to bring to your attention the following paper that was just published in The Anatomical Record: "Volumetric Neuroimaging of the Atlantic White-Sided Dolphin (Lagenorhynchus acutus) Brain From In Situ Magnetic Resonance Images". ABSTRACT The structure and development of the brain are extremely difficult to study in free-ranging marine mammals. Here, we report measurements of total white matter (WM), total gray matter (GM), cerebellum (WM and GM), hippocampus, and corpus callosum made from magnetic resonance (MR) images of fresh, postmortem brains of the Atlantic white-sided dolphin (Lagenorhynchus acutus) imaged in situ (i.e., the brain intact within the skull, with the head still attached to the body). WM:GM volume ratios of the entire brain increased from fetus to adult, illustrating the increase in myelination during ontogeny. The cerebellum (WM and GM combined) of subadult and adult dolphins ranged from 13.8 to 15.0% of total brain size, much larger than that of primates. The corpus callosum mid-sagittal area to brain mass ratios (CCA/BM) ranged from 0.088 to 0.137, smaller than in most mammals. Dolphin hippocampal volumes were smaller than those of carnivores, ungulates, and humans, consistent with previous qualitative results assessed from histological studies of the bottlenose dolphin brain. These quantitative measurements of white matter, gray matter, corpus callosum, and hippocampus are the first to be determined from MR images for any cetacean species. We establish here an approach for accurately determining the size of brain structures from in situ MR images of stranded, dead dolphins. This approach can be used not only for comparative and developmental studies of marine mammal brains but also for investigation of the potential impacts of natural and anthropogenic chemicals on neurodevelopment and neuroanatomy in exposed marine mammal populations. If you are interested in a pdf copy of this manuscript, please feel free to contact me. Sincerely, Eric Montie -- Eric W. Montie (Please reply using my USF email: emontie(a)marine.usf.edu) Postdoctoral Fellow College of Marine Science University of South Florida (USF) 140 Seventh Avenue, South; Room 2121 St. Petersburg, FL 33701-5016 Lab Phone: (727) 553-1237 Fax: (727) 553-1189 E-mail: emontie(a)marine.usf.edu Guest Investigator Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) Department of Biology; MS#32 Woods Hole, MA 02543 E-mail: emontie(a)whoi.edu

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Impacts of a Nuclear power station on marine mammals?
by Katja Vinding Petersen 27 Feb '08

27 Feb '08

Dear all Marmam readers The government in South Africa has approved the construction of a nuclear power plant station at Perly Beach, close to Kleinbaai, South Africa (2 1/2 hours drive from Cape Town). The waters around Perly beach is one of the main mating and nursing areas of the Southern right whale and a feeding and probably nursing area of a small group of Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins. It is also an important area (maybe mating area) for the great white sharks, which are here year round. About 6000 South African penguins are nesting at Dyer Island which is just of the coast of Pearly beach. Just behind Dyer Island is a colony of about 60.000South African fur seals. Some of you might even have been here in Kleinbaai during the SMM conference participating on a whale watching or shark cage diving tour. The current plan of constructing the nuclear power station does anticipate having environmental approval from the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism by February 2009. That is why we ask for your assistance and knowledge. We are concerned about which impacts a nuclear power plant station can have on the marine mammals and the marine life in general. The cool water from the bay will be used to cool of the reactors and the hot water will be pumped out again. We are interested in studies, links or other documentation which can clarify the facts about this situation. Please reply to: chivell2(a)isales.co.za and zoovisions(a)gmail.com Thank you in advance Wilfred Chivell & Katja Vinding Petersen Dyer Island Cruises www.dyer-island-cruises.co.za/ More info about the area and the planned nuclear power station: www.danger-point-peninsula.co.za/pearly_beach.shtml www.satelliteviews.net/cgi-bin/w.cgi?c=sf&UF=-1209137&UN=-1775676&DG=RKS www.pearlybeachonline.co.za/ www.eskom.co.za/live/content.php?Item_ID=5981 www.eskom.co.za/nuclear_energy/siting_programme/bantamsklip.html

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a sail boat support offer for the indian ocean
by Michel Vély 26 Feb '08

26 Feb '08

Hello My name is Michel Vély Chairman of the French association Megaptera which deal with monitoring on marine mammals populations in Madagascar Mayotte and Comoros and collaborate with othe NGO in Mauritius and Seychelles We run also community based education programs and support sustainable development of Whale watching in those areas Our website is www.megaptera.org My email contact is : mobydick(a)seychelles.sc I am based in Seychelles where I am TA for the Ministry of Environment The isles Sainte Marie in Madagascar where we have our base has been devastated recently by cyclone Yvan and we struggle to restart activities, with the touristic operators , especially on Humpback whales from July to October I spoke with Dr Vic Cockcroft from CSS WHALE south Africa for the opportunity to have the support of a sail boat during the migrating season to develop our action and to have an operation base Vic told me that you posted a message on such on opportunity saying that a sail boat owner was available for a research and monitoring program on marine mammals in the Indian ocean I am on your list but I dont remember this message and I had and Hard Disk crash Would it be possible to send this message to us if possible Many thanks in advance Best regards Michel Vély <mailto:mobydick@seychelles.sc> mobydick(a)seychelles.sc (248) 727 026 Victoria Mahé Seychelles

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New publication - Tourism affects behavioural budget of New Zealand common dolphins
by Stockin, Karen 26 Feb '08

26 Feb '08

Dear colleagues, The following paper was recently published: Tourism affects the behavioural budget of the common dolphin (Delphinus sp.) in the Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand Karen A Stockin, David Lusseau, Vicky Binedell, Nicky Wiseman and Mark B. Orams (2008) Marine Ecology Progress Series:355, 287-295 ABSTRACT: Common dolphins Delphinus sp. are frequently targeted by tourism operations in New Zealand waters, yet there is a paucity of data on potential impacts faced by this species. Transition matrix models, used widely in population ecology, have recently been applied to behavioural transitions in order to provide successful management guidelines. We detail the use of Markov chain models to assess the impact of tourism activities on the behavioural state of common dolphins in the Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand. First-order time discrete Markov chain models were used to describe transition probabilities in both control and impact scenarios. The effect of boat interactions was quantified by comparing transition probabilities of both control and impact chains. Foraging and resting bouts were significantly disrupted by boat interactions to a level that raises concern about the sustainability of this impact. Both the duration of bouts and the overall time spent in these 2 behavioural states decreased. Foraging dolphins took significantly longer to return to their initial behavioural state in the presence of the tour boat. There was also an increased preference to shift behaviour to socialising or milling after tour boat interactions. Impacts identified in the present study are similar to those previously reported for bottlenose dolphins, a coastal species typically considered to be more susceptible to cumulative anthropogenic impacts. PDF requests available from Karen Stockin at k.a.stockin(a)massey.ac.nz Best wishes, Karen ========================================= Karen A Stockin Research Officer Coastal - Marine Research Group Institute of Natural Resources Massey University at Albany Private Bag 102 904 North Shore MSC New Zealand Tel: + 64 9 414 0800 Ext 41127 Fax: + 64 9 443 9790 Cell: + 64 21 146 5511 Email: <mailto:k.a.stockin@massey.ac.nz> k.a.stockin(a)massey.ac.nz <http://cmrg.massey.ac.nz> http://cmrg.massey.ac.nz <http://wildlife.massey.ac.nz/people/staff_ks.asp> http://wildlife.massey.ac.nz/people/staff_ks.asp =========================================

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Conference on Interactive Dolphins in Dingle Ireland.
by day 26 Feb '08

26 Feb '08

Dear MARMAMERS, IRISHDOLPHINS have organized a conference on interactive dolphins this May in Dingle, the home of the famous dolphin Fungie, over in Western Ireland. This is a fantastic opportunity for those who have first-hand experience with these amazing animals to voice their opinions. As you may know they have been little studied, and like so many cetacean subjects, this behaviour is little understood. Hopefully this conference will be enlightening on this fascinating and unusual behaviour. I stress that this conference is not only for 'experts' but for anyone who has experienced these incredible animals! For details see: http://www.irishdolphins.com/conference/ Needless to say, this area of Ireland is a tourist's dream! See you there! David. David Day Amberley Willsland Close Kenton Nr. Exeter EX6 8NX UK Tel:01626-890267

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