January 2010 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

PhD Thesis on the Fiordland Bottlenose Dolphins - alternative web address
by Rohan Currey 18 Jan '10

18 Jan '10

Dear colleagues, The hyperlink I posted for my thesis (see below) has stopped working. Here is an alternative: http://ourarchive.otago.ac.nz/handle/10523/129 If that doesn't work, please email me at: rohan.currey(a)gmail.com Best wishes, Dr Rohan Currey Currey, R.J.C. 2008. Conservation biology of bottlenose dolphins in Fiordland, New Zealand. PhD Thesis, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand. The bottlenose dolphins of Fiordland, New Zealand, live at the southern limit of the species’ worldwide range. They are exposed to impacts from tourism and habitat modification, particularly in Doubtful Sound, and their conservation requirements are presently unclear. Dolphin abundance was estimated in Doubtful Sound using photoidentification census and capture-recapture techniques (56 individuals; 95% CI: 55-57), detecting a decline of 34-39% over 12 years among adults and sub-adults (>3 years old). The cause of this decline was investigated via demographic modelling in Doubtful Sound and a comparative assessment of population status in Dusky Sound. Capture-recapture modelling of photo-identification data compiled since 1990 yielded a constant adult survival rate marginally lower than prior estimates for wild bottlenose dolphins (φa(1990–2008) = 0.9374; 95% CI: 0.9170-0.9530). Survival of calves (<1 year old) declined to an unsustainable level that is thought to be the lowest recorded for wild bottlenose dolphins (φc(2002–2008) = 0.3750; 95% CI: 0.2080-0.5782) coincident with the opening of a second tailrace tunnel for a hydroelectric power station. Reverse-time capture- recapture modelling detected declines in recruitment (f(1994–2008) = 0.0249; 95% CI: 0.0174-0.0324) and population growth (λ(1994–2008) = 0.9650; 95% CI: 0.9554-0.9746) over time consistent with the decline in calf survival (<1 year old) and a separate reduction in juvenile survival (1 to 3 years old) reflecting cumulative impacts. Dolphin abundance was estimated in Dusky Sound using photo- identification census and capture-recapture techniques (102 individuals; 95% CI: 100-104) providing no evidence of interchange with Doubtful Sound. A comparative assessment of health status between Doubtful and Dusky Sounds revealed skin lesioning was more severe in Doubtful Sound, particularly among females, and newborn calves appeared to be smaller and were born over a shorter period: factors that may contribute to the low levels of calf survival in Doubtful Sound. The Fiordland bottlenose dolphins were assessed under IUCN Red List regional criteria. The small size of the population (205 individuals; 95% CI: 192-219) combined with the projected rate of decline in stochastic matrix models (average decline: 31.4% over one generation) resulted in a recommended classification of Critically Endangered.

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SeaBASS course update- Applications now due February 15, 2010
by Jennifer Miksis-Olds 18 Jan '10

18 Jan '10

The SeaBASS- Marine Bioacoustic Summer School program application deadline has been extended to February 15, 2010. Due to a problem with the server hosting the application website, a few applications that have been submitted were not received. We have sent confirmation emails to all applicants for whom we have received applications. IF YOU HAVE NOT RECEIVED A CONFIRMATION AND HAVE SUBMITTED AN APPLICATION, WE NEED YOU TO RESUBMITT!! We have extended the deadline to accommodate any inconvenience this may have caused. WHAT IS SeaBASS? SEABASS provides the opportunity for graduate students interested in pursuing careers in marine bioacoustics to develop a strong foundation of both marine animal biology and acoustics from distinguished lecturers in the field. The goals of SeaBASS are to discuss important topics in marine bioacoustics, foster technical communication across disciplines, and promote mentoring and collaboration. SeaBASS gives students an opportunity to learn from experts who will discuss a suite of topics not often offered at any one university. WHEN: June 20-25, 2010. Arrive on June 19. Depart on June 25. WHERE: Penn Stater Conference Center Hotel, State College, PA COSTS: The basic costs of student attendance (room and board, based on double occupancy for students) will be funded from sponsor support. There is no registration fee. Full-time participation of all is required. Transportation costs are the responsibility of the student, but travel assistance can be requested during the application process. APPLICATION: On-line application is available at www.arl.psu.edu/edu_seabass.php. Applications are due on February 15, 2010. Direct questions to Dr. Jennifer Miksis-Olds via email at: seabass(a)only.arl.psu.edu. COURSE TOPICS: Introduction to Underwater Sound, Sound Propagation, Marine Mammal Biology & Behavior, Sound Production, Fisheries Acoustics/Fish Behavior, Hearing and Masking, Marine Animal Acoustic Communication, Echolocation, Hot Topic: Passive Acoustic Monitoring, Hot Topic: Effects of Noise Sponsored by Penn State Applied Research Laboratory, Office of Naval Research, Acoustical Society of America, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

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Job advertisement - marine mammal monitoring programme project leader
by Cronin, Michelle (CMRC) 18 Jan '10

18 Jan '10

Marine mammal monitoring programme project leader Applications are invited for a one year position leading a marine mammal monitoring programme in Co. Mayo on the west coast of Ireland. The marine mammal monitoring programme is grant aided by Shell E&P Ireland through RSK Environment Ltd. The candidate will ideally be a postdoctoral researcher, employed through the Coastal and Marine Resources Centre (CMRC), University College Cork and will need to be based close to the study area in Broadhaven Bay, Co. Mayo. Background: Under a development plan for the CORRIB gas field off western Ireland, Enterprise Energy Ireland Ltd. commissioned the Coastal & Marine Resources Centre (CMRC), University College Cork to conduct an independent cetacean monitoring programme in northwest Ireland in 2001 - 02. Due to the findings of preliminary field surveys in 2001 the study’s remit was expanded to also include other marine mammal species recorded in the study area. Research was undertaken in Broadhaven Bay (candidate Special Area of Conservation - cSAC), County Mayo and its adjoining coastal waters. The programme of marine mammal monitoring was continued in 2005, 2008 and 2009 during the CORRIB development’s marine phases, to safeguard protected species from potential impacts. Research efforts are currently being continued in 2010 and into 2011. Position: We are recruiting a project leader to coordinate the marine mammal monitoring programme. The position will be for February 2010 to January 2011 with potential for extension into 2011 pending funding confirmation. Candidate: The researcher will require the following skills profile: * A PhD in any area of marine mammal ecology (preferable, but suitably qualified candidates with relevant experience may also be considered) * Relevant marine mammal research/monitoring experience * Knowledge of marine mammal survey methodologies * Experience of cetacean photo identification techniques * Experience of acoustic monitoring of cetaceans (TPODs and CPODs currently used in the project) * Experience of GIS (e.g. ArcGIS), databases (e.g. Access) and metadata standards * Experience with statistical analysis and preferably statistical modelling * Good publication track record * Proven ability of team leadership and excellent oral and written communication skills * Demonstration of project management and networking skills * Proven ability to work in a small research group ideally in a remote location Duration and salary: Duration is for a one year period subject to an initial review after three months and satisfactory progress. The salary for this position (gross) is fixed at €43,000 p.a. Application: The closing date for applications is January 29th 2010. Candidates should submit their curriculum vitae including references and a cover letter via email to Grainne Lynch: grainne.lynch(a)ucc.ie. Michelle A. Cronin MSc PhD Scientific Researcher Marine Ecology Group Coastal & Marine Resources Centre Naval Base Haulbowline Cobh Co. Cork Phone no: 021 4703114 Fax no: 021 4703132

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SEA WATCH FOUNDATION: LAST CALL FOR RESEARCH ASSISTANT/VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR REQUIRED FOR SUMMER 2010 IN CARDIGAN BAY
by Gemma Veneruso 17 Jan '10

17 Jan '10

The Sea Watch Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to marine research, conservation, and public education is seeking applications for the following: RESEARCH ASSISTANT/VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR IN CARDIGAN BAY 2010 This position is responsible for assisting the Monitoring Officer in the running of the “Cardigan Bay Monitoring Project” and coordinating the project volunteers. The project is based in New Quay, Ceredigion, West Wales, and involves the conservation management of the bottlenose dolphin, harbour porpoise and grey seal populations of Cardigan Bay, monitoring their abundance, distribution, reproductive success and population structure using a combination of line-transect, photo-identification, land-based and acoustic surveys. This long-term project was established in 2001 and is overseen by Dr Peter Evans, Director of Sea Watch. Start Date: April 12th 2010 End Date: October 18th 2010 Responsibilities will include (but are not limited to): Coordination between the Monitoring Officer/Sightings Officer and the project volunteers – in charge of the volunteer house and the volunteer weekly office rota. Assisting the Monitoring Officer/Sightings Officer in volunteer basic training of land- and boat based surveys, photo ID studies, database entry and more. Assisting the Monitoring Officer/Sightings Officer in all phases of the research. Optional: Undertaking a personal research project supervised by the Monitoring Officer – research topic will be chosen according to Sea Watch Foundation requirements and applicant’s interests. Requirements: The successful applicant is expected to have at least a BSc degree in biology, marine biology, zoology, or related field, and be able to demonstrate previous experience in marine mammal research. A strong interest and knowledge of British cetaceans and some boating experience are beneficial. The applicant should be proficient with Access, databases and word processing software. Experience in GIS would be advantageous. The preferred candidate should have a proven track record as a team player as the project will involve working closely with other researchers but also should be able to supervise small groups of people as they will be coordinating at least 6 volunteers. They must also be self-motivated with the drive and determination to work independently and responsibly. This post brings the opportunity to submit work for scientific publication. This position is unpaid but accommodation expenses will be covered. To apply: Please send your CV, a cover letter and contact details of two references reporting relevant experience to Daphna Feingold (daphna.feingold(a)seawatchfoundation.org.uk) Deadline: 31st January 2010. Please specify RESEARCH ASSISTANT/VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR in your subject title. Applicants will be notified of the outcome by the 22nd February 2010. The Sea Watch Foundation The Sea Watch Foundation is a registered marine environmental research charity that aims to achieve better conservation of whales and dolphins in the seas around Britain and Ireland, by involving the public in scientific monitoring of populations and the threats they face. At Sea Watch Wales, we are dedicated to raising awareness, knowledge and conservation of the marine wildlife of West Wales. In recent years, our work has been funded by the Countryside Council for Wales, Defra, Joint Nature Conservation Committee and the Heritage Lottery Fund, and we work closely with the local management authority, Ceredigion County Council. Research The purpose of our research here is to monitor the marine mammal populations that inhabit Cardigan Bay, so as to gain information to aid the conservation and long-term well being of these animals and the local marine environment. This is achieved by conducting various projects including: Estimating the abundance and distribution of bottlenose dolphins, harbour porpoises and grey seals within Cardigan Bay using distance sampling and opportunistic boat surveys Maintaining and updating a catalogue of photographically identified bottlenose dolphins in Wales in order to study their abundance, social structure, movements and life histories. Acoustic monitoring of bottlenose dolphins and harbour porpoises in the Cardigan Bay SAC using automated click detectors (T-PODs) and hydrophones. Setting up a library of underwater sounds in Welsh waters in order to develop bio-acoustic research in the area. We further aim to raise awareness and understanding of the importance of the local marine wildlife and the habitats supporting them, to encourage respect and conservation of the area and its wildlife for future generations. We also run training courses for the public in cetacean identification and survey methods. Do you have a story that started on Hotmail? Tell us now _________________________________________________________________ Got a cool Hotmail story? Tell us now http://clk.atdmt.com/UKM/go/195013117/direct/01/

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SEA WATCH FOUNDATION: LAST CALL FOR MARINE RESEARCH VOLUNTEERS REQUIRED FOR SUMMER 2010 IN CARDIGAN BAY
by Gemma Veneruso 17 Jan '10

17 Jan '10

Sea Watch Foundation – Research Volunteering opportunity in Cardigan Bay for 2010 Volunteers are invited to assist the Sea Watch Foundation (www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk) with the running of the “Cardigan Bay Monitoring Project”. The project is based in New Quay, West Wales, and takes care of the conservation management of the bottlenose dolphin, harbour porpoise and grey seal populations of Cardigan Bay, monitoring their abundance, distribution, reproductive success and population structure using a combination of line-transect, photo-identification, land-based and acoustic surveys. The volunteers will help the Cardigan Bay Monitoring Officer and the Sightings Officer by taking part in the following tasks: · Land-based surveys · Boat-based surveys · Photo-identification studies · Database entry · Awareness raising · Education initiatives · Acoustic monitoring · Assist with and participate in training courses and public talks. Volunteers are required from April until October 2010, for 4 separate periods of 6 weeks each. Preference will be given to those who can stay for more than one period, including the whole 6-months field season. Volunteers will be based in New Quay, West Wales. Accommodation is provided at a rate of around £55/week. Volunteers are responsible for their own travel, accommodation and living expenses, but it is generally quite easy to obtain part-time paid work in the area if required. Volunteering periods for summer 2010: Period 1 26/04 – 6/06, Period 2 7/06 – 18/07, Period 3 19/07 – 29/08, Period 4 30/08 – 10/10 Important skills/qualifications Essential: · an ability to work in a meticulous and reliable manner · strong commitment to volunteering work · willingness to work long hours outdoors in often very changeable Welsh weather · good IT skills (Office package) · an ability to get on well with others in a small team and shared accommodation Desirable: · a background in marine biology/environmental science or similar · a strong interest and knowledge of British cetaceans · prior experience in boat-based survey work · good verbal and written communication skills and in public speaking · experience in interacting with the public All volunteers will be trained in cetacean observation and identification, in line-transect survey protocols and photo-identification of bottlenose dolphins and grey seals. To apply: Please send your cv, covering letter and contact details of two references, reporting any relevant experience you have and specifying the period(s) you would prefer to volunteer for to Daphna Feingold (daphna.feingold(a)seawatchfoundation.org.uk) Deadlines: 31st of January 2010. Please specify NEW QUAY VOLUNTEER APPLICATION into your subject title. Applicants will be notified of the outcomes by the 22nd of February 2010. The Sea Watch Foundation The Sea Watch Foundation is a registered marine environmental research charity that aims to achieve better conservation of whales and dolphins in the seas around Britain and Ireland, by involving the public in scientific monitoring of populations and the threats they face. At Sea Watch Wales, we are dedicated to raising awareness, knowledge and conservation of the marine wildlife of West Wales. Our work is funded by the Countryside Council for Wales, Defra, Joint Nature Conservation Committee and the Heritage Lottery Fund, and we work closely with the local management authority, Ceredigion County Council. Research The purpose of our research here is to monitor the marine mammal populations inhabiting Cardigan Bay, so as to gain information to aid the conservation and long-term well being of these animals and the local marine environment. This is achieved by conducting various projects including: Estimating the abundance and distribution of bottlenose dolphins, harbour porpoises and grey seals within Cardigan Bay using distance sampling and opportunistic boat surveys Maintaining and updating a catalogue of photographically identified bottlenose dolphins in Wales in order to study their abundance, social structure, movements and life histories. Acoustic monitoring of bottlenose dolphins and harbour porpoises in the Cardigan Bay SAC using automated click detectors (T-PODs) and hydrophones. Setting up a library of underwater sounds in Welsh waters in order to develop bio-acoustic research in the area. We further aim to raise awareness and understanding of the importance of the local marine wildlife and the habitats supporting them, to encourage respect and conservation of the area and its wildlife for future generations. We also run training courses for the public in cetacean identification and survey methods. Not got a Hotmail account? Sign-up now - Free _________________________________________________________________ Send us your Hotmail stories and be featured in our newsletter http://clk.atdmt.com/UKM/go/195013117/direct/01/

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SEA WATCH FOUNDATION: LAST CALL FOR MARINE EDUCATION & AWARENESS ASSISTANT REQUIRED FOR SUMMER 2010 IN CARDIGAN BAY
by Gemma Veneruso 17 Jan '10

17 Jan '10

From: gem_v34(a)hotmail.com To: marmam-bounces(a)lists.uvic.ca Subject: LAST CALL: MARINE EDUCATION & AWARENESS ASSISTANT REQUIRED FOR SUMMER 2010 IN CARDIGAN BAY Date: Thu, 14 Jan 2010 01:07:20 +0000 Sea Watch Foundation – Voluntary Education and Awareness Assistant opportunity in Cardigan Bay for 2010 The Sea Watch Foundation (www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk) is seeking an education and awareness assistant to take part in the “Cardigan Bay Monitoring Project” in New Quay, West Wales which manages the conservation of a resident population of bottlenose dolphins, the largest in the UK. Monitoring of harbour porpoise and grey seal populations is also part of the project. This position will suit a volunteer that has a strong interest in marine conservation and recognises the importance of educating and raising awareness by involving the public. The assistant will be responsible in aiding the Sightings Officer with the following duties: · Participate in presentations and create activities to take to local schools · Write news reports and articles · Assist in the organisation and participation of annual event, National Whale and Dolphin Watch · Come up with new educational initiatives · Talk to the public about the marine environment and conservation of cetaceans · Assist in the organisation of training courses The assistant will also have the opportunity to be involved in the research, helping the Cardigan Bay Monitoring Officer and the Sightings Officer, and will be expected to take part in the following tasks: · Land-based surveys · Boat-based surveys · Photo-identification studies · Database entry · Acoustic monitoring · Behavioural studies The field season will begin in April until October 2010, which has been split into four separate periods of six weeks each. One assistant is required for each period however preference will be given to those who can stay for more than one period, including the whole six month field season. The assistant will be based in New Quay, West Wales. Accommodation is provided at a rate of approximately £55/week in a house sharing with marine research volunteers. The assistant is responsible for their own travel and living expenses, but it is generally quite easy to obtain part-time paid work in the area if required. Volunteering periods for summer 2010: Period 1 26/04 – 6/06, Period 2 7/06 – 18/07, Period 3 19/07 – 29/08, Period 4 30/08 – 10/10 Important skills/qualifications Essential: · a strong interest in marine conservation and education · confidence to interact with the public · good verbal and writing skills · must have initiative and bring their own ideas and personality to the position · strong commitment to volunteering work · an ability to work in an organised and reliable manner · an ability to get on well with others in a small team and shared accommodation Desirable: · a background in marine biology/environmental science or similar · a strong interest and knowledge of British cetaceans · good IT skills (Office package) · prior experience in public speaking · prior experience in boat-based survey work · willingness to work long hours outdoors in often very changeable Welsh weather · Assistants also have the opportunity to learn about other research aspects such as cetacean observation and identification, line-transect survey protocols and photo-identification of bottlenose dolphins and grey seals. To apply: Please send your CV, covering letter and contact details of two references, reporting any relevant experience you have and specifying the period(s) you would prefer to volunteer for to Gemma Veneruso (gemma.veneruso(a)seawatchfoundation.org.uk) Deadline: 31st of January 2010. Please specify EDUCATION ASSISTANT APPLICATION into your subject title. Applicants will be notified of the outcomes by the 22nd of February 2010. The Sea Watch Foundation The Sea Watch Foundation is a registered marine environmental research charity that aims to achieve better conservation of whales and dolphins in the seas around Britain and Ireland, by involving the public in scientific monitoring of populations and the threats they face. At Sea Watch Wales, we are dedicated to raising awareness, knowledge and conservation of the marine wildlife of West Wales. Our work is funded by the Countryside Council for Wales, Defra, Joint Nature Conservation Committee and the Heritage Lottery Fund, and we work closely with the local management authority, Ceredigion County Council. Do you want a Hotmail account? Sign-up now - Free _________________________________________________________________ We want to hear all your funny, exciting and crazy Hotmail stories. Tell us now http://clk.atdmt.com/UKM/go/195013117/direct/01/

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Dolphin Research Internship
by Rebecca Wellard 14 Jan '10

14 Jan '10

Internships Available at Ocean Park, Hong Kong Full-time unpaid internships are currently being offered by the Acoustic Research Laboratory, Tropical Marine Science Institute of the National University of Singapore in collaboration with Ocean Park Hong Kong. The ARL conducts studies on the cognitive and sensory capabilities of bottlenose dolphins living at Ocean Park with a focus on echolocation and underwater acoustics. Interns receive intensive hands-on experience by participating in all aspects of the ongoing research and laboratory activities, including assistance in the daily research sessions with the dolphins, data processing and analysis, and also assisting with projects administrative and maintenance requirements. Interns should have at least two years of university experience. Individuals from all types of academic disciplines are welcome to apply. Selection is competitive and is based on the applicant’s statement of interest, prior experience, academic record, and letters of reference. Internship periods last for 5-6 months and interns are continuously accepted. Visa arrangements will need to be made once interns are accepted. There is no charge for the internship. Interns are responsible for their own room and board. To apply please submit the following: 1) Statement of Interest 2) Academic records 3) Three letters of reference 4) Curriculum Vitae Please send applications to rebecca.wellard(a)oceanpark.com.hk with "Dolphin Research Internship" in the subject line. -------------------------------- Rebecca Wellard Research Department Ocean Park Cooperation Aberdeen, Hong Kong Email: rebecca.wellard(a)oceanpark.com.hk

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Draft Recovery Strategy for the North Pacific Right Whale posted on the DFO Regional SARA Consultation Webpage
by Li, Michelle 14 Jan '10

14 Jan '10

Dear Stakeholders and other interested parties: Re: Draft North Pacific Right Whale Recovery Strategy Regional Consultations Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is pleased to inform you that the 2010 updated draft Recovery Strategy for the North Pacific right whale (Eubalaena japonica) is now undergoing regional consultations. There will be an additional chance to comment during the national consultation period (hosted on the SARA Registry) that will follow. We look forward to your comments. The Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Canada is required to develop a recovery strategy and action plan for all threatened or endangered aquatic species listed under the Species at Risk Act (SARA), and appreciates your input. North Pacific right whales appear to represent an extreme example of the inability of whale stocks to recover from severe depletion. The last confirmed right whale sighting that may have either been in BC waters, or just outside, was in 1970. As a result, there is very little known about the abundance and distribution of these baleen whales. The initial short-term objective is the confirmation of right whale presence in Pacific Canadian waters. If you would like to know more about North Pacific right whales and how their recovery may affect you, or if you would like to submit comments on the draft recovery strategy via the DFO Regional SARA Consultation webpage, please see http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/consultation/sara-lep/index-eng.htm. The draft recovery strategy will be available for comment until February 21, 2010. Alternatively, please use the contact details below to request a hardcopy, and one will sent to you by mail. Sincerely, Robyn Kenyon A/ SARA Marine Mammal Recovery Biologist Fisheries and Oceans Canada 200-401 Burrard St. Vancouver, BC V6C 3S4 Tel: (604) 666-4775 Fax: (604) 666-3341 sara(a)pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca

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Passive Acoustic Monitoring - Training Course
by Beth Mackey 14 Jan '10

14 Jan '10

The use of Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) is becoming an increasingly important tool in both marine mammal research and applied in industry. It is important that individuals using any passive acoustic monitoring software are properly trained to use the software to maximise its full potential. Feedback from users is also important in the ongoing development of such software. PAMGUARD is currently funded by the OGP E&P Sound and Marine Life Joint Industry Program, and has been established to address the fundamental limitations of existing cetacean passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) software capabilities. PAMGUARD seeks to provide open-source PAM software based on a platform-independent (e.g. Windows or Linux), flexible, modular architecture. The open-source aspect of software development is facilitated through the project's presence on SourceForge, where a community of altruistic developers provides extra resources. This community currently includes developers with proven PAM experience from both the UK and the USA. Open development means that the software is free and access to the code is easy and assured. It also allows the code's copyright to be protected in perpetuity so that it cannot readily be closed and commercialised to the detriment of its users. It ultimately means that more people have access for development. This generally speeds up innovations and improves the performance and maintainability of the code. SMRU Ltd are running a PAMGUARD Training course on the 18th and 19th February, in St Andrews. There are still some places available on this course. The course will be lead by Dr Doug Gillespie of St Andrews University, one of the principle architects of the Pamguard software. If you are interested in attending the course please see the Pamguard website for further details: http://www.pamguard.org/training.shtml Best wishes Beth Dr Beth Mackey SMRU Limited Scottish Oceans Institute New Technology Centre North Haugh ST ANDREWS Fife KY16 9SR D: + 44 (0)1334 466906 T: + 44 (0)1334 479100 F: + 44 (0)1334 477878 E: blm(a)smru.co.uk <mailto:fas@smru.co.uk> W: www.smru.co.uk <http://www.smru.co.uk/> http://soi.st-andrews.ac.uk <http://soi.st-andrews.ac.uk/> P Please consider whether you really need a hard copy of this email before printing it - thank you. NOTICE OF CONFIDENTIALITY: This message, and any attachments, are intended solely for the addressee and may contain privileged or confidential information. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or action taken or omitted to be taken in reliance on it, is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you believe that you have received this email in error, please contact the sender immediately and destroy this email. Although we have taken steps to ensure that this email and any attachments are free from any virus, we advise that, in keeping with good computing practice, the recipient should ensure they are actually virus free. SMRU LIMITED is a limited company registered in Scotland, Registered Number: 296937. Registered Office: 5 Atholl Crescent, Edinburgh EH3 8EJ. Dr Beth Mackey SMRU Limited Scottish Oceans Institute New Technology Centre North Haugh ST ANDREWS Fife KY16 9SR D: + 44 (0)1334 466906 T: + 44 (0)1334 479100 F: + 44 (0)1334 477878 E: blm(a)smru.co.uk <mailto:fas@smru.co.uk> W: www.smru.co.uk <http://www.smru.co.uk/> http://soi.st-andrews.ac.uk <http://soi.st-andrews.ac.uk/> P Please consider whether you really need a hard copy of this email before printing it - thank you. NOTICE OF CONFIDENTIALITY: This message, and any attachments, are intended solely for the addressee and may contain privileged or confidential information. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or action taken or omitted to be taken in reliance on it, is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you believe that you have received this email in error, please contact the sender immediately and destroy this email. Although we have taken steps to ensure that this email and any attachments are free from any virus, we advise that, in keeping with good computing practice, the recipient should ensure they are actually virus free. SMRU LIMITED is a limited company registered in Scotland, Registered Number: 296937. Registered Office: 5 Atholl Crescent, Edinburgh EH3 8EJ.

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Wild Bottlenose Dolphin Research Internship
by kmchugh＠mote.org 14 Jan '10

14 Jan '10

*Dolphin Research and Conservation Institute Internships* The Chicago Zoological Societys Dolphin Research and Conservation Institute (DRCI), based at Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, Florida, conducts the worlds longest-running study of a wild dolphin population. The programs goal is to contribute to a better understanding of the structure and dynamics of populations of small cetaceans, as well as the natural and anthropogenic factors that impact them. The DRCI uses an interdisciplinary and collaborative approach in conducting studies of bottlenose dolphins within Sarasota Bay, Tampa Bay, Charlotte Harbor, and the Gulf of Mexico coastal waters. For more information about the DRCI and the individual projects listed below, please visit: www.sarasotadolphin.org. The DRCI is in the process of selecting volunteer interns for the summer 2010 internship program (a minimum of 10 weeks of participation during 17 May - 30 September). The successful candidates will participate in at least two research projects: 1) *Dolphin population monitoring project* (approx. 80% time) This study will continue to monitor the resident bottlenose dolphin community in Sarasota Bay. Duties in the field will include assisting with boat-based photographic identification surveys for dolphin groups. Behavioral, location, individual, and environmental data will be recorded for each dolphin group. While in the lab, work will generally involve photo-id of dolphins, computer data entry, dolphin dorsal fin identification catalog maintenance, equipment maintenance, and other duties; 2) *Dolphin prey and habitat use project* (approx. 20% time) This study will use the Sarasota dolphin community and fish populations to study predator-prey interactions and bioacoustics, specifically helping us to understand relationships between distributions of dolphins and their prey and factors that affect fish community ecology, such as red tide. While in the field, work will involve sampling of fish communities through purse seining techniques, recording of fish sounds via hydrophone, and collection of other environmental data. There is no compensation for these internship positions, and successful applicants will be responsible for their own living and transportation expenses during the time of the internship. Shared housing opportunities near Mote Marine Laboratory may be available (cost: $85/week). A few scholarships are available from Mote Marine Laboratory through a competitive application process (US citizens only). Applicants would ideally have the following qualifications: Minimum of 18 years of age and engaged in or recently completed undergraduate studies; A background or degree in Biology, Marine Biology, Ecology, Zoology or a related field; Basic computer proficiency in Microsoft Office programs (especially Excel and Access); Some field research experience preferred but not required; Must be able to swim; Enthusiasm and desire to learn a variety of field and lab based research methods; A willingness to spend a minimum of 2-3 months working full time with our program. To apply for a Sarasota Dolphin Research Program internship, interested persons should: 1) Fill out an application form at Mote Marine Laboratorys website (www.mote.org/interns) Be sure to select Dolphin Research and Conservation Institute as your first choice; 2) Complete and provide to Motes intern office all other application materials including: a statement of interest, current college transcript, letter of recommendation, and curriculum vitae; 3) Send a brief email to the DRCIs Intern Coordinator (Katie McHugh, kmchugh(a)mote.org) stating your name, contact information, exact dates available and that you have provided all of your application materials to the Mote intern office, as detailed above. All applications will be reviewed; those received by March 15th will be given first priority. We are seeking 4-6 interns for the summer of 2010, depending on scheduling. Applicants may contact Katie McHugh (941-388-4441 ext. 375, kmchugh(a)mote.org) in the DRCI with any questions.

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