May 2010 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Marine Mammal Scientist and Passive Acoustic Monitoring System (PAMS) Operational Technician Vacancies
by Nick Robinson 26 Oct '10

26 Oct '10

Gardline Environmental Ltd is a member of the Gardline Marine Sciences Limited Group of Companies and are a successful Environmental contractor, operating a fleet of inshore boats, conducting major integrated offshore projects on a worldwide basis and inshore projects for major clients in the UK and overseas. As part of our continued growth there are immediate vacancies for the following positions: PAMS OPERATIONAL TECHNICIAN As a PAMS Operational Technician you will be responsible for the maintenance, despatch and receipt of all PAMS equipment. In addition, you will be expected to keep up to date with national and international development of PAMS and implement accordingly. Applicants will ideally be of degree calibre or equivalent in a relevant discipline and possess a full comprehension with the technical composition and use of PAMS. Ideally the candidate would have an understanding of marine mammals, their biology and identification and previous marine survey experience would be advantageous. MARINE MAMMAL SCIENTIST Reporting to the current Marine Wildlife Business Manager, you will be expected to undertaken and develop the application of marine mammal observations, monitoring and recording systems, the compilation and preparation of reports and the processing of observational data and possess a sound knowledge marine mammals, their biology and identification. Ideally you will be of degree calibre or equivalent, and demonstrate the ability to lead and develop projects from implementation to completion and illustrate sound commercial awareness. You will need to be a confident individual with a can do attitude and enjoy being challenged. Previous relevant marine oil and gas or renewable energy industry experience is advantageous. Both positions require the individual to spend in the region of 60 days at sea, dependent on project requirements, with the remaining time being office based (Great Yarmouth). As well as a competitive salary, these roles also include offshore allowances and a range of employee benefits, such as; personal and professional development, a further range of employee benefits and world wide travel opportunities. To apply for these positions please email your CV and covering letter to Allan Tucker, Recruitment Officer on recruitment(a)gardline.com. Closing date: 8th April 2009 Nick Robinson ________________________________ CONFIDENTIALITY - This e-mail and any attached files contain information that is confidential and/or may be subject of legal privilege, intended only for use by the addressee(s). If you are not the intended recipient or the person responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, please be advised that you have received this message in error and that any dissemination, copying or use of this message or attachment is strictly forbidden, as is the disclosure of the information therein. If you have received this message in error please notify the sender immediately and preserve this confidentiality by deleting the message. No binding contract will result from this e-mail until and unless an officer, on behalf of the sender, signs a written document. Sender accepts no responsibility for the completeness or accuracy of this message as it has been transmitted over public networks. Unless otherwise specifically stated any views or opinions are solely those of the author and do not represent those of the sender Company.

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Postdoctoral Research Fellow – Steller Sea Lion Foraging Energetics
by David Rosen 12 Jul '10

12 Jul '10

Postdoctoral Research Fellow – Steller Sea Lion Foraging Energetics The University of British Columbia Marine Mammal Research Unit (MMRU) invites highly motivated and experienced applicants to apply for the position of Post Doctoral Research Fellow. The appointment is to develop and manage a research program in the area of marine mammal foraging energetics. The research will focus on the foraging energetics and diving behavior of captive Steller sea lions as part of an integral component of the MMRU research goals. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing and implementing the science plan at the UBC Open Water Research Station. This facility allows researchers to study behavior and energetics of Steller sea lions using trained animals to carry out experiments in the open ocean environment. For more details see: www.marinemammal.org/research/openwater/index.php You must have a PhD in biological science and at least 2 years of experience in conducting and managing field- or lab-based research projects. This should include a proven ability to lead and motivate research teams. Experience with the practical and analytical techniques required to conduct behavioral and energetic studies would be advantageous. You must also have excellent writing, communication and networking skills, illustrated by a strong publication record and evidence of effective communication with the scientific community. The post will be based at the University of British Columbia’s Fisheries Centre in Vancouver. However, significant time will also be spent at the UBC Open Water Research Station located at a remote location away from the University campus. The position is under the direct supervision of the Dr Andrew Trites and Dr David Rosen with support from the Office Manager. They will directly supervise research technicians at the Open Water facility. The position will also work closely with Aquarium training and husbandry staff. The post is for 1 year and will start as soon as practical. UBC hires on the basis of merit and is committed to employment equity. We encourage all qualified persons to apply. However, Canadians and permanent residents of Canada will be given priority. Interested candidates should send a letter of application, curriculum vitae, and list of referees to Dr Andrew Trites: consortium(a)zoology.ubc.ca by no later than MONDAY APRIL 12, 2010.

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NOAA Requests Comment on Fish Imports and Marine Mammals
by Mike Simpkins 08 Jul '10

08 Jul '10

Dear MARMAM list members, NOAA is requesting public comment on options for implementing parts of the Marine Mammal Protection Act that address the incidental catch of marine mammals in foreign fisheries. The Federal Register notice (available at http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2010/pdf/2010-10158.pdf) describes the options the United States is considering for assessing whether foreign fisheries whose products are exported to the United States meet U.S. standards to protect marine mammals while fishing. The notice also describes options for working with countries to reduce their fisheries’ effects on marine mammals through capacity building, training, and technology transfer. “A large portion of the fish Americans consume is imported,” said Eric Schwaab, NOAA assistant administrator for NOAA’s Fisheries Service. “With this notice, we are looking for ways to lessen the effects of fishing on marine mammals worldwide, and to level the playing field for our own fishermen, who take many protective measures when fishing to ensure the survival of marine mammal species.” Commercial fishermen in the United States must comply with the Marine Mammal Protection Act, the Endangered Species Act, and other laws and regulations that often specify what kind of fishing gear they can use, as well as how, when, and where fishing can take place, in order to reduce the number of marine mammals killed or injured by fishing gear. However, marine mammals are found around the world and interact with a wide variety of fisheries. International collaboration through exchange of technology and information may help control and minimize effects on marine mammals. In this initial phase, NOAA is looking to gather as much information on the subject as possible. If NOAA moves forward in creating regulations on this subject, the public will have additional opportunities to comment. Members of the public are invited to comment by 5 p.m. Eastern Time on June 29, 2010 via electronic comment at www.regulations.gov, fax (301-713–2313) or mail (mail to: Director, Office of International Affairs, Attn: MMPA Fish Import Provisions, NMFS, F/IA, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910).

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ICES WGMME 2010 report
by Sinéad Murphy 31 May '10

31 May '10

The ICES Working Group on Marine Mammal Ecology (WGMME) 2010 report is now available, and can be downloaded at http://www.ices.dk/workinggroups/ViewWorkingGroup.aspx?ID=32 A number of Terms of Reference were covered during this year's meeting in the Azores including: a ) Review the effects of wind farm construction and operation on marine mammals and provide advice on monitoring and mitigation schemes; b ) Review the current contaminant loads reported in marine mammals in the ICES area, the causeeffect relationships between contaminants and health status, and the population-level effects of environmental impacts; c ) Further development of the framework for surveillance and monitoring of marine mammals applicable to the ICES area; d ) Review and report on any new information on population sizes, population/stock structure and management frameworks for marine mammals; e ) Provide information on abundance, distribution, population structure and incidental capture of marine mammals off the Azores; f ) Review of the scope, objectives and technical issues of the initiative for a European Marine Mammal Tissue Bank; g ) Update on development of the ICES seal database, status of intersessional work. Reports from previous years can also be found on the ICES WGMME webpage. Just to note that the ICES Annual Science Conference 2010 will be held at la Cité des Congrès in Nantes, France, between 20 and 24 September. For further information see http://www.ices.dk/iceswork/asc/2010/index.asp. Best wishes Sinéad Murphy Chair of WGMME ------------------------------------------------------------------ University of St Andrews Webmail: https://webmail.st-andrews.ac.uk

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Rescue of net entangled dolphin
by Drasko Holcer 30 May '10

30 May '10

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Winter (Elephant Seal) Farallon Biologist Job Announcement
by Russell Bradley 30 May '10

30 May '10

Job Announcement: Winter Farallon Biologist Overview PRBO Conservation Science (PRBO; formerly Point Reyes Bird Observatory) of Petaluma, CA is seeking applications for a staff biologist in our Farallon Islands Program. PRBO is an independent, scientific research non-profit whose mission is to conserve wildlife and ecosystems through innovative scientific research and outreach. Under co-operative agreement with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), PRBO has conducted continuous research and stewardship of the unique natural resources of the Farallon National Wildlife Refuge since 1968. The Farallon Islands are just a few miles from the continental shelf and lie in the rich coastal upwelling region of Central California. The islands host globally significant breeding seabird populations (over 300,000 individuals of 13 species), are a major haul out and breeding site for 5 species of pinnipeds, and a key feeding site for White Sharks. The islands also host a variety of migrant landbirds and an endemic salamander population. Most research on the Farallones involves multi-decadal and continuous time series. PRBO is seeking a biologist to oversee its winter activities on the Farallones. Research during this period focuses primarily on breeding elephant seals, but there are a variety of other biological studies conducted. Accommodations are in restored lighthouse keeper's housing, with a fully equipped field station to accommodate year-round occupation by biologists. This unique position involves overseeing field crews of long term volunteers, research, maintenance of facilities, small boat handling, data management and analyses, and scientific reporting and publication. Farallon biologists also work closely with our partners at the USFWS, to help with management activities of the refuge. Depending on interest, experience, and suitability of applicants, this position may be seasonal (~5 months per year focusing on winter field activities) or potentially full time to encompass both field activities and more data analysis and publication of Farallon datasets. Non field time would be based out of PRBO's Petaluma office. This position requires a minimum 3 year commitment. Job Description Field season is early December to mid March each year on Southeast Farallon Island, a rugged 120-acre island National Wildlife Refuge 28 miles offshore from San Francisco, California. Biologist's responsibilities include: continuing the long term demographic studies of northern elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris); conducting surveys for arboreal salamanders (Aneides lugubris farallonensis), birds, pinnipeds and other marine mammals; hiring, training and supervising research assistants each year; overseeing standardized data collection, entry, and proofing, and management of long term datasets. Biologist will also analyze data, write reports, publish scientific papers, and present results at appropriate meetings. Biologist would be expected to maintain good communication and coordination with partner agencies, such as USFWS and Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary. In addition to research activities, the biologist will be responsible for maintaining all island systems including small boats and outboard engines; a photovoltaic power system; diesel generators; booms and winches; housing facilities, and rainwater collection. Interested applicants must have an undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences or related field and multiple years of experience conducting research and supervising crews in a remote field camp environment. Preference will be given to applicants with advanced degrees (MS or PhD), and a proven track record of effective database management, analysis and publication. In addition, successful applicants must have significant small boat handling experience (preferably in an offshore environment), and strong mechanical aptitude, including basic familiarity with mechanical, electrical, plumbing, outboard engine maintenance, computer, and construction skills. Applicants must able to live and work effectively in a remote setting with a small crew under potentially difficult weather conditions for an extended field season. On island work is conducted 7 days a week throughout the entire field season, often for extended hours with no time off. Compensation Compensation will be competitive and dependent on experience. A full time position would receive a generous benefits package including medical and dental coverage, 401k match, and vacation time. Biologists will also receive 2 weeks of paid compensation time for every 6 weeks spent on the Farallones. Start Date November 15 2010 Application Send a cover letter, CV, and list of 3-5 references to Russ Bradley, Farallon Program Manager: rbradley at prbo.org by July 31st, 2010. Include references for all supervisory field positions you have held. Attach PDF's of publications you feel are relevant to your application. Successful applicants will be interviewed by phone in August and then in person at our Petaluma offices in September. ********************************* Russell Bradley, M.Sc. Farallon Program Manager PRBO Conservation Science 3820 Cypress Drive #11 Petaluma, CA 94954 Tel: 707-781-2555 ext. 314 Fax: 707-765-1685 www.prbo.org<http://www.prbo.org>

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new paper on tactile contact between individuals of three dolphin species
by Kathleen M. Dudzinski 27 May '10

27 May '10

Please post to MARMAM Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to announce the following paper recently published in Behavioural Processes. Dudzinski KM, Gregg JD, Paulos RD, Kuczaj II, SA. 2010. A comparison of pectoral fin contact behaviour for three distinct dolphin populations. Behavioural Processes. 84: 559-567. Abstract Tactile exchanges involving the pectoral fin have been documented in a variety of dolphin species. Several functions (e.g., social, hygienic) have been offered as possible explanations for when and why dolphins exchange pectoral fin contacts. In this study, we compared pectoral fin contact between dolphin dyads from three distinct dolphin populations: two groups of wild dolphins; Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis) from The Bahamas and Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) from around Mikura Island, Japan; and one group of captive bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) residing at the Roatan Institute for Marine Sciences, Anthony’s Key Resort. A number of similarities were observed between the captive and wild groups, including; rates of pectoral fin contact, which dolphin initiated contact, posture preference, and same-sex rubbing partner preference. Unlike their wild counterparts, however, dolphins in the captive study group engaged in petting and rubbing at equal rates, females were more likely to contact males, males assumed the various rubbing roles more frequently than females, and calves and juveniles were more likely to be involved in pectoral fin contact exchanges. These results suggest that some aspects of pectoral fin contact behaviour might be common to many dolphin species, whereas other aspects could be species specific, or could be the result of differing environmental and social conditions. The final version of this article with full bibliographic details is now available online at: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.beproc.2010.02.013 Alternatively, reprints are available from the first author via email (kathleen(a)dcpmail.org ) Thanks! Kathleen Kathleen M. Dudzinski, Ph.D. Director, Dolphin Communication Project kathleen(a)dcpmail.org www.dolphincommunicationproject.org www.thedolphinpod.com P.O. Box 711 Old Mystic, CT 06372-0711 mobile: 1-860-514-4704

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University affiliation request
by CDSWhale 27 May '10

27 May '10

University affiliation request Marmammars, especially staff at European Universities, the Centre for Dolphin Studies is trying to establish a PhD study on the development and impact of seal tourism in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa. We have identified a PhD student who is interested in undertaking this study, but she needs to be registered for her PhD at an European University. Consequently, we are looking for a person, University, who would be willing to partner us in this programme. If anyone is interested, please contact me Vic Cockcroft Centre for Dolphin Studies info(a)dolphinstudies.co.za cdswhale(a)worldonline.co.za

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Morphometric data available
by CDSWhale 27 May '10

27 May '10

Morphometric data available Fellow Marmammers, I've been working on marine mammals (as some of you might know) for about 30 years. Over this time I've collected data on some 35 species of marine mammal. All these were either stranded or incidentally captured in shark nets. I'd like to make these data available to anyone wanting to use them! Obviously, for some species the data are sparce, for example I have data for only one pygmy right whale. Where the species is rarely stranded (for the Caperea, or any beaked whale) I have collected full body measurements and weights. But, for the more common species I have worked, I have collected mostly length and total weight, though I do have significant 'runs' of full body measurements and organ weights. Examples of the 'common' species worked include: 230 Arctocephalus pusillus 44 Arctocephalus tropicalis / gazella 640 Delphinus sp. (mostly capensis) 90 Grampus griseus 30 Kogia sp. 110 Sousa chinensis (plumbea) 70 Stenella coeruleoalba 600 Tursiops aduncus 15 Tursiops truncatus If anyone is interested in using these data, please contact me. Vic Cockcroft Centre for Dolphin Studies info(a)dolphinstudies.co.za cdswhale(a)worldonline.co.za

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Cetacean Assessment job at Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center
by Erin.Oleson＠noaa.gov 26 May '10

26 May '10

The Cetacean Research Program at the Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center is hiring a Cetacean Assessment Specialist. This position is part of the of the Protected Species Division of the National Marine Fisheries Service, Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center (PIFSC), located in Honolulu, Hawaii. The person in this position will be responsible for conducting cetacean stock assessment analyses using sophisticated computer-based methods and will provide scientific support to management teams (take-reduction teams, biological review teams, etc) on cetacean population response to proposed management measures. Duties include: analyzes population information; produces reports and scientific publications on the population assessment of cetaceans of the central and western Pacific; leads cetacean assessment cruises and completes field and cruise reports on research activities; provides scientific advice and status reports of research and assessment efforts for cetaceans to various groups and meetings; participates in workshops or panels. More details on this position can be found at USA Jobs, announcement NMFS-PIC-2010-0026.

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