August 2010 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Perception of a cetacean mass stranding in Italy: the emergence of compassion
by Giovanni Bearzi 19 Nov '10

19 Nov '10

The following article has just become available online: Perception of a cetacean mass stranding in Italy: the emergence of compassion Giovanni Bearzi, Nino Pierantonio, Silvia Bonizzoni, Giuseppe Notarbartolo di Sciara, Massimo Demma. 2010. Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems. DOI: 10.1002/aqc.1135 ABSTRACT 1. The view that whales are malicious monsters has been pervasive throughout history. Conversely, the idea that these animals experience suffering has emerged only recently. One way of investigating perceptual, as well as behavioural, shifts is assessing general public reactions to mortality events involving wild, rare and charismatic animals. 2. Here, the responses of 118 individuals to questions regarding the mass stranding of seven sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) along the Adriatic Sea coast of Italy in December 2009 are reported through interviews taken at the stranding site and in the direct proximity of the dead animals. 3. When asked why the whales were stranded, 44.1% of the respondents suggested anthropogenic causes and 21.2% non-anthropogenic. The remaining 34.7% mentioned a generic disorientation¹ or stated they did not know. When asked how they felt about the whales, 68.6% expressed feelings of compassion or care towards the animals. Clearly non-compassionate attitudes accounted for only 4.1% of the sample. Finally, 21.2% expressed feelings that were ambiguous in terms of being suggestive of compassionate or non-compassionate attitudes, including 11.9% amazement, 4.2% deprecation and 5.1% powerlessness. 4. These results are in stark contrast with information obtained from accounts of similar events that have occurred in historical times, up until the first half of the 20th century. For centuries, responses to cetacean live strandingstypically including killing and harming of the animalswere either utilitarian or characterized by feelings including fear and a desire to subjugate the beast¹, with no apparent concern for their suffering and death. 5. It is concluded that attitudes towards whalestoday strikingly revolving around sadness, compassion and a sense of losshave changed dramatically over time, with a steep turnaround in the 1970/1980s. Full appreciation of the ongoing evolution in public perception can channel marine conservation efforts and assist in the design of response strategies to marine mammal strandings. --- A pdf copy can be obtained from the journal's web site: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/aqc.1135/abstract or from me: giovanni.bearzi(a)gmail.com ________________________________________________ Giovanni Bearzi, Ph.D. President, Tethys Research Institute Viale G.B Gadio 2, 20121 Milano, Italy http://www.tethys.org/giovanni_bearzi.htm http://www.tethys.org/ ________________________________________________

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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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New article
by Marla Holt 22 Sep '10

22 Sep '10

Dear Colleagues, A new article is available online. Holt, M.M., Southall, B.L., Insley, S.J., and Schusterman, R.J. Call directionality and its behavioural significance in male northern elephant seals (/Mirounga angustirostris/). /Animal Behaviour/. 80: 351-361. Abstract : Animals often produce sounds that are focused in a particular direction relative to the caller’s orientation. Although many studies have suggested ways in which directional signal design might have behavioural significance among vocally interacting individuals, there are few direct tests using experimental approaches. During the breeding season and while fasting on land, male northern elephant seals produce airborne threat calls during dyadic interactions when competing for mating opportunities. In this study, we investigated the directional cues of these calls and tested hypotheses regarding directional signalling with respect to the behaviour of receivers during vocally mediated male agonistic interactions. We then determined effects of vocal directionality on receiver responses using an acoustic playback approach. We found that male calls had substantial directionality, particularly at higher frequencies (>1000 Hz). Subordinate males responded more strongly by retreating when the caller faced the receiver compared to when the caller was at a right angle or faced away. We also found a significant difference in responses to playback sequences with different call directivity patterns. Males displayed significantly more negative phonotaxis (i.e. moved away) in response to playbacks that simulated a caller oriented towards them compared to when playbacks simulated a caller oriented away from them. These results suggest that the directionality of threat calls provides important information about the auditory scene and spatial orientation of conspecifics and that this trait, along with the receiver’s ability to extract this information, may have evolved as a consequence of its effect on the breeding success and fitness of the individual. Published by Animal Behaviour, doi:10.1016/j.anbehav.2010.06.013 <http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.anbehav.2010.06.013> -- __________________________________ Marla M. Holt, Ph.D. Research Wildlife Biologist Marine Mammal Ecology NOAA/NMFS Northwest Fisheries Science Center 2725 Montlake Blvd East Seattle, WA 98112 Phone: 206.860.3261 Fax: 206.860.3475 www.nwfsc.noaa.gov/research/divisions/cbd/marine_mammal/marinemammal.cfm

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New article - A Bigger, Better Brain
by Maddalena Bearzi 02 Sep '10

02 Sep '10

Dear Colleagues, This is to announce a new feature article in the current issue of American Scientist entitled "A Bigger, Better Brain² (M. Bearzi and C. Stanford) Observations of animals as different as chimpanzees and dolphins are producing evidence of parallel types of intelligence in both, despite their vastly different morphology and native environments. One thing they have in common are uncommonly large brains when compared to their body sizes, a trait that is even more extreme in humans. The authors argue that these observations suggest that convergent evolution may have played a role in the development of humanlike intelligence in more than one recent evolutionary lineage. The article is available on the journal site: http://www.americanscientist.org/issues/feature/2010/5/a-bigger-better-brain 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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paper on toothed whale sound production
by Peter Teglberg Madsen 31 Aug '10

31 Aug '10

Dear All, This recent paper sheds new light on how toothed whales use their nose to produce high powered echolocation clicks. Requests for reprints can be directed to peter.madsen(a)biology.au.dk Single source sound production and dynamic beam formation in echolocating harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) P. T. Madsen*, D. Wisniewska and K. Beedholm Zoophysiology, Department of Biological Sciences, Aarhus University, Build 1131, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark *Author for correspondence (peter.madsen(a)biology.au.dk) Accepted 14 June 2010 The Journal of Experimental Biology 213, 3105-3110 C 2010. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd doi:10.1242/jeb.044420 SUMMARY Echolocating toothed whales produce high-powered clicks by pneumatic actuation of phonic lips in their nasal complexes. All non-physeteroid toothed whales have two pairs of phonic lips allowing many of these species to produce both whistles and clicks at the same time. That has led to the hypothesis that toothed whales can increase the power outputs and bandwidths of clicks, and enable fast clicking and beam steering by acutely timed actuation of both phonic lip pairs simultaneously. Here we test that hypothesis by applying suction cup hydrophones on the sound-producing nasal complexes of three echolocating porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) with symmetrical pairs of phonic lips. Using time of arrival differences on three hydrophones, we show that all recorded clicks from these three porpoises are produced by the right pair of phonic lips with no evidence of simultaneous or independent actuation of the left pair. It is demonstrated that porpoises, despite actuation of only one sound source, can change their output and sound beam probably through conformation changes in the sound-producing soft tissues and nasal sacs, and that the coupling of the phonic lips and the melon acts as a waveguide for sound energy between 100 and 160 kHz to generate a forward-directed sound beam for echolocation. Peter T. Madsen Professor of Sensory Physiology Zoophysiology, Department of Biological Sciences Aarhus University, Build. 1131, CF Mollers Alle 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark Phone: 0045 89422602 email: peter.madsen(a)biology.au.dk Web: www.marinebioacoustics.com sender_logo

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New paper on high performance fishing twine entanglement
by Susan Barco 30 Aug '10

30 Aug '10

Please be aware of the following publication in Marine Pollution Bulletin 60:1477-1481 Spectra fishing twine entanglement of a bottlenose dolphin: A case study and experimental modeling Susan G. Barco, Linda R. D'Eri, Becky L. Woodward, Jeremy P. Winn, David S. Rotstein ABSTRACT We report here the first documented case of a cetacean fatality from entanglement in recreational Spectra fishing twine. Spectra twine is a relatively new microfilament braided twine that is marketed to replace nylon monofilament twine in rod and reel fisheries. Following the case of this entangled bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus), we conducted tests with Spectra and comparable monofilament twines on Tursiops tissue from stranded animals to compare the abrasion properties of the twines. We found that Speetra twine was significantly more abrasive on bottlenose dolphin fluke tissue than a similar strength and diameter monofilament. With the same forces applied, the Spectra twine cut deeper than the monofilament, exhibiting a linear relationship with force applied where the monofilament appeared to reach a maximum depth of penetration of approximately 2 mm. These tests may explain why this bottlenose dolphin was so severely debilitated from carrying a relatively light load of twine over a short period of time (20 days). Future public and corporate outreach will be essential to minimize the effect that this increasingly popular fishing twine will have on non-target species.

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Pinniped Rescue/Rehabilitation Internship
by Kelly Eastlund 30 Aug '10

30 Aug '10

* PINNIPED RESCUE/REHABILITATION INTERNSHIPS * The Northcoast Marine Mammal Center in Crescent City, California is seeking applicants for two internship positions; one during the Fall/Winter of 2010 (November 1st, 2010 – January 31st, 2011) and one during the Spring of 2011 (February 1st, 2011 – April 30th, 2011). These positions are unpaid, volunteer positions, and selected interns will be responsible for travel to and from Crescent City. * Program Description:* The internships are designed to give exceptional hands-on experience with all aspects of rescue and rehabilitation of marine mammals. The selected intern will work closely with staff and volunteers in all aspects of marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation. Interns will be required to assist with animal care duties (feed preparations, medical charting, and pen cleaning, wound care) for all on-site pinnipeds. In addition, interns will have the opportunity to participate in marine mammal rescues throughout the NMMC’s response area, which extends along 200 miles of rugged coastline in Northern California. Interns will also have the opportunity to assist with the release of rehabilitated marine mammals. Other duties may include: participation in training classes, data entry and tracking, maintaining rescue equipment, education and outreach activities in local schools and community events, and assorted miscellaneous tasks. * Intern Responsibilities & Qualifications:* The internship is open to all applicants 21 years of age or older, with an avid interest in marine biology, zoology, general biology, policy or a related field. Internships are for a three month period. Interns must be willing to work long hours on a flexible and demanding schedule which may include weekends, holidays, and irregular work hours. Interns should be in good physical health and have the ability to lift and carry 50 lbs. A successful candidate must also be able to work well with others under stressful conditions. Applicants should also demonstrate excellent communication skills and have practical computer knowledge with programs such as Word, Access, and Excel. * Application Process: * Interested applicants should send a cover letter indicating which internship they are interested in, a resume, and three references to the following address: Northcoast Marine Mammal Center 424 Howe Drive Crescent City, CA 95531 No phone calls please. Or via email to: *paul(a)northcoastmmc.org* Applications for the internship must be received by September 15th for the Winter internship and December 15th for the Spring internship.

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For Marmam: Archipelagos Marine Research Institute "Marine Mammal Field Course" for summer 2010
by Archipelagos field courses 30 Aug '10

30 Aug '10

Archipelagos, Institute of Marine Conservation, is organizing a Marine Mammal Field Course to take place from the 27th September 2010 until the 6th October 2010. This 10 day field course will be conducted in the area of the Eastern Aegean Sea with participants based on the Island of Samos. The field course will be composed of both lectures and practical field work on the followings topics: *Lectures*: - The biology, behaviour and ecology of cetaceans. - Marine mammal populations within the area. - Current conservation methods implemented within the Eastern Aegean. - Threats to cetaceans. - Theory of the survey methods, including acoustic surveying, used to measure cetacean biodiversity. - First aid and stranding response protocols for marine mammals. *Practical/ Field work:* - Boat based visual census and surveying of marine mammal populations within the region. - Acoustic surveying. - Bio acoustics. - Photo identification of cetaceans. - GIS analysis. The participants in the Marine mammal field course will also have the option of getting involved in some of Archipelagos's additional research activities, which include: - Surveying for chameleons, carried out during the early evenings. - Early morning fisheries data collection from local artisanal fishermen. - Carrying out snorkeling surveys in a number of snorkeling sites in and around Ormos, Samos, with the use of transects. The cost is €1000 which covers accommodation, breakfast and lunch each day and use of equipment. Further information can be found at www.archipelago.gr, where you can also download a copy of the application form. Anastasia Miliou Hydrobiologist- Manager & Head Scientist Archipelagos, Institute of Marine Conservation

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Marine eco-volunteers
by Imogen Webster 30 Aug '10

30 Aug '10

Hi All, In order to continue with our work and research we are looking for willing volunteers who want to gain valuable hands on conservation experience, to come to Mauritius and work with our researchers on current projects. Help would be collecting data both on the sea, on our boat, and on land conducting surveys, data entry, equipment maintenance as well as a variety of office based activities. The Mauritius Marine Conservation Society (MMCS) is a non-government organization that has worked for 30 years to safeguard the marine environment of Mauritius through education. The MMCS takes action to sensitize the local population to the importance of marine biodiversity, focusing on the protection of marine mammals and coral reefs. One of the objectives of the MMCS is to promote the need for marine conservation in Mauritius through the creation of marine parks. This is done through ongoing research activities. You could be involved in: 1. Monitoring the behavior, ecology and population of the local cetaceans including spinner and bottlenose dolphins, sperm whales and humpback whales 2. the behaviour of dolphin watching boats 3. turtle monitoring 4. cetacean diversity studies 5. surveying tourists and operators 6. Working with schools to promote environmental awareness 7. Creating educational games and presentations for information evenings in an effort to gain support for sustainable marine eco-tourism. 8. fundraising events Volunteers will be accommodated in a furnished house in Black River (GPS 20° 21.77'S, 57°21.48'E). It is about 750m from a shopping centre that has a well stocked supermarket and the beach is about 100m away. Accommodation, bedding, laundry facilities and equipment is all provided but food is the volunteers responsibility (allow approx £40-60/week). Volunteers will be expected to contribute to housework, cleaning etc. Openings for volunteers are available immediately. Charges are AUS$405/GBP£200/€250 per week, with an additional fee of £50 to organize airport transfers, staying a minimum of 2 weeks (and a maximum of 8 weeks, because of Government stipulation). Please Note volunteer programme will not operate over the Christmas new year period. For more info on volunteering and application forms, contact: Imogen Webster Principle Research Officer (PhD candidate) iwebster(a)mmcs-ngo.org

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new paper on franciscana dolphin
by Silvina Botta 29 Aug '10

29 Aug '10

Dear Colleagues, This is to announce a new paper: Botta, S., Secchi, E.R., Muelbert, M.M.C., Danilewicz, D., Negri, M.F., Cappozzo, H.L. and Hohn, A. 2010. Age and growth of franciscana dolphins, Pontoporia blainvillei (Cetacea - Pontoporiidae) incidentally caught off southern Brazil and northern Argentina. Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the UK. doi:10.1017/S0025315410001141 Age and length data of 291 franciscana dolphins (Pontoporia blainvillei) incidentally captured on the coast of Rio Grande do Sul State (RS), southern Brazil, were used to fit growth curves using Gompertz and Von Bertalanffy growth models. A small sample of franciscanas (N =35) from Buenos Aires Province (BA), Argentina, were used to see if there are apparent growth differences between the populations. Male and female franciscana samples from both areas were primarily (78–85%) ,4 years of age. The Von Bertalanffy growth model with a data set that excluded animals ,1 year of age provided the best fit to data. Based on this model, dolphins from the RS population reached asymptotic length at 136.0 cm and 158.4 cm, for males and females, respectively. No remarkable differences were observed in the growth trajectories of males and females between the RS and BA populations. For a copy, you can contact: silbotta(a)yahoo.com Regards, Silvina Botta

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