January 2011 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Field Research Courses in Marine Mammals Science (Winter-Spring season)
by Bruno Diaz 22 Jan '11

22 Jan '11

The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI (www.thebdri.com) is happy to announce the new 10 days-long, Field Research-oriented Courses in Marine Mammals Science (FRC) (Winter & Spring 2011 Season). These training courses are specifically designed for those students(undergraduate and postgraduate) seriously interested in pursuing a career in marine mammal science. Students may choose one of the three exclusive courses, listed bellow, depending on where their interests lie. Each academically FRC combines exclusive lectures, hands-on boat-based and computer exercises, assignments and tests. The FRC are limited to 6 students to ensure individualized instruction. Students will be trained during FRC in a wide range of areas including scientific data collection, field research concepts and methodology, computer orientation, use of statistical analysis, presentation and report of findings, and much more. You might well leave a course with a simple research project to carry out in a location of your choice!! FRC are divided in three exclusive training courses (http://www.thebdri.com/education/courses.htm) FRC 1001 (Dates: 28th March; 6th June) MONITORING COASTAL BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN POPULATIONS: This FRC provides an in-depth, hands-on immersion into the field of marine mammal science and more particularly applied dolphins research. The variety of subjects approached on this FRC provides students with the tools and practical experience needed for a greater understanding of coastal bottlenose dolphin populations and their conservation, as well as deeper insight into behavioural research concepts and methodology. As a result of successful completion of this course, you will be able to select and use appropriate research methods available to characterise the status of a coastal bottlenose dolphin population. FRC 1002 (Dates: 11th April; 16th May; 20th June) SOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS AND COMMUNICATION IN A FISSION-FUSION SOCIETY: This advanced FRC aims to provide specialization in behavioural methods, focusing in particular on bottlenose dolphin social behaviour and communication, achieving an integrated approach to the understanding of the behavioural complexity of this species. By the end of the course, students will be able to design a project to assess the social organization of a bottlenose dolphin population. In addition, course attendants will get experience in using bioacoustical methods via computer practical sessions involving classification and analyses of bottlenose dolphin vocalizations. FRC 1003 (Dates: 2nd May) CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT OF COASTAL POPULATIONS: This advanced FRC surveys an extensive amount of knowledge and ongoing investigations concerning marine mammals conservation, achieving an integrated approach to address human-dolphin conflicts and advice on mitigation. As a result of successful completion of this specialization course, attendants will gain a deeper insight into the various factors influencing the incidental capture of bottlenose dolphins, use of ecosystem-level models to predict the impact of human activities and explain the importance of local, national, and international policies that aim to protect bottlenose dolphin populations. BDRI has developed a financial aid to support students and unemployment people, covering between 25% (from march to may) and 10% (June) of the FRC Tuition & Program fee. Comfortable housing (private and double rooms), with shared cooking and bathroom facilities are provided. There is no deadline to apply. However, applications are accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. Positions are open until filled. APPLY NOW! Step 1. Read through this general information carefully:www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/courses.pdfdecide what course/s you want to study, take note of any dates that may be preferred.Step 2. Once you have decided which course/s you would like to study, it's now time to submit your application by email to info(a)thebdri.com More information:email: info(a)thebdri.com; telephone: 00 39 346 0815414 Bruno Diaz Lopez Chief Researcher / Marine Zoologist Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI V.Armando Diaz Nº4 07020 Golfo Aranci (SS) Italy www.thebdri.com info(a)thebdri.com tel.+ 39 346 081 5414 tel. + 0789 183 1197

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Marine Mammal Senior Trainer & Director of Marine Mammal Programs JOB POSTINGS
by Volunteer Department 21 Jan '11

21 Jan '11

Clearwater Marine Aquarium- Clearwater Florida POSITION TITLE: Marine Mammal Senior Trainer REPORTS TO: Department Supervisor SUPERVISES: Department Interns and Volunteers EXEMPT OR NON-EXEMPT: Non-exempt PERCENTAGE OF FULL TIME EMPLOYMENT: 100% PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Able to work in adverse environmental conditions, lift and carry 50 lbs, be a proficient swimmer, and have good physical stamina. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY: To support the goals and objectives of the Marine Mammal Program by performing entertaining show narrations, conducting fun and educational encounter sessions, and providing care and training to the resident collection of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and North American river otters under the direction of the Department Manager. To supervise the Marine Mammal Interns and Volunteers Programs and train individuals to assist with the daily operations in areas of food preparation, exhibit maintenance, and enrichment activities among others. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: * Heavy emphasis on show performance and ability to captivate an audience * Strong leadership skills with clear, friendly, and effective verbal and nonverbal communication * Great time-management skills with ability to plan, organize, and multi-task * Able to be diligent in a fast-paced environment with a full schedule * Able to be self-motivated and disciplined with excellent work ethics * Knowledge of behavior modification techniques * Maintain behaviors with high criteria, precise bridging and careful consideration given to reinforcement schedules * Scuba (must be certified) EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor's Degree in related field, preferably psychology, plus a minimum of three to five consecutive years of recent marine mammal training experience in a paid position. ************************************************************************ ************************************************************************ ***** POSITION TITLE: Director of Marine Mammal Programs REPORTS TO: Director of Animal Care SUPERVISES: Supervises all staff and volunteers with in the Animal Training Department EXEMPT OR NON-EXEMPT: Exempt PERCENTAGE OF FULL TIME EMPLOYMENT: 100% PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Able to work in adverse environmental conditions, lift and carry 50 lbs; be a proficient swimmer, and have good physical stamina. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY: Direct the work of supervisors, staff and volunteers, managing both work and workers, getting projects completed on time, keeping cost within budget and maintaining established quality standards. Responsible for orienting and training employees, hourly wage recommendations, job safety, guest safety, equal opportunity compliance, discipline and promotions recommendation to upper management. The incumbent oversees the daily operation of animal training staff and animal collection. He/she also teaches proper husbandry procedures, animal training techniques and showmanship skills. Ensures staff and volunteers have the proper equipment and materials to perform job safely and effectively. Develops plans and projects to enhance staff knowledge and advance training techniques while maintaining safety. Coordinates and aids in veterinary procedures with rehab and resident mammals under the guidance of the veterinarian. Responsible for all governmental permits related to marine mammals. The manager is responsible for the coordination of all marine mammal stranding events. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: * Teach trainers proper husbandry procedures, training methods and safety guidelines through active participation. * Teach awareness of stage presence and performance through active participation * Provide staff & volunteers with materials necessary to complete tasks at hand (i.e. reading material, training videos and safety equipment). * Maintain USDA paperwork for animal collection including medical charts, food preparation checklists, behavioral charts and permits. * Coordinate in and assist with marine mammal stranding events, including federal paperwork and volunteer supervision. * Supervise public activities related to marine mammals including shows, encounters, and enrichment. * Responsible for proper staffing through effective scheduling * Food preparation and dietary needs related to marine mammals * Maintenance of dolphin and river otter exhibits * Maintenance of various animal records * Take an active role in both concept and design of new animal shows, working in conjunction with Hospitality and other departments as needed * Promoting, developing and completing research projects as opportunities arise * Design, implement, and conduct animal encounters * Ensure guest safety in all guest/animal interactions * Responsible for all employee and volunteer evaluations set by HR * Responsible for maintaining employee and volunteer morale and motivation throughout the department * Interviewing and making recommendations for staff additions * Provide open communication between management and all team members of the department, making them aware of all the daily priorities and changes * Oversee the marine mammal volunteer and internship programs * Office work and other organizational tasks as required * To perform other duties as workload necessitates EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor's Degree in related field, preferably psychology and at least five consecutive years of recent marine mammal training experience in a supervisory or lead role. To Apply: Please email resume and cover letter to ddesantis(a)cmaquarium.org or by mail to: Dawn De Santis -HR Administrator Clearwater Marine Aquarium 249 Windward Passage Clearwater FL 33767 No phone calls please. Dawn De Santis HR Administrator/Volunteer Coordinator Clearwater Marine Aquarium 727-441-1790 ext 230 727-445-1139 Fax ddesantis(a)cmaquarium.org <mailto:ddesantis@cmaquarium.org> Clearwater Marine Aquarium's mission is to restore and preserve our marine environment. We accomplish our mission through leadership in education, research, and the rescue, rehabilitation, & release of marine life. We are a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization located at 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL 33767 RESCUE * REHAB * RELEASE www.SeeWinter.com <http://www.seewinter.com/> Before printing this email, think about the environment

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New paper on orca health in captivity
by Howard Garrett 21 Jan '11

21 Jan '11

The paper described and linked below was written by Dr. John Jett, visiting research professor at Stetson University in Florida, and Dr. Jeffrey Ventre, a physician in New Orleans, LA. Both are former trainers at SeaWorld in Orlando. The paper was written to help explain the tragic death of two trainers in the past year and prevent further incidents. The authors plan to produce a version of the paper for peer review and publication in the near future, but time constraints in regard to upcoming events required that it be made public now. There is some new information here that may be of interest to marmam readers. Some of the major themes include the precursors and symptoms of stresses in orcas in captivity, shortened longevity, breeding of young mothers, severe tooth damage found in many captives and associated systemic illnesses, inbreeding, and the social tensions that erupt in hostile behavior or violence toward other whales or trainers. Ventre and Jett provide detailed observations and statistical calculations that add up to an abundance of evidence that captivity tends to lead to early death in orcas, and that stresses, social tensions and poor health are chronic issues in marine park facilities. A statistic is compiled called "Mean Duration of Captivity" (MDC), drawn from diverse credible sources, that allow overall comparisons with free-ranging orcas, revealing low average longevity in captivity. The authors discuss how the conditions of captivity relate to the two trainer deaths, and arrive at suggested mitigations. Ventre and Jett have kept their focus on the evidence, on what's happening to the orcas, a key element that is seldom seen in the controversies over orca captivity. "Keto & Tilikum Express the Stress of Orca Captivity" is available at The Orca Project at: <http://theorcaproject.wordpress.com/2011/01/20/keto-tilikum-express-stress- of-orca-captivity/> http://theorcaproject.wordpress.com/2011/01/20/keto-tilikum-express-stress-o f-orca-captivity/ with appendices, original documents, and links to related postings. Howard Garrett

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Internship Announcement to post...
by Center for Whale Research 20 Jan '11

20 Jan '11

To Whom It May Concern: The Center for Whale Research (www.whaleresearch.com) would like post/ submit to the list-serv the following internship announcement: _________________________________________________________________ The Center for Whale Research (CWR), a small, non-profit organization, is pleased to announce our internship program for 2011. Who We Are: The mission of the Center for Whale Research is to develop, promote, and conduct benign studies of free-swimming Cetaceans (Whales, Dolphins, and Porpoises) for the purpose of conserving their populations and informing governments and the public of their ecosystem needs. Our emphasis is on non-invasive research methodologies such as passive acoustic monitoring and photo- identification. What We Do: Although the Center for Whale Research is involved with various research projects, our central project is the Orca Survey, now in its 35th year. Orca Survey is a photo-identification study of the killer whales (Orcinus orca) that reside in the inland marine waters of Washington state and southern British Columbia. The focus of the project is a group known as the Southern Resident Killer Whales. Both the U.S. and Canada have now designated this population as endangered, and our primary objective is to determine population size and trends each year. However, our long-term studies have also provided the bulk of the natural history information on killer whales - including growth rates, social organization, spatial distribution, and prey preference. Orca Survey is a model study that illustrates the depth of information that can be learned through patient observation, and we hope that our work will continue for many more years to come. Why Intern? Our internship is a great way for interested students to discover what a life of marine mammal research is really about. This field is highly competitive and an experience like this is essential for future career opportunities. However, marine mammal work is not as glamorous as many believe it is. Candidates need to be realistic about ALL aspects of this field and be willing to work hard and live in a rustic, communal setting. An internship at CWR is a great way to gain needed experience, as well as to meet and network with people in this profession that come from a variety of backgrounds. The Internship: Interns will be expected to participate in all aspects of the Orca Survey project, as well as the day-to day operations of the Center. This includes, but is not limited to: data entry, fund-raising efforts, standing early morning watches, gardening, meal-preparation, basic housekeeping, and other office tasks. Also, a significant component of the internship will be to help create and implement community outreach and education projects. There will be opportunities to strengthen your skills in the areas of photography, photo-identification, and a variety of computer software, but these are just pieces of what we do at CWR. The best part of this internship will, undoubtedly, be the opportunity to observe and experience wild killer whales. As an intern, you will occasionally be able to accompany our staff out on the water in order to conduct photographic surveys. During these encounters, you will be tasked with making behavioral observations and recording accurate field data. It will not be possible for interns to participate in every encounter due to vessel capacity restrictions, but given weather, and other restrictions, we will accommodate interns as best we can. We want to emphasize, however, that the majority of the work to be done will not directly involve killer whales. Applicants should see this internship as an opportunity to learn about what CWR does and gain experience in all aspects of both fieldwork and operating a non-profit. You will have some time off to recreate and enjoy the beautiful San Juan Islands but keep in mind that an internship with CWR is not intended to be a vacation. Internship positions will be offered in monthly sessions from May- September 2011. The beginning and end dates for each session will tentatively coincide with the start and end of each month. There is availability for two interns each month and the fee for the program is $900/month. This includes accommodations and all meals, and contributes to the requisite staffing needs, utilities, fuel costs, and other incidentals involved with your stay. Applicants are welcome to apply for any month, or combination of months within the internship period, but may only be selected for a portion of their proposed stay. One month minimum is required. As mentioned already, living at the Center means being willing to live in shared, rustic accommodations and participate in a communal environment. Amenities like toilets, shower, laundry, electricity, and kitchen facilities are available at the Center for everyone’s use, but interns may or may not have some or all of these conveniences where they sleep. Requirements: Applicants must be 18 years of age and have a strong desire to work with killer whales or other cetaceans. You must be physically fit (able to lift 50lbs), able to swim, and not easily susceptible to seasickness. Be prepared to spend time aboard a small (19-25ft.) vessel in unpredictable weather and sea conditions. Preferred candidates will have earned an undergraduate degree in a relevant field of study, with greater preference being given to those students already involved in a graduate program. However, current undergraduates that show exceptional dedication to their studies will certainly be considered. Daylight lasts quite long in the San Juan Islands during the summer months and, consequently, work can begin very early (05:00) and continue well into the evening (23:00). Interns must be willing to work hard, keep up their energy, and maintain a positive attitude throughout. Successful applicants will be able to tolerate a constantly changing schedule, as life at the Center revolves around the whales, and possess superior “people skills.” Interns will be required to engage the public and work well with the different ethnicities and personalities that the Center attracts. A sense of humor is mandatory. International applicants are responsible for obtaining their own travel visas and all candidates must be willing to sign a waiver of liability and disclose pertinent medical histories. How to Apply: Please send cover letter, resume/CV, contact information for three references, and unofficial transcripts to info(a)whaleresearch.com. Your cover letter should explain both your interest in the program, and the qualities that set you apart from other candidates. Also be sure to include what month(s) you prefer, how long you can stay, and if there are alternate months you would consider. While not required, letter(s) of reference would be highly desirable. When emailing application materials, enter “2011 CWR Internship” as the subject heading. Applications without this subject heading may be lost or overlooked. We look forward to hearing from you. Application Deadline: February 14, 2011 (we will aim to have decisions made by March 1, 2011) Visit us at www.whaleresearch.com

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Re: [MARMAM] On-Line Lecture this Thursday: "New Findings on the Effects of Noise on the Behavior of Whales and Dolphins"
by Brandon Southall 20 Jan '11

20 Jan '11

MARMAM, In consultation with colleagues involved in the SOCAL Behavioral Response Study (BRS), I would like to comment on Renee Owens recent MARMAM post. Constructive dialog on this issue is welcome and I appreciate her expressing her views and MARMAM for providing a forum in this regard. The purpose of the project is to provide scientific data on how marine mammals react to various sounds (following specific protective protocols), including simulated military sonar, to inform decision-making both for operational planning and regulatory assessments. I am not entirely clear what Renee is referring to in terms of "sound buffering" or sonar "alternatives", but clearly our work does not override or circumvent ongoing efforts to mitigate any adverse effects of sonar training exercises. Rather, we are providing some of the first direct empirical data on behavioral responses in various species that will directly inform how mitigation and conservation management related to the effects of human sounds in the ocean should best be accomplished. The SOCAL BRS project is supported by different parts of the U.S. Navy, but none of the results from this project are classified and the Navy has exerted no data rights or restrictions on their release or publication. The project is closely partnered with NOAA who has been involved in various elements of planning, permitting, and field work. Most of the scientists involved in the project are from academic or private research organizations. We are committed to the fair and open transmissions of results to Navy and NOAA as well as the scientific and environmental communities working in these areas, regardless of their potential implications for the Navy or anyone else. Along these lines, in addition to the many open public presentations and discussions on this project, there are multiple sources of additional information on previous research efforts (for instance, see: <http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/acoustics/behavior.htm>). For the SOCAL BRS project specifically, we have also developed a variety of ways to relate information on the SOCAL BRS goals and results specifically, including: - Simple project summary and frequency asked questions <http://www.sea-inc.net/resources/SOCAL10_summary.pdf> - Detailed project summary <http://www.sea-inc.net/resources/SOCAL10_summaryext.pdf> - A from-the-field blog of our daily activities (start at: <http://sea.typepad.com/sea-blog/2010/08/socal-10-behavioral-response-study-…>) - A Facebook page with photos and short videos demonstrating aspects of the project <http://www.facebook.com/pages/Behavioral-Response-Studies-of-Marine-Mammals…> A publicly-available summary report of the project will be available at <www.sea-inc.net/SOCAL10> sometime in February; many of the results and preliminary conclusions in this report were included in the Smithsonian summary presentation available online. Sincerely, Brandon Southall SOCAL BRS project chief scientist -- PLEASE NOTE: New mailing address and office/FAX #s for SEA, Inc. Brandon L. Southall, Ph.D. President, Senior Scientist, SEA, Inc. Research Associate, University of California, Santa Cruz 9099 Soquel Drive, Suite 8, Aptos, CA 95003, USA 831.332.8744 (mobile); 831.661.5177 (office); 831.661.5178 (fax) Brandon.Southall(a)sea-inc.net; www.sea-inc.net

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Scientific and workshop programme of the next ECS Conference.
by European Cetacean Society Conference 20 Jan '11

20 Jan '11

Dear friends The Schedule of workshops, their abstracts, and the prelimianry scientific programme (still need author confirmations!!) is available in www.circe.info . * * * * *Workshop Schedule:* *Saturday 19th March 2011* 08:00-12:00: *The Case For And Against Destructive Sampling<http://www.circe.biz/#1> *. Organiser: Simone Panigada (panigada(a)inwind.it ) 12:30-21:00: * Environmental History of Marine Mamm**als*<http://www.circe.biz/#2>. Organiser: Cristina Brito (cristina.brito(a)escolademar.pt ) 12:30-21:00: *Implementation of the cetacean component of the Habitats Directive in EU Member States <http://www.circe.biz/#3>. *Organisers: Simon Berrow, Eunice Pinn, Meike Scheidat, Marije Siemensma, simon.berrow(a)shannondolphins.ie 12:30-21:00: *Killer Whales in the North Atlantic (To be confirmed)*. *Sunday 20th March 2011* 08:00-12:30 *Student workshop: Tools for Marine Mammal Population Studies* <http://www.circe.biz/#4>Organiser: Conor Ryan miolmor(a)gmail.com 08:00-16:30: *Pollution and cetaceans* <http://www.circe.biz/#5>Organisers: Mark Simmonds and Peter Evandspeter.evans(a)bangor.ac.uk 08:00-16:30: *Interest and feasibility of a web-accessed database for marine mammals strandings and necropsy data in the ASCOBANS region*.<http://www.circe.biz/#6> Organisers: Deaville R., Jepson P. and Jauniaux T. T.Jauniaux(a)ulg.ac.be 08:00-16:30:* Prey identification in marine mammal diets <http://www.circe.biz/#7> *Organiser: Graham Pierce, Gema Hernandez g.j.pierce(a)abdn.ac.uk 08:00-16:30: *Fin whales research and conservation in the Mediterranean Sea <http://www.circe.biz/#8> *Organisers: Pauline Gauffier, Simone Panigada, Manolo Castellote and Renaud de Stephanis. panigada(a)inwind.it Remember that the Early Registration Deadline will be Friday 21st January 2011. Regards Renaud de Stephanis On behalf of ECS. www.circe.info

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CETACEAN RESEARCH ASSISTANT OPPORTUNITY IN ICELAND
by chiara bertulli 19 Jan '11

19 Jan '11

CETACEAN RESEARCH ASSISTANT OPPORTUNITY IN ICELAND WHAT: This is a joint research project consisting of the two following projects: The first project is investigating the effects of whale-watching on Minke whales in Icelandic waters. One volunteer is needed for this project to help collect track data (movement and respiration data) of Minke whales from whale-watching boats in Faxaflói Bay, Iceland. The volunteer will assist the primary researcher with collecting GPS positional data and take notes in the field, as well as data entry and equipment cleaning and maintenance when back in port. The behavioural data collected from the whale-watching boats will be compared to control data collected from a land-based station to quantify the effects of whale-watching activities on Minke whales in Icelandic waters. Another volunteer assistant is requested to partake in a second project investigating abundance, patterns of residency, social structure and health status of Minke whales, white-beaked dolphins and humpback whales in Faxaflói Bay, Reykjavik, Iceland. An intensive photo-identification study will be used to estimate number of individual whales/dolphins and their site fidelity (seasonal and annual) in the coastal waters of Faxaflói Bay during spring, summer and autumn months (the existing ID-Catalogue already counts 311 Minke whales, 342 white-beaked dolphins and 50 humpback whales). The long-term photo-identification data will be converted into model of social structure to define and calculate association indices in the resident population of white-beaked dolphins. WHERE: Faxaflói Bay is a bay facing Reykjavík city where both whale-watching and whaling is currently taking place. Daily whale-watching tours are arranged from Reykjavik to spot feeding Minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, Humpback whales and harbour porpoises. Reykjavik Whale-watching Company has been running whale-watching trips since 1998, with special interest in all whales visiting the bay. The company is member of Green Globe 21 and tries to fulfil environmental standards as well as certain whale-watching guidelines. Since 2007, the Company started as well a Research project called ‘Faxaflói Cetacean Research’ aiming to: - determine the abundance of Minke whales, white-beaked dolphins and humpback whales in the coastal waters of Faxaflói Bay - examining patters of residency using multiple photo-identification efforts - establishing sex ratio estimates via biological sampling - analyse the feeding behaviour of Minke whales and white-beaked dolphins and data collected on associated bird species - determining population structure of the resident population of white-beaked dolphins occurring in the coastal waters of Faxaflói Bay - assess prevalence of cutaneous disorders on Minke whales and white-beaked dolphins during photo-identification surveys WHEN: Tracking project: 10th of June to 31st of August 2011 Photo-ID: 15th April to 15th September 2011 CONDITIONS: For the boat based work, two whale-watching motor vessels will be used as research platform: Elding and Hafsúlan each approx 30m long. Living space for the boat based people is located on a former fishing boat in the old harbour, with 3 single rooms, bathroom, kitchen, living room and internet access (25 square metres); 10 min walking distance to the city centre. Because of the training required, applicants must be willing to commit to the project a minimum of two months. Applicants willing to participate for the whole working period will be given preference. Unfortunately, neither of these positions are paid and the successful candidates must be able to cover their own travel expenses, travel insurance, food and other personal expenses. Accommodation will be provided. DUTIES: Applicants should be ready to work long hours (07:00 to 17.00 or to 20.00 hours depending on weather conditions) and be expected to participate in the following duties: Tracking project: - collect Minke whale track data from whale-watching boat - data entry - data processing Photo-ID project: - collect photographic material on whales and dolphins - photo-identification work under the supervision of the PI - recognition of skin marks - ID Database entry and use of matching softwares (Darwin and Europhlukes) Above this, cleaning, painting and other maintenance tasks is part of staying at the fishing boat in the old harbour as a gratitude to the free accommodation provided by Elding. At the beginning and end of each whale-watching trip, we also help the boat crew out by assisting passengers with life jackets, warm blankets etc. QUALIFICATIONS: - have a strong background in Marine biology/Oceanography, with knowledge and experience of marine mammal behaviour and/or sea birds - have previous wildlife field experience and ability to stand long working days, sometimes in rough sea conditions (seasick people should not apply for these positions!) - have previous cetacean photo-identification skills (relevant for the ID assistant position) - be computer literate with a working knowledge PC operating system and proficiency with MS Word and MS Excel. Familiarity with software including MS Access and Photoshop is very helpful. Possibility to bring your own Laptop is much preferred - be enthusiastic, hard-working, team oriented, able to share small living space on board - be adaptable, flexible and patient as fieldwork is highly weather dependent - have good English language skills - bring your own digital reflex camera and zoom lens (pre-requisite for the ID assistant position) HOW TO APPLY: CV or resume should include the following: - details of your availability - contact details of two referees - a brief description of yourself including your interest in marine mammals and what you hope to gain from this experience - specify if you have any preference for the “tracking” project or the “photo-ID” project. - any dietary requirements (i.e. vegetarian, vegan, etc.) Send applications both to Chiara Bertulli and Fredrik Christiansen (see below): Chiara Bertulli (MSc Student) University of Iceland Biology Department Náttúrfræðahús/Askja Sturlugata 7 101 Reykjavik Iceland E-mail: cgb1(a)hi.is / ciarabertulli(a)yahoo.it Mobile: +354-8618307 Skype: chiara.giulia.bertulli Principal Investigator/Research Coordinator c/o Reykjavík Whale-watching Company Ægisgardur 7 101 Reykjavík Iceland and Fredrik Christiansen (PhD Student) University of Aberdeen Institute of Biological Sciences Tillydrone Ave Aberdeen AB24 2TZ United Kingdom E-mail: f.christiansen(a)abdn.ac.uk Mobile: +44 78 18725081 and University of Iceland Biology Department

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Sea Lion Observers Needed Camas, WA
by Jack Loranger 18 Jan '11

18 Jan '11

I am the agent for the Camas River's Edge Homeowner's Association (HOA). The HOA recently got permits in place to drive piling for a community dock on the Columbia River. One of the conditions is to have three Stellar Sea Lion Observers during pile driving. The project must happen before Feb 15th 2011, so I need a quick response if possible. Minimum qualifications are: Attachment A. Minimum Qualifications for Marine Mammal Observers 1. Visual acuity in both eyes (correction is permissible) sufficient for discernment of moving targets at the water's surface with ability to estimate target size and distance. Use of binoculars may be necessary to correctly identify the target. 2. Advanced education in biological science, wildlife management, mammalogy or related fields (Bachelor's degree or higher is preferred). 3. Experience and ability to conduct field observations and collect data according to assigned protocols (this may include academic experience). 4. Experience or training in the field identification of marine mammals (cetaceans and pinnipeds). 5. Sufficient training, orientation or experience with vessel operation and pile driving operations to provide for personal safety during observations. All vessel operators will possess, on their person, a WA boater education card. 6. Writing skills sufficient to prepare a report of observations that would include such information as the number, type, and location of marine mammals observed; the behavior of marine mammals in the project area during construction, dates and times when observations and in-water construction activities were conducted; dates and times when in-water construction activities were suspended to avoid incidental harassment by disturbance from construction noise; etc. 7. Ability to communicate orally, by radio or in person, with project personnel to provide real time information on marine mammals observed in the area, as necessary. Anyone qualified and interested can contact me for the 3 page document that needs to be followed. A proposal from a team of three would be preferred, individual responses gladly accepted. Thanks for allowing my posting. Jack Loranger, Shoreline Permit Procurement, loranger(a)saw.net

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World Conference on Marine Biodiversity, 2011
by ruth leeney 18 Jan '11

18 Jan '11

Posted on behalf of Peter Richardson, Marine Conservation Society World Conference on Marine Biodiversity, Aberdeen, UK. 26th to 30th September 2011 Please consider attending the World Conference on Marine Biodiversity to be held in sunny Scotland this September: World Conference on Marine Biodiversity, Aberdeen, UK. 26 - 30 September 2011 - www.marine-biodiversity.org/about/ Abstract submission deadline is 31st January 2011 - www.marine-biodiversity.org/abstract/ There are many themed sessions, including two run by the Marine Conservation Society (MCS), one of which is entitled Stakeholder Roles in Marine Ecosystem Management - www.marine-biodiversity.org/programme/themed-sessions/ All the best Yours Peter Peter Richardson Biodiversity Programme Manager Tel: 01989 566017, mob: 07793 118383 e-mail:peter.richardson@mcsuk.org Ruth H. Leeney W: www.namibiandolphinproject.blogspot.com W: www.coastalstudies.org http://publicationslist.org/ruth.leeney

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LAND BASED MINKE WHALE TRACKING IN ICELAND - VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
by Christiansen, Fredrik Oscar 18 Jan '11

18 Jan '11

LAND BASED MINKE WHALE TRACKING IN ICELAND - VOLUNTEERS NEEDED I am looking for four volunteers to assist me between the beginning of June (10th) and the end of August (31st) with land based tracking of Minke whale movement and diving behaviour in Iceland. The project is part of a larger study looking at the effects of whalewatching on Minke whales in Iceland and the land based data constitutes the control (or natural) behaviour data of this project. A land based station, a 27m high lighthouse, will be used as a platform from which Minke whale movement (lag. and long. position of every surfacing) and diving behaviour (dive interval) will be collected in the absence of tourist boats, by using a theodolite and computer. Continuous focal follows of individual Minke whales will be conducted. One person will use a theodolite to measure the position of the Minke whale every time it surfaces, as well as the orientation of the animal and any conspicuous surface behaviours (e.g. feeding). A second person with binoculars will assist the theodolite tracker and make sure that no surfacing is missed or that no other Minke whales enter the study area which might confuse the theodolite tracker. A third person will enter all the data into a computer in real time, together with environmental data etc. Volunteers will rotate between these positions, but if a person is really skilled with theodolite tracking they might be given priority for tracking when weather conditions are particularly favourable. The lighthouse is located in Gardur, about 30km west of Reykjavik, north of Keflavik, and overlooks the southern part of Faxaflói Bay. It's a small town consisting of about 1400 people and facilities are limited. There is a supermarket, swimming hall and some cafes. A few times per day there is a free shuttle bus between Gardur and Keflavik, which is a slightly bigger city (8000 people). Regarding costs, unfortunately this is an unpaid volunteer position and you would have to cover your own travel expenses to and from Iceland, your travel insurance (required!), as well as your food expenses during the project. Accommodation will be provided for free by the project. Accommodation will consist of a shared house in Gardur with bathroom and kitchen, provided by the municipality of Gardur. Volunteers need to live and cook together. The house will have internet connection. The successful applicant will need to both work and live together with people from different countries and backgrounds and therefore needs to be a very tolerant and flexible person. During time periods of bad weather, or periods when whales are not seen for a long time, you might become very frustrated, but it's important to remain polite and respectful in all situations. As theodolite tracking of Minke whales is difficult and takes a long time to learn, priority will be given to people with previous experience in theodolite tracking. If you have this sort of experience, please specify in your application when and where you worked with this, what species you were studying and what sort of data you collected (did you collect positional data for every surfacing or just one fix per surfacing bout?). How many hours of theodolite tracking (actively working with the theodolite) do you have roughly? As the feasibility of this project is relying strongly on assistants, the successful candidate will need to be able to stay for the entire duration of the project. A departure in the middle of the project would be very difficult to accommodate for, and therefore I wish you to really consider your availability for this summer before you decide to apply for this position. Apart from setting up the project, I will personally not be stationed in Gardur, but work from Reykjavik collecting the impact data from whalewatching boats, which constitutes the other part of this project. The land based research will instead be lead by a research student from Aberdeen University, who will be in charge of all the work. The work schedule for the lighthouse will be between 06:00 and 18:00 (depending on the weather) and volunteers will rotate on a two hours basis, rotating between theodolite tracking, binocular tracking, computer entry and being off duty. As in any cetacean work, there will be days when work will be very intense due to favourable weather conditions, when you will be expected to work up to 10h in the field. Other days will have bad weather and no work, or half a day's work or less, so we have to be flexible and work according to the weather. When we are not working in the field there will be data entry work to do, as well as everyday equipment cleaning work etc. I also expect everyone to help out together with the everyday tasks of cooking, cleaning etc. As I mentioned, when the weather is bad there wont be any field work, so those days can also be used to relax. As the field season is relatively short (3 months) and bad weather will prevent work for roughly half of these days, days off will not be scheduled, but rather taken opportunistically during days when the weather is bad. Therefore you will need to be stationed in Gardur throughout these three months, so any plans to travel around Iceland should be done prior to or after this project. Tourist will regularly come up to the lighthouse and ask what we are working with, during which time you have to be polite and informative. The major of Gardur is keen on advertising our work to locals and tourists, and we should assist him with this task as much as we can. As Gardur is small and geographically isolated, there isn't much to do when you are not working, so if you are a person that needs a lot of stimulation then this project isn't for you. There is a lot of beautiful nature around Gardur to where you can walk, and many species of birds for bird lovers or photographers. Apart from Minke whales you can also sometimes see white beaked dolphins, harbour porpoises, basking sharks and seals from the coast. But for time periods when the weather is bad (sometimes for weeks) and there is no data processing to be done, I recommend that you bring along books, movies etc or whatever you like doing at your spare time basically. You should expect that the weather will be bad roughly half of the time you are in Iceland and prevent you from working. There will also be periods (sometimes weeks) when few or no Minke whales are sighted. For those periods it is important not to give up, and to keep working from the lighthouse, as the animals can return at any time. This is a rather difficult project, but to observing this species without disturbing it, and to see its natural behaviours is very rewarding. And even though being difficult, we managed to get a lot of data from last season, showing that this project is not only possible, but also has great potential to be even better for 2011. I hope this project description hasn't scared you off already, but I wanted to emphasize what the difficulties with this project are and that I am looking for people that can handle this sort of work and living conditions. This project will give you a great chance to work with an amazing species in an amazing place, and you will be able to learn some skills that are frequently practised in cetacean research and therefore really useful to know for anyone that wants to pursue a career in this field. Also you will have the opportunity to work with other like minded people from different countries and local Icelanders. LOCATION: The land based field site and accommodation is located in Gardur, Iceland. WORK PERIOD: The tracking project is planned between the 10th of June and the 31st of August 2011. DAILY DUTIES: - collect Minke whale track data from land with theodolite - enter track data into computer in real time - data entry and processing - equipment cleaning and maintenance - talk and inform tourists and locals about the Minke whales and our work QUALIFICATIONS: - have a strong background in Marine biology/Oceanography, with knowledge and experience of marine mammal behaviour and/or sea birds - have previous wildlife field experience and ability to stand long working days - have previous theodolite tracking skills - be computer literate with a working knowledge PC operating system and proficiency with MS Word and MS Excel. Possibility to bring your own Laptop is much preferred - be enthusiastic, hard-working, team oriented, able to share small living space - be adaptable, flexible and patient as fieldwork is highly weather dependent - have good English language skills HOW TO APPLY: Send CV and resume. The resume should include the following: - details of your availability - contact details of two referees - a brief description of yourself including your interest in biology and what you hope to gain from this experience - any previous experience in theodolite tracking - any dietary requirements (i.e. vegetarian, vegan, etc.) Send applications to: Fredrik Christiansen (PhD Student) University of Aberdeen Institute of Biological Sciences Tillydrone Ave Aberdeen AB24 2TZ United Kingdom E-mail: f.christiansen(a)abdn.ac.uk<mailto:f.christiansen@abdn.ac.uk> Mobile: +44 78 18725081 The University of Aberdeen is a charity registered in Scotland, No SC013683.

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