February 2011 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Two new books and a PhD thesis about about marine mammals in Greenland
by fernando ugarte 23 Feb '11

23 Feb '11

Two books and one PhD thesis are now available: 1. Erik W Born, Anna Heilmann, Len Kielsen Holm and Kristin Laidre (2011) Polar bears in Northwest Greenland: an interview survey about the catch and the climate. This volume presents the results of an interview survey on the catch of polar bears in Northwest Greenland between 1952 and 2005. The information provided by experienced polar bear hunters offers a detailed and unique account of polar bear catch, polar bear biology, climate change, and the effect of these changes on both the species and the subsistence hunt. Available on-line at: http://www.mtp.hum.ku.dk/details.asp?eln=202901 2. Aqqalu Rosing-Asvid (2011) Seals of Greenland Seals play a central role in everyday life in the Greenland of today. Indeed, the Greenlandic seal harvest is bigger than ever. Around 150,000 seals are caught annually and seal meat is an important resource for much of the population. The book has been written as a popular scientific presentation. It describes some of the seals' common features, but focuses on the specialisations which have given the various species their distinctive characteristics and roles in the ecosystem. (from http://www.natur.gl/index.php?id=1018&L=3&contUid=0#c2497 ) Available on-ine at: http://www.atuagkat.com/ 3. Malene Simon (2010) The sounds of whales and their food: baleen whales, their foraging behaviour, ecology and habitat use in an arctic habitat Using a variety of techniques that include D-TAGs, surveys, photo ID and Passive acoustic monitoring (PAM), Malene and collaborators looked at baleen whales in general and humpback, bowhead and fin whale in particular. More info and free download here: http://www.natur.gl/index.php?id=1019&L=3&contUid=0#c2538 All best, Fernando Ugarte Greenland Institute of Natural Ressources (www.natur.gl)

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web site for DCLDE Workshop
by Dave Mellinger 22 Feb '11

22 Feb '11

The Fifth International Workshop on Detection, Classification, Localization, and Density Estimation of Marine Mammals using Passive Acoustics and associated tutorial introductions to Detection, Classification, and Localization and Density Estimation Aug. 21-25, 2011 Mt. Hood, Oregon, USA The web site for the workshop and tutorials is now complete, and workshop abstracts and requests for student support are now being accepted: http://www.bioacoustics.us/dcl.html Also, as announced previously, the dataset for the workshop is available on MobySound.org via links at the above website. We invite you to visit! - The DCLDE Organizing Committee

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Volunteers needed for Dolphin Alliance Project Shark Bay 2011 Season
by Richard C. Connor 21 Feb '11

21 Feb '11

We are seeking several field assistants for The Dolphin Alliance Project in Shark Bay , Western Australia for the 2011 field season. The season will begin 1 July and will last through September but may be extended another 1-2 months. Given the time it takes to train people, you must commit for the entire time. This is a volunteer position but we cover lodging and food at the site. We will be collecting survey and focal data on alliance forming male dolphins. On windy days you will be working on data entry and photo-ID. We are seeking assistants who have prior field experience, dolphin photo-ID experience and especially familiarity with small boats. The West Australian Government now requires us to have an operator on board who has a Restricted Coxswain, radio operation certificate and current first-aid certificate. Courses may be taken in the Perth/Freemantle area before the field season. Please note, if we have one or two assistants who meet these qualifications we may be able to take two without them, so don’t be afraid to apply if you feel under-qualified. We prefer people who are easy going hard working team players as we work and live in close quarters. Please send a letter of interest, CV and email contacts for two references to both of us. Richard Connor ( rconnor(a)umassd.edu ) and Michael Krutzen ( michael.kruetzen(a)aim.unizh.ch ).

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2011 Meeting of the Society of Marine Mammalogy NW Student Chapter
by Frances Robertson 21 Feb '11

21 Feb '11

2011 NW Student Chapter Meeting for the Society of Marine Mammalogy This year's annual NW student chapter meeting will be held at the University of British Columbia on Saturday 7 May 2011. The Marine Mammal Research Unit will host this year's annual meeting and looks forward to a chance to meet with fellow students and colleagues from the region. We will send out a request for abstract submission along with details for registration in March. If you would like further details on this upcoming event or on our student chapter please contact us; Frances Robertson f.robertson(a)fisheries.ubc.ca , or Mandy Wong m.wong(a)fisheries.ubc.ca . You may also find details about the Chapter at our webpage: http://www.marinemammalscience.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=art icle&id=127&Itemid=163 And join our chapter's facebook page at: http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/group.php?gid=120452514647497 We look forward to seeing you in May. Frances Robertson, Mandy Wong and the students of the MMRU. Frances C. Robertson O PhD Candidate Marine Mammal Research Unit University of British Columbia AERL 2202 Main Mall Vancouver, BC Canada, V6T 1Z4 f.robertson(a)fisheries.ubc.ca http://distantfin.com CA 604 339 4967 USA 360 420 4403

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PhD Thesis: The Ecology of Cuvier’s beaked whale, Ziphius cavirostris (Cetacea: Ziphiidae), in the Bay of Biscay
by jackie smith 21 Feb '11

21 Feb '11

Dear MARMAMers, A pdf of the following PhD Thesis has moved to: http://www.marine-life.org.uk/media/27214/smith_2010_cuviers beaked whale ecology_noc.pdf Smith, J.A. 2010. The Ecology of Cuvier’s beaked whale, Ziphius cavirostris (Cetacea: Ziphiidae), in the Bay of Biscay. Abstract This dissertation introduces the habitat use and spatial-temporal distribution of Cuvier’s beaked whale (Ziphius cavirostris, Cuvier, 1823)in the Bay of Biscay, from surveys carried out by the Biscay Dolphin Research Programme between 1995 and 2007. I have analysed the spatio-temporal distribution of Cuvier’s beaked whale, using dedicated and opportunistic sightings and the interactions with fixed physical variables (depth, slope and aspect), non-fixed environmental variables (sea surface temperature) in the Bay of Biscay, northeast Atlantic. This study used a differing combination of environmental variables and modelling: GAM (General Additive Model), and ENFA (Ecological Niche Factor Analysis), and PCA (Principal Component Analysis). Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing were used to achieve this. The habitat preferences of Cuvier’s beaked whale showed strong correlations with water depths >1000m and <4000m and steep slopes, associated with the Capbreton canyon, in the southeast Bay of Biscay and the continental shelf slopes in northern Biscay. Areas of high suitability for Cuvier’s beaked whale were predicted for the Bay of Biscay and predictions showed high habitat suitability areas over continental shelf slopes and submarine canyons. The variety of modelling techniques used to identify the habitat preferences and to predict areas of high suitability for Cuvier’s beaked whale in the Bay of Biscay all proved advantageous. On a global scale, techniques such as these could be applied to help research worldwide for future implementations of protected areas to conserve and maintain this species. The abundance and distribution of Cuvier’s beaked whales varied between years and seasons, with an increase in sightings over time and a seasonal distribution shifting north during spring and summer. Stranding records were also analyzed and compared with the sightings data, which identified regional patterns in seasonal distribution between France, the UK and Ireland. In addition to Cuvier’s beaked whale, this study investigated other deep-diving cetaceans (Northern bottlenose whale, Hyperoodon ampullatus, Sowerby’s beaked whale, Mesoplodon bidens, Sperm whale, Physalus macrocephalus, Pilot whale, Globicephala melas) and non-deep diving cetaceans (Fin whale, Balaenoptera physalus, and Common dolphin, Delphinus delphis) observed in the Bay of Biscay and the English Channel. The Bay of Biscay is the most northerly range of the Cuvier’s beaked whale in the eastern north Atlantic and with year round observations, it could be suggested the population may be resident.This raises the question, could Cuvier’s beaked whale act as a predictor of increasing water temperatures because of climate change by shifting their distribution further north. Happy Reading Dr Jackie Smith. Email: jackie52smith(a)yahoo.co.uk Marinelife is a charity registered: No 1110884 cheers jackie xx ><((((o>...><((((o>...><((((o>...><((((o>...><((((o> Please consider the environment - do you really need to print this email? RESPECT OUR OCEANS!!! Don't flush things down the loo (other than loo paper) Buy local sustainably-caught fish (or through the Marine Stewardship Council - www.msc.org)

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PhD: Ocean front metrics for improving understandingofthedistribution of marine megafauna
by Peter Miller 21 Feb '11

21 Feb '11

Dear MARMAM, Plymouth Marine Laboratory (UK) is advertising in New Scientist (Graduate Submission) a PhD topic: "Ocean front metrics for improving understanding of the distribution of marine megafauna" This is an exciting study (from Oct. 2011) using satellite data on oceanic fronts to study the distribution and behaviour of marine mammals and other megafauna. Applicants are required to submit a Full CV with Covering Letter and must complete the Eligibility Criteria & Equal Opportunities Form which can be obtained by request from vacancies(a)pml.ac.uk. The closing date is Friday 15th April 2011. Interviews have been scheduled for Wednesday 25th May 2011. Please see the PDF at this link for further information: http://rsg.pml.ac.uk/projects/megafauna/pml_2011_phd_fronts_vs_megafauna.pdf If you would like to discuss the PhD please contact me at the address below (replacing '-at-' with '@'). Regards, Peter -- Dr Peter Miller <pim-at-pml.ac.uk> http://rsg.pml.ac.uk Remote Sensing Group, Plymouth Marine Laboratory Phone: +44 (0)1752 633481, Fax: ...633101

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Canadian Seal Rehabilitator Opening
by phocid 20 Feb '11

20 Feb '11

MARINE MAMMAL REHABILITATOR Island Wildlife Natural Care Centre (IWNCC) is a non-profit society dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of regional wildlife in the Canadian Gulf Islands. Our emphasis is on Harbour Seal pups and avian species and we treat small terrestrial mammals as well. We are seeking a candidate for the position of Marine Mammal & Avian Rehabilitator. IWNCC is located on the coast of British Columbia, on Salt Spring Island, one of the largest of the coastal Gulf Islands. We are a small, but very busy Centre, primarily outdoors on a forested 4-acre property. We treat up to 100 seal pups and 500 avian and terrestrial animals each year. The majority of our animal intake occurs between May and November. Seasonal work hours are long and the work is fast-paced and physically demanding, however with our cross-discipline of animals, it is varied and fulfilling. The position reports to the Executive Director and is responsible for helping to oversee all aspects of care for our wildlife patients. This includes coordinating rescues; admissions, diagnosis and critical care; hands-on daily animal husbandry; leadership, training and supervision of interns and volunteers; maintaining clean animal habitats; the day-to-day running of the clinic; procuring and managing inventory of supplies, equipment and medications; keeping accurate detailed records and liaising with industry professionals such as veterinarians and conservation officials. The successful candidate must have several years of senior hands-on rehabilitation experience working with both Harbour Seals and avian species. She/he must be experienced in examinations, diagnosis and treatment, plus have proven supervisory and English language communications skills, be physically fit and able to work independently or as a part of a busy team. The workday includes shifts and weekends. The position commences May 2011 with a salary range between $26,000 - $30,000 annually depending upon experience. Other benefits include basic on-site housing for a candidate relocating to Salt Spring, use of a company vehicle and 2 weeks vacation. This position is open to Canadian applicants only. Please send your CV, references and an informal cover letter to Jackie Ballerone, Director, Island Wildlife Natural Care Centre, 322 Langs Road, Salt Spring Island, BC V8K 1N3, Canada. Or email us at iwncc(a)aol.com For more information regarding IWCC, visit our website at www.sealrescue.org

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RESEARCH EXPEDITION IN NORWAY
by Marta Acosta Plata 20 Feb '11

20 Feb '11

*JOIN A RESEARCH EXPEDITION IN NORWAY* We are currently searching for 7 research assistants to join boat based expeditions in Norway. *Aims of the expedition and itinerary* The aim of this expedition is to conduct a survey during which we will collect data on marine mammal distribution along the North coast of Norway. Data will be used by several students working currently on their PhD and Master´s thesis in Whale Safari Andenes, Norway. This expedition is organized in collaboration with La Isla de los Delfines ( www.laisladelosdelfines.com) We will sail out from Tromsø harbor, and during 7 days of navigation we will pass through the areas of high concentration of cetaceans along the coast of the *Vesterålen and Lofoten islands, like the Bleik Canyon, a key feeding ground for sperm whales. In the area we might also encounter killer whales, Atlantic white-sided dolphins, white beaked dolphins, pilot whales, porpoises, fin whales, minke whales and humpback whales. We will conduct visual and acoustic surveys, and work on the photo identification of sperm whales and killer whales. We will spend the night at a different harbor each day, allowing us to explore the wild coasts of these islands.* *The itinerary is subjected** to weather conditions, as sometimes the sea state may oblige us to stay on land. In this case, additional activities will be proposed.* *Dates* · 6th – 24th June 2011 · 19th – 27th September 2011 *The boat and life on board* *Best Explorer* is a 15 m long sailing boat that has been used for sailing across remote areas in Northern Norway and the Arctic during the past years. It has a capacity for 12 persons and is perfectly equipped to conduct research surveys. More info: www.bestexpeditions.net The boat is equipped with 3 showers and a full kitchen. As space might be limited, we recommend bringing reduced luggage. *Participant requirements and duties* *Participants will help during the survey **in **effort and **marine mammal **data collection and **analysis**. During the expedition we will expend c** c**a 10h a day working on the survey. **Participants will learn how to design surveys and data sheets, use GPS, recognize marine mammal species, gather behavior data, individual identification of cetaceans and sailing skills among other tasks.* *W**e will enjoy local nature and landscapes through excursions** the rest of the time**, the midnight sun in June, and northern lights in September.** * During the expedition, participants will be provided with lectures about marine mammals, cetaceans and training in research techniques. A boat safety lecture will be also arranged on the first day of the expedition. *Anyone with an interest in getting actively involved in marine mammal research can join the expedition. Though no prior experience in the marine mammal field is necessary, it will be considered** a plus**. *** *The applicants should be aware of the weather conditions on the Norwegian sea, which can sometimes be rough, **so we discourage people who suffer from seasickness to apply.*** *Applicants will be accepted on a first come – first served basis. *** *Participation fee*** *Unfortunately, the budget of this project is very limited, so there is a fee of 1500 euros **per participant** strictly **to **cover the boat expenses. *** *The fee includes travel insurance, accommodation on board in 3-4 **persons **cabins, and boat expenses (e.g: rental fee, crew salary, oil, harbor fee** s**). Food expenses will not be covered, but **we will keep these expenses low by arranging **co**mmunity meals. * *As the participation fee only covers boat expenses calculated on the basis of 7 participants, we need to fill all the **assistant** positions for the expedition to take place**.*** *The **payment can be done by 30th April and it ca**n be done through installement, b**ut please consult **me beforehand **for this **way** of payment. However, **a **part of the fee (300 euros) must be paid in advance (before 31st March) to book the placement. This fee will be returned if the participant communicates refusal of the placement before 31st May.*** *For more information and application, please contact: *** macostaplata(a)gmail.com Marta Acosta Researcher Whale Safari Andenes www.whalesafari.no macostaplata(a)gmail.com

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stranding of two Cuvier's BW in Sicily
by Michela Podesta' 20 Feb '11

20 Feb '11

Dear All, this is an update on the live stranding of two Cuvier’s beaked whales (Ziphius cavirostris) that occurred in Sicily (Italy) a few days ago. The two specimens were found stranded alive on the 8th of February and immediately released at sea by the local Coast Guard. The day after, one of them stranded again in the same place and it was released with the help of a local rescue team. We are attaching a detailed description of the facts as reported by Dr. Antonino Barlotta, of the Fondo Siciliano per la Natura (Sicily Wildlife Found). Dr. Barlotta and his rescue team acted on the spot. In the same period and in the same area there was a military naval exercise involving submarines going on (Proud Manta: http://www.hydro-international.com/news/id4482-Gliders_Assist_Exercise_PROU…) We don’t have more info about this. Strandings of Cuvier’s beaked whales are quite common along the coasts of Sicily. To have a view of the stranding data in Italy you can search in our National Stranding on-line DataBase (http://mammiferimarini.unipv.it) or you can contact one of us for further details. Michela Podestà – Museum of Natural History of Milan (michela_podesta(a)hotmail.com; michela.podesta(a)comune.milano.it) Maristella Giurisato and Bruno Cozzi – Department of Experimental Veterinary Science, University of Padova (maristella.giurisato(a)unipd.it and bruno.cozzi(a)unipd.it) Sandro Mazzariol – Department of Public Health, Comparative Pathology and Veterinary Hygiene, University of Padova (sandro.mazzariol(a)unipd.it) dr. Michela Podesta' Curator Vertebrate Zoology Dept. Museo di Storia Naturale di Milano corso Venezia 55 - 20121 Milano - Italy tel. +39 0288463324 - +39 0288463280 fax +39 0288463281 www.comune.milano.it/museostorianaturale/index.html

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Upcoming Event: Tucker and the Orcas: Lecture by Katherine Ayres, presented by The Whale Trail
by Whitney Neugebauer 19 Feb '11

19 Feb '11

Dear Marmam subscribers, I wanted to post an upcoming event in the Seattle area that some of you might be interested in. Check out the attached event poster and details are below. * * *WHAT: Tucker and the Orcas: the dog who's helping save the whales. Lecture by Katherine Ayres, presented by** **The Whale Trail<http://www.thewhaletrail.org/> .** * Specially trained scat detection dogs are helping researchers learn more about the endangered southern resident killer whales. Katherine Ayres, Center for Conservation Biology, will describe how she selects, trains, and works with dogs on the water, and how Tucker is leading us to critical clues that can help save this iconic population * * *WHEN*: Thursday, February 24, from 7-9 p.m. * * *WHERE*: Duwamish Longhouse, 4705 W. Marginal Way SW, Seattle * * *COST*: $5; advance tickets available via Brown Paper Tickets, www.brownpapertickets.com, or purchase at door. Contact Donna Sandstrom for details donna(a)thewhaletrail.org

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