January 2012 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

SeaBASS application deadline approaching (Feb 1)
by SUSAN E PARKS 17 Jan '12

17 Jan '12

Application deadline: February 1, 2012Direct questions to Dr. Jennifer Miksis-Olds & Dr. Susan Parks via email at: seabass(a)arl.psu.edu.SeaBASS (BioAcoustics Summer School) provides the opportunity for graduate students interested in pursuing careers in marine bioacoustics to develop a strong foundation in both marine animal biology and acoustics from distinguished lecturers in the field. The goals of SeaBASS are to discuss important topics in marine bioacoustics, foster technical communication across disciplines, and promote mentoring and collaboration. SeaBASS gives students an opportunity to learn from experts who will discuss a suite of topics not often offered at any one university. WHEN: June 17-22, 2012 WHERE: Penn Stater Conference Center Hotel, State College, PA COSTS: The basic costs of student attendance (room and board, based on double occupancy for students) will be funded from sponsor support. There is no registration fee. Full-time participation of all participants is required. Travel costs are the responsibility of the student, but travel assistance can be requested during the application process. APPLICATION: On-line application is available at <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.arl.psu.edu/education_seabass.php" style="color: rgb(0, 103, 146); ">http://www.arl.psu.edu/education_seabass.php</a>. Applications deadline is February 1, 2012. Direct questions to Dr. Jennifer Miksis-Olds & Dr. Susan Parks via email at: seabass(a)arl.psu.edu. COURSE TOPICS: Introduction to Underwater Sound, Sound Propagation, Marine Mammal Biology & Behavior, Sound Production, Fisheries Acoustics/Fish Behavior, Hearing and Masking, Marine Animal Acoustic Communication, Echolocation, Hot Topic: Passive Acoustic Monitoring, Hot Topic: Effects of Noise SPONSORS:Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State (ARL), Office of Naval Research (ONR), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) & the Acoustical Society of America (ASA)

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FINAL CALL - Research Volunteers - Cardigan Bay (UK) 2012
by Danielle Gibas 17 Jan '12

17 Jan '12

Sea Watch Foundation -- Research Volunteering opportunity in Cardigan Bay for 2012 Volunteers are invited to assist the Sea Watch Foundation (_www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk <http://www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk/>_) with the running of the "Cardigan Bay Monitoring Project". The project is based in New Quay, West Wales, and takes care of the conservation management of the bottlenose dolphin, harbour porpoise and grey seal populations of Cardigan Bay, monitoring their abundance, distribution, reproductive success and population structure using a combination of line-transect, photo-identification, land-based and acoustic surveys. The volunteers will help the Cardigan Bay Monitoring Officer and the Sightings Officer by taking part in the following tasks: * Land-based surveys * Boat-based surveys * Photo-identification studies * Database entry * Awareness raising * Education initiatives * Acoustic monitoring * Assist with and participate in training courses and public talks. Volunteers are required from April until October 2012 split into 5 separate periods of 6 weeks each (the first period will consist of 5 weeks). Preference will be given to those who can stay for more than one period, including the whole 6-months field season. Volunteers will be based in New Quay, West Wales. Accommodation is provided at a rate of around £55/week. Volunteers are responsible for their own travel, accommodation and living expenses, but it is generally quite easy to obtain part-time paid work in the area if required. *Volunteering periods for summer 2012:* _*Period 1*_09/04 -- 13/05, _*Period 2*_14/05 -- 24/06, _*Period 3*_25/06 -- 05/08, _*Period 4*_06/08 -- 16/09, _*Period 5 *_17/09 - 28/10 *Important skills/qualifications* *Essential:* * an ability to work in a meticulous and reliable manner * strong commitment to volunteering work * willingness to work long hours outdoors in often very changeable Welsh weather * good IT skills (Office package) * an ability to get on well with others in a small team and shared accommodation *Desirable:* * a background in marine biology/environmental science or similar * a strong interest and knowledge of British cetaceans * prior experience in boat-based survey work * good verbal and written communication skills and in public speaking * experience in interacting with the public All volunteers will be trained in cetacean observation and identification, in line-transect survey protocols and photo-identification of bottlenose dolphins and grey seals. *To apply:* Please send your CV, covering letter reporting any relevant experience you have and *specifying the period(s) you would prefer to volunteer for *and contact details of two referees, **to Gemma Veneruso (_gemma.veneruso(a)seawatchfoundation.org.uk <mailto:gemma.veneruso@seawatchfoundation.org.uk>_). *Deadline: 31st January 2012. * *Please specify NEW QUAY VOLUNTEER APPLICATION into your subject title.* Applicants will be notified of the outcomes by the 24^th February 2012. *The Sea Watch Foundation* The Sea Watch Foundation is a registered marine environmental research charity that aims to achieve better conservation of whales and dolphins in the seas around Britain and Ireland, by involving the public in scientific monitoring of populations and the threats they face. At Sea Watch Wales, we are dedicated to raising awareness, knowledge and conservation of the marine wildlife of West Wales. Our work is funded by the Countryside Council for Wales, Defra, Joint Nature Conservation Committee and the Heritage Lottery Fund, and we work closely with the local management authority, Ceredigion County Council. Research The purpose of our research here is to monitor the marine mammal populations inhabiting Cardigan Bay, so as to gain information to aid the conservation and long-term well being of these animals and the local marine environment. This is achieved by conducting various projects including: * Estimating the abundance and distribution of bottlenose dolphins, harbour porpoises and grey seals within Cardigan Bay using distance sampling and opportunistic boat surveys * Maintaining and updating a catalogue of photographically identified bottlenose dolphins in Wales in order to study their abundance, social structure, movements and life histories. * Acoustic monitoring of bottlenose dolphins and harbour porpoises in the Cardigan Bay SAC using automated click detectors (T-PODs and C-PODS) and hydrophones. * Setting up a library of underwater sounds in Welsh waters in order to develop bio-acoustic research in the area. We further aim to raise awareness and understanding of the importance of the local marine wildlife and the habitats supporting them, to encourage respect and conservation of the area and its wildlife for future generations. We also run training courses for the public in cetacean identification and survey methods.

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FINAL CALL - Voluntary Education and Awareness Assistant - Cardigan Bay (UK) 2012
by Danielle Gibas 17 Jan '12

17 Jan '12

Sea Watch Foundation -- Voluntary Education and Awareness Assistant opportunity in Cardigan Bay (UK) for the 2012 summer season The Sea Watch Foundation (www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk) is seeking an education and awareness assistant to take part in the "Cardigan Bay Monitoring Project" in New Quay, West Wales which manages the conservation of a resident population of bottlenose dolphins, the largest in the UK. Monitoring of harbour porpoise and grey seal populations is also part of the project. This position will suit a volunteer that has a strong interest in marine conservation and recognises the importance of educating and raising awareness by involving the public. The assistant will be responsible in aiding the Sightings Officer with the following duties: * Promoting and organising the National Whale and Dolphin Watch 2012 event (27^th -29^th July) * Participating in presentations and creating activities to take to local schools * Researching and writing articles * Creating educational/promotional materials (posters, displays, flyers) * Assisting in the organisation of training courses * Social networking (Facebook, Twitter, Blog, website) * Raising Sea Watch Foundation profile within the New Quay community (organising events, manning the Sea Watch stand on the pier at weekends etc.) * Liaising with the Adopt a Dolphin Coordinator for the promotion of Sea Watch Foundation and Adopt a Dolphin The assistant will also have the opportunity to be involved in the research, helping the Cardigan Bay Monitoring Officer and the Sightings Officer, and will be expected to take part in the following tasks in the field: * Land-based surveys * Boat based-surveys There may also be the opportunity to help with some other office based duties if any are of particular interest such as: * Photo-identification studies * Database entry * Acoustic monitoring * Behavioural studies The field season will begin in April until October 2012, which has been split into one period of 5 weeks and 4 separate periods of six week. One assistant is required for each period however preference will be given to those who can stay for more than one period, including the whole seven month field season. The assistant will be based in New Quay, West Wales. Accommodation is provided at a rate of approximately £55/week in a house sharing with marine research volunteers. The assistant is responsible for their own travel and living expenses, but it is generally quite easy to obtain part-time paid work in the area if required. *Volunteering periods for summer 2012:* _*Period 1*_09/04 -- 13/05, _*Period 2*_14/05 -- 24/06, _*Period 3*_25/06 -- 05/08, _*Period 4*_06/08 -- 16/09, _*Period 5 *_17/09 - 28/10 *Important skills/qualifications* *Essential:* * a strong interest in marine conservation and education * confidence to interact with the public * good verbal and writing skills * must have initiative and bring their own ideas and personality to the position * strong commitment to volunteering work * an ability to work in an organised and reliable manner and to manage a variable workload * an ability to get on well with others in a small team and shared accommodation *Desirable:* * a background in marine biology/environmental science or similar * a strong interest and knowledge of British cetaceans * good IT skills (Office package) * prior experience in public speaking * prior experience in boat-based survey work * willingness to work long hours outdoors in often very changeable Welsh weather Assistants also have the opportunity to learn about other research aspects such as cetacean observation and identification, line-transect survey protocols and photo-identification of bottlenose dolphins and grey seals. *To apply:* Please send your CV, covering letter reporting any relevant experience you have and *specifying the period(s) you would prefer to volunteer for *and contact details of two referees,**to Danielle Gibas (_*danielle.gibas(a)seawatchfoundation.org.uk*_) *Deadline: 31*^*st* *of January 2012. * *Please specify EDUCATION ASSISTANT APPLICATION into your subject title.* Applicants will be notified of the outcomes by the 22^nd of February 2012. *The Sea Watch Foundation* The Sea Watch Foundation is a registered marine environmental research charity that aims to achieve better conservation of whales and dolphins in the seas around Britain and Ireland, by involving the public in scientific monitoring of populations and the threats they face. At Sea Watch Wales, we are dedicated to raising awareness, knowledge and conservation of the marine wildlife of West Wales. Our work is funded by the Countryside Council for Wales, Defra, Joint Nature Conservation Committee and the Heritage Lottery Fund, and we work closely with the local management authority, Ceredigion County Council.

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FINAL CALL - Research Assistant Volunteer Coordinator in Cardigan Bay -2012
by Danielle Gibas 17 Jan '12

17 Jan '12

The _Sea Watch Foundation <http://www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk/>_, a non-profit organization dedicated to marine research, conservation, and public education is seeking applications for the following: *RESEARCH ASSISTANT/VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR IN CARDIGAN BAY 2012* This position is responsible for assisting the Monitoring Officer in the running of the /"Cardigan Bay Monitoring Project"/and coordinating the project volunteers. The project is based in New Quay, West Wales, and takes care of the conservation management of the bottlenose dolphin, harbour porpoise and grey seal populations of Cardigan Bay, monitoring their abundance, distribution, reproductive success and population structure using a combination of line-transect, photo-identification, land-based and acoustic surveys. *Start Date: April 2*^*nd* *2011 End Date: November 4th 2011* _*Responsibilities will include but are not limited to:*_ * Coordinate between the Monitoring Officer/Sightings Officer and the project volunteers -- in charge of the volunteer house and the volunteer weekly office rota. * Assisting the Monitoring Officer/Sightings Officer in volunteer basic training of land- and boat based surveys, photo ID studies, Database entry and more. * Assisting the Monitoring Officer in all phases of the research. * Undertaking a personal research project supervised by the Monitoring Officer -- research topic will be chosen according to Sea Watch Foundation requirements and applicants' interests. _*Requirements:*_ The successful applicant is expected to have a BSc degree (or higher) in biology, marine biology, zoology, chemistry, or related field and able to demonstrate previous experience in marine mammal research. A strong interest and knowledge of British cetaceans and boating experience are beneficial. The applicant must be proficient with database and word processing software and be willing to learn new software applications. Specific experience in Access and/or GIS would be advantageous. The preferred candidate should have a proven track record as a team player as the project will involve working closely with other researchers but also must be able to supervise small groups of people as they will be coordinating at least 6 volunteers. They must also be self-motivated with the drive and determination to work independently and responsibly. This post brings the opportunity to submit work for scientific publication. *This position is**unpaid but accommodation expenses will be covered. * *To apply:* Please send your CV, a cover letter reporting any relevant experience you have and contact details of two referees to Gemma Veneruso (_gemma.veneruso(a)seawatchfoundation.org.uk <mailto:gemma.veneruso@seawatchfoundation.org.uk>_). *Deadline: 31st January 2012*. Please specify RESEARCH ASSISTANT/VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR into your subject title. Applicants will be notified of the outcomes by the 24th February 2012. *The Sea Watch Foundation* The Sea Watch Foundation is a registered marine environmental research charity that aims to achieve better conservation of whales and dolphins in the seas around Britain and Ireland, by involving the public in scientific monitoring of populations and the threats they face. At Sea Watch Wales, we are dedicated to raising awareness, knowledge and conservation of the marine wildlife of West Wales. Our work is funded by the Countryside Council for Wales, Defra, Joint Nature Conservation Committee and the Heritage Lottery Fund, and we work closely with the local management authority, Ceredigion County Council. Research The purpose of our research here is to monitor the marine mammal populations inhabiting Cardigan Bay, so as to gain information to aid the conservation and long-term well being of these animals and the local marine environment. This is achieved by conducting various projects including: * Estimating the abundance and distribution of bottlenose dolphins, harbour porpoises and grey seals within Cardigan Bay using distance sampling and opportunistic boat surveys * Maintaining and updating a catalogue of photographically identified bottlenose dolphins in Wales in order to study their abundance, social structure, movements and life histories. * Acoustic monitoring of bottlenose dolphins and harbour porpoises in the Cardigan Bay SAC using automated click detectors (T-PODs) and hydrophones. * Setting up a library of underwater sounds in Welsh waters in order to develop bio-acoustic research in the area. We further aim to raise awareness and understanding of the importance of the local marine wildlife and the habitats supporting them, to encourage respect and conservation of the area and its wildlife for future generations. We also run training courses for the public in cetacean identification and survey methods.

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Towards Sustainable Dolphin Watching Tourism in Lovina, Bali, Indonesia
by Putu Liza 16 Jan '12

16 Jan '12

Dear all, My PhD thesis, titled 'Towards Sustainable Dolphin Watching Tourism in Lovina, Bali, Indonesia', is available for those who are interested. Please drop me a personal email (preferrably at putu.liza(a)my.jcu.edu.au because I open that email more frequently) for a PDF copy (5 MB). Below is the abstract. My sincere gratitude to Distinguished Professor Helene Marsh, Dr Alastair Birtles and Dr Mark Hamann for their assistance during my PhD years. Sincerely, Icha Putu Liza Kusuma Mustika ('Icha') former James Cook University PhD student Bali - Indonesia *Towards Sustainable Dolphin Watching Tourism in Lovina, Bali, Indonesia' by Putu Liza Kusuma Mustika James Cook University Townsville - Australia* This research studied dolphin watching in Lovina, North Bali, Indonesia in the theoretical context of quadruple bottomline sustainability and the prism of sustainability to investigate the biological, social, economic and managerial elements of the sustainability of the industry. This industry depends on predictable access to coastal dolphins, particularly dwarf spinner dolphins (/Stenella longirostris roseiventris/). Dolphin watching tourism at Lovina began in the late 1980s when local artisanal fishers formed self-regulating cooperatives. Up to 179 dedicated traditional fishing vessels (/jukungs/) are available to take passengers to watch the cetaceans that are predictably found 3-4 km from the shore. An average of 34.5 tour boats from four dolphin associations operated for up to three hours each morning in Lovina during my data collection period (2007 to 2009), with up to about 100 tour boats per day searching for the animals during the high tourist visitation season. A school of dolphins could be surrounded by up to 83 boats (median 15.35). In an encounter, the number of boats generally outnumbered the number of dolphins (median spinner-to-boat ratio = 0.8:1). The dolphins generally surfaced only briefly (<2 minutes) and were almost always travelling when first sighted in the mornings. Most dolphin schools were surrounded by boats, making the establishment of control units impossible. Many boats were driven erratically, making it very difficult to measure the impact of this industry on the local dolphin population. However, examination of the boatmen's conduct indicated that the operations at Lovina did not conform to accepted international norms. Most boatmen attempted to get as close as possible to the dolphins (generally much closer than the recommended 50m minimum approach distance stipulated in Australian and many other national-level regulations).During175 scan sampling efforts over 36 days I identified 64 individual boats that displayed 'behaviours of concern' at least once. The industry generally attracts tertiary-educated international visitors. In 2007-2009, two-thirds of the dolphin tourists came from Western countries; the rest were from Asia. Average tourist satisfaction was low to medium (7.1 on a scale of 1-10).While there was no significant difference between the average satisfaction of Western and Asian tourists, the associated variables differed. The satisfaction of Western tourists was associated with encounter management, their preferred number of surrounding boats and the number of dolphins seen. Encounter management was the only variable associated with the satisfaction of Asian tourists. Western respondents disliked the mismanagement of the dolphin tour; they considered that too many boats exhibited behaviours of concern and that the approach distances were too close. Satisfaction was positively associated with the willingness of tourists to recommend the tour to others. Western respondents who felt neutral to very comfortable with the way their boatmen managed the dolphin encounters were more likely to promote the tour. Thus the low to medium satisfaction levels of Western dolphin tourists threatened to bring negative publicity for Lovina dolphin tourism from word of mouth and other sources. In 2007-2009, the industry attracted at least 37,000 overnight visitors per annum (~60% of Lovina's overnight tourists) who contributed up to USD 9.5 million p.a. in total direct expenditures (i.e., tickets, accommodation, meals, transportation, communication and souvenirs). At least 46% of the total direct expenditure was attributable to the dolphin watching tourism. The boatmen enjoyed an above average income but trip fees constituted only 3% of the total income generated by dolphin watching tourism; the remainder was spent on local businesses e.g., accommodation, restaurant and transport, which are the most substantial beneficiaries. As a consequence of the economic importance of this industry to the boatmen and the villages, it is important for the boatmen to improve their dolphin encounter management to meet the expectations of the highly educated international visitors. Because the industry also brings a significant economic contribution to other business sectors, the sustainability of the overall industry is very important to them. The hoteliers, restaurateurs and travel agents should also be included in the future management strategies in Lovina, including assisting the boatmen in improving their service. Interviews with the boatmen confirmed that the industry was essentially unregulated. The boatmen were concerned about the industry's long-term sustainability, especially their encounter management practices and other operational issues such as garbage and safety. The boatmen agreed in-principle to improve their encounter management by: 1) turning off the engine/lifting the propeller, 2) keeping the boat's distance from the dolphins and 3) avoidingcutting across the dolphin'sroute. However, they were reluctant to limit the fleet size, very likely due to the economic importance of the industry to their livelihoods. Reduction of the boat crowding in Lovina is important from the perspectives of animal welfare and tourist satisfaction. Replacing the /jukungs/ with larger boats to reduce the number of boats is considered impractical from funding and organisational viewpoints. This idea is also undesirable from the cultural viewpoint and because it might reduce tourist experience. Establishing an agreed minimum approach distance would be an indirect approach to managing the number of boats and viewing duration. This strategy could be achieved by establishing an agreed maximum number of boats (15 is suggested) in a 50m perimeter for an agreed viewing time for safety, comfort and tourist experience. The in-principle agreements established by the Lovina boatmen have not yet been implemented. Training programs should be offered to the boatmen, including how to estimate approach distance and speed limit and appropriate methods to approach the animals. Once training is completed, discussions should be directed to add more management aspects to the codes of practice (e.g., speed limitation, encounter fleet size and approach behaviours) and to codify the codes of practice e.g., by including the guideline in the local Balinese /awig-awig/ (customary norms/rules).The guidelines could then be adopted at regency and national levels. Several challenges and opportunities must be considered in managing the Lovina dolphin watching industry in a sustainable manner. Working with the local community in Bali requires an appreciation of the characteristics of the people of Bali, including its patriarchal nature, the traditional codification system or /awig-awig/ and the local sustainability framework (/'Tri Hita Karana'/). Bali was usually conceived as a cultural tourism destination. The inclusion of cultural elements (e.g., the daily life of a dolphin boatman and the construction, repair and maintenance of the traditional outriggered wooden canoe or '/jukung'/) can enhance the tourist experience, increase the length of stay and reduce the focus on the dolphins themselves, which in turn could benefit the promotion of the dolphin tour and the local economy. The biological sustainability of the dolphin watching industry in Lovina is questionable and most tourists are not very satisfied. However, because the industry is very valuable to the boatmen and the villages, the long term sustainability, viability and health of the dolphins are a priority to a socially and economically sustainable industry. Consequently, the industry needs to be sustainably managed with the consent and involvement of all boatmen and other supporting stakeholders. Despite the current concerns over its sustainability, the Lovina dolphin watching industry could potentially become an exemplar of community-based tourism in a developing country that is successfully co-managed from multiple perspectives. The four elements of sustainability used in this research provided valuable insights into the industry and should be applicable to other studies designed to inform sustainable marine wildlife tourism in developing countries.

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Recent papers on odontocete acoustics
by Frants Jensen 16 Jan '12

16 Jan '12

Dear colleagues, I am pleased to announce the publication of the following paper in the Journal of the acoustical society of America: *Jensen, F. H., Beedholm, K., Wahlberg, M., Bejder, L., and Madsen, P. T. (2012). * "Estimated communication range and energetic cost of bottlenose dolphin whistles in a tropical habitat," J Acoust Soc Am 131, 582-592. URL: http://link.aip.org/link/?JAS/131/582 DOI: 10.1121/1.3662067 *Abstract: * Bottlenose dolphins (*Tursiops* sp.) depend on frequency-modulated whistles for many aspects of their social behavior, including group cohesion and recognition of familiar individuals. Vocalization amplitude and frequency influences communication range and may be shaped by many ecological and physiological factors including energetic costs. Here, a calibrated GPS-synchronized hydrophone array was used to record the whistles of bottlenose dolphins in a tropical shallow-water environment with high ambient noise levels. Acoustic localization techniques were used to estimate the source levels and energy content of individual whistles. Bottlenose dolphins produced whistles with mean source levels of 146.7±6.2 dB re. 1 μPa(RMS). These were lower than source levels estimated for a population inhabiting the quieter Moray Firth, indicating that dolphins do not necessarily compensate for the high noise levels found in noisy tropical habitats by increasing their source level. Combined with measured transmission loss and noise levels, these source levels provided estimated median communication ranges of 750 m and maximum communication ranges up to 5740 m. Whistles contained less than 17 mJ of acoustic energy, showing that the energetic cost of whistling is small compared to the high metabolic rate of these aquatic mammals, and unlikely to limit the vocal activity of toothed whales. ------------------------------------------------------ Also, the following publication investigating sound production at depth for deep-diving pilot whales recently appeared in print in proceedings of the royal society of London B: *Jensen, F. H., Marrero Perez, J., Johnson, M., Aguilar Soto, N., and Madsen, P. T. (2011). * "Calling under pressure: short-finned pilot whales make social calls during deep foraging dives," Proc R Soc Lond B 278, 3017-3025 URL: http://rspb.royalsocietypublishing.org/cgi/content/abstract/278/1721/3017 *Abstract:* Toothed whales rely on sound to echolocate prey and communicate with conspecifics, but little is known about how extreme pressure affects pneumatic sound production in deep-diving species with a limited air supply. The short-finned pilot whale (*Globicephala macrorhynchus*) is a highly social species among the deep-diving toothed whales, in which individuals socialize at the surface but leave their social group in pursuit of prey at depths of up to 1000 m. To investigate if these animals communicate acoustically at depth and test whether hydrostatic pressure affects communication signals, acoustic DTAGs logging sound, depth and orientation were attached to 12 pilot whales. Tagged whales produced tonal calls during deep foraging dives at depths of up to 800 m. Mean call output and duration decreased with depth despite the increased distance to conspecifics at the surface. This shows that the energy content of calls is lower at depths where lungs are collapsed and where the air volume available for sound generation is limited by ambient pressure. Frequency content was unaffected, providing a possible cue for group or species identification of diving whales. Social calls may be important to maintain social ties for foraging animals, but may be impacted adversely by vessel noise. ----------------------------------------------------- I hope you may find the papers interesting. Please feel free to contact me for PDF versions. Best regards, Frants H. Jensen -- Frants Havmand Jensen, Danish Council for Independent Research, Natural Sciences Postdoctoral Fellow, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, MA, USA Phone: (+1) 508 524 8436 Email: Frants.Jensen(a)gmail.com Web: www.marinebioacoustics.com

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Announcement: Habitats Directive Workshop, ECS, Galway, 24 Mar 2012
by Peter G.H. Evans 16 Jan '12

16 Jan '12

Apologies for cross posting The following workshop, sponsored by the ASCOBANS & ACCOBAMS Regional Conservation Agreements, will be held at the forthcoming ECS Conference: ECS/ASCOBANS/ACCOBAMS Workshop on the "The EU Habitats Directive & its implementation in relation to cetaceans" to be held at Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology, Saturday 24 March 2012 Organising Committee: Simon Berrow, Peter Evans, Heidrun Frisch, Tilen Genov, Graham Pierce, Eunice Pinn, Meike Scheidat, and Giuseppe Notarbartolo di Sciara For the last twenty years, the EU Habitats Directive has been the cornerstone for the conservation of European wildlife and their habitats. It is built around two pillars: a strict system for species protection and the Natura 2000 network of protected sites. All cetaceans occurring in Europe are listed in Annex IV of the Directive, requiring strict protection, and two species, the harbour porpoise and bottlenose dolphin, are additionally listed in Annex II, requiring the development of Special Areas of Conservation, where appropriate, as part of the Natura 2000 network. The Habitats Directive thus is an important mechanism complementing the implementation of specialised treaties for the conservation of cetaceans, such as ACCOBAMS and ASCOBANS, and vice versa. Article 3(1) of the Directive states that a coherent ecological network of Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) that should enable species' habitats to be maintained or, where appropriate, restored at a favourable conservation status. Article 3(2) requires Member States to contribute to the creation of Natura 2000 in proportion to the representation within their territory of Annex I habitats and Annex II species. Article 4, however, notes that 'for aquatic species which range over wide areas, such sites will be proposed only where there is a clearly identifiable area representing the physical and biological factors essential to their life and reproduction.' Article 12 (1) requires Member States to establish a system of strict protection which includes prohibiting the deliberate capture or killing and disturbance of listed species. Additionally Article 12(4) requires Member States to monitor incidental capture and killing to ensure that this does not have a significant negative impact on the species concerned. Under Article 17, Member States must report on the status of each cetacean species in its waters every six years through the surveillance developed under Article 11. The first assessment of conservation status was undertaken in 2007, with the next report due in 2013. In 2007, the conservation status of the majority of cetacean species was assigned as 'unknown' or 'not assessed' (the latter assigned to species were very little information was available). These assessments reflect the difficulties in monitoring marine species and also the low encounter rate of many species. Internationally, a number of issues and criticisms were identified for these reports, the most important of which was the focus on national waters for these transboundary species. Since this reporting round, both Member States and the European Commission have been developing and improving their approaches to the surveillance and reporting requirements. For example, the 2013 guidance includes a much greater emphasis on the need for transboundary reporting. This meshes well with the requirements of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). The purpose of this workshop is to review implementation of the Habitats Directive across Europe, and to discuss ways to address some of its challenges. Additionally, links with other directives (e.g. MSFD) and other intergovernmental treaties, such as ACCOBAMS and ASCOBANS, will be explored. The workshop will run from 9am until 5.30pm, and will have four session themes: EU framework - Habitats Directive and its relationship to other Directives and Regional Treaties; Assessing Favourable Conservation Status; The Implementation of Natura 2000: Achievements and Limitations; and The Implementation of Strict Protection Measures: Achievements and Limitations, followed by a general discussion. Anyone interested in participating, please contact me at <peter.evans(a)bangor.ac.uk>. best regards, Peter Evans on behalf of Workshop Organising Committee -- Dr Peter G.H. Evans Director Sea Watch Foundation, Ewyn y Don, Bull Bay, Amlwch, Isle of Anglesey Wales LL68 9SD Hon. Senior Lecturer School of Ocean Sciences, University of Bangor, Menai Bridge, Anglesey, Wales LL59 5AB Tel: 01407-832892 Mobile: 0776-556-6102 E-mail: peter.evans(a)bangor.ac.uk> -- Rhif Elusen Gofrestredig / Registered Charity No. 1141565 Gall y neges e-bost hon, ac unrhyw atodiadau a anfonwyd gyda hi, gynnwys deunydd cyfrinachol ac wedi eu bwriadu i'w defnyddio'n unig gan y sawl y cawsant eu cyfeirio ato (atynt). Os ydych wedi derbyn y neges e-bost hon trwy gamgymeriad, rhowch wybod i'r anfonwr ar unwaith a dil�wch y neges. Os na fwriadwyd anfon y neges atoch chi, rhaid i chi beidio � defnyddio, cadw neu ddatgelu unrhyw wybodaeth a gynhwysir ynddi. Mae unrhyw farn neu safbwynt yn eiddo i'r sawl a'i hanfonodd yn unig ac nid yw o anghenraid yn cynrychioli barn Prifysgol Bangor. Nid yw Prifysgol Bangor yn gwarantu bod y neges e-bost hon neu unrhyw atodiadau yn rhydd rhag firysau neu 100% yn ddiogel. 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Recruitment CETAMADA 2012
by Sophia Nirina 16 Jan '12

16 Jan '12

Humpback Whales in Madagascar ID 113 Description: Cétamada is the leading NGO in Madagascar on research and conservation of marine mammals, mainly humpback whales. It is one of the few NGO with a shared database of its yearly photo ID project and also a leading organization structuring the whale watching procedures in Madagascar and in the Indian Ocean. The NGO also has participated in projects like the characterization of sound subunits for humpback whales song analyses, census of marine mammals and other pelagic mega fauna by aerial survey in the French economic exclusive zone (ZEE), environmental education impact on whale-watching tourism, empowerment of local communities through artisanal workshops, documentaries and printed material to sensitized general public, and also their members are member of working group of expertise at the International Whaling Commission, Indian Ocean Commission (COI) and marine research centres in France, as well as in other parts of Europe. Starting this year, CétaMada proposes 4 differents ways to help out during the humpack whale season in Madagascar : 1. ECO GUIDE Qualities/Skills · - Does not suffers from sea sickness · - Speaks currently French, and manages a second language. · - Friendly and have the spirit of a naturalist. · - Knows how to read / write. · - Has a great communication skills · - Passion for the sea life · - Be able to commit to 6 to 8 hours of work per day, 7 days a week. · - Can spend between 5 to 8 hours in a boat in the sea, keeping the tourist informed and entertained. Activities / Responsabilities · Do briefings before the trips. · Guides the trips and provides information on marine mammals behaviours, assures that the code of approach is respected. · Do d-briefings after the trips. Time · - 6 weeks (starting from June 23rd 2012) How to proceed ? · - Contact our partners directly: please check our web page www.cetamada.org (Hôtel Baboo Village, Hôtel Boraha Village, Hôtel Lakana, Hôtel Le Libertalia, Hôtel Maningory, Hôtel Masoandro Lodge, Hôtel Paradisier, Hôtel Soanambo, Princesse Bora Lodge, Relais du Masoala, Vohilava, Salary Bay, Scuba Joker Madagascar) 2. SCIENTIFIC ECO GUIDE Qualities/Skills All skills from the Ecoguide plus: · - Student or professional in marine science and/or conservation, environmental studies or related. · - Independent worker · - Organized and methodical · - Self-motivated · - Be able to work 8 to 12 hours per day, 7 days a week. · - Can spend between 5 to 8 hours in a boat in the sea, keeping the tourist informed and entertained, and keeping the concentration in data gathered. Activities / Responsabilities All activities from the Ecoguide plus : · - Gather scientific information · - Enters the information in the database (daily) · - Creates a weekly report of activities Prepares PowerPoint presentations about different topics and about his/her results · - Has general knowledge on basic research skills, computers, etc Time · - 6 weeks (starting from June 23rd 2012) How to proceed ? · - Contact our active members directly: please check our web page www.cetamada.org (Princesse Bora, La Varangue, Libertalia, Bora Village, Lakana) 3. SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH Qualities/Skills · - Student or professional · - Hardworking and with a positive attitude. · - Be able to work for long periods of time with the same level of attention. · - Feels comfortable on a boat for long periods of time (4h to 8h per day, 3 to 5 times per week), even with strong weather between 1 to 6 (Beaufort scale), and sometimes rain. · - Possess a mixture of experience in both fieldwork and data-handling. · - Willingness to learn, be punctual, spend long hours in front of the computer. · - Willingness to spend long hours outdoors in the sun and wind. Superior organizational skills, self-direction and an eye for details. · - Excellent knowledge of MS Office, MAC, software and data entry skills. · - Basic languages skills: French and English. · - Good interpersonal skills needed for working as part of a large team, and for coordinating multi-disciplinary, multi-institutional meetings involving scientists and stakeholders. Activities / Responsabilities · Responsibilities include supporting a variety of research projects focusing on marine mammals o Develops a subject within his/her degree o Assist specialized scientist and researchers in the field, preparing all material and organizing before and after trips. o Responsibility will include office work and data entry to support data analysis efforts and publications. o Each intern will be assigned to a specific project (with supplementary duties supporting field projects) according to skill set and availability. · There will be some fieldwork required as well. Some of the projects include: o Feeding the Photo Id database and matching individual whales and to a large photo-ID catalogues, o Organizing and summarizing long-term marine mammals datasets, o Assisting in data analysis of ecological and oceanographic data, o Occasionally, interns will also assist the staff in other field projects as the need arises. · -Applicants with little biology or marine expertise, but who possess outstanding skills in programming, statistical analysis, Geographic Information Systems, and databases are welcomed as well. Time · Genetics : 15th June to 15th September o 1 international volunteers (3 months) o 1 malgasy student, PhD (3months/year during 3 years) N.B : PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE NEEDED · Photo ID : 15th June to 15th November o 2 international volunteers (2 months) : 15th June to 15th August) o 2 international volunteers (3 months minimum) : 1st August to 1st November o 1 malgasy student, PhD (4 months/year during 3 years) · Stranding network : 1st July to 1st November o 1 malagasy student (4 months) How to proceed ? · - Contact CetaMada : info(a)cetamada.com and maria(a)cetamada.org · - Send your CV, motivation letter, 3 referees contact information; availability accordingly to his/her interest. · - There is a fee of 1 200 Euros/month for International students (non-Malagasy). That has to be deposit 6 weeks prior to arrival. · - The fee covers: basic lodge, food (3 meals), 1 cap, 2 t-shirts, field trips on boat as programmed in the scientific agenda. · - It is recommended you bring your own laptop. · - Internet access is possible but limited. · - Interested people should have health insurance coverage for Madagascar, cover their transport expenses, · - Some areas of research may require the student/professional continues analysis in laboratories in Antananarivo or in Europe (institutes collaborating with CétaMada) 4. ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION Qualities/Skills · - Student or professional. · - Hardworking and with a positive attitude. · - Able to do 20km/day on a bicycle. Activities / Responsabilities · - To help develop the environmental education activities and the production of material to support the NGO actions (brochures, posters, etc). · - To support the socio-economics initiatives among the local communities already involved with CetaMada (artisans, skippers, etc). · - To do the questioners to local population (adults and kids) and to tourist of the whale watching tours. · - To do transcription of data in Excel and analysis. · - To be responsible for the animation of the web page and Facebook. Time · - 6 weeks minimum (July 1st to October 1st): 1 international volunteer How to proceed · - Send your CV, motivation letter, 3 referees contact information; availability accordingly to his/her interest. · - There is a fee of 1 200 Euros/month for International students (non-Malagasy). That has to be deposit 6 weeks prior to arrival. · - The fee covers: basic lodge, food (3 meals), 1 cap, 2 t-shirts, field trips on boat as programmed in the scientific agenda. · - It is recommended you bring your own laptop. · - Internet access is possible but limited. · - Interested people should have health insurance coverage for Madagascar, cover their transport expenses. Sophia RAKOTOHARIMALALA sophia(a)cetamada.com +261 34 31 780 86 +261 32 81 973 00

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ECS2012 Galway Registration Open
by Simon Berrow 16 Jan '12

16 Jan '12

Registration for the 26th European Cetacean Society Conference in Galway is now open. The conference runs from 26-28 March 2012 with workshops throughout the weekend of 24 and 25 March. The theme of the conference is Communication: Information and Ideas Worth Sharing, which after all is the core purpose of any conference. Workshops include those on killer whales and Risso's dolphins, whalewatching, Habitats Directive, Mediterranean Sea, aerial surveys and biopsy sampling and tagging. On Tuesday 27 March evening there will be a video night and a banquet and music on the final evening. Details of the conference including workshops can be obtained from www.iwdg.ie/ecs. To register for the conference you first must register at www.europeancetaceansociety.eu <http://www.europeancetaceansociety.eu/> . When applying for ECS membership you will receive a confirmation e-mail for application. You don't have to wait for a confirmation e-mail that your application was successfully processed. Therefore you can immediately register for the conference to the terms of the lower member rate after application for membership. If paying fees by bank transfer you can make one bank wire for both (membership and conference) which saves you time and bank charges (in case there are any). In the EU there will be usually no bank charges when using the IBAN account number. Please contact ECS2012(a)gmit.ie with any enquiries about the conference but any issues with the website and registration please contact webmaster(a)europeancetaceansociety.eu or T.Jauniaux(a)ULG.AC.BE. We look forward to seeing you in Galway. Dr Simon Berrow Co-ordinator, Irish Whale and Dolphin Group Project Manager, Shannon Dolphin and Wildlife Foundation, Merchants Quay, Kilrush, Co Clare Mobiles: 086 8545450 or 087 8545450 Fax: 00353 65 9052326

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Vacancy for Post-Graduate Student
by Leela Rajamani 14 Jan '12

14 Jan '12

Dear MARMAM, Please could you post this vacancy: Dear fellow colleagues and students, *VACANCY FOR POST-GRADUATE STUDENT * *M.Sc. level* for a project entitled “*Investigative studies of marine mammals in Penang and surrounding areas”*. The candidate must comfortable with working on boats with long or irregular hours. This study focuses on the distribution, range and movement patterns of a group of dolphins found in northwest Penang, namely Indo-pacific humpback dolphins. *Where*: Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia. *For further enquiries please contact:* Dr. Leela Rajamani, email leelarajamani(a)gmail.com or leelarajamani(a)usm.my. Tel no: +6019-3142552. Research is fully funded. Graduate assistantships and research fellowships can be applied for. Overseas students welcome Thanks, and look forward to hearing from you. Leela -- Leela Rajamani (Ph.D.) Senior Lecturer, Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia. Tel no: 60-4-8852750 Fax No: 60-4-8852751 Email leelarajamani(a)gmail.com leelarajamani(a)usm.my

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