May 2012 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Two Papers on Vessel Strikes of Whales
by Greg Silber 17 May '12

17 May '12

Two recent papers on reducing vessel collisions with large whales are available. Silber, G.K, A.S.M. Vanderlaan, A. Tejedor Arceredillo, L. Johnson, C.T. Taggart, M.W. Brown, S. Bettridge, and R. Sagarminaga. 2012. The role of the International Maritime Organization in reducing vessel threat to whales: process, options, action and effectiveness. Marine Policy is at: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0308597X12000528 (abstract below) and Silber, G.K. and S. Bettridge. 2012. An assessment of the Final Rule to implement vessel speed restrictions to reduce the threat of vessel collisions with North Atlantic right whales. NOAA Technical Memorandum NMFS-OPR-48. is available at: http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/pdfs/shipstrike/assessment_nmfsopr48.pdf Silber, G.K, A.S.M. Vanderlaan, A. Tejedor Arceredillo, L. Johnson, C.T. Taggart, M.W. Brown, S. Bettridge, and R. Sagarminaga. 2012. The role of the International Maritime Organization in reducing vessel threat to whales: process, options, action and effectiveness. Marine Policy Abstract Ocean-going vessels present a measurable threat of lethal collision with many marine species worldwide, notably large whale species of which many are endangered. Various modifications to conventional vessel operations have been recently used to reduce the threat. Some of the modifications have been instituted by coastal states as a result of their adoption by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) — a specialized agency of the United Nations that is the recognized authority for international maritime shipping interests and their safety of navigation at sea. We describe the processes through which coastal states can approach the IMO to seek review and adoption of environmental conservation proposals involving international shipping. We also provide a description of vessel navigation modifications in specific geographic areas where IMO-adopted measures to protect large whales have been implemented — there are only 10 such cases and we describe each. We then address the methods that can and have been used to assess the effectiveness of such measures. As weighed against the goals of the modifications by estimating the ensuing reduced risk to whales, actions taken are generally regarded as being successful in reducing the risk, but to varying degrees. We conclude that the IMO can be a powerful entity in providing solutions to a range of marine environmental and conservation problems. When used in concert with related efforts such as mariner education, the IMO, and the range of navigational measures available to it, is an effective forum through which coastal states can pursue large whale conservation objectives without unduly compromising the activities of shipping interests.

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IWC Special Issue 12
by Caryn Self-Sullivan 17 May '12

17 May '12

Dear Fellow Marmam Subscribers, I'm searching for a copy of the book cited below, published by the IWC, and/or recommendations for other books to use with a graduate student for a directed independent study course in the use of photo-id methods to study delphinids. Please reply to me off-list at cselfsullivan(a)gmail.com . IWC Special issue 12: Individual Recognition of Cetaceans: Use of Photo-Identification and Other Techniques to Estimation Population Parameters. EDS P.S. HAMMOND, S.A. MIZROCH AND G.P. DONOVAN. 1990 i- v + 440PP. ISBN 0 906975 23 9 - OUT OF STOCK Thanks, Caryn I'm IN IT TO END IT! Please support me in my goal to walk 39 miles in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer in Charlotte, NC, in October. Follow my progress and donate online at: http://info.avonfoundation.org/goto/cselfsullivan Caryn Self-Sullivan, PhD, KPA CTP President & Co-founder, Sirenian International, Inc. Consultant: Animal Behavior & Wildlife Conservation Email: cselfsullivan(a)sirenian.org Phone: +1.540.287.8207 Website: http://sirenian.org Blog: http://mermaidsandmermen.blogspot.com/ Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/sirenianinternational Facebook Group Page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sirenian/ Adjunct Faculty, Nova Southeastern University NSU Email: cs1733(a)nova.edu http://www.fischlerschool.nova.edu/ http://www.nova.edu/ocean/ Owner, The Positive Quarter LLC Teaching People to Train Pets and People! Helping Pet Owners, Animal Trainers, Teachers, Coaches, and Parents since 2010 Mobile: 540.287.8207 Email: cselfsullivan(a)gmail.com Website/Facebook Fan Page: http://thepositivequarter.com Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner TAGteach International Level One Certified Teacher Doggone Safe "Be A Tree" Bite Prevention Presenter K9 to 5 National Therapy Dog Trainer and Evaluator

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Student Discounts offered for PSO/ PAM course
by Mary Jo Barkaszi 15 May '12

15 May '12

CSA International, Inc., is pleased to offer a discount to graduating students interested in attended the BOEM Protected Species Observer / Passive Acoustic Monitoring course to be held June 7 - 9th in Stuart, Florida. Please refer to http://www.conshelf.com/press/203 for more information.

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PhD scholarship in biosonar of toothed whales
by Magnus Wahlberg 14 May '12

14 May '12

PH.D. SCHOLARSHIP IN BIOSONAR OF TOOTHED WHALES A Ph.D. scholarship is available at the University of Southern Denmark within a study program on the biosonar of toothed whales. Studies on hearing and biosonar performance is made both in captivity and in the field within this researcg program. The succesful applicant must start before end of September, 2012. Deadline for applying is 30th of May, 2012, at noon Danish time. More information about the research program is available from Associate Professor Magnus Wahlberg, University of Southern Denmark, magnus(a)fjord-baelt.dk<mailto:magnus@fjord-baelt.dk>, and more information on the formalities for applying is available at http://www.jobs.sdu.dk/vis_stilling.php?id=7258&lang=eng

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Research assistant needed in the Strait of Gibraltar
by CIRCE Philippe Verborgh 14 May '12

14 May '12

Dear Marmamers, The research group CIRCE (http://www.circe.info) offers the possibility to take part in a field course on cetacean research techniques as a research assistant in the Strait of Gibraltar. CIRCE has been studying the seven species of cetaceans inhabiting the waters of the Strait of Gibraltar since 1998 and has already gained a lot of knowledge on these populations. The Strait of Gibraltar is an amazing place to study cetaceans since 4 species (long-finned pilot whales, bottlenose, common and striped dolphins) are resident and use a small area all year round at about 30 min from shore. In Spring-Summer killer and sperm whales also join the area for foraging purposes while fin whales are migrating through the Strait. We are offering you the opportunity to spend 12 days (or more) with our team of experts in the field and at the research station to learn all about the cetaceans of the Strait of Gibraltar. Activities will include but are not limited to: • General presentations on the cetaceans inhabiting the Strait of Gibraltar • Presentation of the different methodologies to study these species (photo-ID, biopsy sampling, diet using stable isotopes, population genetics, satellite tagging, …) • Presentation of the latest results from our research and their contribution to the conservation of the species of the Strait • Presentation of all the ongoing research projects • Boat-based surveys and data collection at sea whenever the weather conditions are suitable No previous knowledge about cetacean and/or marine science is required as we will adapt the presentations and missions according to the level of knowledge of the participants. However a good mood and enthusiasm is welcome. Lectures will be available in English, French or Spanish. You will find all the information about dates, what is included in the price etc. on our website (available also in French and Spanish): http://www.circe.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=94&Itemid… Scientific publications can also be found on our website (available also in French and Spanish): http://www.circe.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=84&Itemid… Don’t miss this unique opportunity to meet researchers in the field and to enjoy the amazing wildlife of the Strait of Gibraltar! For more information you can contact us at: philippeATcirce.info Philippe VERBORGH CIRCE (Conservation, Information and Research on Cetaceans) C/ Cabeza de Manzaneda, 3 11390 Pelayo-Algeciras Cádiz Spain www.circe.info philippeATcirce.info +34 676745876

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New publication on fasting endocrinology in subantarctic fur seal pups
by ddlafouine＠free.fr 14 May '12

14 May '12

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce that a new publication on fasting endocrinology in fur seals is now available in American Journal of Physiology . Delphine Verrier, Shannon Atkinson, Christophe Guinet, René Groscolas and John P. Y. Arnould. Hormonal responses to extreme fasting in subantarctic fur seal ( Arctocephalus tropicalis ) pups. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 302:R929-R940, 2012. First published 8 February 2012; doi:10.1152/ajpregu.00370.2011 Abstract Surviving prolonged fasting implies closely regulated alterations in fuel provisioning to meet metabolic requirements, while preserving homeostasis. Little is known, however, of the endocrine regulations governing such metabolic adaptations in naturally fasting free-ranging animals. The hormonal responses to natural prolonged fasting and how they correlate to the metabolic adaptations observed, were investigated in subantarctic fur seal (Arctocephalus tropicalis) pups, which, because of the intermittent pattern of maternal attendance, repeatedly endure exceptionally long fasting episodes throughout their development (1-3 mo). Phase I fasting was characterized by a dramatic decrease in plasma insulin, glucagon, leptin, and total l-thyroxine (T(4)) associated with reductions in mass-specific resting metabolic rate (RMR), plasma triglycerides, glycerol, and urea-to-creatine ratio, while nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA) and β-OHB increased. In contrast, the metabolic steady-state of phase II fasting reached within 6 days was associated with minimal concentrations of insulin, glucagon, and leptin; unchanged cortisol and triiodothyronine (T(3)); and moderately increased T(4). The early fall in insulin and leptin may mediate the shift to the strategy of energy conservation, protein sparing, and primary reliance on body lipids observed in response to the cessation of feeding. In contrast to the typical mammalian starvation response, nonelevated cortisol and minimal glucagon levels may contribute to body protein preservation and downregulation of catabolic pathways, in general. Furthermore, thyroid hormones may be involved in a process of energy conservation, independent of pups' nutritional state. These original hormonal settings might reflect an adaptation to the otariid repeated fasting pattern and emphasize the crucial importance of a tight physiological control over metabolism to survive extreme energetic constraints. Best wishes, Delphine -- Dr Delphine Verrier DVM, PhD Primate Centre and Ecology of Health Research Unit International Centre of Medical Research of Franceville (CIRMF) Po Box 769, Franceville, GABON Phone: +241 07 98 56 69 Email: d.verrier(a)cirmf.org or ddlafouine(a)free.fr Skype: ddlafouine1

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Dolphin Research Internship, Charleston, SC
by Todd Speakman 14 May '12

14 May '12

NOAA Hollings Marine Laboratory’s Marine Animal Health Program is recruiting to fill two dolphin photo-identification internship positions for the fall of 2012. The positions are at the NOAA National Ocean Service Laboratory in Charleston, South Carolina and will involve a commitment of 20 hours per week extending over a 14 week period from September 12 to December 16, 2012. There is some flexibility in these start and end dates. Building on existing data from long-term monitoring which has spanned 15+ years, boat-based photo-identification (id) and remote biopsy surveys will be conducted for Western North Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in estuaries and near-shore waters of South Carolina. Specific research questions focus on relationships between stress/reproductive hormones and environmental factors. Interns will assist with laboratory activities such as data entry and photo-analysis and will participate in boat-based fieldwork. The internship offers an excellent opportunity for qualified and motivated individuals to obtain field and laboratory training in photo-id methodology and analysis under the mentorship of experienced dolphin researchers. There is no compensation for this position, and interns will be responsible for their own living expenses and transportation to and from the laboratory. There may be travel involved for some components of the fieldwork, which will be paid for by the laboratory. Ideal applicants will be advanced undergraduates or recent graduates of a scientifically-oriented university program in marine science, biology or a related field. Preference will be given to applicants with well-developed computer skills and boat-based field experience. The internship application consists of a letter of interest, transcripts of university coursework and two letters of recommendation from professors or research supervisors who are familiar with applicant’s scholarship, research skills and work habits relevant to the internship. Interested applicants should first correspond with Todd Speakman by email ( Todd.Speakman(a)noaa.gov) before preparing and submitting application materials. We anticipate filling this internship position by the July 1, 2012. -- Todd Speakman, Biologist JHT Inc. Contractor Hollings Marine Laboratory 331 Fort Johnson Road Charleston, SC 29412 Ph/ 843.762.8820 Fx/ 843.762.8737 Todd.Speakman(a)noaa.gov

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Fluke malformation in bottlenose dolphin calf
by Joan Gonzalvo Villegas 13 May '12

13 May '12

Dear colleagues, Following information received from the National Cetacean Stranding Network in Greece, on the 8th of May personnel of the Ionian Dolphin Project had the chance to examine a stranded dead calf of bottlenose dolphin in the Amvrakikos Gulf, western Greece. The dolphin, a female of 130 cm of length presented a malformation of its fluke. More information on the event and the context in which it took place can be obtained by reading the following post in the project's blog: http://ioniandolphinproject.org/2012/05/13/fluke-malformation-in-stranded-b… Four pictures providing detail on the characteristics of this malformation (mutation?) can be viewed in our Gallery: http://ioniandolphinproject.org/about-the-project/gallery/#stranded-bottlen… We would be grateful to those of you who could facilitate relevant information gathered while coming across a similar observation in bottlenose dolphins or any other cetacean species. We are also interested in papers and/or reports dealing with cetacean malformations and mutations that might shed some light on this matter. Thanks a lot in advance for your valuable collaboration. Please, report any comment, observation or literature to Joan Gonzalvo at joan.gonzalvo(a)gmail.com Sincerely, Joan Gonzalvo (*) and Alexandros Frantzis (**) * Tethys Research Institute **Pelagos Cetacean Research Institute

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Volunteers needed for shore-based observations of minke whales in BC, Canada.
by Jared Towers 12 May '12

12 May '12

*MERS Minke Whale Study Posting for Volunteers* The MERS Marine Education and Research Society (www.mersociety.org) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting conservation and understanding of marine ecosystems through scientific research and environmental education. We are currently accepting applications from potential volunteers who are interested in collecting shore-based visual data of minke whales. *Project description* We will be collecting simultaneous visual and acoustic data from an area frequented by minke whales off the coast of British Columbia from June 15thto August 15 th, 2012. The aim of the project is to determine the vocal activity of minke whales during this time and identify any potential vocal prompts or associated behaviours. A fixed hydrophone set to record continuously during this time will be responsible for acoustic recordings, while volunteer observers situated on land near to the hydrophone site will be responsible for the collection of the visual data. Visual observations will be made for 12 hours a day (weather permitting) by two volunteers (alternating shifts), each day from June 15th to August 15th. *Location* The shore-based observations will be conducted from Cormorant Island, British Columbia. Cormorant Island is located roughly 400 kilometers north of Vancouver and is accessed by driving north on Vancouver Island and then catching a ferry from Port McNeill. The village of Alert Bay (population: 800) is situated on Cormorant Island and has amenities such as grocery store, post office, restaurants, marina, museum, whale-watching, cabins, B&Bs, and campgrounds. More info about Alert Bay and relevant links can be found at www.alertbay.ca The location which observations will be conducted from is within walking, cycling, or driving distance from any other location on the island. *Costs* Volunteers will be expected to cover all of their own costs. The Alert Bay ferry costs roughly $35.00 round trip for a vehicle and driver. Campsites are approximately $0.00 - $22.00 a night. *Duties* Individual volunteers will be required to make shore-based observations of minke whales and other cetacean species for a minimum of 6 hours a day, each day for a minimum of 14 days. Observations will be made rain or shine by naked eye, and both 7 by 50 and 15 by 80 tripod mounted binoculars during Beaufort sea-state 2 or less when visibility is greater than 100 metres. Volunteers will be expected to record all observations in a systematic manner on data sheets and at a later time (like when weather does not permit observations to be made) enter the data into a computer. Datasheets will consist of multiple fields, many of which will require filling out each time a minke whale is observed surfacing. Binoculars, data sheets, timepiece, and the computer will be provided. Volunteers will also be expected to relay sightings of interest to the project director via text message or VHF radio so that responses can be made in the research vessel. *Requirements* Volunteers will be required to: -work well independently -work well with others -collect data in a consistent manner -be comfortable in an outdoor environment that is only sometimes warm and dry -be dedicated to the project -chat with any curious passing individuals about the project while prioritizing the collection of data *Preferences* Preference will be given to applicants who: -are available for durations longer than 2 weeks -have a background and interest in marine biology and conservation -come in pairs (couples, relatives, friends) -have previous experience viewing whales and recording data -are comfortable for long periods in secluded outdoor locations -have good text messaging plans *How to Apply* Send cover letter and resume or any questions with “MERS minke whale AV study” as the subject line to: jrtowers(a)gmail.com The deadline for applicants is May 23rd. Jared Towers Minke whale research director MERS Marine Education and Research Society

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Last minute vacancies - Summer and Fall Internships 2012
by Bruno Diaz 12 May '12

12 May '12

Hi everyone, on behalf of the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI) in Sardinia Island, Italy, I am pleased to announce that our centre has few vacancies to participate as internships for end Summer and Fall 2012 (a minimum of 60 days of participation between September and December 2012). BDRI's research is focused on a long term study about the ecology and behaviour of wild unrestrained bottlenose dolphins, distribution of other cetaceans (whales and pelagic dolphins), and the potential effects of human activities (fisheries, aquaculture and tourism) in their distribution and behaviour. An internship period with the BDRI offers an invaluable exposure to boat based field work,marine mammals research, intensive training and mentoring in marine biology. Undergraduate and postgraduate students could present their BDRI's personal research project as their Thesis works if requested with the application. Internships will be under direct supervision by BDRI's director Mr. Bruno Diaz Lopez. The internship can be used for academic or vocational purposes, but students are solely responsible for making all arrangements for receiving relevant credit(s) as a result of completing the internship. Interns can expect to participate in and learn a variety of facets of marine mammal research as research assistants in four diverse research projects: 1. Behavioural ecology of Mediterranean bottlenose dolphins: We collect information about distribution and behaviour of free-ranging common bottlenose dolphins from boat based platforms. By using different behavioural sampling methods this study is particularly focused in the interaction of dolphins with human activities as fisheries, aquaculture and marine traffic. These studies provide values insight for the conservation of this top predator in an area characterized by high anthropogenic pressure. 2. Wild bottlenose dolphins’ communication: We obtain knowledge of how individuals within a population of common bottlenose dolphins communicate and what they are communicating. This can generate information ranging from; measures of habitat use, social relevance, geographical variation, cultural transmission to genetic fitness that can be applied to conservation. 3. The cetacens role in the coastal ecosystem: An ecosystem modelling approach becomes an interesting tool to examine the impact of fisheries and human activities (aquaculture, marine traffic) on cetaceans and vice versa. Mass-balance models are built to characterize the role of cetaceans in a coastal and pelagic ecosystem conditioned by human activities. 4. Pelagic cetaceans off the Sardinian coast: Data about distribution of pelagic cetaceans (fin whales, sperm whales, beaked whales, striped dolphins, common dolphins, risso’s dolphins etc.) are collected from multiple platforms including shore and boat based platforms. The behaviour and distribution of large cetaceans observed off Sardinia is still unknown. While some animals could be in migration between the Ligurian and Thyrrenian Sea, others could be mainly engaged in foraging activities. To address this and other questions the BDRI has since 2011 carried out this project. There is no compensation for these internship positions and successful applicants will be responsible for their own transportation expenses to and from the research camp (Sardinia, Italy). As a number of students are unemployed and are unable to meet our program, BDRI offers accommodation for participants and has developed a financial aid to support some of them. There is no deadline to apply. However, approved applications are accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. Apply early! Start and end dates are flexible. Positions are open until filled. Successful candidates will be ready and willing to learn, self-motivated, and flexible. Prior field research experience is recommended but not required. Please download the internships general information at: www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/internships.pdf and the application from: www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/applicationinternships.doc Send cover letter or inquiries by email to the Research Chief, Mr. Bruno Diaz Lopez, at info(a)thebdri.com. Please indicate in your cover letter the dates you are available. Find out more information on our new website: www.thebdri.com Selected scientific publications by the BDRI: 1. Díaz López B. Mariño, F., 2011. A trial of acoustic harassment device efficacy on free-ranging bottlenose dolphins in Sardinia, Italy. Marine and Freshwater Behaviour and Physiology 2011, pp 1–12. 2. Díaz López B., 2011. Aquaculture systems. In: Handbook of Models used in Ecosystem and Environmental Management, Sven Erik Jørgensen (Ed.), CRC Press, Taylor & Francis, FL.pp 241-256. 3. Díaz López B., 2011. Whistle characteristics in free-ranging bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the Mediterranean Sea: influence of behaviour. Mammalian Biology 76: 180-189. 4. Díaz López B. & Shirai, J.A.B., 2010. Mediterranean common bottlenose dolphin's repertoire and communication use. In: Dolphins: Anatomy, Behavior, and Threats, (A.G. Pierce & L. Correa Eds.), Nova Science Publishers, New York. Pp 129 -148. 5. Díaz López B., 2009. The bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus foraging around a fish farm: Effects of prey abundance on dolphins' behaviour. Current Zoology 55(4):243-248. 6. Díaz López B., Bunke, M. and Shirai, J.A., 2008. Marine aquaculture off Sardinia Island (Italy): ecosystem effects evaluated through a trophic mass-balance model. Ecological Modelling 212: 292-303. 7. Díaz López B. and Shirai, J.A., 2008. Marine aquaculture and bottlenose dolphins social structure.Behavioural Ecology and Sociobiology 62 (6): 887-894. 8. Díaz López, B., Shirai, J.A.B., Bilbao Prieto, A. & Méndez Fernández, P., 2008. Diving activity of a solitary wild free ranging bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). Journal Marine Biological Association of U.K 88, Special Issue 06: 1153-1157. 9. Díaz López, B & Bernal Shirai, J.A.B., 2007. "Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) presence and incidental capture in a marine fish farm on the north-eastern coast of Sardinia (Italy)" Journal of Marine Biological Association of U.K 87: 113 – 117. 10. Díaz López, B., 2006. "Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) Predation on a Marine Fin Fish Farm: Some Underwater Observations". Aquatic Mammals 32 (3): 305 – 310. 11. Díaz López, B., 2006. "Interactions between Mediterranean bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and gillnets off Sardinia". ICES Journal of Marine Science 63: 944-951. 12. Díaz López, B., Marini, L. and Polo, F. 2005. The Impact of a fish farm on a Bottlenose dolphin population in the Mediterranean Sea. Thalassas 21(1):53-58. 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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