June 2012 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Assistant positions for a cetacean study in the Mediterranean (Barcelona)
by Lara Delgado 11 Dec '14

11 Dec '14

Dear all, Positions are open for assisting with a cetacean survey in the Mediterranean Sea (Barcelona-Mallorca), Spain. Dates from 22nd of July to 30th of July 2011. DESCRIPTION: The EDMAKTUB association for the study and disclosure of aquatic environments, specially focused in the study of cetaceans; offer positions for volunteers for one of the trips of the summer campaign of the project “Cetacean population study of the Mediterranean Sea area: Barcelona-Balearic Islands, BCNCET 2010-2011”. The aim of the project is to study the cetacean species present in the Mediterranean Sea (Balearic Sea). The association catamaran will set sail to Mallorca, from the Barcelona port the 22nd of July and be back to Barcelona the 30th of July, both days included. Visual and acoustical surveys will be conducted from early morning to evening during the 9 days in the boat, studying the distribution, behaviour, and sound production of the sighted species. The assistants would be able to learn: species identification, environmental and behavioural data collection, sound collection, and basic marine navigating skills. Accommodation and food is offered in the catamaran during the 9 days, but assistants are required to pay 400€ for food and accommodation expenses. No previous experience is required, as the scientist present in the campaign will provide species identification information and teach assistants. If you are interested or want more information, please contact us to: edmaktub(a)edmaktub.com Thanks! EDMAKTUB association for the study and disclosure of the aquatic environment. www.edmaktub.com

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Senior Marine Mammal Observer(s) vacancy
by Nick Robinson 07 Feb '14

07 Feb '14

Gardline Environmental Ltd is a member of the Gardline Marine Sciences Limited Group of Companies and are a successful Environmental contractor, operating a fleet of inshore boats, conducting major integrated offshore projects on a worldwide basis and inshore projects for major clients in the UK and overseas. As GEL's Marine Wildlife Department continues its expansion we are seeking to add to the diverse team and expertise in the following role; SENIOR MARINE MAMMAL OBSERVER(s) The candidate(s) will be expected to lead and undertake a wide variety of marine wildlife surveys, including marine mammal observations, passive acoustic monitoring, seabird and environmental impact activities in the field, as well as providing general assistance to the project managers, lead scientists and report writer with the production of marine wildlife reports. You will be responsible for the appropriate collection and processing of data both at sea and in the office. This role will require you to work in the office (Great Yarmouth), but we have an expectation that you will spend approximately 120 days at sea, at locations worldwide, dependent on project requirements, during a 12-month period. Applicants will ideally be of degree calibre or equivalent in a relevant discipline and possess an understanding of marine mammals, their biology and identification and need to have a minimum of two years field experience. Familiarity with the use of Passive Acoustic Monitoring System (PAMS) or previous marine survey experience would certainly be advantageous. To apply for your choice of role, please send your CV and cover letter to Nick Robinson at nick.robinson(a)gardline.com<mailto:recruitment@gardline.com> or via the careers section of our website www.gardlinemarinesciences.com<http://www.gardlinemarinesciences.com/> Closing date: 29th June 2012 ________________________________ CONFIDENTIALITY - This e-mail and any attached files contain information that is confidential and/or may be subject of legal privilege, intended only for use by the addressee(s). If you are not the intended recipient or the person responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, please be advised that you have received this message in error and that any dissemination, copying or use of this message or attachment is strictly forbidden, as is the disclosure of the information therein. If you have received this message in error please notify the sender immediately and preserve this confidentiality by deleting the message. No binding contract will result from this e-mail until and unless an officer, on behalf of the sender, signs a written document. Sender accepts no responsibility for the completeness or accuracy of this message as it has been transmitted over public networks. Unless otherwise specifically stated any views or opinions are solely those of the author and do not represent those of the sender Company. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ This email has been scanned by the MessageLabs Email Security System, on behalf of the Gardline Group of Companies. For more information please visit http://www.symanteccloud.com _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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River dolphin internships in Brazil
by Tony Martin 11 Aug '13

11 Aug '13

RIVER DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIPS IN BRAZIL STARTING SOON Once again, Projeto Boto is recruiting for 9-month internships in the Mamirauá Reserve, Brazil. We require fit, enthusiastic, hard-working fieldworkers who will carry forward our long-term study of botos (Amazon river dolphins). Due to close involvement with local communities, interns are required to have at least moderate Portuguese language skills, or to speak fluent Spanish, in addition to English. There can be no exceptions. In previous years we have received many applications from people who do not fulfil these language criteria. This wastes everyone's time, so please only apply if you have the necessary skills. Projeto boto was established in 1994. To date it has hosted more than 50 interns of many different nationalities. The Project's objective is to conserve the boto, and the sympatric tucuxi, through research leading to greater understanding of the biology and ecology of these dolphins. In recent years we have also spent considerable time investigating the impacts of fisheries on these species, and especially the relatively new harpoon hunt, in which thousands of botos are killed each year for fish bait. We are seeking 2 people to commence work as soon as possible, ideally in July or Aug 2012. But we would also like to hear from people available later in 2012 or early 2013. Our work is centred on a floating lab/accommodation base, moored in the flooded forest. The research team comprises 3-5 people, who maintain daily observational boat-based research effort year-round. The basis of the work is the piecing together of the lives of over 500 individually recognisable dolphins, to provide publishable information on such diverse topics as growth, reproduction, habitat use, social system, seasonal movements, survival rates, causes of mortality etc. Interns are provided with free accommodation and food, and receive a small monthly stipend. Transportation to the fieldsite (near the town of Tefé, Amazonas) from Manaus is provided, but interns must arrange and pay for their own transportation to Manaus. All necessary training is provided on site. Further information on all aspects of the work is available at www.projetoboto.com Successful applicants will: be aged 21-35 speak at least moderate Portuguese or fluent Spanish, in addition to English be available for 9-12 months have completed a university degree, preferably in zoology or biology preferably have some fieldwork experience Applicants should please provide: Full CV, complete with age, nationality, linguistic skills, educational and fieldwork experience A letter explaining why you are prepared to dedicate 9 months of your life to this study. The names and email addresses of 3 referees who are familiar with you and your work. The date on which you would be available to start work in the Amazon. Send this information by email to both of the Project co-ordinators, Prof. Tony Martin (boto(a)live.co.uk) and Dr Vera da Silva (vmfdasilva(a)gmail.com) Closing date is 26 June 2012. Applications fulfilling the above criteria will be acknowledged within 3 days, but there will be no further communication unless the applicant is short-listed. Short-listed applicants will be notified by 30 June latest.

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AIMM seeks research assistants - Season 2012
by Isabel Andrade 06 May '13

06 May '13

The Marine Environment Research Association - AIMM - seeks applications as research assistant to help with the ongoing study of cetaceans in the South of Portugal (Algarve). The field season will run from May, 1st to October, 30th 2012. This project intends to continue the study that AIMM has been developing along the South coast of Portugal, as well as the collaboration with the local dolphin watching companies. Participants will join the team for, at least, 7-days period but preference will be given to applicants that can stay for longer periods. Activities include boat surveys on the research vessel and on opportunistic platforms (dolphin watching boats). Data collection comprises species identification, group size, behaviour, photo-identification, amongst others. Training is provided by AIMM researchers, mainly marine biologists. The assistant is responsible for his own transportation to/from Albufeira, where the AIMM assistant’s house is located. Accommodation and transport to/from the dock is provided. Food is at the assistant’s own expenses except breakfast, but communal shopping keep the expenses low. Apart from research activities, participants share everyday duties and chores with the other team members. A fee for basic maintenance of the AIMM assistant’s house is required (300€ per week). No previous experience is required. Anyone above the age of 16 can participate, regardless of nationality or field of expertise. Successful applicants will: - have a mature attitude towards marine mammal research - be autonomous and quickly operational - be able to live and work constructively with others members of the team - speak fluent Portuguese and/or English Preference will be given to those who have: - relevant marine mammal field experience - working experience on research vessels - experience working from dolphin/whale watching platforms - experience in photo-identification - professional cameras that can be used for photo-ID Applicants should send an e-mail with a small introduction, qualifications and previous experience, as well as an outline explaining why they would like to work with AIMM. A brief CV should also be attached. Applications will be accepted during all season, however, early application is recommended. Contacts: direccao(a)aimm-portugal.org || http://aimm-marineresearch.blogspot.com/

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DAREWIN research program seeking for volunteers : whale breeding season 2012
by abyss 23 Dec '12

23 Dec '12

Based on the island of Reunion in the Indian Ocean, the DAREWIN program (www.darewin.org) <http://www.darewin.org> studies acoustic and ethology on Humpback Whales, Bottlenose Dolphins and Sperm Whales. We work with different organizations: the NGO Abyss (www.abyss.re) <http://www.abyss.re>the FFESSM (www.ffessm.fr) <http://www.ffessm.fr> and various private operators. This project is conducted under the scientific supervision of laboratories, with a multidisciplinary and international scientific committee<http://web.me.com/abyss974/Site/Scientific_comittee.html> . For more information you can watch this film: https :/ / vimeo.com/34462527<https://vimeo.com/34462527> We offer motivated individuals to join the team for two to three months from the month of August. An experience and training in the field of biology and signal processing is a plus. Similarly boating license and a snorkeling level are preferable. We expect assistance in the field and at office, to assist in data collection and processing of our data base online. - Photo and video identification - Spectral analysis of videos and recordings sound systems - Classification of behaviors - Timecode of geolocalised data - Weekly video summary Similarly participation in logistics and supervision of program participants is expected. Two to three survey trips per week on average will be planned. - Preparation of video and audio materials - Preparation of the boat - The maintenance of the public reception area, video and photo exhibition - Welcome the public Housing is provided (on basic shelter built), the volunteer will assume the flight and other expenses. A contribution to costs of our program (optional) will be welcome. To apply, thank you for sending your application to abyss(a)planetenature.rebefore June 20, thank you to attach a CV and letter.

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Upcoming Vacancy Announcement (sea otters)
by Karen L Oakley 29 Jun '12

29 Jun '12

The U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center, is seeking applicants for a Research Wildlife Biologist or Research Ecologist position in its Marine & Freshwater Ecology Research Program. The incumbent will lead a broad program of integrated research on nearshore ecosystems with a focus on the northern sea otter. Candidates should have a Ph.D. in wildife ecology, marine ecology or a related field; experience as a Principal Investigator or Co-PI for marine animal field studies; ability to analyze data in a modeling framework using statistical programming languages; and expertise in the biology and ecology of marine animals and marine ecosystems. The position requires U.S. citizenship. This is a permanent position (subject to a one-year probation period for new federal employees) to be filled at the GS-13 level with promotion potential to the GS-15 level. The position will be formally advertised on USAJOBS in summer 2012. Interested candidates are strongly encouraged to contact Karen Oakley, USGS Alaska Science Center, Branch Chief, Marine & Freshwater Ecology, 907-786-7076, koakley(a)usgs.gov for information about the position and the application process. USGS Alaska Science Center ? http://alaska.usgs.gov USGS Sea Otter/Nearshore Research Program -- http://alaska.usgs.gov/science/biology/nearshore_marine/index.php ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Karen Oakley U.S. Geological Survey, Alaska Science Center Marine & Freshwater Ecology, Branch Chief 4210 University Dr. Anchorage, AK 99508 907-786-7076 907-786-7150 fax koakley(a)usgs.gov +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

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New paper on porpoise by catch.
by Torben Nielsen 29 Jun '12

29 Jun '12

Dear colleges We are happy to announce the publication of this new paper: Nielsen TP, Wahlberg M, Heikkilä S, Jensen M, Sabinsky P and Dabelsteen T (2012) Swimming patterns of wild harbour porpoises *Phocoena phocoena *show detection and avoidance of gillnets at very long ranges. *Marine ecology progress series* Vol. 453: 241–248 ABSTRACT: Harbour porpoises *Phocoena phocoena *are unintentionally caught in gillnets. Although the effectiveness of by-catch mitigation measures has been evaluated many times, only a few studies have investigated the behavioural patterns of the porpoises in relation to the presence of fishing nets. In this study, the reactions of wild harbour porpoises to a modified gillnet were visually observed. The porpoises responded to the net by avoiding it, with reactions being detectable at a distance of >80 m. The number of animals in the pods approaching the net did not affect the behaviour of individuals in relation to the net. These results strongly indicate that porpoises do not usually actively approach gillnets. The by-catch problem seems, therefore, to be caused by individual animals accidentally being caught, likely due to attention shifts or to auditory masking reducing their ability to detect the nets using echolocation. Please do not hesitate to send any enquiries about this paper to me. Torben P Nielsen (t.peiter81(a)gmail.com)

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New Paper
by Daniela Maldini 28 Jun '12

28 Jun '12

Dear Colleagues, we would like to make you aware of this new paper. Maldini, D, Scoles R, Eby R, Cotter M, and Rankin RW. 2012. PATTERNS OF SEA OTTER HAUL-OUT BEHAVIOR IN A CALIFORNIA TIDAL ESTUARY IN RELATION TO ENVIRONMENTAL VARIABLES. Northwestern Naturalist 93: 67-78. ABSTRACT—This study provides the first in depth assessment of Sea Otter haul-out patterns in Elkhorn Slough, California and their relationship to environmental variables. Seasonal and daily water and air temperature fluctuations are a good predictor of Sea Otter haul-out patterns but are affected by the availability of haul-out sites at different tide levels. The cost effectiveness of this choice may be maximal at night because of lack of human disturbance. Southern Sea Otters(Enhydra lutris nereis) were observed during 50 bimonthly 24-h periods between August 2007 andJuly 2009 (n 5 1187 h) from a shore-based observation site located above a non-territorial male resting area on the north side of Moss Landing Harbor. We counted the number of Sea Otters in the area (both in the water and on land) at 30-min intervals. We also recorded tide height, and air and water temperature. Thirty-minute counts averaged 42 Sea Otters using the area (land andwater) during the day and 66 at night. The average number of Sea Otters hauled out in the study area during the same haul-out event was 22, and the maximum number was 93. Sea Otters were observed hauled out on 70% of the days surveyed, and the proportion of Sea Otters hauled out was significantly higher at night. Higher numbers of Sea Otters on land was significantly correlated with lower air and water temperature, and with mid-range tide-heights. We speculate that haulout behavior could play an important role in energy conservation; however, human-related traffic patterns in the area may negatively affect this energy conservation strategy. Please contact: okeanis.maldini(a)gmail.com for inquiries about this work -- Daniela Maldini, Ph.D. Chief Scientist Okeanis PO Box 853 Moss Landing, CA 95039 808-264-2540 (cell)

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Internship, Dolphin Habitat Use, Key West, FL Aug-Sept 2012
by Jennifer Lewis 28 Jun '12

28 Jun '12

The Tropical Dolphin Research Foundation (www.tropicaldolphin.org) needs volunteer field assistants to help with dolphin research off Key West, Florida between August 27 and Sept 24, 2012. Applicants must be upper division undergraduates or recent graduates (BS). Duties of interns will include help with daily field work and data entry. Interns will get the chance to gain experience in many field and lab techniques, in addition to seamanship skills. To learn more please contact Jennifer Lewis at jlewis(a)tropicaldolphin.org. -- Jennifer Lewis, Ph.D. Director, Tropical Dolphin Research Foundation www.tropicaldolphin.org

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Humpback whale sighting in the Pelagos Sanctuary for Marine Mammals
by Sylvia Frey 28 Jun '12

28 Jun '12

Dear Colleagues, I would like to inform you about an extraordinary sighting of a humpback whale in the waters off the Côte d'Azur by OceanCare. Please find below some details of the sighting: - Date: June 28th, 2012 - Time: 11.45 a.m. - Position: approx. 20 nautical miles south of Nice - Duration of the sighting: 13 minutes - Length of the animal: approx. 8-10 meters - Sex: unknown - Behaviour of the animal: the whale approached our research vessel and was swimming around it while our platform was just drifting (engine off). The animal was obviously curious and examined our boat from each side before heading east-south-east. It would be very interesting to know whether this humpback whale was already sighted by other researchers. In order to investigate this and / or to share images / data please contact sfrey(a)oceancare.org. Best regards, Sylvia Frey OceanCare Sylvia Frey, PhD Oberdorfstrasse 16 P.O. Box 372 CH-8820 Waedenswil - Switzerland Cellphone +41-79-742 9323 sfrey(a)oceancare.org www.oceancare.org Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail

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