January 2013 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

contract opportunity
by Eunice Pinn 31 Jan '13

31 Jan '13

Please note that JNCC as recently advertised a contract for the identification of persistent high density areas for harbour porpoise in UK waters. If you are interested in submitting an application see http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-6367 for further details. Dr Eunice Pinn Marine Mammal Advisor Joint Nature Conservation Committee, Inverdee House, Baxter Street, Aberdeen, AB11 9QA Tel: +44 (0) 1224 266580 Email: eunice.pinn(a)jncc.gov.uk Please be aware I am part time, usually working Wednesday to Friday _____________________________________________________________________ The Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) is the statutory adviser to Government on UK and international nature conservation, on behalf of the Council for Nature Conservation and the Countryside, the Countryside Council for Wales, Natural England and Scottish Natural Heritage. Its work contributes to maintaining and enriching biological diversity, conserving geological features and sustaining natural systems. JNCC SUPPORT CO. Registered in England and Wales, company no. 05380206. Registered office: Monkstone House, City Road, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE1 1JY If you have a Freedom of Information/Environmental Information request please refer to our website page This message has been checked for all known viruses by JNCC delivered through the MessageLabs Virus Control Centre.

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New Publication: Geographic variability in striped dolphin’s whistles
by Elena Papale 31 Jan '13

31 Jan '13

Dear Colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the publication of the following paper in the Journal of the Acoustical Society of America: Papale, E., Azzolin, M., Cascão, I., Gannier, A., Lammers, M.O., Martin, V.M., Oswald, J., Perez-Gil, M., Prieto, R., Silva, M.A., Giacoma, C. 2013. Geographic variability in the acoustic parameters of striped dolphin’s (Stenella coeruleoalba) whistles. J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 133 (2), 1126–1134 ABSTRACT: Geographic variation in the acoustic features of whistles emitted by the striped dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba) from the Atlantic Ocean (Azores and Canary Islands) and the Mediterranean was investigated. Ten parameters (signal duration, beginning, end, minimum and maximum frequency, the number of inflection points, of steps, of minima and maxima in the contour and the frequency range) were extracted from each whistle. Discriminant function analysis correctly classified 73% of sounds between Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. A cline in parameters was apparent from the Azores to the Mediterranean, with a major difference between the Canaries and the Mediterranean than between Azores and Canaries. Signal duration, maximum frequency, and frequency range measured in the Mediterranean sample were significantly lower compared to those measured in the Atlantic. Modulation parameters played a considerable role in area discrimination and were the only parameters contributing to highlight the differences within the Atlantic Ocean. Results suggest that the acoustic features constrained by structural phenotype, such as whistle’s frequency parameters, have a major effect on the Atlantic and Mediterranean separation while behavioural context, social, and physical environment may be among the main factors contributing to local distinctiveness of Atlantic areas. These results have potential passive acoustic monitoring applications. 2013 Acoustical Society of America. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1121/1.4774274] The full article can be found online at: http://link.aip.org/link/?JAS/133/1126 Please contact me if you do not have access to the article (elena.papale(a)unito.it) -- Elena Papale, PhD Department of Life Science and Systems Biology Univesity of Torino, Via Accademia Albertina 13, 10123 Torino Italy elena.papale(a)unito.it

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Seal Rehabilitation and Research Centre - Internships
by Roos Janac 31 Jan '13

31 Jan '13

SEAL REHABILITATION AND RESEARCH CENTRE - INTERNSHIPS The Seal Rehabilitation and Research Centre (SRRC) in Pieterburen, the Netherlands, is a hospital dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of injured, orphaned and sick seals and is looking for: ENTHUSIASTIC VOLUNTEERS WHO ARE EXPERIENCED IN ANIMAL HUSBANDRY The seals in the rehabilitation centre need intensive care treatment due to their health problems (mostly lungworm infections). We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers who will work together with the SRRC staff in the seals care department. Together with the seal care staff you will be working closely with the seals. Your role will be to assist in the care of the seals. This will mainly consists of the preparing of diets, assist with feeding the seals and carry out other jobs relating to the care of seals (e.g. cleaning quarantines and outdoor pools). If you have experience with animal husbandry, and you are available, please send a letter to the SRRC: roos(a)zeehondencreche.nl [1] Interns are accepted internationally. Candidates must be able to work well in a team, possess a strong work ethic and be willing to work long hours during our busiest months (a work day can be up to 10 hours during peak "pupping" season). We require a minimum period of six weeks with a maximum of three months. Internships are voluntary positions and candidates are responsible for their own transportation to and from Pieterburen. We do provide accomodation and food, for which we request a fee of EUR 75,- per week. For more information visit us at www.srrc.nl [2] Kind regards Roos Janac Coördinator Education -- Stichting Zeehondencrèche Lenie 't Hart Seal Rehabilitation and Research Centre SRRC Hoofdstraat 94a, 9968 AG Pieterburen The Netherlands Phone: (+31) 0595 - 526526 Mobile: (+31) 0615166940 Email: roos(a)zeehondencreche.nl Website: www.zeehondencreche.nl Website English: www.srrc.nl Links: ------ [1] mailto:info@zeehondencreche.nl [2] http://www.srrc.nl/

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Common dolphin Photo-ID Volunteer Position in the Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand
by Rankmore, Krista 30 Jan '13

30 Jan '13

Common dolphin Photo-ID Volunteer Position in the Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand A volunteer is required to assist with a PhD study investigating the abundance, social structure and site fidelity of common dolphins (Delphinus sp.) in the Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand. This PhD project is part of the ongoing research of the New Zealand Common Dolphin Project (NZCDP) and the Coastal-Marine Research Group (C-MRG) at Massey University Albany, Auckland. (http://cmrg.massey.ac.nz) PROJECT BACKGROUND: The Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand, is an important habitat for common dolphins that occur in the Gulf year round and use the region extensively for foraging and nursing. Common dolphins in this region consistently utilise inhabit coastal waters, making them vulnerable to the effect of tourism, pollution, and inshore recreational bycatch. DATES: While the field season runs year round, currently volunteers are needed for April to August 2013. A minimum commitment of approximately 3 months is required and priority will be given to those who can commit for longer periods. LOCATION: Auckland, New Zealand FIELDWORK: The volunteer position entails assisting during field surveys and analysis of common dolphin fin photo identification. The successful applicant will gain valuable experience in conducting marine mammal field research, identifying individuals based on dorsal fin characteristics, and the use of MS Access databases for archiving field data. Field work is physically and at times mentally demanding but it is a great opportunity to gain knowledge in visual cetacean surveying, to get hands-on field experience in relation to survey techniques, photo-identification, behavioural observations, and improve practical skills (data analysis, photo-ID). Fieldwork is weather dependent and can vary between weekdays and weekends. Assistants need to be available full-time including weekends and be prepared to work long hours with early starts. Surveys will be conducted from both a 20m whale watch vessel as well as a small independent 5.3m research vessel. As such, applicants should be comfortable from working from a small platform in isolated areas. RESPONSIBILITIES: . Assisting with boat-based photo-identification surveys from a local dolphin watching vessel, and small (<6m) independent research vessel, collecting environmental, location, and behavioural data for dolphin groups (25% of the time). . Subsequent analysis of photo-identification data in the lab, including assistance with photo sorting, grading, and matching, sighting data entry, maintenance of long-term photo-id catalogue using a MS Access database and Finscan. Research assistants should be prepared to work long days in the office analysing of photographs and matching them with the photo-identification catalogue (75% of the time). As this is a volunteer position, there is unfortunately no monetary compensation or living provisions. The successful candidate should arrange their own accommodation in Auckland, living expenses, travel costs and visa. PREREQUISITES: . Be reliable, adaptable, hardworking and patient as fieldwork is highly weather dependent. This means office based work during bad weather and long consecutive days in the field when weather permits. . Have a mature and independent attitude towards marine mammal research . Speak fluent English . Be sociable, enthusiastic and have a positive attitude . Strong interest in the marine environment and conservation . Participants must be able to swim and should be comfortable working on boats including tour platforms and on small open vessels QUALIFICATIONS: . The project is well suited to upper level undergrads, recent grads and graduate students who have some background in Biology, Marine Biology, Ecology, Zoology or related fields . Basic computer proficiency in MS Office (especially Excel and Access) Preferred qualifications but not required: . Field research including photo-identification experience . Previous experience in survey techniques and especially in marine mammal research . Prior experience working on small research vessels . Experience with Endnote . First AID/CPR certification APPLICATION PROCESS: Applicants should send a short email to k.rankmore(a)massey.ac.nz, using “photo-id position” as the subject line. The email should include an outline of why you would like to work on this project, the dates when you are available to assist on the project, your qualifications and relevant experience. Please also attach a brief CV including at least one reference acknowledging your relevant experience. Early application is recommended as applications will be examined in order of reception. All the best, Krista ---------------------------------- Krista Rankmore PhD Candidate Coastal-Marine Research Group Institute of Natural and Mathematical Sciences Massey University Private Bag 102 904 Auckland, New Zealand Tel: +64 (0)9 414 0800 Ext: 41520 (office) Cell: +64 (0)220 256 290 Email: k.rankmore(a)massey.ac.nz<mailto:k.rankmore@massey.ac.nz> Web: http://cmrg.massey.ac.nz/ Krista Rankmore PhD Candidate Coastal-Marine Research Group Institute of Natural and Mathematical Sciences Massey University Private Bag 102 904 Auckland, New Zealand Tel: +64 (0)9 414 0800 Ext: 41520 (office) Cell: +64 (0)220 256 290 Email: k.rankmore(a)massey.ac.nz Web: http://cmrg.massey.ac.nz/ Courier: Massey University, Bld 5, Gate 4, Old Albany Highway, Albany, Auckland

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New paper: Foraging niche segregation of Galapagos sea lions and fur seals
by Jana Jeglinski 30 Jan '13

30 Jan '13

Dear all, We are pleased to announce the publication of our paper: Jeglinski, JWEJ, Werner, C, Götz, K, Costa, DP & Trillmich, F (2013) "Same size - same niche? Foraging niche separation between sympatric juvenile Galapagos sea lions and adult Galapagos fur seals. Journal of Animal Ecology, doi: 10.1111/1365-2656.12019 Summary 1. In vertebrates, patterns of resource utilization change throughout development according to age- and or size-specific abilities and requirements. Thus, interspecific competition affects different age classes differently. 2. Adults of sympatric species often show distinct foraging niche segregation, but juvenile resource use might overlap with adult competitors of similar body size. Resultant negative effects on juveniles can have important consequences for population dynamics, yet such interactions have received little attention in studies of mammalian communities. 3. Using GPS tracking devices, time-depth recorders and stable isotope data, we compared diving depth, activity time, trophic position and foraging habitat characteristics to investigate foraging niche overlap between similar-sized sympatric juvenile Galapagos sea lions (Zalophus wollebaeki) and adult Galapagos fur seals (Arctocephalus galapagoensis) and compared each group with much larger-bodied adult Galapagos sea lions. 4. We found little indication for direct competition but a complex pattern of foraging niche segregation: juvenile sea lions and adult fur seals dived to shallow depths at night, but foraged in different habitats with limited spatial overlap. Conversely, juvenile and adult sea lions employed different foraging patterns, but their foraging areas overlapped almost completely. 5. Consistency of foraging habitat characteristics between juvenile and adult sea lions suggests that avoidance of competition may be important in shaping foraging habitat utilization. Resultant specialization on a limited habitat could contribute to low sea lion numbers that contrast with high fur seal abundance. Our data suggest that exploitation by multiple predators within spatially restricted foraging ranges of juveniles might negatively impact juvenile foraging success and ultimately influence population dynamics. Key-words: *Arctocephalus galapagoensis*, biologging, foraging competition, habitat segregation, ontogeny, stable isotopes, *Zalophus wollebaeki * Please see below: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1365-2656.12019/abstract Best wishes, Dr. Jana W.E Jeglinski Galapagos Sea Lion Project University of Bielefeld Department of Animal Behaviour Morgenbreede 45 33615 Bielefeld +49 521 106 2192 Long Marine Lab University of Santa Cruz Santa Cruz CA

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Workshop on cetacean acoustics, Erice 2013, first announcement
by Gianni Pavan 30 Jan '13

30 Jan '13

*1st Announcement* On behalf of the Organizing Committee composed by G.Pavan, P.Tyack, G.Riccobene and W.Barletta, I'm glad to announce an interdisciplinary high level workshop hosted by the School of Ethology of the Ettore Majorana Centre, entitled "Cetacean echolocation and outer space neutrinos: ethology and physics for an interdisciplinary approach to underwater bioacoustics and detection of astrophysical particles" to be held in October 2013, 18th-21st in Erice, Sicily. The development of underwater ocean observatories has stimulated new interactions between disparate disciplines to optimize the their sensors and layout. Observatories based upon underwater cables are expensive to install and difficult to move, but they offer particular promise for long term observational data sets unlike any gathered to date. The cost and opportunity argue for planning and technical exchanges from as broad an array of disciplines as possible. One of the least predictable synergies has come from interactions between astrophysicists working to detect light and acoustic signals from neutrinos and marine biologists listening to the sounds of marine animals (Nosengo, Nature 462, December 2009). The workshop will focus on the study of the acoustic behaviour of marine mammals, on the acoustic detection of neutrinos in the sea, on the sharing of detection technologies, and on the related technological challenges with a wide interdisciplinary approach. The workshop is intended to join these different disciplines in the understanding of the underwater acoustic world and in the development of common research strategies and protocols. On one side high level technologies will be explored to improve acoustic detection capabilities, to serve both biological and physical studies. On the other side, the workshop will explore the sensory and cognitive skills that have allowed mammals to successfully exploit the marine environment and to evolve as top predators there by using acoustics. The expected audience would come from different disciplines, mainly marine biology, marine bioacoustics, ethology, acoustics, mathematics, acoustical oceanography, astroparticle physics and embraces many science fields related with the study, monitoring and conservation of the marine environment. Top scientists will present the state of the art in their peculiar disciplines and selected contributes will be presented by participants in a context open to discussion and knowledge sharing. Some preliminary info are available here: www.unipv.it/cibra/erice2013.html More details on the registration procedures and on the workshop program will be available as soon as we will have a complete list of speakers and talks. For any information, please contact gianni.pavan(a)unipv.it Gianni Pavan -- Centro Interdisciplinare di Bioacustica e Ricerche Ambientali Università degli Studi di Pavia Via Taramelli 24, 27100 Pavia http://www.unipv.it/cibra http://mammiferimarini.unipv.it

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ECS Conservation Award 2013
by Aviad Scheinin 30 Jan '13

30 Jan '13

Dear Colleagues, I am happy to inform you that, the ECS Conservation Award will be given for the third time during the 27th ECS conference in Setubal, Portugal (8-10 April 2013). Unfortunately Mandy McMath has passed away this year, Mandy was the co-founder and a member of the award committee, to honour dear Mandy we have decided to name the award 'ECS Mandy McMath Conservation Award'. Looking forward to seeing you in Setubal in April. Aviad Scheinin, ECS Conservation award Chair. *ECS Mandy McMath Conservation Award* The award is for an outstanding contribution to the field of marine mammal conservation and/or welfare, with particular emphasis on contributions to environmental education and/or to conservation in practice (e.g. leading to improved legislation or management). The award will be judged on the basis of a proposal made using the format given below and related material as described. It will be decided upon by consensus, or a majority vote of the ECS Conservation Award Committee. The winner of the award will be announced during the ECS Conference. Self-nominations are discouraged. The Committee reserves the right not to present the award if no appropriate nominations are received. The ECS Award Committee comprises: Aviad Scheinin (Chair) Simon Berrow Thierry Jauniaux Hanna Nuuttila Ayaka Öztürk Mark Simmonds Andrew Wright Pro-forma: Name(s) of person(s)/institution/body nominated for award Address and contact details Description of the work/body of work proposed for the award (maximum length of proposal 250 words) NB The award can be given for a single conservation-education tool (such as a book or for an entire body of work - i.e. a series of linked contributions) in the sphere of education relating to marine mammal conservation and or welfare. Full references for the material identified above and any relevant web-links. Name of nominator(s) Address and contact details This form, and any supporting material if deemed necessary, should be sent to the Chair of the Award Committee by 28 February 2013. Dr. Aviad Scheinin ECS Conservation Award Chair Email: shani.aviad(a)gmail.com -- - -- __________________________________________________________________ Aviad Scheinin, Ph.D shani.aviad(a)gmail.com The Mediterranean Marine Biodiversity Program coordinator - Hamaarag (Israel's National Ecosystem Program) http://www.hamaarag.org.il/ Chairman, IMMRAC - Israel Marine Mammal Research & Assistance center http://immrac.org/ ECS (European Cetacean Society) council member Home address: Tirat Shalom, P.B. 1356, Nes-Ziona 74052, Israel Tel 972-8-9406584 Mobile 052-3571193 __________________________________________________________________ --

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Job Announcement
by Kathleen Summers 29 Jan '13

29 Jan '13

*The Alaska SeaLife Center generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems and**is seeking applications for the following: *** *Research Associate – Steller Sea Lion* This position is responsible for assisting lead scientists in conducting research projects at the Alaska SeaLife Center. * * *Responsibilities (include but are not limited to):* 1. Independently manages, or assists lead scientist on designated research projects including developing project plans and managing budgets 2. Works directly with internal and external collaborators under direction of the Principle Investigator including coordinating research trials, preparing supplies, scheduling staff, and ensuring preparedness to conduct trials. 3. Assists in sampling captive animals, assists or leads in the processing of samples and tracks the disposition of samples. Conducts laboratory experiments, such as tissue extractions, immunoassays, clinical hematology and blood chemistries. 4. Conducts field and/or laboratory based research activities that may include arranging logistics, supervising field or laboratory staff in the absence of the lead scientist, and reporting to the lead scientist regularly on the status of the project. 5. Provides coordination of facility use and services for research projects relating to the pinniped program. 6. Assists in the development of processing protocols, processing samples, and tutoring technician staff, interns, volunteers and graduate students in laboratory procedures and techniques. 7. Supervises personnel matters for the research technicians, interns, volunteers and graduate students. Assigns and checks work, establishes schedules, sets deadlines, and delegates authority. Sets performance standards for staff. Prepares annual performance evaluations. Makes personnel related recommendations to the Program Manager. 8. Ensures Research Technicians are properly trained and equipped for their assigned tasks, and conducts or arranges for training as necessary to carry out the Department’s objectives. 9. Assists in drafting reports and scientific publications and takes a lead role on reports and publications as assigned. 10. Keeps proper records in accordance with the ASLC and permit requirements. 11. Manages the procurement, inventory, and maintenance of facilities, equipment and supplies to be used in research projects Performs data entry and analysis as requested. 12. Prepares and updates posters and graphic presentations. 13. Prepares and presents public presentations. 14. Designs observations and data collection systems and carries out scientific data collection and statistical analysis of data collected. *Requirements*: Master’s degree in marine biology, zoology or related field. Research experience specific to pinnipeds is preferred. Experience conducting laboratory experiments, such as tissue extractions, immunoassays, and clinical hematology and blood chemistry is preferred. Excellent laboratory technique and protocol adherence is required. Two years of experience coordinating and conducting field research on vessels and at remote locations is required. Experience with equipment procurement, inventory and maintenance required. Experience with writing reports, grants, and preparing manuscripts is preferred. An equivalent combination of education and experience will be accepted. *Start Date: February 15, 2013* * * *Apply by: January 31, 2013* * * Send resume & application (downloadable at www.alaskasealife.org) to HR(a)alaskasealife.org, or to Human Resources, Alaska SeaLife Center, P. O. Box 1329, Seward, AK 99664-1329, or fax 907-224-6320. * * *Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer*

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volunteers needed in Picardie - France.
by Laetitia Dupuis 29 Jan '13

29 Jan '13

Hello, Picardie Nature, which is a protection and study association for nature and environment in Picardie-France, is looking for volunteers to participate: - in the summer surveillance of seals in two estuaries (baie de Somme and baie d'Authie), which will be from the 8th of june untill the 31st of august; - at taking care of seals, in our seal center which will be ready to receive stranded seals from the 8th of june untill the animals are able to go back to sea. To get more informations about the missions and conditions of participation of thses ecolontary works, plesase take a look on our website: http://www.picardie-nature.org/spip.php?article1145 To participate, fill in the form before the 10th of march 2013 on: http://ecovolontaires.picardie-nature.org/ All volunteers need to speak french. Best greetings, Laetitia DUPUIS

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New paper: Humpback dolphin bycatch in shark nets
by Shanan Atkins 29 Jan '13

29 Jan '13

Dear MARMAM list subscribers We are pleased to let you know about our new publication: Atkins, S., Cliff, G., & Pillay, N. (2013). Humpback dolphin bycatch in the shark nets in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Biological Conservation, 159, 442-449. Abstract Humpback dolphins (Sousa plumbea) in South Africa are classified as Vulnerable and one quantifiable threat is accidental mortality in the shark nets in KwaZulu-Natal. We investigated the spatial, temporal and life history patterns of this bycatch to guide mitigation strategies to decrease humpback dolphin capture. A total of 203 individuals were caught between 1980 and 2009. We analysed patterns of captures in relation to the area of capture (location) and year and month of retrieval from the nets. We also analysed the distribution of the sex and size (body length) of humpback dolphins. Most catches (61%) occurred at Richards Bay in the northern part of their distribution in South Africa. Annual catch rate fluctuated considerably and there was little seasonality. The sex ratio was male-biased (1.55:1) and in particular skewed towards adolescents (56%) which constituted the majority of the catch. We suggest that mitigation strategies be focused at Richards Bay, throughout the year. Of the existing shark net mitigation strategies, changing fishing gear from nets to baited hooks (drumlines) could be useful to decrease humpback dolphin capture rates. PDFs can be requested from shanan(a)vodamail.co.za <mailto:shanan@vodamail.co.zaBest> Best wishes Shanan Atkins <mailto:shanan@vodamail.co.za> shanan(a)vodamail.co.za +27825763107

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