October 2013 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

JOB(S) POSTING involving Marine Mammals: Marine Acoustic Technician and Marine Wildlife Observer vacancies
by Nick Robinson 07 Jun '16

07 Jun '16

Gardline Environmental Ltd is a member of the Gardline Marine Sciences Limited Group of Companies and is 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 roles; MARINE ACOUSTIC TECHNICIAN(s) The candidate(s) will be expected to conduct acoustic surveys through the use of passive acoustic monitoring systems (PAMS) and noise measurement systems during offshore activities both nationally and internationally. The candidate will play a key role in the development of in-house systems and be responsible for maintenance and upkeep of all Marine Wildlife Departmental acoustic equipment, in accordance with HSSE and QA standards. Compilation and preparation of PAMS and noise monitoring reports including the processing of acoustic data is required. Projects may include marine mammal mitigation or monitoring, ambient noise measurements and operational noise monitoring. The candidate 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 up to 120 days at sea at locations worldwide, during a 12-month period. Applicants will be of degree calibre or equivalent in a relevant discipline and possess an understanding of marine acoustics, including both hardware and need to have field experience. Additionally, familiarity with the use of PAMS, CPODs or other underwater noise monitoring equipment is desirable. MARINE WILDLIFE OBSERVER(s) The candidate(s) will be expected to 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 - 180 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 a Cover Letter to Nick Robinson at nick.robinson(a)gardline.com<mailto:nick.robinson@gardline.com>. Incomplete Applications will not be considered. Closing date: 21st April 2013 ________________________________ 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 _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

1 6

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

1 1

ESR: a friend to marine mammals
by Godley, Brendan 27 Nov '14

27 Nov '14

Dear All The Journal ESR (Endangered Species Research) has been a good friend to marine mammals. An updated list of close to 100 papers is listed below (including hotlinks). We have created a facebook page to help promote the journal (post open access articles as they come out etc) and we would be grateful if you would “like” it and promote it widely within your networks. Here’s looking forward to the 200th ESR marmam paper! http://www.facebook.com/EndangeredSpeciesResearch Best Brendan ESR articles - Marine Mammals Baker JD, Littnan CL, Johnston DW. 2006. Potential effects of sea level rise on the terrestrial habitats of endangered and endemic megafauna in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands ESR 2:21-30<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v2/p21-30/> Michaud J, Taggart CT. 2007. Lipid and gross energy content of North Atlantic right whale food,Calanus finmarchicus, in the Bay of Fundy ESR 3:77-94<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v3/n1/p77-94/> Slooten E. 2007. Conservation management in the face of uncertainty: effectiveness of four options for managing Hector’s dolphin bycatch ESR 3:169-179<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v3/n2/p169-179/> Johnston DW, Chapla ME, Williams LE, Mattila DK. 2007. Identification of humpback whale Megaptera novaeangliae wintering habitat in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands using spatial habitat modeling ESR 3:249-257<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v3/n3/p249-257/> Calleson CS, Frohlich RK. 2007. REVIEW: Slower boat speeds reduce risks to manatees ESR 3:295-304<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v3/n3/p295-304/> Middleton DAJ, Starr PJ, Gilbert DJ. 2007. COMMENT: Modelling the impact of fisheries bycatch on Hector’s dolphin: comment on Slooten (2007) ESR 3:331-334<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v3/n3/p331-334/> Slooten E. 2007. REPLY COMMENT: Criticism is unfounded: reply to Middleton et al. (2007) ESR 3:335-339<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v3/n3/p335-339/> Tougaard J, Teilmann J, Tougaard S. 2008. Harbour seal spatial distribution estimated from Argos satellite telemetry: overcoming positioning errors ESR 4:113-122<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v4/n1-2/p113-122/> Insley SJ, Robson BW, Yack T, Ream RR, Burgess W. 2008. Acoustic determination of activity and flipper stroke rate in foraging northern fur seal females ESR 4:147-155<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v4/n1-2/p147-155/> Thomton JD, Mellish JAE, Hennen DR, Horning M. 2008. Juvenile Steller sea lion dive behavior following temporary captivity ESR 4:195-203<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v4/n1-2/p195-203/> Steiger GH, Calambokidis J, Straley JM, Herman LM, Cerchio S, Salden DR, Urbán-R J, Jacobsen JK, von Ziegesar O, Balcomb KC, Gabriele CM, Dahlheim ME, Uchida S, Ford JKB, Ladrón de Guevara-P P, Yamaguchi M, Barlow J. 2008. Geographic variation in killer whale attacks on humpback whales in the North Pacific: implications for predation pressure ESR 4:247-256<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v4/n3/p247-256/> Vanderlaan ASM, Taggart CT, Serdynska AR, Kenney RD, Brown MW. 2008. Reducing the risk of lethal encounters: vessels and right whales in the Bay of Fundy and on the Scotian Shelf ESR 4:283-297<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v4/n3/p283-297/> Parrish FA, Marshall GJ, Buhleier B, Antonelis GA. 2008. Foraging interaction between monk seals and large predatory fish in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands ESR 4:299-308<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v4/n3/p299-308/> Cañadas A, Hammond PS. 2008. Abundance and habitat preferences of the short-beaked common dolphin Delphinus delphis in the southwestern Mediterranean: implications for conservation ESR 4:309-331<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v4/n3/p309-331/> Bearzi G, Agazzi S, Gonzalvo J, Costa M, Bonizzoni S, Politi E, Piroddi C, Reeves RR. 2008. Overfishing and the disappearance of short-beaked common dolphins from western Greece ESR 5:1-12<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v5/n1/p1-12/> Baker JD. 2008. Variation in the relationship between offspring size and survival provides insight into causes of mortality in Hawaiian monk seals ESR 5:55-64<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v5/n1/p55-64/> Chilvers BL. 2008. New Zealand sea lions Phocarctos hookeri and squid trawl fisheries: bycatch problems and management options ESR 5:193-204<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v5/n2-3/p193-204/> Karamanlidis AA, Androukaki E, Adamantopoulou S, Chatzispyrou A, Johnson WM, Kotomatas S, Papadopoulos A, Paravas V, Paximadis G, Pires R, Tounta E, Dendrinos P. 2008. Assessing accidental entanglement as a threat to the Mediterranean monk seal Monachus monachus ESR 5:205-213<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v5/n2-3/p205-213/> Scheidat M, Gilles A, Kock KH, Siebert U. 2008. Harbour porpoise Phocoena phocoena abundance in the southwestern Baltic Sea ESR 5:215-223<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v5/n2-3/p215-223/> Brotons JM, Munilla Z, Grau AM, Rendell L. 2008. Do pingers reduce interactions between bottlenose dolphins and nets around the Balearic Islands? ESR 5:301-308<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v5/n2-3/p301-308/> Campbell R, Holley D, Christianopolous D, Caputi N, Gales NG. 2008. Mitigation of incidental mortality of Australian sea lions in the west coast rock lobster fishery ESR 5:345-358<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v5/n2-3/p345-358/> Bradford AL, Weller DW, Wade PR, Burdin AM, Brownell RL Jr. 2008. Population abundance and growth rate of western gray whales Eschrichtius robustus ESR 6:1-14<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v6/n1/p1-14/> Fonnesbeck CJ, Garrison LP, Ward-Geiger LI, Baumstark RD. 2008. Bayesian hierarchichal model for evaluating the risk of vessel strikes on North Atlantic right whales in the SE United States ESR 6:87-94<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v6/n1/p87-94/> Freeman MMR. 2008. Challenges of assessing cetacean population recovery and conservation status ESR 6:173-184<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v6/n2/p173-184/> Williams R, Bain DE, Smith JC, Lusseau D. 2008. Effects of vessels on behaviour patterns of individual southern resident killer whales Orcinus orca ESR 6:199-209<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v6/n3/p199-209/> Lusseau D , Bain DE , Williams R, Smith JC. 2008. Vessel traffic disrupts the foraging behavior of southern resident killer whales Orcinus orca ESR 6:211-221<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v6/n3/p211-221/> Swaim ZT, Westgate AJ, Koopman HN, Rolland RM, Kraus SD. 2008. Metabolism of ingested lipids by North Atlantic right whales ESR 6:259-271<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v6/n3/p259-271/> Vanderlaan ASM, Corbett JJ, Green SL, Callahan JA, Wang C, Kenney RD, Taggart CT, Firestone J. 2008. Probability and mitigation of vessel encounters with North Atlantic right whales ESR 6:273-285<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v6/n3/p273-285/> Reynolds JE III , Marsh H, Ragen TJ. 2009. AS WE SEE IT: Marine mammal conservation ESR 7:23-28<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v7/n1/p23-28/> MacLeod CD. 2009. REVIEW: Global climate change, range changes and potential implications for the conservation of marine cetaceans: a review and synthesis ESR 7:125-136<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v7/n2/p125-136/> Noren DP, Johnson AH, Rehder D, Larson A. 2009. Close approaches by vessels elicit surface active behaviors by southern resident killer whales ESR 8:179-192<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v8/n3/p179-192/> Gonzalez-Socoloske D, Olivera-Gomez LD, Ford RE Detection of free-ranging West Indian manatees Trichechus manatus using side-scan sonar ESR 8:249-257<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v8/n3/p249-257/> Scolardi KM, Schwacke LH, Koelsch JK, Reynolds JE III, Kessenich TJ, Sprinkel JM, Gannon JG Trends in counts of manatees Trichechus manatus latirostris from 1987 to 2006 in waters of Sarasota County, Florida, USA ESR 9:1-11<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v9/n1/p1-11/> McDonald MA, Hildebrand JA, Mesnick S Worldwide decline in tonal frequencies of blue whale songs ESR 9:13-21<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v9/n1/p13-21/> Andersen LW, Born EW, Doidge DW, Gjertz I, Wiig Ø, Waples RS Genetic signals of historic and recent migration between sub-populations of Atlantic walrus Odobenus rosmarus rosmarus west and east of Greenland ESR 9:197-211<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v9/n3/p197-211/> Hart KM, Hyrenbach KD REVIEW: Satellite telemetry of marine megavertebrates: the coming of age of an experimental science ESR 10:9-20<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v10/p9-20/> Skinner JP, Norberg SE, Andrews RD Head striking during fish capture attempts by Steller sea lions and the potential for using head surge acceleration to predict feeding behavior ESR 10:61-69<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v10/p61-69/> Andrews-Goff V, Hindell MA, Field IC, Wheatley KE, Charrassin JB Factors influencing the winter haulout behaviour of Weddell seals: consequences for satellite telemetry ESR 10:83-92<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v10/p83-92/> Bailey H, Mate BR, Palacios DM, Irvine L, Bograd SJ, Costa DP Behavioural estimation of blue whale movements in the Northeast Pacific from state-space model analysis of satellite tracks ESR 10:93-106<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v10/p93-106/> Baird RW, Schorr GS, Webster DL, McSweeney DJ, Hanson MB, Andrews RD Movements and habitat use of satellite-tagged false killer whales around the main Hawaiian Islands ESR 10:107-121<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v10/p107-121/> Horning M, Mellish JAE Spatially explicit detection of predation on individual pinnipeds from implanted post-mortem satellite data transmitters ESR 10:135-143<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v10/p135-143/> Lander ME, Loughlin TR, Logsdon MG, VanBlaricom GR, Fadely BS Foraging effort of juvenile Steller sea lions Eumetopias jubatus with respect to heterogeneity of sea surface temperature ESR 10:145-158<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v10/p145-158/> Mazzaro LM, Dunn JL Descriptive account of long-term health and behavior of two satellite-tagged captive harbor seals Phoca vitulina ESR 10:159-163<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v10/p159-163/> Schorr GS, Baird RW, Hanson MB, Webster DL, McSweeney DJ, Andrews RD Movements of satellite-tagged Blainville’s beaked whales off the island of Hawai‘i ESR 10:203-213<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v10/p203-213/> Simmons SE, Crocker DE, Hassrick JL, Kuhn CE, Robinson PW, Tremblay Y, Costa DP Climate-scale hydrographic features related to foraging success in a capital breeder, the northern elephant seal Mirounga angustirostris ESR 10:233-243<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v10/p233-243/> Cronin MA, Zuur AF, Rogan E, McConnell BJ Using mobile phone telemetry to investigate the haul-out behaviour of harbour seals Phoca vitulina vitulina ESR 10:255-267<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v10/p255-267/> Gucu AC Preliminary study on the effects of photo traps used to monitor Mediterranean monk seals Monachus monachus ESR 10:281-285<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v10/p281-285/> Holland KN, Meyer CG, Dagorn LC Inter-animal telemetry: results from first deployment of acoustic ‘business card’ tags ESR 10:287-293<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v10/p287-293/> Rayment W, Dawson S, Slooten L Use of T-PODs for acoustic monitoring of Cephalorhynchus dolphins: a case study with Hector’s dolphins in a marine protected area ESR 10:333-339<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v10/p333-339/> Salvadeo CJ, Lluch-Belda D, Gómez-Gallardo A, Urbán-Ramírez J, MacLeod CD Climate change and a poleward shift in the distribution of the Pacific white-sided dolphin in the northeastern Pacific ESR 11:13-19<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v11/n1/p13-19/> Hanson MB, Baird RW, Ford JKB, Hempelmann-Halos J, Van Doornik DM, Candy JR, Emmons CK, Schorr GS, Gisborne B, Ayres KL, Wasser SK, Balcomb KC, Balcomb-Bartok K, Sneva JG, Ford MJ Species and stock identification of prey consumed by endangered southern resident killer whales in their summer range ESR 11:69-82<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v11/n1/p69-82/> Rowe LE, Currey RJC, Dawson SM, Johnson D Assessment of epidermal condition and calf size of Fiordland bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus populations using dorsal fin photographs and photogrammetry ESR 11:83-89<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v11/n1/p83-89/> Christiansen F, Lusseau D, Stensland E, Berggren P Effects of tourist boats on the behaviour of Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins off the south coast of Zanzibar ESR 11:91-99<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v11/n1/p91-99/> Johanos TC, Becker BL, Baker JD, Ragen TJ, Gilmartin WG, Gerrodette T Impacts of sex ratio reduction on male aggression in the Critically Endangered Hawaiian monk seal Monachus schauinslandi ESR 11:123-132<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v11/n2/p123-132/> Andriolo A, Kinas PG, Engel MH, Albuquerque Martins CC, Rufino AM Humpback whales within the Brazilian breeding ground: distribution and population size estimate ESR 11:233-243<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v11/n3/p233-243/> Rugh DJ, Shelden KEW, Hobbs RC Range contraction in a beluga whale population ESR 12:69-75<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v12/n1/p69-75/> Kuhn CE, Tremblay Y, Ream RR, Gelatt TS Coupling GPS tracking with dive behavior to examine the relationship between foraging strategy and fine-scale movements of northern fur seals ESR 12:125-139<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v12/n2/p125-139/> Samaran F, Adam O, Guinet C Discovery of a mid-latitude sympatric area for two Southern Hemisphere blue whale subspecies ESR 12:157-165<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v12/n2/p157-165/> Cotté C, Guinet C, Taupier-Letage I, Petiau E Habitat use and abundance of striped dolphins in the western Mediterranean Sea prior to the morbillivirus epizootic resurgence ESR 12:203-214<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v12/n3/p203-214/> Rajamani L, Marsh H Using parallel regional- and local-scale initiatives to inform conservation management of rare wildlife: a case study of the dugong Dugong dugon in Sabah, Malaysia ESR 13:17-23<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v13/n1/p17-23/> Heide-Jørgensen MP, Laidre KL, Wiig Ø, Postma L, Dueck L, Bachmann L NOTE: Large-scale sexual segregation of bowhead whales ESR 13:73-78<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v13/n1/p73-78/> Shaughnessy PD, Goldsworthy SD, Hamer DJ, Page B, McIntosh RR Australian sea lions Neophoca cinerea at colonies in South Australia: distribution and abundance, 2004 to 2008 ESR 13:87-98<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v13/n2/p87-98/> Wade PR, De Robertis A, Hough KR, Booth R, Kennedy A, LeDuc RG, Munger L, Napp J, Shelden KEW, Rankin S, Vasquez O, Wilson C Rare detections of North Pacific right whales in the Gulf of Alaska, with observations of their potential prey ESR 13:99-109<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v13/n2/p99-109/> Robbins J, Dalla Rosa L, Allen JM, Mattila DK, Secchi ER, Friedlaender AS, Stevick PT, Nowacek DP, Steel D NOTE: Return movement of a humpback whale between the Antarctic Peninsula and American Samoa: a seasonal migration record ESR 13:117-121<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v13/n2/p117-121/> Marques TA, Munger L, Thomas L, Wiggins S, Hildebrand JA Estimating North Pacific right whale Eubalaena japonica density using passive acoustic cue counting ESR 13:163-172<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v13/n3/p163-172/> Fearnbach H, Durban JW, Ellifrit DK, Balcomb KC III Size and long-term growth trends of Endangered fish-eating killer whales ESR 13:173-180<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v13/n3/p173-180/> Hatfield BB, Ames JA, Estes JA, Tinker MT, Johnson AB, Staedler MM, Harris MD Sea otter mortality in fish and shellfish traps: estimating potential impacts and exploring possible solutions ESR 13:219-229<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v13/n3/p219-229/> Frasier TR, Koroscil SM, White BN, Darling JD Assessment of population substructure in relation to summer feeding ground use in the eastern North Pacific gray whale ESR 14:39-48<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v14/n1/p39-48/> Lagueux KM, Zani MA, Knowlton AR, Kraus SD  Response by vessel operators to protection measures for right whales Eubalaena glacialis in the southeast US calving ground ESR 14:69-77<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v14/n1/p69-77/> Gobush KS, Baker JD, Gulland FMD  Effectiveness of an antihelminthic treatment in improving the body condition and survival of Hawaiian monk seals ESR 15:29-37<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v15/n1/p29-37/> Corkeron PJ, Minton G, Collins T, Findlay K, Willson A, Baldwin R  Spatial models of sparse data to inform cetacean conservation planning: an example from Oman ESR 15:39-52<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v15/n1/p39-52/> Parks SE, Searby A, Célérier A, Johnson MP, Nowacek DP, Tyack PL  Sound production behavior of individual North Atlantic right whales: implications for passive acoustic monitoring ESR 15:63-76<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v15/n1/p63-76/> Gerrodette T, Eguchi T  Precautionary design of a marine protected area based on a habitat model ESR 15:159-166<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v15/n2/p159-166/> Pomerleau C, Patterson TA, Luque S, Lesage V, Heide-Jørgensen MP, Dueck LL, Ferguson SH  Bowhead whale Balaena mysticetus diving and movement patterns in the eastern Canadian Arctic: implications for foraging ecology ESR 15:167-177<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v15/n2/p167-177/> Michaud J, Taggart CT Spatial variation in right whale food, Calanus finmarchicus, in the Bay of Fundy ESR 15:179-194<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v15/n3/p179-194/> Lambert E, MacLeod CD, Hall K, Brereton T, Dunn TE, Wall D, Jepson PD, Deaville R, Pierce GJ  Quantifying likely cetacean range shifts in response to global climatic change: implications for conservation strategies in a changing world ESR 15:205-222<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v15/n3/p205-222/> Gregr EJ  Insights into North Pacific right whale Eubalaena japonica habitat from historic whaling records ESR 15:223-239<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v15/n3/p223-239/> Gulesserian M, Slip D, Heller G, Harcourt R  Modelling the behaviour state of humpback whales Megaptera novaeangliae in response to vessel presence off Sydney, Australia ESR 15:255-264<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v15/n3/p255-264/> Becker EA, Foley DG, Forney KA, Barlow J, Redfern JV, Gentemann CL Forecasting cetacean abundance patterns to enhance management decisions ESR 16:97-112<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v16/n2/p97-112/> Forney KA, Ferguson MC, Becker EA, Fiedler PC, Redfern JV, Barlow J, Vilchis IL, Ballance LT  Habitat-based spatial models of cetacean density in the eastern Pacific Ocean ESR 16:113-133<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v16/n2/p113-133/> Goetz KT, Montgomery RA, Ver Hoef JM, Hobbs RC, Johnson DS  Identifying essential summer habitat of the endangered beluga whale Delphinapterus leucas in Cook Inlet, Alaska ESR 16:135-147<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v16/n2/p135-147/> Murphy S, Spradlin TR, Mackey B, McVee J, Androukaki E, Tounta E, Karamanlidis AA, Dendrinos P, Joseph E, Lockyer C, Matthiopoulos J  Age estimation, growth and age-related mortality of Mediterranean monk seals Monachus monachus ESR 16:149-163<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v16/n2/p149-163/> Wheeler B, Gilbert M, Rowe S Definition of critical summer and fall habitat for bowhead whales in the eastern Canadian Arctic ESR 17:1-16<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v17/n1/p1-16/> Mussoline SE, Risch D, Hatch LT, Weinrich MT, Wiley DN, Thompson MA, Corkeron PJ, Van Parijs SM  Seasonal and diel variation in North Atlantic right whale up-calls: implications for management and conservation in the northwestern Atlantic Ocean ESR 17:17-26<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v17/n1/p17-26/> Bailleul F, Lesage V, Power M, Doidge DW, Hammill MO  Differences in diving and movement patterns of two groups of beluga whales in a changing Arctic environment reveal discrete populations ESR 17:27-41<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v17/n1/p27-41/> Pereira CM, Booth DT, Limpus CJ  Swimming performance and metabolic rate of flatback Natator depressus and loggerhead Caretta caretta sea turtle hatchlings during the swimming frenzy ESR 17:43-51<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v17/n1/p43-51/> Kittinger JN, Bambico TM, Watson TK, Glazier EW  Sociocultural significance of the endangered Hawaiian monk seal and the human dimensions of conservation planning ESR 17:139-156<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v17/n2/p139-156/> Braulik GT, Bhatti ZI, Ehsan T, Hussain B, Khan AR, Khan A, Khan U, Kundi KU, Rajput R, Reichert AP, Northridge SP, Bhagat HB, Garstang R  Robust abundance estimate for endangered river dolphin subspecies in South Asia ESR 17:201-215<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v17/n3/p201-215/> Silber GK, Adams JD, Bettridge S  Vessel operator response to a voluntary measure for reducing collisions with whales ESR 17:245-254<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v17/n3/p245-254/> Doniol-Valcroze T, Lesage V, Giard J, Michaud R  Challenges in marine mammal habitat modelling: evidence of multiple foraging habitats from the identification of feeding events in blue whales ESR 17:255-268<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v17/n3/p255-268/> Blasi MF, Boitani L  Modelling fine-scale distribution of the bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus using physiographic features on Filicudi (southern Thyrrenian Sea, Italy) ESR 17:269-288<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v17/n3/p269-288/> Best BD, Halpin PN, Read AJ, Fujioka E, Good CP, LaBrecque EA, Schick RS, Roberts JJ, Hazen LJ, Qian SS, Palka DL, Garrison LP, McLellan WA Online cetacean habitat modeling system for the US east coast and Gulf of Mexico ESR 18:1-15<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v18/n1/p1-15/> Baird RW, Hanson MB, Schorr GS, Webster DL, McSweeney DJ, Gorgone AM, Mahaffy SD, Holzer DM, Oleson EM, Andrews RD  Range and primary habitats of Hawaiian insular false killer whales: informing determination of critical habitat ESR 18:47-61<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v18/n1/p47-61/> Johnston DW, Friedlaender AS, Read AJ, Nowacek DP  Initial density estimates of humpback whales Megaptera novaeangliae in the inshore waters of the western Antarctic Peninsula during the late autumn ESR 18:63-71<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v18/n1/p63-71/> Keller CA, Garrison L, Baumstark R, Ward-Geiger LI, Hines E  Application of a habitat model to define calving habitat of the North Atlantic right whale in the southeastern United States ESR 18:73-87<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v18/n1/p73-87/> Stafford KM, Moore SE, Berchok CL, Wiig Ø, Lydersen C, Hansen E, FEATURE ARTICLE - Kalmbach D, Kovacs KM Spitsbergen’s endangered bowhead whales sing through the polar night ESR 18:95-103<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v18/n2/p95-103/> Ramírez-Macías D, Vázquez-Haikin A, Vázquez-Juárez R  Whale shark Rhincodon typus populations along the west coast of the Gulf of California and implications for management ESR 18:115-128<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v18/n2/p115-128/> Castelblanco-Martínez DN, Nourisson C, Quintana-Rizzo E, Padilla-Saldivar J, Schmitter-Soto JJ  Potential effects of human pressure and habitat fragmentation on population viability of the Antillean manatee Trichechus manatus manatus: a predictive model ESR 18:129-145<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v18/n2/p129-145/> Pendleton DE, Sullivan PJ, Brown MW, Cole TVN, Good CP, Mayo CA, Monger BC, Phillips S, Record NR, Pershing AJ  Weekly predictions of North Atlantic right whale Eubalaena glacialis habitat reveal influence of prey abundance and seasonality of habitat preferences ESR 18:147-161<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v18/n2/p147-161/> LeDuc RG, Taylor BL, Martien KK, Robertson KM, Pitman RL, Salinas JC, Burdin AM, Kennedy AS, Wade PR, Clapham PJ, Brownell RL Jr  NOTE: Genetic analysis of right whales in the eastern North Pacific confirms severe extirpation risk ESR 18:163-167<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v18/n2/p163-167/> Rioux È, Lesage V, Postma L, Pelletier É, Turgeon J, Stewart REA, Stern G, Hammill MO  Use of stable isotopes and trace elements to determine harvest composition and wintering assemblages of belugas at a contemporary ecological scale ESR 18:179-191<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v18/n2/p179-191/> FEATURE ARTICLE - Weller DW, Klimek A, Bradford AL, Calambokidis J, Lang AR, Gisborne B, Burdin AM, Szaniszlo W, Urbán J, Gomez-Gallardo Unzueta A, Swartz S, Brownell RL Jr Movements of gray whales between the western and eastern North Pacific ESR 18:193-199<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v18/n3/p193-199/> Ivashchenko YV, Clapham PJ Soviet catches of right whales Eubalaena japonica and bowhead whales Balaena mysticetus in the North Pacific Ocean and the Okhotsk Sea ESR 18:201-217<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v18/n3/p201-217/> Gallus A, Dähne M, Verfuß UK, Bräger S, Adler S, Siebert U, Benke H  Use of static passive acoustic monitoring to assess the status of the ‘Critically Endangered’ Baltic harbour porpoise in German waters ESR 18:265-278<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v18/n3/p265-278/> Oremus M, Hamner RM, Stanley M, Brown P, Baker CS, Constantine R Distribution, group characteristics and movements of the Critically Endangered Maui’s dolphin Cephalorhynchus hectori maui ESR 19:1-10<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v19/n1/p1-10/> Stimpert AK, Mattila D, Nosal EM, Au WWL  NOTE: Tagging young humpback whale calves: methodology and diving behavior ESR 19:11-17<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v19/n1/p11-17/> Whitehead H, Hooker SK  REVIEW: Uncertain status of the northern bottlenose whale Hyperoodon ampullatus: population fragmentation, legacy of whaling and current threats ESR 19:47-61<http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v19/n1/p47-61/> You may be interested in our recent you Tube videos: Darwin Initiative (Peru) (English) http://youtu.be/OhtVmUJ6hkY (Spanish) http://youtu.be/jyQinupAqVw Kenya Field Course (MSc) http://youtu.be/IkBmIehMZ9Q Prof. Brendan J. Godley Chair in Conservation Science Centre for Ecology & Conservation University of Exeter, Cornwall Campus TR10 9EZ, UK Tel: +44 1326 371 861 http://biosciences.exeter.ac.uk/staff/index.php?web_id=brendan_godley http://www.linkedin.com/in/brendangodley http://www.seaturtle.org/mtrg/ Editor-in-Chief, Endangered Species Research http://www.int-res.com/journals/esr/

2 1

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 _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

1 2

Sea Otter Research Internship at the Monterey Bay Aquarium
by Andrew Johnson 31 Oct '13

31 Oct '13

Sea Otter Research and Conservation-Research Internship The Monterey Bay Aquarium's Sea Otter Research and Conservation program is seeking enthusiastic and motivated individuals to assist staff with field observations and data collection of wild sea otters in the Monterey Peninsula, Elkhorn Slough and Moss Landing areas of coastal California. Project responsibilities include, but are not limited to, data collection in the field from shore and on a small boat using radio telemetry equipment and making visual observations with spotting scopes. Interns will record re-sights, movement patterns, and foraging and activity-budget data on marked individual wild sea otters. Qualified applicants must be able to work in a team environment, must be able to work independently without direct supervision, and must have good communication skills. To apply, please register at the Aquarium's Snaphire site at https://montereybayaquarium.snaphire.com/jobdetails?ajid=hSGC7. Requirements * At least 18 years of age * Current undergraduate or graduate student at an accredited college or university * Must be a student during the term immediately preceding the internship * Must submit a resume of courses and/or experience related to position applying * Must provide a minimum of 2 letters of recommendation from college/university professors or faculty staff * 3.0 Minimum cumulative GPA * 3-month commitment of 24 hours each week (extension beyond the first 3 months dependent upon performance review by staff: 6-month potential max internship) * Valid driver's license * Personal vehicle to use while in the field * Cell phone * Willingness to perform project task assignments on a flexible schedule, including weekends and late nights Desired Skills * Strong Interest in and awareness of animal husbandry and marine science / ecology * Willingness to get wet and dirty * Attention to detail * Able to lift up to 50 pounds * Ability to multi-task * Demonstrable research, writing, academic literature and organizational skills * Interpersonal skills and proven ability to work effectively with colleagues * Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, PPT and Microsoft Access software * Proficiency with SharePoint a plus * Boat handling skills appreciated but not necessary All internship opportunities are Unpaid or STEM Internships (STEM may include funding provided through your educational institution). College credit may be available. Please refer to your College/University's student services division. Thanks! Andy Andrew Johnson Sea Otter Research and Conservation Manager P 831-648-7934 M 831-402-1851 [cid:image001.gif@01CED17B.06BA2C50] Monterey Bay Aquarium 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940 www.montereybayaquarium.org<http://www.montereybayaquarium.org> Our mission is to inspire conservation of the oceans.

1 0

job posting: marine programme assistant in Maio, Cape Verde
by Edita Magileviciute 31 Oct '13

31 Oct '13

Maio Biodiversity Foundation (FMB) in collaboration with Fauna & Flora International (FFI) are looking for an intern/marine programme assistant to support the development of marine conservation programme on the island of Maio, Cape Verde. S/he must have a degree in Marine Biology, Coastal Resource Management or similar who is keen to gain experience working for local and international NGOs and develop their skills and experience. Tasks are varied and the individual must be adaptable and a team player. Good working knowledge in English and Portuguese is essential whilst willingness to interact with Cape Verdeans in Creole language would be an advantage. Star date: January 2014 End date: June 2014 (extension possible depending on funding availability) Salary: 400 EUR/month (NB: applicant is responsible for travel, subsistence and insurance costs) Location: Maio Island, Cape Verde Deadline: 6th November, 2013 (NB: only short listed candidates will be contacted) For more information on requirements, duties and application process please follow the link on FMB website: http://www.maioconservation.org/index.php/en/what-we-do-menu/job-offers-and… Good luck, Edita Magileviciute Programme Development Officer, Eurasia (Marine Conservation and Ecosystem Services) Fauna & Flora International ________________________________ Fauna & Flora International is a company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales, registration number 2677068. Registered address, 4th Floor, Jupiter House, Station Road, Cambridge, CB1 2JD, and a registered charity, registration number 1011102. This e-mail is confidential and may be subject to legal privilege. If you are not the intended recipient, you are not authorised to copy, distribute, disclose or use this e-mail or any part of its contents for any purpose. If you have received this e-mail in error, please notify us immediately via e-mail. We cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage arising from the use of this e-mail or attachments and therefore recommend that you subject these to your virus checking procedures prior to use.

1 0

Paper on dolphin sound production
by Peter Teglberg Madsen 31 Oct '13

31 Oct '13

Dear All, For those of you intrigued by how the nose of dolphins produce sound this paper may be interest to you: Nasal sound production in echolocating delphinids (Tursiops truncatus and Pseudorca crassidens) is dynamic, but unilateral: clicking on the right side and whistling on the left side 1. Peter T. Madsen<http://jeb.biologists.org/search?author1=Peter+T.+Madsen&sortspec=date&subm…>1<http://jeb.biologists.org/content/216/21/4091.abstract#aff-1>,*<http://jeb.biologists.org/content/216/21/4091.abstract#corresp-1>, 2. Marc Lammers<http://jeb.biologists.org/search?author1=Marc+Lammers&sortspec=date&submit=…>2<http://jeb.biologists.org/content/216/21/4091.abstract#aff-2>, 3. Danuta Wisniewska<http://jeb.biologists.org/search?author1=Danuta+Wisniewska&sortspec=date&su…>1<http://jeb.biologists.org/content/216/21/4091.abstract#aff-1> and 4. Kristian Beedholm<http://jeb.biologists.org/search?author1=Kristian+Beedholm&sortspec=date&su…>1<http://jeb.biologists.org/content/216/21/4091.abstract#aff-1> +<http://jeb.biologists.org/content/216/21/4091.abstract> Author Affiliations 1. 1Zoophysiology, Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark 2. 2Marine Mammal Research Program, Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology, Kailua, HI 96734, USA 1. ↵<http://jeb.biologists.org/content/216/21/4091.abstract#xref-corresp-1-1>*Author for correspondence (peter.madsen(a)biology.au.dk<mailto:peter.madsen@biology.au.dk>) SUMMARY Toothed whales produce sound in their nasal complex by pneumatic actuation of phonic lip pairs within the blowhole. It has been hypothesized that dual actuation of the phonic lip pairs can generate two pulses that merge to form a single echolocation click with a higher source level, broader bandwidth and larger potential for beam steering than if produced by a single pair of phonic lips. Here, we test that hypothesis by measuring the sound production of five echolocating delphinids using hydrophones around the animals and imbedded in on-animal suction cups. We show that the studied animals click with their right pair of phonic lips and whistle with their left pair. We demonstrate that, with just a single pair of phonic lips, they can change the click energy levels over five orders of magnitude, change the click centroid frequencies over more than two octaves, and modulate the sound radiation from the melon for beam steering. We conclude that all of the click dynamics ascribed to dual actuation of two phonic lip pairs can be achieved with actuation of just the right pair of phonic lips, and we propose that the large dynamic range of source outputs is achieved by highly controlled modulation of the pneumatic driving pressure, the tension of the phonic lip labia and the conformation of the fatty melon and associated air sacs. doi: 10.1242/jeb.091306 November 1, 2013 J Exp Biol216, 4091-4102. The paper can be found here: http://jeb.biologists.org/content/216/21/4091.abstract Or requests for reprints can be made to: peter.madsen(a)biology.au.dk<mailto:peter.madsen@biology.au.dk> Best Peter Peter T. Madsen Zoophysiology, Department of Bioscience Aarhus University, Build. 1131, CF Mollers Alle 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark Phone: 0045 8715 6501 email: peter.madsen(a)biology.au.dk<mailto:peter.madsen@biology.au.dk> Web: www.marinebioacoustics.com<http://www.marinebioacoustics.com> [sender_logo]

1 0

{Disarmed} Annual UKRSC conference (March 2014)
by UK Regional Student Chapter for the Society of Marine Mammals 30 Oct '13

30 Oct '13

Dear all students in the UK. We would like to announce that the annual meeting of the UK Regional Student Chapter of the Society for Marine Mammalogy will be held at the Sea Mammal Research Unit (SMRU), St. Andrews from the 27-28th March. An Icebreaker will be held on the evening of the 26th March. We encourage all students registered in Universities across the UK and Ireland that are interested in marine mammal research to attend. The atmosphere of the conference is relatively informal, giving students a platform to discuss their research with other students. Postgraduate students are invited to submit abstracts for oral presentations and posters. For planning purposes, we have divided presentations into 5-minute speedtalk and 15 minute slots. We encourage new postgraduate students to talk about their future research plans using the 5-minute slots and for those further along in their studies to present for 15 minutes. Undergraduates with an interest in the field are also welcome to attend. The talks traditionally vary in content: from talks by new students discussing their future plans or the basis of their project, to students whose Ph.D’s are near completion. Our guest speakers include Dr. Dominic Mccafferty (Senior Lecturer, Honorary Senior Research Fellow (Institute of Biodiversity Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, Glasgow)) and Dr. Sean Twiss (Lecturer in the School of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Durham). Dr Vincent Janik (Reader in Biology) will have an workshop about how to write project funding proposal. SMRU's GIS expert Clint Blight will talk about making "useful" maps with free software. There will also be a guided tour around the SMRU facilities. The final deadline for presentation abstracts (max 300 words) will be the 5th of February 2014. There is no registration fee and you don’t need to be an existing member of the Chapter. You can register for the Chapter at the same time as registering for the conference. This year students outside St. Andrews can apply for a Student Travel Grant (amount given will depend on where you are coming from). Registration forms can be downloaded from our website. Please visit our website for regular updates http://synergy.st-andrews.ac.uk/ukrsc/ or visit our facebook page UKrsc - the Society of Marine Mammalogy http://www.facebook.com/UKRSC <http://www.facebook.com/UKRSC#> Please submit your registration form by e-mail attachment to ukrsc(a)st-andrews.ac.uk<mailto:ukrsc@st-andrews.ac.uk> by 5th February 2014. If you have any further questions regarding the meeting, please don't hesitate to get in touch. Hope to see you all in St. Andrews in March 2014. With best wishes, The committee of the UK Regional Student Chapter for the Society for Marine Mammalogy This year meeting will be kindly sponsored by Chelonia Limited, http://www.chelonia.co.uk/ and SMRU Marine, http://www.smru.co.uk

1 0

Sirenews 60
by Cynthia Taylor 30 Oct '13

30 Oct '13

Sirenews 60, October 2013, is now available online at http://sea2shore.org/publications/sirenews/ Sirenews is the newsletter of the IUCN/SSC Sirenia Specialist Group. The IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC) is a science-based network of volunteer experts working together towards achieving the vision of "A world that values and conserves present levels of biodiversity." The Sirenia Specialist Group is focused on the conservation of manatee and dugong populations around the world. Cynthia Taylor and James Powell, co-editors Sea to Shore Alliance www.sea2shore.org

1 0

Publication announcement: NOAA-TM-NMFS-SWR-044
by Lauren Saez - NOAA Affiliate 29 Oct '13

29 Oct '13

On behalf of my co-authors, I am pleased to announce the publication of* NOAA-TM-NMFS-SWR-044: Understanding the co-occurrence of large whales and commercial fixed gear fisheries off the west coast of the United States. * Large whale entanglement in commercial fishing gear in the Pacific Ocean off the U.S. west coast has been identified as an issue of concern by NOAA Fisheries because of the potential impacts to both large whales (individually and at a stock/population level) and the commercial fishing industry. An average of 10 large whales were reported per year as entangled off California, Oregon, and Washington from 2000 to 2012. This is likely an underestimate of total entanglements since sightings are opportunistic. Because so little is known about the origin of and identification of entangling gear types, an investigation of large whale entanglements was warranted. As a result, we developed a model to analyze the co-occurrence of fishing gear and whales. Fixed gear commercial fishery effort was modeled for 11 fixed gear fisheries in the off the U.S. west coast based on reported landings. Fishery effort was overlapped with previously published whale density* *models to identify timing and areas of low and elevated co-occurrence, and consequently entanglement risk, for five species of large whales across the U.S. west coast. This effort represents the first assessment of whale entanglement risk on the U.S. west coast across all of these fixed gear fisheries, describing the necessary assumptions and limitations of the available data and analysis. Our expectation is that research on the elevated risk areas identified by this paper should inform any future efforts to minimize or mitigate the risk of large whale entanglements in the future. The NOAA technical memorandum and appendices can be accessed at: http://www.westcoast.fisheries.noaa.gov/protected_species/marine_mammals/fi… If you have any questions or would like a PDF of the report, please feel free to contact me. Have a wonderful day. -- Lauren Saez Contractor with Ocean Associates, Inc. NMFS West Coast Region Protected Resources Division Phone: 562-980-3561 Email: Lauren.Saez(a)noaa.gov

1 0