April 2013 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Call for volunteers in Scotland, CRRU
by Dr Kevin Robinson 16 Apr '13

16 Apr '13

The field dates for the Cetacean Research & Rescue Unit's 2013 "Whales and dolphins of the Moray Firth" project in Scotland this summer (running from May to October) are currently listed at: http://www.crru.org.uk/join_the_team.asp Our field teams are run in the form of a training / educational programme, with formal lectures, seminars and presentations by the research team, practical training in field methodologies and data collection and analysis, and direct participation in the research, education and rescue work of this dynamic and outgoing conservation charity. The cost for an 11 day internship in 2013 is £895, and this will cover you for full board (all your accommodation and food costs), your full equipment needs and ALL associated field costs during your stay with us in the heritage fishing village of Gardenstown in Banff, Aberdeenshire. You'll simply need to arrange your own travel itinerary to us in Banff, Scotland (nearest airport Dyce, Aberdeen, approx. 1½ hours from the field base by coach) plus any personal spending money. For full details, please visit the CRRU project page at www.crru.org.uk/join_the_team.asp, or email us directly at info(a)crru.org.uk for further information and a pdf copy of the project briefing and booking/application form. For a list of scientific publications and reports by the research team, please visit: www.crru.org.uk/publications.asp With all best wishes and thanks Dr. Kevin Robinson <mailto:kev.robinson@crru.org.uk> kev.robinson(a)crru.org.uk Cetacean Research & Rescue Unit | Whale and Dolphin Research | Environmental Education | Wildlife Rescue | Marine Conservation | Consultancy | Recognised Scottish Charity No. SC 035473 PO Box 11307, Banff AB45 3WB, Scotland ( +44 (0)1261 851696 | 126 Suksamran Villas, 12/33 Moo 1 Sairee, Ban Koh Tao, Suratthani 84360, Thailand ( +66 (0) 844 651347 | <http://www.crru.org.uk/> www.crru.org.uk Check out our new Facebook page at: <http://www.facebook.com/crru.org.uk> www.facebook.com/crru.org.uk P Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail

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Volunteers needed for large whale project in Gibraltar (Spain)
by Pauline Gauffier 16 Apr '13

16 Apr '13

Dear all, The research group CIRCE (http://www.circe.info) is seeking applications from volunteers to help with fieldwork on fin whale research in the Strait of Gibraltar from 3 June to 15 July 2013 (2x3=6 weeks) Fin whale project: The fin whales observed in the Strait of Gibraltar are in migration between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea and are still recovering from years of hunting. Due to the high and increasing maritime traffic in the Strait, at least 3 ship strikes have been observed with fin whales since 1999 and probably more remain unknown. Therefore, we need to assess for this population the risk of collision with merchant ships or ferries. We will use theodolite tracking from a land station to find the main routes for the fin whales as well as any behavioural changes in relation to boat movements. This project has been running for 4 years both in summertime and wintertime from the Spanish coast of the Strait. Summer 2013 survey: Due to the economic situation in Spain, in summer 2013 we will run the last survey until further notice. Our main goal for this last survey is to deploy satellite tags on the migrating whales to identify their summer feeding grounds. This is why we need a motivated team of volunteers to detect and focal-follow the migrating whales from the land station to make the tagging possible. Conditions: Volunteers should be available for one entire period of 3 weeks (3-24th June or/and 24th June-15th July). You will be responsible for your transport to and from the main centre, but once here, we will provide accommodation near the research centre and transport to the land station. You will be responsible for your food expenses, but we will arrange communal shopping/cooking so that these expenses will be low (usually no more than 20€/week). The first day you will receive full training and then start operating as a team. Volunteers should be prepared to long working days (9-21h, in 2 shifts) under the sun and the wind at the LAND station and to help with data entry when bad weather. For more information, a video and the blog of the project, see http://www.circe.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=93&Itemid…) 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 in a team - speak fluently Spanish and/or English Preference will be given to those who: - have previous experience in theodolite handling, including whale tracking - have previous relevant marine mammal field experience - can commit for the whole 6-week period Applicants should send an email introducing themselves. The email should include an outline of why you would like to work on this project, your qualifications and previous experiences relevant to this project. Please also attach a brief CV, detailing your previous experiences, and download the MANDATORY registration form from http://www.circe.biz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=93&Itemid… (also available in Spanish and French). Please remember that this will be the last survey until further notice. Applications will be accepted until 28 April 2013 and then your participation will be confirmed during the week (please make sure to check your email at that time to make the whole selecting process efficient). The email should have the object “Land survey 2013”. Incomplete applications will not be considered (cover letter + CV + application form). For more information, do not hesitate to contact me. All the best Pauline ---------------------------- Pauline GAUFFIER CIRCE (España/Spain) http://www.circe.info https://facebook.com/Circe.org https://twitter.com/Circe_org ----------------------------

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Re: [MARMAM] Effects of sea-level rise on northern elephant seal breeding habitat at Point Reyes Peninsula, California
by Ellen M Hines 15 Apr '13

15 Apr '13

Hi all, we are pleased to announce the following paper published online, please email me for pdf's. best, Ellen Funayama, K., Hines, E., Davis, J, and S. Allen. Effects of sea-level rise on northern elephant seals at Point Reyes peninsula, California. Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems. DOI: 10.1002/aqc.2318 ABSTRACT 1. Northern elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris) historically experienced a significant population decrease to the brink of extinction owing to human exploitation, but have since recovered and recolonized former breeding/haul-out sites. Point Reyes Peninsula, California, is one location where population increase has resulted in colony expansion. 2. Initial models identified suitable breeding haul-outs and suggested that human disturbance, geomorphology, mean wave height, and slope were important explanatory variables. Three sea-level rise (SLR) scenarios were run, which indicated that most current and potential haul-out sites would largely be inundated by 2050. Because the Point Reyes coast has limited suitable habitat for the seals to colonize, conservation measures may guide management responses to SLR. 3. The resulting analyses can be used to better understand local-scale seal responses to SLR and contribute to effective management of pinnipeds within Point Reyes National Seashore and elsewhere. Ellen Hines, PhD Professor of Geography Marine & Coastal Conservation and Spatial Planning Lab Romberg Tiburon Center for Environmental Studies San Francisco State University 3152 Paradise Drive Tiburon, CA 94920 USA 1 415 338 1482 Fax: 1 415 338 6243 ehines(a)sfsu.edu<mailto:ehines@sfsu.edu> gis.sfsu.edu/coastal

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new publication of franciscana mortality estimation
by Jonatas henrique Prado 15 Apr '13

15 Apr '13

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce the publication of the following paper: Prado J.H.F., Secchi E.R. and Kinas P.G. (2013) Article title: Mark-recapture of the endangered franciscana dolphin (Pontoporia blainvillei) killed in gillnet fisheries to estimate past bycatch from time series of stranded carcasses in southern Brazil. Ecological Indicators. 32: 35–41. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1470160X13001118# Abstract Incidental fishery mortality estimates of franciscana based on stranding data are biased downwards, as only a fraction of the total bycatch ends up ashore. We estimated the probability of a franciscana inciden-tally killed by the coastal gillnet fisheries in southern Brazil to wash ashore and used this as a correction factor to back-calculate fishing related mortality from a dataset of carcasses collected between 1979 and 1998. From November 2005 to January 2009, 145 franciscanas incidentally killed in nets were tagged and returned to the sea. Only 11 of the tagged animals were found during beach surveys. Generalized Linear Models were used to model the probability of a tagged franciscana reaching the shore as a function of the covariates wave period, wind direction and intensity, distance from coast and the target species of the fishery. The target species had a significant effect on the stranding probability. The stranding prob-ability of a tagged franciscana was higher in the fishery targeting white croaker (Micropogonias furnieri) (median = 0.105; 95% CI = 0.05–0.18) rather than weakfish (Cynoscion guatucupa) (0.013; 0.0003–0.069). As the stranding probability estimate for weakfish was imprecise (wide credible interval) we decided to hind cast the number of franciscanas incidentally killed for white croaker season only. The corrected esti-mate of franciscana mortality was approximately 10 times higher than previous estimates based solely on stranding data. Finally, this novel mark-recapture approach provides a useful correction factor to reduce the bias in incidental mortality estimates derived from stranding data. I hope you find the article interesting. Best regards, Jonatas Prado and Co-Authors M.Sc. Jonatas Henrique Fernandes do Prado Doutorando do Programa de Pós Graduação em Oceanografia Biológica - FURG - Brasil Laboratório de Mamíferos Marinhos e Tartarugas Marinhas TEL: +55 (53) 81415681/3233 6537

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Summer classes on working with marine mammals
by Jenifer Zeligs 15 Apr '13

15 Apr '13

I would appreciate it if you could post the following summer classes and internship announcement. Please post responses to jzeligs(a)mlml.calstate.edu Thank you. JZ California State University Monterey Bay and Moss Landing Marine Laboratories http://slewths.mlml.calstate.edu/ offer one-week intensive *summer classes* open to any one interested animal training or in pursuing careers in the marine mammal field. In addition, *hands-on internships *for people of all ages and levels of experience are also available at the lab working with marine mammals. The successful completion of both courses and a five-day internship will earn a *Certificate of Completion in Beginning Marine Mammalogy. *The classes' instructor, Dr. Jenifer Zeligs has over 30 years of terrestrial and aquatic animal training experience, across diverse disciplines including research, public display, and studio and film work. For further information on class content and registration please contact: jzeligs(a)mlml.calstate.edu <jhurley(a)mlml.calstate.edu> *and see below*. For help with internships and housing please contact: sskrovan(a)mlml.calstate.edu. *Classes: TECHNIQUES AND THEORIES OF ANIMAL TRAINING: Bio 348 *(June 24-30, 2013) CRN 30926, Section 01 *: *This 3 credit interactive course provides students an in-depth understanding of the discipline of animal training across many different types of terrestrial and aquatic animals and techniques. It provides an exceptional background in relevant animal behavior and psychological principles related to the practical goal of modifying animal behavior. These techniques will be demonstrated daily using trained sea lions at Moss Landing Marine Labs where the course is taught. Horses, birds, and other animals will also be used to demonstrate these techniques. Students will intern at least one day at the lab assisting in the care and training of research-trained sea lions. Topics covered will include:* *Captivity, Why Train? Communication, Motivation, Desensitization, Aggression, and Practical Training. *Tuition:* $735 + $39 campus fee per semester is payable to CSUMB-EE. An additional $50 lab fee is payable to MLML on the first day of class. *WORKING WITH MARINE MAMMALS: Bio 347 *(July 8-14, 2013) CRN 30925 Section 01*: *This 3 credit course is designed to assist people who are interested in developing a career in marine mammalogy. It will provide practical information about marine mammals and working with them, drawing on the rich background of marine mammal work in the Monterey Bay area. The course will include live experiences with the marine mammals at Moss Landing Marine Labs. This class will instruct students in captive marine mammal husbandry (care and maintenance), training, basic physiology, an overview of common research topics and techniques, as well as public display, education, and current issues in marine mammalogy. Students will intern at least one day at the lab assisting in the care of research-trained California sea lions. They will also gain experience in developing a resume, job interviews, and public presentations. *Tuition:* $735 + $39 campus fee per semester is payable to CSUMB-EE. An additional $50 lab fee is payable to MLML on the first day of class. (If you book both classes- you will pay the $39 campus fee only once). *Registration: *For registration, enrollment and other logistical information please contact Cal State Monterey Bay http://extended.csumb.edu/ or call them at 831-582-4500. Attached you will find a registration form which can be mailed in asap to guarantee your space and enrollment (instructions are on the form). *Enrollment details and housing*: *Enrollment for each class limited to 17*. *Summer registration for open enrollment begins April 29, 2013*, but you can send in your enrollment form early to reserve your space. The classes are open for enrollment to *any high school graduate* regardless of age and there are *no prerequisites*, however no transportation or housing is included in the enrollment price. International students are welcome. For help with *housing* and *to schedule an internship* please contact sskrovan(a)mlml.calstate.edu <sskrvoan(a)mlml.calstate.edu>. Courses will be taught at Moss Landing Marine Labs in Moss Landing, CA. <http://www.animaltraining.us/>

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Volunteer needing immediately Marine mammal research Queen Charlotte Sound, NZ -See attached details
by Cheryl Cross 13 Apr '13

13 Apr '13

*Volunteer Position in Queen Charlotte Sound, Marlborough Sounds, New Zealand* Volunteers are required to assist with an ongoing study examining the distribution of marine mammals in the Queen Charlotte Sound, Marlborough Sounds, NZ. Species of interest include bottlenose, dusky, common and Hector’s dolphins, killer whales and New Zealand fur seals. This research forms part of a PhD study being conducted under the auspices of the Coastal-Marine Research Group (C-MRG) at Massey University, Auckland ( http://cmrg.massey.ac.nz) *Background:* The Marlborough Sounds, a region of embayments and estuaries is located in the northern tip of the South Island of New Zealand. The study site, Queen Charlotte Sound, serves as the main passageway between the North and South Islands of New Zealand and is utilized by a range of vessels. Several marine mammal species occur within Queen Charlotte Sound including bottlenose dolphins (*Tusiops truncatus*), Hector’s dolphins* *(*Cephalorhynchus hectori hectori*), common dolphins (*Delphinus *sp.), dusky dolphins (*Lagenorhynchus obscurus)* and killer whales (*Orcinus orca*). The aim of this project is to investigate the distribution and density of marine mammals occurring within the Sound in order to provide part of a baseline study of the region. Behaviour, inter-specific interactions and potential anthropogenic influences will also be investigated. *Dates:* Now until End of July 1, 2013 *Location:* Picton, New Zealand * * *Responsibilities:* Field work will involve data collection from two platforms of opportunity (13 m catamarans) Responsibilities will include: - Diligent searching for marine mammals, identification to species, recording of group size, group composition and behaviour - Collection of various environmental parameters - Utilization of GPS equipment to collect sighting location data and effort tracks - Data entry of all fieldwork undertaken - Opportunistic Photo-ID - Data processing and analyses - Additional responsibilities may be added as the project progresses *Qualifications:* The ideal candidate will have a science background and previous marine mammal field experience. This internship is well-suited for recent graduates or graduate students of marine biology, zoology, ecology or similar fields. Preferred candidates will have some experience studying free-ranging dolphins. He or she must: - Possess basic computer skills including MS excel - Be comfortable working on boats - Be responsible, focused and motivated - Be personable, with strong communication skills, and fluent in English - Possess a strong interest in science and a mature attitude toward marine mammal research - Be patient as many hours are spent in search of marine mammals - Be flexible as scheduling is unpredictable and weather dependent - Be prepared to live in a small isolated town and to work independently - Make a minimum of a 3 month commitment to the project Unfortunately, no monetary compensation or compensation for housing is available for this position, so the candidate must be able to support living expenses for the extent of the internship period *Application Process*: If interested please email c.cross(a)massey.ac.nz with the subject line VOLUNTEER POSITION Please LIST the following in a CONCISE message: 1) Relevant experience or qualifications 2) The time frame that you are available over the next year 3) Reasons you want to help with this project 4) The contact info of at least one professional reference that can confirm work ethic and experience 5) Current place of residence Please also attach CV or resume to the email This is great opportunity to work in a unique environment while gaining further research experience and contributing to an important project. Priority will be given to placing applicants that are available immediately. Thank you for your interest! Sincerely, Cheryl L. Cross -- *Cheryl L. Cross* PhD Student Coastal-Marine Research Group Institute of Natural and Mathematical Sciences Massey University Private Bag 102 904, North Shore 0745 Auckland, NZ Tel: +64 9 414 0800 EXT 41520 Mob: +64 21 022 93719 Fax: +64 9 443 9790 Email: c.cross(a)massey.ac.nz Web: http://www.coastalmarineresearchgroup.com/ <http://www.coastalmarineresearchgroup.com/>

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Special Projects Volunteer or Internship- posting request
by Brandi Katz 12 Apr '13

12 Apr '13

Sea Otter Research and Conservation - Unpaid Field Observer Intern Organization: Monterey Bay Aquarium Location: Monterey, CA, United States Job or Internship: Special Projects Volunteer or Student 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, Elkhorn Slough and Moss Landing areas of coastal California Responsibilities include, but are not limited to data collection in the field from shore and on a small boat using radio telemetry equipment and visual observations with spotting scopes. Interns will be recording re-sights, movement patterns and forage and activity budget data on marked individual wild sea otter. 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. Requirements: * 6-month commitment of 24-32 hours each week. * Ability to lift 50 lbs. * Valid driver's license * Personal vehicle to use while in the field * Cell phone * Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and late nights * Boat handling skills appreciated but not necessary * Familiarity with data entry and Microsoft Access software Preference will be given to applicants who have at least 2 years towards a college degree in a biology or ecology related field. For more information and to apply, email: bkatz(a)mbayaq.org<mailto:bkatz@mbayaq.org> Brandi Katz Sea Otter Research and Conservation Volunteer Coordinator P 831-648-4866 F 831-648-4989 [cid:image001.gif@01CE37A4.D95D2ED0] 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.

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Aquatic Animal Health Summer and Fall online courses
by Larkin,Iskande (Iske) 12 Apr '13

12 Apr '13

Hi All, At the University of Florida, College of Veterinary Medicine we are offering a few exciting online courses in the upcoming Summer and Fall semesters. Summer classes (2013) Aquatic Wildlife Health Issues is an online course (3 credits) designed to introduce students (upper level undergraduate and graduate) and professionals (with an AA or higher degree) to the natural history, anatomy, physiology, behavior and common health issues of aquatic species: whales and dolphins, seals and sea lions, manatees, sea turtles, crocodilians, fish and invertebrates. More information can be found at: http://aquatic.vetmed.ufl.edu/education/courses/distance-learning-courses/a… Manatee Health and Conservation is an online course (3 credits) that will provide students (upper level undergraduate and graduate) and professionals (with an AA or higher degree) with a detailed overview of manatee natural history, health assessment, and research findings as well as explore conservation issues. More information can be found at: http://aquatic.vetmed.ufl.edu/education/courses/distance-learning-courses/m… Fall class (2013) Aquatic Animal Conservation Issues is an online course (3 credits) designed to introduce students (upper level undergraduate and graduate) and professionals (with an AA or higher degree) to the controversial issues surrounding aquatic animal species ranging from invertebrates to marine mammals, with an emphasis on marine mammals, but also including sea turtles, fisheries, and marine ecosystems. More information can be found at: http://aquatic.vetmed.ufl.edu/education/courses/distance-learning-courses/a… For more information about these classes or enrollment, contact Jeffrey Hendel (hendelj(a)ufl.edu<mailto:hendelj@ufl.edu>). If you are interested in taking one of the classes, registration is now open for Summer and Fall terms (2013). Sincerely, Dr Larkin [Description: AAH logo blue E-Mail Sig] Iske V. Larkin, PhD Research Assistant Professor & Education Coordinator Aquatic Animal Health Program Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine University of Florida PO Box 100136 2015 SW 16th Ave Gainesville, Florida 32610 For packages 32608 Office phone - 352-294-4095 Work cell - 352-494-1742 Fax - 352-392-8289 Program web page: http://www.vetmed.ufl.edu/extension/aquatic/

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Pinniped and Cetacean Human Interaction Case Criteria Published
by Michael Moore 11 Apr '13

11 Apr '13

Title: Criteria and case definitions for serious injury and death of pinnipeds and cetaceans caused by anthropogenic trauma Editors:Michael Moore, Julie van der Hoop, Susan Barco, Alex Costidis, Frances Gulland, Paul Jepson, Kathleen Moore, Stephen Raverty, William McLellan Additional Authors: Michelle Barbieri, Michelle Berman, Yara Bernaldo de Quiros, Andrea Bogomolni, Elsa Cabrera, Tim Cole, Kerri Danil, Mendy Garron, Allison Henry, Amy Knowlton, Scott Landry, David Mattila, Janet Neilson, Ann Pabst, Heather Pettis, Jooke Robbins, David Rotstein, Teri Rowles. Diseases of Aquatic Organisms 103:229-264 (2013) doi: 10.3354/dao02566 http://www.int-res.com/articles/dao_oa/d103p229.pdf and http://www.int-res.com/articles/suppl/d103p229_supp/ This is Free Access so does not need a subscription to download. Trauma defined includes: Entrapment · Entanglement · Vessel strike · Gunshot -- Michael Moore Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution 508 289 3228

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new publication on spinner dolphin population genetics
by kim andrews 10 Apr '13

10 Apr '13

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce the publication of the following paper: <http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/mec.12193/abstract> Andrews KR, Perrin WF, Oremus M, Karczmarski L, Bowen BW, Puritz JB, Toonen RJ (2013) The evolving male: spinner dolphin (*Stenella longirostris*) ecotypes are divergent at Y chromosome but not mtDNA or autosomal markers. *Molecular Ecology* DOI: 10.1111/mec.12193 http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/mec.12193/abstract Abstract The susceptibility of the Y chromosome to sexual selection may make this chromosome an important player in the formation of reproductive isolating barriers, and ultimately speciation. Here, we investigate the role of the Y chromosome in phenotypic divergence and reproductive isolation of spinner dolphin (*Stenella longirostris*) ecotypes. This species contains six known ecotypes (grouped into four subspecies) that exhibit striking differences in morphology, habitat and mating system, despite having adjacent or overlapping ranges and little genetic divergence at previously studied mtDNA and autosomal markers. We examined the phylogeographic structure for all six ecotypes across the species range (*n *=* *261, 17 geographic locations) using DNA sequences from three Y chromosome markers, two maternally inherited mitochondrial (mtDNA) markers, and a biparentally inherited autosomal intron. mtDNA and autosomal analyses revealed low divergence (most ΦST values <0.1) between ecotypes and geographic regions, concordant with previous studies. In contrast, Y intron analyses revealed fixed differences amongst the three most phenotypically divergent groups: * S. l. longirostris* vs. *S. l. roseiventris* vs. combined *S. l. orientalis* /*S. l. centroamericana*/Tres Marias ecotypes). Another ecotype (whitebelly), previously postulated to be a hybrid between the two phenotypically most divergent ecotypes, had Y haplotypes from both putative parent ecotypes, supporting a hybrid designation. Reduced introgression of the Y chromosome has previously been observed in other organisms ranging from insects to terrestrial mammals, and here we demonstrate this phenomenon in a marine mammal with high dispersal capabilities. These results indicate that reduced introgression of the Y chromosome occurs in a wide taxonomic range of organisms and support the growing body of evidence that rapid evolution of the Y chromosome is important in evolutionary diversification. Cheers, Kim -- Kim Andrews, PhD Postdoctoral Research Fellow School of Biological Sciences Durham University South Road, Durham DH1 3LE, UK

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