January 2014 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New Publication: Unusual Mortality Events of Harbor Porpoise Strandings in North Carolina, 1997–2009
by Barbie Byrd - NOAA Affiliate 15 Jan '14

15 Jan '14

Dear MARMAM readers, We are pleased to announce a recent publication in Journal of Marine Biology entitled: *Title:* Unusual Mortality Events of Harbor Porpoise Strandings in North Carolina, 1997–2009 *Authors: *Aleta A. Hohn, David S. Rotstein, and Barbie L. Byrd *Abstract:* A marked increase in the frequency of harbor porpoises (*Phocoena phocoena*) stranded in North Carolina in 2005 was declared as an Unusual Mortality Event (UME). Strandings occurred in January through May when harbor porpoises are seasonally present. Increased stranding rates were measured relative to a threshold to determine that the UME was occurring.The threshold analysis also revealed elevated strandings during 1999, an undeclared UME year. Recovered carcasses during 1999 and 2005 accounted for 39% of 261 strandings during 1997–2009. During 2005, of 43 strandings, primary or secondary causes of mortality included fishery interactions, emaciation, and interspecific aggression. Apart from small but significant differences in timing and condition of strandings, composition of strandings during UME and non-UME years was similar, with most being young-of-the-year and occurring during March and April, north of Cape Hatteras. Porpoises had high levels of parasitic infestation typical for this species. However, no indication of infectious disease and no cause of the 2005 event were found from gross and histologic findings. Response to UMEs is challenging, particularly along the expanses of North Carolina beaches, requiring additional effort to obtain carcasses in sufficiently fresh condition to determine the cause of these events. *Full citation details: * Hohn, Aleta A., David S. Rotstein, and Barbie L. Byrd. 2013. Unusual Mortality Events of Harbor Porpoise Strandings in North Carolina, 1997–2009. Journal of Marine Biology, vol. 2013, Article ID 289892, 13 pages. doi:10.1155/2013/289892 *The paper is freely downloadable from Journal of Marine Biology:* http://www.hindawi.com/journals/jmb/2013/289892/cta/ If you have any questions, please contact Aleta Hohn (aleta.hohn(a)noaa.gov) or Barbie Byrd (barbie.byrd(a)noaa.gov) Cheers, Barbie Byrd NOAA Beaufort Lab National Marine Fisheries Service Protected Resources Branch 101 Pivers Island Beaufort, NC 28516 USA Tel: 252-728-8793 (NOTE: VOICEMAIL IS TEMPORARILY OUT OF ORDER) http://www.sefsc.noaa.gov/labs/beaufort/ .·´¯`·.. ><((((º>`·.¸¸.·´¯`·.¸.·´¯`·...¸><((((º> ><((((º>`·.¸¸.·´¯`·.¸.·´¯`·...¸><((((º>¸.

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Paper published: Strandings illustrate marine mammal biodiversity and human impacts off the coast of North Carolina
by Barbie Byrd - NOAA Affiliate 15 Jan '14

15 Jan '14

I am pleased to share with you the notification of a paper just published in Fishery Bulletin. The paper is Open Access and can be downloaded from *http://fishbull.noaa.gov/1121/byrd.pdf <http://fishbull.noaa.gov/1121/byrd.pdf>* Byrd, B. L., A. A. Hohn, G. N. Lovewell, K. M. Altman, S. G. Barco, A. Friedlaender, C. A. Harms, W. A. McLellan, K. T. Moore, P. E. Rosel, and V. G. Thayer. 2014. *Strandings illustrate marine mammal biodiversity and human impacts off the coast of North Carolina, USA*. Fishery Bulletin 112:1-23. Abstract—The adjacency of 2 marine biogeographic regions off Cape Hatteras, North Carolina (NC), and the proximity of the Gulf Stream result in a high biodiversity of species from northern and southern provinces and from coastal and pelagic habitats. We examined spatiotemporal patterns of marine mammal strandings and evidence of human interaction for these strandings along NC shorelines and evaluated whether the spatiotemporal patterns and species diversity of the stranded animals reflected published records of populations in NC waters. During the period of 1997–2008, 1847 stranded animals were documented from 1777 reported events. These animals represented 9 families and 34 species that ranged from tropical delphinids to pagophilic seals. This biodiversity is higher than levels observed in other regions. Most strandings were of coastal bottlenose dolphins (*Tursiops truncatus*) (56%), harbor porpoises (*Phocoena phocoena*) (14%), and harbor seals (*Phoca vitulina*) (4%). Overall, strandings of northern species peaked in spring. Bottlenose dolphin strandings peaked in spring and fall. Almost half of the strandings, including southern delphinids, occurred north of Cape Hatteras, on only 30% of NC’s coastline. Most stranded animals that were positive for human interaction showed evidence of having been entangled in fishing gear, particularly bottlenose dolphins, harbor porpoises, short-finned pilot whales (*Globicephala macrorhynchus*), harbor seals, and humpback whales (*Megaptera novaeangliae*). Spatiotemporal patterns of bottlenose dolphin strandings were similar to ocean gillnet fishing effort. Biodiversity of the animals stranded on the beaches reflected biodiversity in the waters off NC, albeit not always proportional to the relative abundance of species (e.g., *Kogia *species). Changes in the spatiotemporal patterns of strandings can serve as indicators of underlying changes due to anthropogenic or naturally occurring events in the source populations. Cheers, Barbie ><((((º>`·.¸¸.·´¯`·.¸.·´¯`·...¸><((((º>¸. .·´¯`·.. ><((((º>`·.¸¸.·´¯`·.¸.·´¯`·...¸><((((º> Barbie Byrd JHT, Inc. Contractor NOAA Beaufort Lab National Marine Fisheries Service Protected Resources Branch 101 Pivers Island Beaufort, NC 28516 USA Tel: 252-728-8793 (NOTE: VOICEMAIL IS TEMPORARILY OUT OF ORDER) http://www.sefsc.noaa.gov/labs/beaufort/ .·´¯`·.. ><((((º>`·.¸¸.·´¯`·.¸.·´¯`·...¸><((((º> ><((((º>`·.¸¸.·´¯`·.¸.·´¯`·...¸><((((º>¸.

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Article on Anthropogenic Noise and Conservation
by Frank Thomsen 15 Jan '14

15 Jan '14

Dear Colleagues I would kindly draw your attention to a review article that just came out in a Springer book on Animal Communication and Noise (see http://www.springer.com/life+sciences/behavioural/book/978-3-642-41493-0) Its broadly dealing with noise impacts but there is a lot of focus on marine mammals and thus, I believe, relevant to this forum. I also think it's the first time that the issue has been addressed by a team of scientists from different disciplines (bird / behavior / mammals). Reprints are available on request (frth(a)dhigroup.com<mailto:frth@dhigroup.com>). Anthropogenic Noise and Conservation Peter K. McGregor, Andrew G. Horn, Marty L. Leonard and Frank Thomsen Abstract Anthropogenic noise is a common but evolutionarily recent influence on communicating animals and evidence is accumulating of its adverse impacts on human health, therefore it has potential relevance to conservation. However, demonstrating that this potential is realised is not straightforward. A particular issue is the difficulty of assessing likely impacts from the limited evidence on the main factors influencing impacts-from the hearing abilities of animals of conservation concern through to the characteristics of emitted sound fields in natural environments. Further issues include the likely underestimation of behavioural effects, and a lack of knowledge of how animals trade off costs and benefits. In this chapter, we aim to highlight the main themes emerging from the growing interest in the effects of anthropogenic noise on conservation. We predominantly consider the marine environment (with examples drawn mainly from marine mammals) and the terrestrial environment (with bird examples). An important consideration that emerges from the increasing levels of anthropogenic noise and difficulties in assessing specific impacts is the need to develop interim guidance, while more detailed information is gathered and assessed. Best regards, Frank Thomsen Ph.D. Senior Marine Scientist CSci CMarSci FIMarEST DK-EED [DHI logo] DHI Agern Allé 5 DK-2970 Hørsholm Denmark Tel: +45 4516 9200 Direct: +45 4516 9446 Mobile: +45 29404355 frth(a)dhigroup.com<mailto:frth@dhigroup.com> www.dhigroup.com<http://www.dhigroup.com> The expert in WATER ENVIRONMENTS This message contains information which may be confidential and privileged. Unless you are the intended recipient (or authorised to receive this message for the intended recipient), you may not use, copy, disseminate or disclose any information contained in it thereof. If you have received this communication in error, please advise the sender appropriately by reply e-mail, and then delete it. Thank you very much.

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Potential Marine Mammal Surveyor Job Opportunity
by Rachael Plunkett 14 Jan '14

14 Jan '14

Dear all, SMRU Marine are putting out feelers to see if there are any Marine Mammal Surveyors based on Anglesey, Wales that may be available for a trial land-based vantage-point marine mammal survey with a planned start date of late Feb/start of March 2014. Preferably, we would require surveyors to be living local to Anglesey or to be able relocate temporarily to Anglesey so that they can be mobilised at short notice when a weather window appears. This would initially involve a 3 month trial starting late Feb/early March 2014, surveyors would be required to work approximately 8 days per month, with the possibility that it may extend to a yearlong survey from Summer 2014-2015 if the trial period is successful. Please send CVs to Rachael Plunkett at rp(a)smrumarine.com<mailto:rp@smrumarine.com> ASAP, detailing your marine mammal survey experience and availability. Thank you for your time. Rachael Rachael Plunkett Project Scientist [Description: SMRU_Horizontal_(RGB)] SMRU Marine Limited|New Technology Building|North Haugh|ST ANDREWS|Fife KY16 9SR|Scotland email: rp(a)smrumarine.com<mailto:rp@smrumarine.com> |Tel: +44 (0)1334 479100 websites: www.smru-marine.com<http://www.smru-marine.com/> | [Description: cid:image005.png@01CE7722.381114C0] @SMRU_Marine [Description: cid:image006.jpg@01CE7722.381114C0] www.linkedin.com/company/smru-marine<http://www.linkedin.com/company/smru-marine> P Please consider whether you really need a hard copy of this email before printing it - thank you NOTICE OF CONFIDENTIALITY: This message, and any attachments, are intended solely for the addressee and may contain privileged or confidential information. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or action taken or omitted to be taken in reliance on it, is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you believe that you have received this email in error, please contact the sender immediately and destroy this email. Although we have taken steps to ensure that this email and any attachments are free from any virus, we advise that, in keeping with good computing practice, the recipient should ensure they are actually virus free. SMRU Marine Limited is a trading name of SMRU Limited, which is a limited company registered in Scotland, Registered Number: SC296937. Registered Office: 5 Atholl Crescent, Edinburgh EH3 8EJ.

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ECS 2014 conference
by Thierry Jauniaux 14 Jan '14

14 Jan '14

Dear ECS and MARMAM members, As you know, the ECS website is not fully functional but should be ready soon for registration. Almost all abstracts have been evaluated and the program should be available soon Then the registration page will be available for the early registration We are working hard to test all the system and all the pages to avoid any problems On behalf of the organizing committee Thierry Thierry Jauniaux, DMV, PhD, ECS Conference 2014 Liege 5-9 April http://liege.europeancetaceansociety.eu/conference/28th-annual-conference

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Hawaiian Monk Seal Research Program Summer Field Camp positions: CLOSING DATE January 27, 2014
by Thea Johanos-Kam - NOAA Federal 13 Jan '14

13 Jan '14

The Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research (JIMAR) works closely with The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center through a cooperative agreement with the University of Hawaii and will be accepting applications for a possible 2014 field research season to study the endangered Hawaiian monk seal in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. This work is part of a long-term annual Hawaiian monk seal population monitoring and conservation program by NMFS which includes: conducting trend counts; tagging seals; identifying individual seals by tags, scars, natural markings, and applied bleach marks; monitoring reproduction, survival, injuries, entanglements, migration, performing necropsies; collecting scat & spew samples for food habitat, parasite load, and hormonal analysis; collecting tissue samples for DNA analysis; collecting & removing debris capable of entangling seals and other wildlife. Behavior data are also collected at some sites. In addition, researchers at some sites may participate in shark mitigation activities. For general information about the program, visit this website: http://www.pifsc.noaa.gov/hawaiian_monk_seal/ Currently the 2014 field season is uncertain, and may not happen at all due to funding and logistical challenges. Employment dates are tentative and subject to change but may begin as early as mid- May, or may begin later this summer. The tentative end date will be in mid to late September or early October. Field season deployment will last approximately 2-4 months. In addition to the field deployment, the employment period will include about 1-2 weeks training and packing in Honolulu. Once the field season is over, an additional 1-2 weeks of employment will take place in Honolulu to clean up gear and summarize data. Employment dates will be finalized as soon as possible, and hopefully no later than mid- April. Travel to and from Honolulu and food, lodging, and transportation while in Honolulu are not provided; a listing of potential housing options is available. Transportation between Honolulu and field sites, and food and lodging in the field are provided. Due to unforeseen circumstances, departure delays could result in longer periods in Honolulu that may result in additional uncompensated living expenses. The number of positions and/or continuation of the program are subject to funding. These positions will be for all or a subset of the 6 major monk seal sub-populations in the NWHI. Fieldwork is accomplished by 2-4 member teams in remote camps. Researchers live in either wall tents or buildings at the various sites. All sites are accessible by ship (2-8 day travel; 830-2,300 km from Honolulu), and one is accessible by plane. Few supply opportunities exist and outside communication is limited. Employment will be provided by JIMAR, which hires its program and scientific staff through the Research Corporation of the University of Hawaii (RCUH). Applicants must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident Alien, and must be able to meet both the U.S. Department of Commerce and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) security requirements to access the work location, and also the health requirements to board a NOAA vessel. To search and apply for RCUH positions, refer to the following website: http://www.rcuh.com/ *CLOSING DATE January 27, 2014* ****************************IMPORTANT**************************: Please specify in your cover letter: 1) The period you are available 2) Your remote field experience 3) Your animal handling experience 4) Your boating skills 5) Any other skills that are mentioned in the position descriptions or you feel make you a strong candidate for these jobs The job postings for the JIMAR PIFSC Biological Research Assistant recruitment (for Field Camp Assistant) and JIMAR PIFSC Biological Technician recruitment (for Field Camp Leader) are below. Each position needs to be applied for separately. Please apply directly to RCUH Human Resources following the methods stated in the posting by the appropriate closing date. Bulletin Board Posting: 01/13/14 RCUH Website: 01/13/14 J*IMAR PIFSC BIOLOGICAL RESEARCH ASSISTANT – ID# 14019.* Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research. (10) Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST), Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research (JIMAR), located at the National Marine Fisheries (NMFS), Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center (PIFSC) in Honolulu,Hawaii. Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws. *MINIMUM MONTHLY SALARY:* $1,730/Mon. *DUTIES:* Under guidance of field camp leader and/or NMFS personnel, assists in camp preparations, daily maintenance and operation of field camp, and collection of census and life history data on Hawaiian monk seals in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands or on remote shorelines in the Main Hawaiian Islands. Conducts boating operations at multiple-island atolls. Assists with return, repair, and clean-up of field equipment and supplies at the end of camp and with the processing of field data. *PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION/TRAINING:* High School Diploma or G.E.D. equivalent. *EXPERIENCE:* One to three (1-3) years of field experience, including experience working within small groups in remote settings. Experience with handling of wildlife. *ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS:* Working knowledge of personal computers including use of word processing, spreadsheets, and databases. Must be able to meet the U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) security requirements to access work location. Must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident Alien. Good communication and team skills. Ability to perform data entry. For positions requiring travel between multiple-island atolls, must be NOAA certified for small boat operations (having completed Motorboat Operators Certification Course (MOCC) and NOAA small boat component training). Post Offer/Employment Conditions: Must meet the US Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration security requirements for working in a federal facility which includes being fingerprinted and having a federal background check performed. Must be able to pass pre-deployment training requirements including field medical training before being deployed to remote islands. *PHYSICAL/MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS:* Ability to swim. Ability to work in remote locations for extended periods of time. Must be able to work long hours in the sun. Must be able to walk long distances (up to seven (7) miles) in the sand carrying twenty-five to thirty-five (25-35) pounds of field gear. Must be able to manually restrain immature seals (up to two hundred (200) pounds). Must be able to obtain medical clearance for embarking/working on NOAA research vessels or other appropriate vessels which includes providing proof of required immunizations and/or obtaining the necessary immunizations as required by NOAA Marine and Aviation Operations.*POLICY **AND/OR REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS:* As a condition of employment, incumbent will be subject to all applicable RCUH policies and procedures and as applicable subject to University of Hawaii's and/or business entity's policies and procedures. Violation of RCUH's, UH's, or business entity's policies and/or procedures or applicable State or Federal laws and/or regulations may lead to disciplinary action (including, but not limited to possible termination of employment, personal fines, civil and/or criminal penalties, etc.). *SECONDARY QUALIFICATIONS:* Prior field experience in a Hawaiian monk seal field camp. Previous experience in field or laboratory studies of marine mammals, previous experience handling marine mammals, previous data entry experience. Prefer applicants interested in pursuing career in marine mammology or related field. For positions requiring travel between multiple-island atolls, possess prior experience operating small boats and/or the ability to conduct routine maintenance on small boats.* INQUIRIES: Nicole Wakazuru-Yoza 808-956-5018 <808-956-5018> (Oahu). APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:* Please go to www.rcuh.com, click on “Employment”; select “Apply” and navigate to “See Job Announcements and/or Apply for a Job.” You must submit the following documents online to be considered for the position: 1) Cover Letter, 2) Resume, 3) Salary History, 4) Supervisory References, 5) Copy of Degree(s)/Transcript(s)/Certificate(s). All online applications must be submitted/received by the closing date (11:59 P.M. Hawaii Standard Time/RCUH receipt time) as stated on the job posting. If you do not have access to our system and the closing date is imminent, you may send additional documents to rcuhhr(a)rcuh.com. If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call(808)956-8344. *CLOSING DATE: January 27, 2014.* EEO/AA Employer. Bulletin Board Posting: 01/13/14 RCUH Website: 01/13/14 *JIMAR PIFSC BIOLOGICAL RESEARCH TECHNICIAN – ID# 14018.* Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research. (6) Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST), Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research (JIMAR), located at the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), Pacific Islands Regional Office (PIFSC) in Honolulu, Hawaii. Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws. *MINIMUM MONTHLY SALARY:* $1,871/Mon. *DUTIES:* Performs daily maintenance and operation of field camp in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands or on remote shorelines in the Main Hawaiian Islands. Collects census and life history data on Hawaiian monk seals. Conducts boating operations at multiple-island atolls. Required to lead other field personnel. Responsible for returning and storing all field equipment and supplies at the end of camp. Collaborates with scientists within NMFS to conduct and analyze field studies on the Hawaiian monk seal.*PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION/TRAINING:* Associate's Degree from an accredited community college in Marine Biology, Biology, Fisheries Oceanography, or other related field. *EXPERIENCE:* One to three (1-3) years of field experience, including experience working within small groups in remote settings. Experience conducting research on Hawaiian monk seals. Experience handling monk seals. *ABIL/KNOW/SKILLS:* Working knowledge of personal computers including use of word processing, spreadsheets, and databases. Must be able to meet the U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) security requirements to access work location. Must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident Alien. Good communications skills (both written and oral). Leadership and decision-making skills. Ability to perform data entry. For positions requiring travel between multiple-island atolls, must be NOAA certified for small boat operations (having completed Motorboat Operators Certification Course (MOCC) and NOAA small boat component training). Post Offer/Employment Conditions: Must meet the US Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration security requirements for working in a federal facility which includes being fingerprinted and having a federal background check performed. Must be able to pass pre-deployment training requirements including field medical training before being deployed to remote island. *PHYSICAL/MEDICAL **REQUIREMENTS:* Ability to swim. Ability to work in remote locations for extended periods of time. Must be able to work long hours in the sun. Must be able to walk long distances (up to seven (7) miles) in the sand carrying twenty-five to thirty five (25-35) pounds of field gear. Must be able to obtain medical clearance for embarking/working on NOAA research vessels or other appropriate vessels which includes providing proof of required immunizations and/or obtaining the necessary immunizations as required by NOAA Marine and Aviation Operations. *POLICY AND/OR **REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS:* As a condition of employment, incumbent will be subject to all applicable RCUH policies and procedures and as applicable subject to University of Hawaii's and/or business entity's policies and procedures. Violation of RCUH's, UH's, or business entity's policies and/or procedures or applicable State or Federal laws and/or regulations may lead to disciplinary action (including, but not limited to possible termination of employment, personal fines, civil and/or criminal penalties, etc.).*SECONDARY QUALIFICATIONS:* Prior field experience in a Hawaiian monk seal field camp. Previous experience in field or laboratory studies of marine mammals, previous experience handling marine mammals, previous data entry experience. Prefer applicants interested in pursuing career in marine mammology or related field. Ability to perform basic data analysis. For positions requiring travel between multiple-island atolls, possess the ability to conduct routine maintenance on small boats. *INQUIRIES: Nicole Wakazuru-Yoza 808-956-5018 <808-956-5018> (Oahu). APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: *Please go to www.rcuh.com, click on “Employment”; select “Apply” and navigate to “See Job Announcements and/or Apply for a Job.” You must submit the following documents online to be considered for the position: 1) Cover Letter, 2) Resume, 3) Salary History, 4) Supervisory References, 5) Copy of Degree(s)/Transcript(s)/Certificate(s). All online applications must be submitted/received by the closing date (11:59 P.M. Hawaii Standard Time/RCUH receipt time) as stated on the job posting. If you do not have access to our system and the closing date is imminent, you may send additional documents to rcuhhr(a)rcuh.com. If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call (808)956-8344. *CLOSING DATE: January 27, 2014.* EEO/AA Employer. -- Thea Johanos Lead, Monk Seal Population Assessment Program Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center 1601 Kapiolani Blvd. Suite 1000 Honolulu, HI 96814-4700 808-944-2174 office 808-941-0307 fax

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Research Internship opportunity - 2014
by St. Leger, Judy 13 Jan '14

13 Jan '14

The Animal Care Department at SeaWorld is seeking applicants for volunteer research internship positions. There is flexibility on the start date, but each session requires at least a 10 week commitment. This is an educational research opportunity. These positions do not prepare students for employment at SeaWorld Parks. The successful candidate will assist in data retrieval, organization, tabulation, evaluation, and presentation and/or manuscript preparation of a topic of marine species ecology, biology, physiology, or medicine. Duties may include digital or phone contact with collaborators, data management and use of a variety of imaging software programs. The goal of each project is to complete all or part of a study relative to wildlife issues in marine mammals. Additional opportunities that are possible but not guaranteed include observing animal care and medical treatments with wildlife. Applicants would ideally have the following qualifications: * Minimum of 19 years of age and engaged in or recently completed undergraduate studies * A background or degree in Biology, Marine Biology, Ecology, Zoology or a related field * Evidence of valid current health insurance * Computer proficiency, especially with Microsoft Office Suite and internet searches using library resources. Use of statistical programs is a specific advantage * Able to work well with others and/or with limited supervision * Able and willing to work flexible hours for 40 hours/week There is no compensation for this internship position. The successful applicant will be responsible for living and transportation expenses during the time of the internship. Assistance in locating housing is provided. This program qualifies for university credit from many institutions and scholarship funding from a few organizations. Interns are responsible for making arrangements with their educational institution to meet course/credit requirements and for applying for scholarships if desired. Assistance with scholarship applications via program descriptions are available to selected candidates. Selection for these positions is based on academic qualifications. The following application material is required and should be submitted electronically (PDF or Word document attachments) to Pacifique Rugira (Pacifique.Rugira(a)seaworld.com<mailto:Pacifique.Rugira@seaworld.com>) by February 7, 2014. 1. Statement of Interest (no more than two pages) including: a) Your professional interests and career goals b) Your reasons for applying for this internship c) Your availability dates and plan for housing 1. College transcript (unofficial copy is fine) indicating classes and grades and when completed. 1. Resume or curriculum vitae (two pages or less) describing any relevant jobs, internships, volunteer work, scholarships and/or other activities that you have held or participated in and other skills or accomplishments that you wish to identify 1. One letter of recommendation from an individual capable of commenting on your academic qualifications, research skills, and/or general personality. College faculty preferred. Letters of recommendation must be sent directly from the person writing the letter, preferably via email. If email submission is not possible, application material can be faxed to Pacifique Rugira at 619-226-3951 or mailed to: Pacifique Rugira SeaWorld Zoological Department; 500 SeaWorld Dr.; San Diego, CA 92109. USA It is the responsibility of the applicant that all required material is received by the deadline. Identified grant opportunities for this project are due February 15. Judy St. Leger, DVM, DACVP Director of Pathology and Research SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment 500 SeaWorld Dr. San Diego, CA 92109 Judy.st.leger(a)seaworld.com<mailto:Judy.st.leger@seaworld.com> 619-225-4259 (W1) 619-563-6708 (W2) 518-993-4983 (W3)

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New Publication; Fossil dolphin from New Zealand, new genus and species
by Gabriel Aguirre 13 Jan '14

13 Jan '14

Dear MARMAM subscribers, We are pleased to announce our recent publication in Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology. The abstract is supplied below. The article can be downloaded from the publisher's website (http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/02724634.2013.799069 ), or it can be requested to gabriel.aguirre(a)otago.ac.nz Aguirre-Fernández, G. and R. Ewan Fordyce (2014) Papahu taitapu, gen. et sp. nov., an early Miocene stem odontocete (Cetacea) from New Zealand, Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, 34:1, 195-210, DOI: 10.1080/02724634.2013.799069 *Abstract* The early Miocene is one of the least understood intervals in cetacean evolution.Anew early Miocene dolphin described here, *Papahu taitapu*, gen. et sp. nov. (family incertae sedis, Cetacea, Odontoceti), is from the Kaipuke Formation (21.7–18.7Ma) of North West Nelson, New Zealand. The holotype of *Papahu taitapu *includes a skull with an open mesorostral canal, a broad-based rostrum (broken anteriorly), two pairs of premaxillary foramina, a slight bilateral asymmetry at the antorbital notches, a slight intertemporal constriction exposing the temporal fossa and the lateral wall of the braincase in dorsal view, and single-rooted (and probably homodont) teeth. The periotic has an inflated, spherical pars cochlearis and an anterior process with the anterointernal sulcus and a recurved lateral sulcus well developed. The skull size indicates a body length of about 2 m. *Papahu taitapu *plots cladistically in a cluster of archaic dolphins variously referred to as Platanistoidea or as stem Odontoceti. It matches no family described so far, but cladistic relationships for comparable odontocetes are not yet resolved enough to justify family placement. Best regards, Gabriel Aguirre PhD Graduate University of Otago

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New report on cetaceans and marine renewable energy
by Vicki James 13 Jan '14

13 Jan '14

I am pleased to announce the publication of a report from Whale and Dolphin Conservation (WDC), Marine Renewable Energy: A Global Review of the Extent of Marine Renewable Energy Developments, the Developing Technologies and Possible Conservation Implications for Cetaceans. The report pulls together all the current information on the impacts of marine renewable developments on cetaceans, and different countries approaches to these developments. The report is aimed at helping governments, developers and other key parties in the marine renewable energy industry to make the best-informed decisions as to where and how to site their facilities. We hope the report will be of interest to you. To download the report, or for German and Spanish Executive summaries, go to the WDC website http://uk.whales.org/wdc-in-action/marine-renewable-energy-and-implications… For anyone interested in receiving a printed copy (limited availability) or PDF on disc, please email me at vicki.james(a)whales.org<mailto:vicki.james@whales.org> Best wishes Vicki [WDC - Whale and Dolphin Conservation]<http://www.whales.org/> Vicki James Science assistant Telephone: +44 (0)1249 449 500 Working Hours: Mondays and Thursdays WDC, Whale and Dolphin Conservation Brookfield House 38 St Paul Street Chippenham Wiltshire SN15 1LJ United Kingdom whales.org<http://whales.org> [WDC on Facebook]<http://www.facebook.com/whales.org> [WDC on Twitter] <http://www.twitter.com/WHALES_org> [WDC on YouTube] <http://www.youtube.com/wdcsuk> [WDC Blogs] <http://whales.org/en/blog> [WDC E-Newsletter] <http://whales.org/en/newsletter> [http://www.wdcs.co.uk/media/images/EmailSignatureImages/Campaigns/EUtrade.p…]<http://uk.whales.org/campaigns/help-stop-transfer-of-whale-products-through…> ________________________________ Whale and Dolphin Conservation ("WDC") is a company registered in England and Wales (No. 02737421) and a registered charity (in England and Wales No. 1014705, in Scotland No. SC040231) WDC Shop is a trading name of WDC (Trading) Ltd, a company registered in England and Wales (No. 02593116) Registered office : Brookfield House, 38 St. Paul Street, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 1LJ. Tel: +44 (0)1249 449 500 This message is private and confidential. If you have received this message in error, please notify us and remove it from your system. ________________________________

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Dolphin research internship openings
by Kel Melillo Sweeting 13 Jan '14

13 Jan '14

Dolphin Communication Project (DCP) - Volunteer Research Assistants/Interns - Summer 2014 Connecticut, USA and Bimini, The Bahamas The Dolphin Communication Project (DCP, www.dolphincommunicationproject.org) is currently seeking one - two interns for the summer of 2014. These internships have field and office components, both of which are mandatory, and total 8-12 weeks, depending on DCP's schedule. DCP looks at how dolphins communicate and attempts to shed more light on the meaning of their interactions. With research ongoing since 1991, our questions focus primarily on communication and behavior among dolphins. Interns will spend the field portion of this internship at our Bimini, Bahamas research site, where we study wild Atlantic spotted and bottlenose dolphins. An abbreviated publication list is available at the end of this post. Responsibilities In the field: --Travel to and assist for 3-4 weeks at our Bimini research site (exact dates TBD, likely beginning mid-July, following the office component) --Assist gathering data (general observations, photographs) during 4-6 hour/day boat excursions (weather and schedule dependent) --Complete photo-identification of dolphins from still photography and video as well as other data entry and analysis tasks --Assist with on-board and outreach education as well as web-based projects --Represent DCP in an enthusiastic, responsible, mature and respectful manner At the office: --Travel to and assist for 4-6 weeks at our Connecticut (CT) office (exact dates TBD, likely prior to field component, beginning in early June) --Process and analyze data, including, but not limited to: photo-identification of individuals from other DCP research sites, event sampling from video data for behavioral analyses, and acoustic analysis of dolphin sounds --Assist in the development and implementation of education programs for schools and the general public, as needed Requirements Successful interns must have basic computer skills and working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Current enrollment in a degree-seeking program, background in science and/or animal behavior and experience on boats and/or with photo-identification are all desired, but not necessarily required. The successful candidates will be comfortable on a boat for several hours at a time in varying conditions, including extreme heat. They will also be proficient swimmers with the desire to improve snorkeling and free-diving skills. They will be able to work as a team both in a small office and in a fairly remote and isolated field setting. Good writing and public speaking skills are a must, as is attention to details. Interns must be at least 18 years of age. Although international applicants are invited to apply, all applicants should know that interns are responsible for their own daily transportation to/from the CT office and public transportation is not available in this area; therefore all interns have their own vehicles while in CT. Expenses and Compensation This is an unpaid internship. Interns are responsible for their own transportation to Bimini and Connecticut. There is a $1,000.00 fee which will cover expenses in the field, including room and partial board. Room, board and transportation while in Connecticut are the responsibility of the intern, although assistance in finding housing may be available. Interested applicants should review information at this link: http://tinyurl.com/DCPInternships. Please read this page thoroughly before applying or emailing questions. Send a completed application (downloadable and detailed at the link above) to kelly(a)dcpmail.org. Applications are due 21 February 2014. Due to field schedules, only electronic applications will be accepted. Interviews (via telephone or Skype) will be arranged for selected candidates in late February/early March. For more information, please contact Kelly Melillo Sweeting at kelly(a)dcpmail.org. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Selected Refereed Publications: (for a full list of publications by DCP researchers, please visit: http://www.dolphincommunicationproject.org/publications/scientific-publicat…) Dudzinski, K.M., Clark, C.W., Würsig, B. 1995. A mobile video/acoustic system for simultaneously recording dolphin behavior and vocalizations underwater. Aquatic Mammals 21(3): 187-193. Dudzinski, K.M. 1998. Contact behavior and signal exchange among Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis). Aquatic Mammals 24(3): 129-142. Dudzinski, K.M., M. Sakai, M., Masaki, K., Kogi, K., Hishii, T., Kurimoto, M. 2003. Behavioral observations of adult and sub-adult dolphins towards two dead bottlenose dolphins (one female and one male). Aquatic Mammals 29(1): 108-116. Gregg, J.D., Dudzinski, K.M., Smith, H.V. 2007. Do dolphins eavesdrop on the echolocation signals of conspecifics? International Journal of Comparative Psychology, 20: 65-88 Dudzinski, K.M., Thomas, J. Gregg, J.D. 2008. Communication. In (W.F. Perrin, B. Würsig, H.C.M. Thewissen, eds) Encyclopedia of Marine Mammals, second edition. Academic Press, Inc. Melillo, K.E., Dudzinski, K.M., Cornick, L.A. 2009. Interactions between Atlantic spotted (Stenella frontalis) and bottlenose (Tursiops truncatus) dolphins off Bimini, The Bahamas, 2003-2007. Aquatic Mammals, 35:281-291 Dudzinski, K.M., Gregg, J.D., Paulos, R.D., Kuczaj, S.A. 2010. A comparison of pectoral fin contact behaviour for three distinct dolphin populations. Behavioural Processes, 84: 559-567. Greene, W., Melillo-Sweeting, K., Dudzinski, K. 2011. Comparing object play in captive and wild dolphins. International Journal of Comparative Psychology 24(3):292-306. Dudzinski, KM, Gregg, JD, Melillo-Sweeting, K, Levengood, A, Seay, B., Kuczaj II, SA. 2012. Tactile contact exchanges between dolphins: self-rubbing versus inter-individual contact in three species from three geographies. International Journal of Comparative Psychology 25:21-43. Dudzinski, KM, Danaher-Garcia, N, Gregg, JD. 2013. Pectoral fin contact between dolphin dyads at Zoo Duisburg, with comparison to other dolphin study populations. Aquatic Mammals. 39(4): 335-343. Melillo-Sweeting, K, Turnbull, S and Guttridge, T. In press. Evidence of shark attacks on Atlantic spotted (Stenella frontalis) and bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) off Bimini, The Bahamas. Marine Mammal Science. DOI: 10.1111/mms.12082 _______________________________ Kelly Melillo Sweeting Bimini Research Manager Dolphin Communication Project www.dolphincommunicationproject.org

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