December 2014 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

WDC Award
by Nicola Hodgins 18 Dec '14

18 Dec '14

Dear MARMAM'ers, WDC is delighted to announce the 2015 WDC Bharathi Viswanathan Award for Innovative and Non-Invasive Research. WDC strives to ensure that benign research methods are promoted as a guiding principle, both for the organisation and the researchers that we fund. Up to £5,000 is available for the recipient of this annual award. The only restrictions that apply are that the project must utilize only non-invasive techniques and ultimately aim to benefit the conservation management or welfare of whales and/or dolphins. Applications must be on a WDC Research Award Form (see website<http://uk.whales.org/wdc-in-action/wdc-award-for-innovative-and-non-invasiv…>) and will be accepted at any time until the closing date, mid-day (GMT) February 14th 2015. The Award recipient will be chosen by March 14th 2015. Through this Award, WDC aims to showcase non-invasive research methodologies, highlighting the fact that many of these methods provide scientific data of excellent quality, whilst also promoting the development of innovative and non-invasive approaches towards studying cetaceans. Please visit our website for more details and application forms. http://uk.whales.org/wdc-in-action/wdc-award-for-innovative-and-non-invasiv… Good luck, Nicola [WDC - Whale and Dolphin Conservation]<http://www.whales.org> Nicola Hodgins Head of science and research Telephone: +44 (0)1249 449 537 Mobile: +44 (0)7841 497 597 Skype: nicola.hodgins 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> ________________________________ 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 WDCS (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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ShoreFin Project Report 2014
by CBMWC 18 Dec '14

18 Dec '14

The Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre <http://www.cbmwc.org/> (CBMWC) based in New Quay, west Wales, UK is pleased to announce that our first ShoreFin report <http://www.cbmwc.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/ShoreFin_2014LR.pdf> is now available to download from our website http://www.cbmwc.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/ShoreFin_2014LR.pdf Initiated in 2014, ShoreFin <http://www.cbmwc.org/shore-fin-project/> is CBMWC's dedicated land-based bottlenose dolphin photo-identification (photo-ID) project conducted in New Quay, west Wales, UK, whose aim is to build up an understanding of bottlenose dolphin site usage within the New Quay bay area, to find out which individuals visit the bay and to find out more about the ecology and life history of these animals. This field season our primary aim was to develop our methodology for establishing this as an ongoing research project. By documenting the individual animals that visit the New Quay bay area we aim to acquire a greater understanding of the bottlenose dolphin population residing in Cardigan Bay. We anticipate that the data we collected in 2014 will contribute towards answering further questions regarding bottlenose dolphin site usage, behaviours and provide additional information on the range of the local population as well as the potential effects of human activities on their behaviour. For more information on the project visit our ShoreFin page <http://www.cbmwc.org/shore-fin-project/> (http://www.cbmwc.org/shore-fin-project/) and follow us on Twitter @ShoreFin With best wishes from the CBMWC team. Laura Mears Project Officer Support our research - adopt a Cardigan Bay dolphin with the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre <http://www.cbmwc.org/support-us/adopt-a-cardigan-bay-dolphin/> Raise money for CBMWC with each internet search you do - it doesn't cost you a penny <http://sites.affilyon.co.uk/CBMWC> http://sites.affilyon.co.uk/CBMWC Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre Patent Slip Building Glanmor Terrace New Quay Ceredigion SA45 9PS Wales, UK Ffon/Phone: 01545 560 224 E-bost/Email: <mailto:info@cbmwc.org> info(a)cbmwc.org Website: <http://www.cbmwc.org/> www.cbmwc.org For all the latest news and sightings information, please visit our website, follow us on Twitter and become a fan of our Facebook page <http://www.cbmwc.org/> www.cbmwc.org <http://twitter.com/CBMWC> http://twitter.com/CBMWC <http://facebook.com/CBMWC> http://facebook.com/CBMWC Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre is supported by the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Group, a marine interest group of the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales. Helping to conserve Cardigan Bay's marine wildlife through education and research Helpu I warchod bywyd gwyllt morol Bae Ceredigion drwy addysg ac ymchwil ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------- The contents of this email are confidential and are soley for the use of the intended recipient. If you receive this email in error please delete it and notify us either by email or telephone. It is prohibited to copy, forward or otherwise disclose the contents of this email.

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New paper on the detection of complex sounds by seals and sea lions
by Kane Cunningham 17 Dec '14

17 Dec '14

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Volunteers urgently required to assist with a study of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in Northland, New Zealand
by Peters, Catherine 17 Dec '14

17 Dec '14

Volunteers urgently required to assist with a study of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in Northland, New Zealand Program: The Coastal-Marine Research Group (C-MRG - http://cmrg.massey.ac.nz/) Was established under the auspices of the Institute of Natural and Mathematical Sciences (INMS) (http://ins.massey.ac.nz/) at Massey University, Albany, New Zealand in 2000. Since then, both its staff and postgraduate students have undertaken marine mammal research within and beyond New Zealand waters, concentrating specifically on conservation and management orientated questions. Volunteers are required to assist on a PhD study (supervised by Dr Karen Stockin and Dr Mat Pawley, Massey University and Prof Mark Orams, AUT University) to assess the behavioural ecology and conservation of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the Bay of Islands, Northland, New Zealand. Bottlenose dolphins are classified as Nationally endangered within New Zealand waters (Baker et al 2010), with a local population recently described (Tezanos-Pinto et al 2014). This study builds upon earlier research undertaken by Tezanos-Pinto (2009) and Constantine (2002) and will among other things, reassess the status and effects of tourism interactions (a decade on from Constantine 2002). Volunteer activities: The field season runs year round and volunteers are required for the December 2014 – March 2015. A minimum commitment of three months is preferred, with priority given to those who can commit for longer periods. The volunteer team will be required to fulfill several key roles: Assist on a 5.5m dedicated research vessel operating from the Bay of Islands. Surveys will involve daily return trips (not overnight) and be conducted in favorable conditions only. As such, no minimum or maximum number of research days onboard the research vessel can be guaranteed Assist with vessel of opportunity data collection in the Bay of Islands Assist with data processing and preliminary analysis on bad weather days Undertake additional responsibilities/roles as the season progresses Effort will placed into allowing all volunteers the opportunity to gain experience on each element. Volunteer requirements: Be adaptable and patient. Field work is highly weather dependent and could include long, consecutive days both on and off the water. Be enthusiastic and team orientated (both in a living and working environment) A willingness to learn Possess a positive attitude Be polite to, and engage positively with, the local community Be physically fit and able to work in outdoor conditions Speak English Possess basic computer skills (excel, word, etc) Preferred (but not necessary) skills/traits: Be enrolled in, or have completed, a degree in a related field (Biology, Zoology, Marine Biology, Animal Behaviour, etc) Have small boat experience Acoustic/video analysis experience Have previous (marine) field experience Enthusiasm and demonstrable commitment to the project will supersede formal qualifications. Volunteers will be expected to work and live as part of a team with shared cooking and cleaning duties. Unfortunately, monetary compensation cannot be provided, and volunteers will be required to pay for their own food and accommodation. However accommodation will be provided in the field research house at a reasonable rate. Volunteers must pay and organize for their own transport to the field site (3 hours North of Auckland). Information, prices and assistance can be provided to successful applicants. Application process: Applicants should send a short email cover letter, using "volunteer opportunity" as the subject line, to c.peters(a)massey.ac.nz<mailto:c.peters@massey.ac.nz>. The email should include an outline of why you would like to work on this project,your availability and relevant experience. Applicants able to commit between December 2014 – March 2015 will be given priority. Please also attach a brief CV including at least one reference. Early application is recommended to avoid disappointment. Successful applicants will be notified ASAP. This is a great opportunity to work in a dynamic environment and gain further experience. For more detailed information on the project please do not hesitate to contact me. Many thanks Catherine **************************************** Catherine Peters PhD Candidate Coastal-Marine Research Group Institute of Natural and Mathematical Sciences Massey University Private Bag 102 904 Auckland New Zealand Tel: + 64 (9) 4140800 Ext: 41196 Mob: + 64 (0) 211058040 Email: c.peters(a)massey.ac.nz<mailto:c.peters@massey.ac.nz> Web: http://cmrg.massey.ac.nz/

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Marine Mammal Response and Rehabilitation Internship - Los Angeles California
by JEFF Hall 17 Dec '14

17 Dec '14

California Wildlife Center in Malibu is offering internship positions in our Marine Mammal Response and Rehabilitation Department during spring and summer of 2015. Summary of Program The California Wildlife Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of injured, orphaned and sick native wildlife. CWC fulfills this mission through marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation, and treatment of avian and terrestrial wildlife in our rehabilitation hospital. This internship will provide an exciting and challenging educational experience in the marine mammal field, while also allowing for additional hands-on experience with other native California wildlife. The interns will be working closely with the Marine Mammal program staff in all aspects of stranding response and rehabilitation, including logistics, assessment, capture/restraint, transportation, husbandry, and public relations. In addition, interns will provide support to CWC Hospital staff in animal husbandry tasks for avian and terrestrial wildlife. Intern Qualifications The internship is open to all applicants at least 18 years of age or older. If the intern intends to receive academic credit, the intern will be responsible for making all arrangements with their educational institutions. Due to the unpredictable nature of marine mammal stranding response, interns may sometimes be required to work beyond their normal scheduled hours. Interns must be able and willing to work flexible hours including weekends and holidays. Interns will be required to have good physical strength and the ability to lift/carry 50 lbs. Interns need to have the ability to multitask and work in a fast paced environment. Animal care and/or marine mammal experience is a plus but not required. Applicant must demonstrate proof of negative TB test within the past year and a current tetanus vaccination. Intern Responsibilities Assess stranded marine mammals. Coordinate and lead responder team in the capture and handling of stranded marine mammals needing medical attention. Coordinate transport of stranded marine mammals to the rehabilitation facility. Complete NMFS Level A data sheets while maintaining detailed database records. Assist with marine mammal necropsy and sample collection. Assist in daily husbandry tasks of marine mammals admitted to the on-site rehabilitation facility. Work closely with Marine Department staff to provide patient-specific rehabilitative care. Maintain good rapport with representatives of various agencies. Program Dates All sessions are six weeks long. 32 hour per week minimum time commitment. Two positions available per session. Start and end dates are somewhat flexible. Session I: Mid-February to end of March Session II: Mid-March to beginning of May Session III: End of April to beginning of June Session IV: Beginning of June to mid-July Application Deadlines Sessions I & II applications due January 15. Sessions III & IV applications due March 31. Other Information Internships are unpaid. Housing and transportation are the responsibility of the intern. Must have own transportation and current drivers license. Very limited on-site housing available at no cost. All individuals selected for on-site housing will be required to complete 40 hours per week. Application Process Interested individuals must send the following: -Letter of intent -Resume -Two letters of reference -Proof of vaccinations (tetanus) Your letter of intent must state the Session (please choose no more than two) you are applying for and detail interests, experience, housing accommodations requested and availability. Please submit the above items via regular mail or email (preferred) to: California Wildlife Center Attn: Jeff Hall P.O. Box 2022 Malibu, CA 90265 Email: jeff(a)cawildlife.org Please visit our website for more information: www.cawildlife.org. -- JEFF Hall Marine Program Manager California Wildlife Center

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Wastewater Discharge and Cook Inlet Beluga Whale
by Jokela, Brett 17 Dec '14

17 Dec '14

Anchorage Water and Wastewater Utility (AWWU) prepared a biological evaluation (BE) in 2011, for use in reauthorization of its federal wastewater discharge permit. The work focused on analysis of contaminant pathways associated with the Cook Inlet Beluga Whale (CIBW) population in Cook Inlet, Alaska. CIBW was identified as an endangered distinct population segment in 2008, in accordance with the federal (U.S.) Endangered Species Act (ESA). This final draft document summarized the potential pathways and potential ecological risks to the CIBW, and is available through a link from the Utility's home page at: http://www.awwu.biz/website/default.htm, or directly at: http://www.awwu.biz/eInfo/Files/Cook%20Inlet%20Water%20Quality/2011%20-%20E… The U.S. EPA is currently reviewing the final draft BE for prospective use in ESA consultation with the National Marine Fisheries Service. We would be happy to answer questions you may have concerning this report. [awwu_wave_DkBlue] J. Brett Jokela, P.E. General Manager Anchorage Water & Wastewater Utility Direct: 907-786-5511 Cell: 907-529-7383 brett.jokela(a)awwu.biz<mailto:brett.jokela@awwu.biz>

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Whale and Dolphin Conservation, NA Field Research Internship
by Monica Pepe 17 Dec '14

17 Dec '14

Whale and Dolphin Conservation, North America (NA), located in Plymouth, Massachusetts, offers internships and field volunteer positions, providing research, policy, education and administration experience in working for an international non-profit organization. We are currently accepting applications for spring and summer 2015 positions, which begin as early as April 1st. The deadline to submit an application for spring/summer positions is Monday, February 2nd. The positions are offered to qualified applicants throughout the year, allowing each participant/student to customize their learning experience based on their interest, skill set, and availability. Successful applicants will become proficient at field data collection, educational outreach, and conservation of marine mammals. Interns will also complete a focused project furthering professional development Background to the program The focus of the WDC internship/volunteer program is to give participants exposure to all aspects of working with a conservation non-profit organization. Successful candidates are tasked with everything from field research to office administration. All interns gain experience with public speaking by interacting with passengers aboard whale watching vessels, participating in school talks and other public outreach events. Other potential opportunities include writing blogs, water sampling, attending workshops/conferences, and responding to stranded animals, though these are not guaranteed opportunities. This program exposes interns to real world experiences that will help them develop the skills and understanding needed to succeed in the field of marine mammal conversation and research. Participants will gain an in-depth perspective of this field and a better understanding of where their interests lie. Through this internship, a number of skills are developed including analytical, organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills. As part of the field work experience, interns will learn species identification, behavioral sequencing, data collection and photo identification research techniques on marine mammals in the Gulf of Maine. They will also have the opportunity to go out on commercial whale watching boats several times a week (field season is April through October) to photograph and record sightings of humpback, finback, and minke whales, as well as other notable marine wildlife. The frequency of fieldwork is weather dependent. Days not in the field will be spent at the office uploading photos and data into our photo identification database or working on any projects that might be assigned. Based on time of year and the interest level of successful applicants, the intern program may include all or some portion of the following: Education and Outreach * Whale Watch Naturalist Training * Outreach to local schools and the general public * Assisting with and learning about the importance of ecotourism and best practices * Writing blogs about work conducted or current events while interning with WDC * Attendance at conferences and meetings Research * Cataloging individually identifiable humpback and finback whales * Collection of marine mammal sightings and distributional data in the Southern Gulf of Maine * Researching and submitting grant applications * Analyzing body condition of marine mammals through scarring and skin condition * Preparing a report of the previous season's whale sightings with historical analysis, risk issues and the impact of cumulative developmental threats * Attendance and participation in stranding training and events Conservation * Supporting WDC personnel at key conservation meetings * Literature research for written and oral comments submitted to federal agencies At the end of the program our hope is that interns will be able to leave with a comprehensive understanding of both the exciting and routine aspects of what it takes to research and conserve marine mammals. More information can be found at whales.org. There is no fee or compensation for the internship/volunteer positions. Participants must arrange for their own transportation to and from Plymouth and provide their own food. Limited housing with a shared bedroom is available on site for a monthly fee of $300, which is strictly to offset the cost of housing. Assistance can be provided in finding alternate housing at the request of the applicant, and those that can provide their own housing are encouraged to apply. WDC is willing to help qualified students obtain credits for the program through their college or university. The program requires a minimum commitment of 3 months, with the possibility of extending the term on a case-by-case basis. International applicants interested in the internship program must be able to secure their own travel Visa and other required documentation. Candidate Requirements * Fluency in English. * Must be 18 years or older (preference given to students matriculated in or recently graduated from appropriate graduate or under graduate degree programs.) * Be able to show proof of valid health insurance. * Act effectively as a member of a close-knit team. * Be open to long days in the field or office. * Ability to work on sea going vessels for long hours that may require physical labor. * Good computer skills - familiarity with operating PCs and MACs. * Excellent verbal and written communications skills. * Familiarity with literature research protocols is beneficial. * Ability to function well under pressure. * Must be comfortable speaking in front of groups of people of all ages and able to handle unanticipated situations. * Familiarity with DSLR camera, GPS equipment is preferred. * Ability to impart information in an understandable way to the public under a variety of conditions. NOTE: You need not be a marine biology student/graduate to apply. How to Apply Please submit the following via e-mail to monica.pepe(a)whales.org<mailto:monica.pepe@whales.org>: 1. Cover letter and Resume (no more than 3 pages) 2. Contact information for two references including e-mail and phone numbers 3. A supporting document of no more than 500 words answering one of the following: * Do whales die through human's knowledge or ignorance? * Preservation or conservation. Which offers the best route to a sustainable population of an endangered species and why? * How do you convert apathy into interest and then into action? We are currently accepting applications for spring and summer 2015 positions, which begin as early as April 1st. The deadline to submit an application for spring/summer positions is Monday, February 2nd. Applicants should make sure they clearly indicate their availability (specific dates, if possible) in their cover letter. Successful applicants will be contacted after the application deadline to set up an interview. Any additional questions should be directed to Monica Pepe via email at monica.pepe(a)whales.org<mailto:monica.pepe@whales.org> or by calling the office at (508) 746-2522. WDC, Whale and Dolphin Conservation, is the leading international charity dedicated solely to the worldwide conservation and welfare of all whales, dolphins, and porpoises. WDC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin. [WDC - Whale and Dolphin Conservation]<http://www.whales.org/> Monica Pepe Conservation and Education Manager Telephone: +1 508 746 2522 Skype monica.c.pepe WDC, Whale and Dolphin Conservation 7 Nelson Street Plymouth MA 02360-4044 United States 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/USOrcasbe…]<http://us.whales.org/dams> ________________________________ Whale and Dolphin Conservation ("WDC"), Inc. is an IRS recognized 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Your contributions are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. WDC, 7 Nelson Street, Plymouth, MA 02360-4044 Tel: +1 (508) 746-2522 This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager. Please note that any views or opinions presented in this email are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the company. Finally, the recipient should check this email and any attachments for the presence of viruses. The company accepts no liability for any damage caused by any virus transmitted by this email. ________________________________

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Mystic Aquarium Marsh Field Scientist
by Freeman, Kathleen 17 Dec '14

17 Dec '14

The Mystic Aquarium, located in Mystic, CT, announces a Summer 2015 Internship. This internship is supported by a stipend of $1000.00. The application deadline is February 28, 2015. The Mystic Aquarium seeks a salt marsh scientist to assist with the planning and implementation of the Summer on the Marsh program, a collaborative project of the New England Ocean Science Education Collaborative and funded by the Environmental Protection Agency. Summer on the Marsh will help eight New England environmental education-focused camps establish or expand monitoring programs using salt marshes in their area. Scientist's duties will be focused primarily on assisting Mystic Aquarium in planning and implementing the salt marsh data protocol with campers, ages 9-12, during the summer camp season. The ideal candidate is a highly-motivated individual with a salt marsh science background looking to apply their skills and knowledge in engaging youth outdoors. An example would be a graduate student aiming to bolster their experience and skills in this field. Complete information on the internship application process may be found on our website, http://www.mysticaquarium.org/get-involved/internships. Kathy Freeman Internship Coordinator Human Resources Department Phone | 860-572-5955 Ext 306 kfreeman(a)searesearch.org<mailto:kfreeman@searesearch.org> [MA_Email.gif] [Description: Description: Description: Description: Description: Description: FBicon]<http://www.facebook.com/mysticaquarium>[Description: Description: Description: Description: Description: Description: twitterlogo]<http://twitter.com/mysticaquarium>[Description: cid:image007.png@01CBE934.31FFF3E0]<http://www.youtube.com/user/MysticAquarium>

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Bimini Program Deadline Extended to 5 Jan 2015
by Yeater, Prof. Deirdre M. 16 Dec '14

16 Dec '14

STUDY ABROAD BIMINI, THE BAHAMAS PS 299 - Special Topics in Psychology (3 Credits) - or - BI 199/299 - Special Topics in Biology for Non-Majors/Majors(3 Credits) Summer 2015: May 26 - June 8, 2015 *** Deadline Extended until January 5, 2015! Led by Dr. Deirdre Yeater in the Sacred Heart University Psychology department in collaboration with Dolphin Communication Project, this course will examine the behavioral and social ecology of coastal cetaceans, particularly Atlantic spotted and bottlenose dolphins. You will enjoy a hands-on learning experience with wild dolphins, in the beautiful waters surrounding the island of Bimini in the Bahamas. On the program, you will earn three credits while learning to record and analyze dolphin behaviors. You will also learn about ecotourism and human impacts on the marine environment. The field work at Bimini will consist of 4 to 5 hour boat surveys. If the group is able to make underwater observations, you will be assisting in the use of underwater slates, video cameras, and digital still cameras. The number of students accepted will be limited by the size of the research vessel. Therefore, you should apply as soon as possible. You MUST be able to swim and snorkel as part of the program. Application Deadline January 5! For more information, contact: Sacred Heart University Office of Global Affairs (203) 396-8028 studyabroad(a)sacredheart.edu<mailto:studyabroad@sacredheart.edu> www.sacredheart.edu/studyabroad<http://www.sacredheart.edu/studyabroad> https://sacredheart-sa.terradotta.com/index.cfm?FuseAction=Programs.ViewPro… or Dolphin Communication Project http://www.dolphincommunicationproject.org/ Program Highlights Study Dolphins Dolphins are long-lived and social! Yet, we know little about their social relationships. Study dolphins in their natural habitat. Bimini, The Bahamas Less than 7 mile long and only a few hundred yards wide, Bimini is known for big game fishing, SCUBA diving, mangroves, and of course, wild dolphins. Application Requirements Students majoring/minoring in Psychology, Biology, or a related discipline Minimum GPA of 3.0 Visiting students accepted Deirdre Yeater, Ph.D Assistant Professor Sacred Heart University 5151 Park Avenue Fairfield, CT 06825 Phone: 203-365-4870 Fax: 203-371-7998

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New publication on bottlenose dolphin social structure in the Mediterranean Sea
by Monica F. Blasi 16 Dec '14

16 Dec '14

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce the publication ofour recent paper on PLOS ONE: Title: Monica F. Blasi and Luigi Boitani (2014). Complex Social Structure of an Endangered Population of Bottlenose Dolphins(Tursiops truncatus) in the AeolianArchipelago (Italy) Abstract: We investigated social structure and association patterns for a smallpopulation of Mediterranean bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops truncatus,inhabiting the Aeolian Archipelago (southern Italy). Specifically we evaluatethe role of sex and age composition, residency patterns and interaction withtrammel nets on this social organization. Association data for 23 regularlysighted individuals were obtained from summer photoidentification surveyscollected from 2005–2012. Using a combined cluster and social network analysisapproach, we found associations between dolphins were hierarchicallystructured, where two mixed-sex social units were subdivided into smallertemporarily dynamic groups. We found non-random and long-term preferredassociations in the population; however, the degree of social cohesion,residence pattern and interaction with trammel nets differed considerablybetween the two social units. Six of eight females occurred in the moreresident social unit-1; in addition, social unit-1 individuals hadsignificantly stronger associations, higher preferred associates, lived inlarger groups and occurred less frequently with trammel nets. Nine of elevenmales were clustered in social unit-2 and five of these males, interacting withtrammel nets, formed small groups and preferred associations. We propose thatfemale and male groups associate in the study area during the breeding seasonand that some males choose to interact with reproductive females forming adistinct but interrelated social unit. Other males may be associating in alarger fission-fusion network, which consists of dolphins that appear totemporarily join the network from the coastal population. We cannot excludethat some males specialized in trammel net foraging, suggesting that thisforaging technique may favor a solitary lifestyle. Large group sizes and highdegree of social cohesion for females could be an indication of greaterprotection and more efficiency in detecting, deterring or repellinganthropogenic pressures. Most likely dolphins' social organization depends on acombination of socio-ecological, demographic and anthropogenic factors. You can find the paper at the link: http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0114849 Sincerely, Monica F. Blasi Filicudi WildLife Conservation Località Stimpagnato, Filicudi, 98055 Lipari (ME), Italy mail: blasimf(a)yahoo.com web: www.filicudiconservation.com ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Monica F. Blasi, PhD Ass. FILICUDI WildLife Conservation Località Stimpagnato Filicudi; 98055 Lipari (ME), Italia www.filicudiconservation.com cel: +39 3494402021 email: blasimf(a)yahoo.com info(a)filicudiconservation.com

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