March 2014 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Papers request, Hello from Yangtze finless porpoises of China
by 张长群 16 Mar '14

16 Mar '14

Dear MARMAMERS I am ZHANG Changqun who study behavior of Yangtze finless porpoises in Baiji Dolphinarium in Wuhan, china as a master student. What I did belongs to part of breeding project which aim to achieve artificial breeding success in this kin of riverine dolphin as well as to save unique freshwater dolphin inhabiting in Yangtze river from extinct as previous Baiji dolphin. Nowadays, I am looking for some papers as well as books which is important to my study, However, could not be got in china. the information of those wanted papers are put on the following list. I would be very grateful if you can contact me if you have any copy of the listed papers and sent to me by E-mail:changqunz@gmail.com. I am looking forward to hearing from you. Best regards Zhang changqun Wanted literature: 1. Martinez, D. R. and Klinghammer, E. 1978. A partial ethogram of the killer whale. Carnivore1: 13-27 2. Community structure of Bottlenose Dolphins near Sarasota, Florida. Wells, R.S. (1995) 3. Weaver, A. C. 1987. An ethogram of naturally occurring behavior of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in southern Californian waters. Masters Thesis, San Diego State University 4. http://www.jstor.org/discover/10.2307/4533490?uid=3737800&uid=2&uid=4&sid=2… -- More respect, less attack!

1 0

D.C. Marine Celebration 03/27/2014, Barcode, 6-10pm
by Katheryn Patterson 16 Mar '14

16 Mar '14

2014 D.C. Marine Celebration 6 – 10pm, Thurs. 27March 2014 BAR-CÖDE, 1101 17th Street NW, Washington D.C. Happy hour celebration with SCB, DCMC, WAN, GMU and SIN, bringing the area’s top marine and conservation networks together for the fourth time! With FREE appetizers (while they last)! It's time to dust-off your best Hawaiian shirt to encourage the arrival of spring!We hope you can attend this year's D.C. Marine Celebration - Thursday, 27 March 2014, from 6-9pm at Barcode (1101 17th Street NW, Washington DC), flyer attached. This is a greatly successful event in terms of student outreach and networking in the area. Come join in the fun with the area's top marine and conservation network anytime between 6-10pm. Please RSVP to Katheryn Patterson (kpatter3(a)gmu.edu) by 25 March 2014. **APOLOGIES FOR CROSS POSTINGS** Katheryn W. Patterson, Ph.D. Candidate Environmental Science and Public Policy George Mason University Fairfax, VA kpatter3(a)gmu.edu Twitter: @MarineKatPat

1 0

Course Announcement: An Introduction To Using GIS In Marine Biology - Glasgow, UK, 23-25 June 2014
by Colin D. MacLeod 16 Mar '14

16 Mar '14

Course Announcement: An Introduction To Using GIS In Marine Biology GIS In Ecology will be holding an introductory training course on using GIS for marine biological research in Glasgow, Scotland, on the 23rd to 25th of June 2014. It will be taught by Dr. Colin D. MacLeod, the author of ‘An Introduction To Using GIS In Marine Biology’ (Pictish Beast Publications). It is aimed at those just starting to use GIS in their research and who have little or no existing knowledge of this subject area. More information about this course can be found at: http://www.gisinecology.com/Training_Course_Glasgow_June_2014.htm. All the practical exercises will be done using a standard data set so you do not need to have your own data to do this course. Attendance will be limited to a maximum of 12 people. The course will cost £395 per person (£300 for students, the unwaged and those working for registered charities). To book a place, or for more information, contact: info(a)GISinEcology.com. At the end of the course, all attendees will receive a certificate of attendance and completion. Each certificate is embossed with the GIS In Ecology official stamp to prevent its fraudulent reproduction. In addition, each certificate has its own unique identification number that we will record, along with your name, meaning that we can verify the authenticity of the certificates we issue (and the course you have completed) on request. To attend this course, you must bring your own laptop computer and have a fully licensed copy of ArcGIS 9.3, 10, 10.1, 10.2 software (ArcGIS 10.2 is the preferred software), and a licence for the ArGIS Spatial Analyst extension pre-installed on it. You can find information about how to get this software package at https://groups.google.com/forum/#!topic/gis-in-ecology-forum/NbFCsGwJ0e8. It addition, you will also need to have spreadsheet software, such as Excel, on your computer. Glasgow has great transport links and is within half a days travel by car or by fast train links from most cities in the UK. For example, it can be reached in as little as 4h 30mins from London by train. It can also be reached by direct flights from many European cities and the flight time is generally under four hours. The course will be held in central Glasgow at the IET Glasgow Teacher Building (14 St Enoch Square, Glasgow, G1 4DB, UK). Attendees will be responsible for their own accommodation. However, Glasgow provides a wide range of accommodation options to fit most budgets. Information on hotels and hostels in Glasgow can be found by visiting the webpage for the course. This course will be followed by a second course running from the 26 – 27th June at the same venue titled ‘An Introduction To Species Distribution Modelling In The Marine Environment’. For more information on this course, visit http://www.gisinecology.com/Training_Course_SDM_June_2014.htm. All the best, Colin ================================================================================== GIS IN ECOLOGY - Providing Training, Advice And Consultancy On The Use Of GIS In Ecology To help the environment, please do not print out this email unless it is unavoidable. ==================================================================================

1 0

new gray whale book
by James Sumich 15 Mar '14

15 Mar '14

I am pleased to announce the publication of a new ebook: E. robustus: The Biology and Human History of Gray Whales. The transformation of our view of gray whales over the past century from devilfish to gentle giants has been nothing short of remarkable. Whether you are a casual whale watcher or an avid observer of these animals, this is the $10 gray whale resource you have been waiting for. Extensively illustrated with over 140 color photographs, maps and line drawings, this book makes information on the biology and human history of gray whales accessible to those unfamiliar with the published scientific literature on the species. Topics range from basic anatomy and migratory behavior of gray whales to the latest research on the genetics of western gray whales. This book also provides an overview of the scientific research on this species, while tracing the history of whaling activities, gray whales in captivity and the growth of modern whale-watching activities. Purchase and download information for most ereader devices are available at: www.thegraywhalebook.com. Jim Sumich jlsumich1(a)gmail.com

1 0

Volunteers required to assist with a study of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in Northland, New Zealand
by Peters, Catherine 15 Mar '14

15 Mar '14

Volunteers 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<http://masseyuniversity.webs.com/ourteam.htm> and postgraduate students<http://masseyuniversity.webs.com/students.htm> 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 in press). 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 all periods from April 2014 onwards. 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. 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, whilst working on an important research project. For more detailed information on the project please do not hesitate to contact me. Thank you for your interest. Many thanks Catherine PhD Student Coastal-Marine Research Group Institute of Natural Sciences Massey University Private Bag 102 904 North Shore City 0745 Auckland New Zealand Tel: +64 (0) 9 414 0800 EXT 41196 Mob: +64 (0) 211 058040 Fax: +64 (9) 443 9790 Email: c.peters(a)massey.ac.nz http://cmrg.massey.ac.nz<http://cmrg.massey.ac.nz/>

1 0

MS Research Assistantship to study risk of collision between boats and marine mammals
by julien martin 15 Mar '14

15 Mar '14

Title: MS Research Assistantship to study risk of collision between boats and marine mammals. We are recruiting a MS student for the fall of 2014 to study risk of collision between boats and marine mammals. The student would join the department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation at the University of Florida, and would be co-advised by Dr. Julien Martin (Research Scientist, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)) and Dr. Robert Fletcher (Associate Professor, University of Florida). This partnership between the University of Florida and FWC provides a unique opportunity for a student interested in contributing to the integration of science and management. The student will spend time at both the University of Florida in Gainesville and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute in St Petersburg, FL. The student would contribute to the development of a quantitative decision support tool to link the effects of potential management actions on 2 species of endangered marine mammals: manatees and North Atlantic right whales. Examples of analyses include: (1) statistical modeling (including spatial analysis) using Bayesian methods; (2) agent based modeling. In addition to being technically challenging, this project could have useful policy implications for management. Existing datasets available for analysis include: spatial databases of vessel traffic, GPS and radio telemetry data of manatees, time-depth recorders, capture mark recapture information, and aerial survey data of whales and manatees. Qualifications: We are looking for students who are interested in developing an expertise in quantitative ecology and decision making for conservation. Candidates with some knowledge of programming such as: R, MATLAB, Scilab, or Python will be given preference. Knowledge of Geographic Information System software (e.g., ArcGIS) desired, but not required. Ability to work in a team environment is required. Please, also check admission requirements at: http://graduateschool.ufl.edu/admission/requirements-for-all-applicants Stipend and benefits: The successful applicant will receive two years of research assistantship stipend ($19,660/year), tuition waiver (~$11,400/year), and fringe benefits including health insurance. Funds are also available for the student to participate at a scientific conference. To apply: Please submit a letter of interest, CV, transcripts and GRE scores, and the contact of three references to: Julien Martin: julien.martin(a)myfwc.com Review of applications will begin March 28th and will continue until a suitable applicant is selected.

1 0

Course for whale watching guide in Tarifa, Spain
by eandreu 15 Mar '14

15 Mar '14

Course for whale watching guide, Tarifa, Spain: Taught content: Legislation for cetacean observation and tourism; The role of a touristic guide; Technics for interpretation and communication: the dynamics of groups; The tourism of cetacean observation: origin and evolution; The Gibraltar strait: oceanographic, geologic, meteorological and socio-economic characteristics; Biogeography, ethology, ecology, threats and conservation status of cetaceans. Practical content: 4 on board practical sessions under the supervision of an experienced guide in the vessels of Turmares (guaranteed); 1 on board research session in the vessel Rainbow (if weather allows). Price: 350 per person 320 p/p for a group b/n 6 to 9 people 300 p/p for a group of 10 + *Prices include accommodation and the course´s taught and practical contents; 20 % discount is available for students, unemployed, pensioners and people with already arranged accommodation. In order for effective reservation to be done: 100 euro deposit p/p, necessary. Dates: March, 2014: 21st, 22nd , 23rd, 28th, 29th and 30th (Intensive) May, 2014: 1st- 4th May, 2014: 16th, 17th, 18th , 23rd,24th and 25th (Intensive) June: 5th-8th For more information contact: Ezequiel Andréu, head of the research and environmental education department at Turmares: e-mail: eandreu(a)turmares.com; mob: +34600667061; stationary: + 34956680741 Website (updated version coming soon): http://www.turmares.com/ -- Ezequiel Andréu Cazalla Dpto. Medio Ambiente Turmares Tarifa S.L. 650570668/956680741 eandreu(a)turmares.com turmares(a)turmares.com

1 0

Goodman Memorial Symposium Live-stream
by Goodman Memorial Symposium 14 Mar '14

14 Mar '14

The Daniel Goodman Memorial Symposium Decision-Making Under Uncertainty: Risk Assessment and the Best Available Science 20-21 March 2014 We will be live-streaming the Goodman Memorial Symposium on our website (http://www.montana.edu/lettersandscience/Goodman/) The purpose of the symposium is to explore ways to improve how scientists and managers use ecological data and analyses to inform policy and decision-making, taking into account the uncertainty inherent in ecological data and predicted outcomes of management actions. Symposium speakers will address the theme in the context of marine mammal and fisheries management, ecosystem modeling, Bayesian statistics, ecological decision-making and population viability analysis, U.S. Endangered Species Act policy, scientific mentoring, and environmental monitoring. See our website for the full schedule of talks <http://www.montana.edu/lettersandscience/Goodman/Goodman_schedule.html> with abstracts. Attendees (both off- and on-site) can use #GoodmanSymposium2014 on Twitter to follow the backchannel conference conversation and post question and comments for the speakers. Thank you to our generous sponsors <http://www.montana.edu/lettersandscience/Goodman/Goodman_sponsors.html> for allowing us to provide this live-stream! We hope you will join us!

1 0

Curriculum vitae program announcement via distance learning at MCERC
by Mithriel MacKay 14 Mar '14

14 Mar '14

Dear Colleagues, The Marine and Coastal Ecology Research Center (MCERC) is offering a distance learning course aimed at helping undergraduates and recent graduates of marine biology and marine science programs preparing to apply for internships, employment, or graduate school. Marine mammal work often involves short and long term commitments including internships, contract work, and honors/graduate research projects. Developing a CV that will communicate marine mammal research experience can differ from other professions with long term work from a single employer. A well written package has the potential to better compete for opportunities. This program has been developed in response to many of our marine biology students requesting a day of their field intensive courses be dedicated to creating effective communication via CVs, letter of interest, and email correspondence to potential employers and future graduate advisers. Please share the information below with your students or peers. CV Preparation for Marine Biologists Geared towards undergraduates and recent graduates of marine biology/marine science -A distance learning program : participate in a live classroom from your location prerequisites include a working computer with MS Word and reliable internet access -8 hours of instruction: one 4 hour block each week for two weeks - Classes limited to 10 students per session - Preparation of an effective curriculum vitae and letter of interest -Tips on how to introduce and market yourself through email to perspective employers and potential graduate advisers Session 1: (2 Saturdays) April 26 and May 03, 2014 8:00am -12:00pm CST Session 2: (2 Saturdays) April 26 and May 03, 2014 1:00pm -5:00pm CST Session 3: (2 Sundays) April 27 and May 04, 2014 8:00am -12:00pm CST Session 4: (2 Sundays) April 27 and May 04, 2014 1:00pm -5:00pm CST Session 5: (2 Wednesdays) April 30 and May 07, 2014 6:00pm -10:00pm CST Program fee: $100.00USD (MCERC program alumni receive a 10% discount!) Please email Lindsey(a)Marine-Eco.org, Mithriel(a)Marine-Eco.org, with questions or visit our website www.Marine-Eco.org for more information, Simple Application Form, a poster to share with your students, and a course description. *Your participation supports research and education programs at MCERC including the Humpback Whale PhD Dissertation research project.* -- *}-wh^ale> **}-wh^ale> **}-wh^ale> **}-wh^ale> **}-wh^ale> * *}-wh^ale>* Mithriel M. MacKay Ph.D. Candidate Marine Mammal Research Program Department of Marine Biology Texas A&M University, Galveston (830) 688-9878 mithriel.mackay(a)gmail.com and Director of Research and Education Marine and Coastal Ecology Research Center San German, Puerto Rico, USA and Pipe Creek, Texas 78063 www.Marine-Eco.org <http://www.marine-eco.org/> MCERC.mail(a)gmail.com

1 0

Online publication: New cetacean morbillivirus detected in Western Australia
by Nahiid Stephens 13 Mar '14

13 Mar '14

Dear Marmamers, My co-authors and I would like to announce our new article "Cetacean Morbillivirus in Coastal Indo-Pacific Bottlenose Dolphins, Western Australia", which is now available as a full-text online article ahead of print in Emerging Infectious Disease. It can be viewed in full here: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/article/20/4/13-1714_article.htm. Abstract: Cetacean morbillivirus (CeMV) has caused several epizootics in multiple species of cetaceans globally and is an emerging disease among cetaceans in Australia. We detected CeMV in 2 stranded coastal Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) in Western Australia. Preliminary phylogenetic data suggest that this virus variant is divergent from known strains. I recently presented these results at the Society for Marine Mammalogy's Biennial Conference in Dunedin, New Zealand (December 2013). We think it adds valuable information to the interesting recent developments in the study of Cetacean Morbillivirus worldwide. Best Wishes, Nahiid. Nahiid Stephens BSc BVMS (Hons) MANZCVSc (VetPath) Lecturer in Veterinary Pathology School of Veterinary and Life Sciences Murdoch University Murdoch WA 6150 Phone: +61 8 9360 2666 Email: N.Stephens(a)murdoch.edu.au<mailto:N.Stephens@murdoch.edu.au>

1 0