June 2014 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New publication: POPs in bottlenose dolphins
by NATALIA García 26 Jun '14

26 Jun '14

Dear Colleagues, It is a pleasure to inform you about the following papers on persistent organic pollutants in bottlenose dolphins of the Canary Islands; a publication of stranded animals in Marine Environmental Research and another of free-ranging dolphins, more recently published in Science of the Total Environment. 1- Levels and profiles of POPs (organochlorine pesticides, PCBs, and PAHs) in free-ranging common bottlenose dolphins of the Canary Islands, Spain. Natalia García-Alvarez, Vidal Martín, Antonio Fernández, Javier Almunia, Aina Xuriach, Manuel Arbelo, Marisa Tejedor, Luis D. Boada, Manuel Zumbado, Octavio P. Luzardo. Science of the Total Environment (2014), DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2014.05.125. Abstract: The effect of anthropogenic pollution in marine mammals worldwide has become an important issue due to the high concentrations found in many areas. The present study represents the first report of pollutants in free-ranging cetaceans from the Canary Islands, where there are 12 marine Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), because of the presence of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus).We selected this resident population of dolphins as a bioindicator to gain knowledge concerning the toxicological status of the cetaceans of this protected area. In 64 biopsy samples of live free-ranging animals sampled from 2003 to 2011, we determined the concentrations of 18 polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), 23 organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). We found high levels of many of these pollutants, and some of them were detectable in 100% of the samples. The median value for ΣOCPs was 57,104 ng.g−1 lipid weight (lw), and the dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p,p′-DDE) accounted for 70% of this amount. Among PCBs, congeners 180, 153 and 138 were predominant (82% of ΣPCBs; median = 30,783 ng.g−1 lw). Concerning the analyzed PAHs, the total median burden was 13,598 ng.g−1 lw, and phenanthrene was the compound measured at the highest concentration followed by pyrene and by naphthalene. Surprisingly, we have found that organohalogen pollutants exhibit an upward trend in recent years of sampling. Thus, according to the guidelines outlined in the EU's Marine Strategy Framework Directive, further monitoring studies in Canary Islands are required to contribute to the conservation of the resident populations of marine mammals in this region. The article is now available online at: http://authors.elsevier.com/sd/article/S0048969714008171 2- Assessment of the levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and organochlorine contaminants in bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) from the Eastern Atlantic Ocean. Natalia García-Álvarez, Luis D. Boada, Antonio Fernández, Manuel Zumbado, Manuel Arbelo, Eva Sierra, Aina Xuriach, Javier Almunia, María Camacho, Octavio P. Luzardo. Marine Environmental Research (2014), DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2014.03.010. Abstract: The concentrations of 18 polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), 23 organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), and 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were determined in the blubber and liver of 27 bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) stranded along the Canary Islands coasts from 1997 to 2011. DDTs (mean of 60,960 and 445 ng/g lw., respectively) and PCBs (mean of 47,168 and 628 ng/g lw., respectively) were the predominant compounds in both tissues. Among PCBs the highly chlorinated PCB 180, 153 and 138 were the predominant congeners. We found a p,p´-DDE/∑DDTs ratio of 0.87 in blubber and 0.88 in liver, which is indicative of DDT ageing. All the samples showed detectable values of any of the 16 PAH studied. Phenanthrene was the most frequently detected and at the highest concentration. According to our results, concentrations of OCPs, and especially PCBs, are still at toxicologically relevant levels in blubber of bottlenose dolphins of this geographical area. The article is now available online at: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0141113614000592 If you are interested on the pdf and do not have access to the article, please contact me on natalia.garcia117(a)alu.ulpgc.es Best regards, Natalia García Álvarez Institute of Animal Health (IUSA) Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas (ULPGC) Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain. Tel.: +34 928 459 711 E-mail address: Natalia.garcia117(a)alu.ulpgc.es

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Wildbook 5.0 for Wildlife Data Management
by Jason Holmberg 26 Jun '14

26 Jun '14

We are pleased to announce the general release of our Wildbook 5.0 wildlife data management framework. http://www.wildme.org/wildbook Wildbook is a web-based, comprehensive data-management system to store, manage, visualize and analyze mark-recapture data, especially where individual animal identification can be ascertained from photos or genetics (or both!). Wildbook is citizen science ready through the web, has a long history of development and support, and can be configured and/or modified (by us or by you) to meet specific project requirements. Here are some screenshots: http://www.wildme.org/wildbook/doku.php?id=screenshots Here are some implementations of Wildbook: http://www.whaleshark.org http://www.mantamatcher.org http://www.splashcatalog.org/mmuwildbook We also have a demo site at: http://www.wildbookdna.org Please email me (jason(a)whaleshark.org) for demo site access credentials. Wildbook is especially useful where a distributed team needs to collaborate over the web, providing a protected environment for data with highly configurable security. It can also use an array of different database software and database types under the covers, allowing you to take advantage of your existing IT skills. To find out more about Wildbook's capabilities and/or to download the software. Please visit the software website at: http://www.wildme.org/wildbook The Wildbook development team will attempt their best to address any questions. We are already working on the next version and are looking forward to receiving your feedback. Thank you! Jason Holmberg Information Architect for Wildbook Wild Me

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PSO & PAM Training - Rio de Janeiro - 07th - 11th August
by Sarah Hancock 26 Jun '14

26 Jun '14

PSO & PAM Training 07th - 11th August 2014 - Rio de Janeiro - Brazil PSO Module Protected Species Observer Training BOEM & BSEE Compliant A 2 day interactive course aimed at people who wish to pursue a career in marine mammal observation and mitigation for the offshore seismic industry. This course has been designed to equip the delegates with a thorough background on all the aspects you will be required to know when working offshore. We have incorporated a day on board a vessel to allow you to gain experience with marine mammal identification while at sea. Day 1 (classroom) . Introduction to Marine Mammals and Sea Turtles . Legislation within the Gulf of Mexico and global oceans . Introduction to Seismic Surveys . Permitting Requirements . Role of the PSO . Data Collection and Reporting Day 2 (classroom) . Clues and Search Methods for Marine Mammals and Sea Turtles . Species Identification . Testing and Certification PAM Module Passive Acoustic Monitoring Training Comprehensive 'hands-on' PAM training for delegates with a scientific background in biology and marine sciences who have successfully completed the certified PSO Module. Day 3 (classroom) . Sound In Water . Marine Mammals . Anthropogenic Noise in the Sea . Effects of Anthropogenic Noise on Marine Mammals . Local Mitigation Guidelines . PAM Principles and the Role of the PAM Operator Day 4 (classroom) . PAM Hardware and Operations . PAM Software . PAMGuard Workshop Day 5 (on a vessel) . Set up and deployment of PAM systems and visual observer stations . Troubleshooting . Real-time mitigation and reporting Course Fee: PSO - 1890 BRL PAM - 1890 BRL Combo - 2835 BRL Course coordinator: Sarah Hancock Tel: +44 1409 404 050 Mobile: +44 7825544436 Email: <mailto:sarah@seiche.eu.com> sarah(a)seiche.eu.com Website: <http://www.seiche.com> www.seiche.com

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Manatee Stranding Position at the Marine Mammal Pathobiology Lab
by Garrett, Andy 24 Jun '14

24 Jun '14

Dear MARMAM, If possible, could you please email the following job announcement out to members? Thank you. -Andy Garrett (FWC) 727-638-3295 Working Title: OPS FISHERIES & WILDLIFE BIO S Broadband/Class Code: 19-1023-02 Position Number: 77900922-51197272 Annual Salary Range: $11.00 per hour Announcement Type: Open Competitive City: SAINT PETERSBURG Facility: FISH AND WILDLIFE RESEARCH INSTITUTE Pay Grade/ Pay Band: BB008 Closing Date: 7/7/2014 Job Description: This position will assist in the coordination of salvage and recovery efforts of marine mammal carcasses for the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI) Marine Mammal Pathobiology Laboratory (MMPL). The incumbent will serve as member of FWC's manatee necropsy team conducting field and laboratory necropsies on manatee and other marine mammal carcasses, record observations and complete associated necropsy reports. This position will recover marine mammal carcasses for necropsy from the Northwest region (coastal and inland waterways of Manatee County to Escambia County) of Florida and assist in manatee rescue and transport operations in the Northwest region as well as assist with manatee rescue and capture operations away from designated area as needed. This position will be responsible for preparation and labeling of sample containers, carcass disposal, and cleaning of equipment and instruments. This position will be responsible for managing the FWC manatee bone loan program by preparing, cleaning, and shipping manatee full and partial skeletons to permitted recipients and maintaining the associated paperwork. This position will be responsible for processing and reading manatee earbones for age determination. This position will be responsible for coordinating MMPL volunteers including recruitment, scheduling, and assignment of tasks. This position will have an assigned work schedule of Sunday-Thursday (8:00 am-5:00 pm) and will be asked to respond to marine mammal emergencies and carcasses outside of normal work schedule as needed or assigned. This position will serve in a rotation with other MMPL staff members for the purpose of covering the Northwest Region during state holidays. Required Education: A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the biological sciences. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: * Knowledge of the Florida Manatee Recovery Plan and state and federal legislation protecting manatees * Knowledge of methods of data collection and principles and techniques of research and analysis * Knowledge of marine mammal anatomy and necropsy techniques * Knowledge of digital SLR cameras, filters, and lenses * Knowledge of marine mammal capture, handling, and transport techniques * Able to trailer flatbeds/utility trailers and watercraft vessels * Able to safely operate watercraft vessels 26' in length and smaller * Be capable of daily manual labor requiring handling of heavy and sharp objects and working under unpleasant conditions * Must be physically fit, able to vertically lift at least 75 lbs, and be able to swim sufficiently to save oneself * Able to conduct fieldwork in all weather conditions * Able to establish and maintain effective working relationships * Be comfortable speaking to the public * Possess or be able to obtain and maintain a Florida driver's license within a month of employment Preferred Experience: Applicants having live and dead marine mammal stranding/necropsy experience may be given preference. Application Requirements: Applicants are required to submit a complete, up-to-date, State of Florida Application Form electronically in People First, by midnight on the closing date listed. Go to: https://peoplefirst.myflorida.com (enter 77900909 in the keyword search field). Additionally, applicants are required to complete the additional application questions and are encouraged to attach a cover letter, resume and three references with their People First application by the closing date. Further supporting documentation may be submitted in People First, but do not replace the requirement for a completed State of Florida application form. If you experience technical difficulties during the application process or when attaching documents, call People First staffing at 1-877-562-7287. If unable to attach supporting documents to your application, they may be faxed to the People First Service Center at 1-888-403-2110. Be sure to include the Requisition number for the position to which you are applying on each page of your faxed documents. WHAT IS OPS EMPLOYMENT? Other Personal Services (OPS) employment is a temporary employer/employee relationship used solely for accomplishing short term or intermittent tasks. OPS employees do not fill established positions and may not be assigned the duties of any vacant authorized position. OPS employees are at-will employees and are subject to actions such as pay changes, changes to work assignment, and terminations at the pleasure of the agency head or designee. WHAT BENEFITS ARE APPLICABLE TO OPS EMPLOYEES? * State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan - mandatory * Workers' Compensation - mandatory * Reemployment Assistance (Unemployment Compensation) - mandatory * Participation in state group insurance (upon meeting eligibility requirements) * Deferred Compensation - voluntary * Employee Assistance Program - voluntary The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or the People First Service Center (1-877-562-7287). Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation. The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act. The State of Florida hires only U.S. citizens and lawfully authorized alien workers. An Employment Eligibility Verification Check will be conducted in the E-Verify System which is a federal government electronic database that confirms the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States. If you are a retiree of the Florida Retirement System (FRS), please check with the FRS on how your current benefits will be affected if you are re-employed with the State of Florida. Your current retirement benefits may be canceled, suspended or deemed ineligible depending upon the date of your retirement.

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Aquatic Conservation Special Issue "Ecology, Behaviour and Conservation of Sperm Whale in the Mediterranean Sea"
by Daniela Silvia Pace 22 Jun '14

22 Jun '14

Dear all, it is with great pleasure that - as co-editors - we inform you that the Aquatic Conservation Special Issue titled "Ecology, Behaviour and Conservation of Sperm Whale in the Mediterranean Sea" was published online: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/aqc.v24.S1/issuetoc We hope it generates a lot of interest and further research. Many thanks to all the authors, the referees, the other two co-editors Jonathan Gordon and Maurizio Wurtz, and the editor John Baxter for the hard work. With very best wishes, Daniela and Barbara ================================ Daniela Silvia Pace President and Barbara Mussi Vice-President OCEANOMARE DELPHIS ONLUS Rome Operating Office: Via G. Marinuzzi 74, 00124 tel&fax +39 0650910791 www.oceanomaredelphis.org postmaster(a)oceanomaredelphis.org Follow us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Oceanomare-Delphis-Onlus/160510983980667?v=ap…

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Volunteer opportunity with community-based protected area management organization in Belize
by Primate Rehabilitation Centre 22 Jun '14

22 Jun '14

INTERESTED IN TROPICAL ESTUARY MANAGEMENT? SUSTAINABLE FISHERY MANAGEMENT? SKILLED VOLUNTEER URGENTLY NEEDED IN BELIZE (1 Year) Deadline for Applications: 22nd July, 2014 Location: Sarteneja, Belize § Accommodation and food are provided. § Monthly stipend available after the 3 month probationary period. § Possible option to extend beyond 1 year TERMS OF REFERENCE Natural Resource Management Programme Manager Introduction: The Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development (SACD), a community based organization, has co-management responsibility for the Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, one of Belizes largest marine protected areas, and part of Mesoamericas priority, transboundary estuarine system. The organization is small but growing, and is composed of a committed, community-orientated team. It is based in the traditional fishing community of Sarteneja, and believes strongly in ensuring community participation in all of its activities. A particular focus of the NRMP during the coming year will be to establish a rights-based sustainable fishery framework in collaboration with the local fishermen, with implementation of supporting surveillance and enforcement and fish catch monitoring activities. SACD is seeking an enthusiastic, qualified and committed volunteer Natural Resource Management Programme (NRMP) Manager to take the leadership role in the development of the Natural Resource Management Programme for Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. The Natural Resource Management Programme (NRMP) Manager is a new post, available for a year, based on an initial 3 month probationary period, after which a stipend will be available to cover costs in Sarteneja. Depending on outputs, there may be an option to extend. The successful applicant will be working as part of the SACD team, based in Sarteneja, and working from the SACD office and with the ranger team in the Wildlife Sanctuary. The NRMP Manager will be responsible for ensuring the effective implementation and strengthening of the natural resource management activities presented in the Management Plan and Surveillance and Enforcement Plan. He /she will supervise and work with the ranger team, and is expected to lead by example. He / she will report to the Executive Director. The NRMP Manager will also be responsible for implementation of activities under the Research and Monitoring sub-programme, detailed in the Research and Monitoring Plan. Activities focus primarily on fish catch monitoring, the West Indian manatee, mangroves, seagrass and water quality, with the support of the ranger team, a part time research assistant and SACD interns / volunteers. The NRMP Manager will maintain close contact with the Education and Outreach Manager and Community Officer to ensure that the programmes activities and strategies are aligned and complementary. He/she will also support and advise the Executive Director in areas of relevance to the NRMP and Research and Monitoring programmes. Specific Responsibilities: 1. Natural Resource Management Programme 1.1 Protected Areas Enforcement § Review and revise the SACD Surveillance and Enforcement Plan, with integrated participation of the SACD ranger team and local fishermen, including a review and revision of policies and procedures for surveillance and enforcement activities. § Work with the ranger team, to actively enforce the regulations of the Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, the Fisheries Act, Wildlife Protection Act and other relevant legislation to improve biodiversity viability of the Wildlife Sanctuary. § Work with the ranger team to develop their capacity to respond to incidents within Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. § Develop quarterly reports detailing enforcement effort and incident review. 1.2 Sustainable Fishery Management § Work closely with SACD staff, local fishermen, Wildtracks, and the Belize Fisheries Department to develop and start implementation of a sustainable fishery plan for Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, following the recommendations of the Planning for a Sustainable Fishery for Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary report. § Develop quarterly reports detailing activities and outputs. § Work with the Executive Director to ensure necessary funds are sought for NRMP operations and the Sustainable Fishery Management activities, and to develop project proposals which align with the SACD Strategic Plan and CBWS Management Plan § Develop annual optimal and minimum budgets for the NRMP, in collaboration with the finance officer 1.3 Research and Monitoring Sub-Programme § Work closely with SACD ranger team, and research and monitoring partners (Wildtracks and Blue Ventures) to ensure that critical research and monitoring activities are implemented effectively and on schedule, as per the SACD Research and Monitoring Plan. § Build the capacity of SACD staff, volunteers and interns in research and monitoring activities through in-the-field training. § Develop quarterly reports detailing activities and outputs. § Work closely with the Executive Director to assist with project implementation under the Natural Resource Management Programme § Work closely with the Executive Director, SACD staff and Wildtracks in the mid-term review and revision of the 5 year management plan for the Corozal Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. § In partnership with the Executive Director and Wildtracks, prepare the annual State of Protected Areas report, summarising the research and monitoring outputs, and assist in preparation of the SACD Annual Report and other required reports. § Work with the Executive Director and Wildtracks to ensure necessary funds are sought for Research and Monitoring activities, and to develop project proposals which align with the SACD Strategic Plan and CBWS Management Plan. § Develop annual optimal and minimum budgets for the Research and Monitoring sub-programme, in collaboration with the finance officer. 2. Internal and external partnerships § Work closely with Executive Director and Finance Manager through regular meetings to report on budget progress § Work closely with Executive Director and Wildtracks on research and monitoring activities, recommendations and strengthening of the sub-programme § Provide advice to Executive director for the recruitment and termination of staff contracts. § Provide advice to Executive director for corrective action on program staff including the issuance of warnings over conduct. § Work closely with the Executive Director to maintain open, collaborative relationships with the Forest and Fisheries Departments, staff at Hol Chan and Bacalar Chico Marine Reserves, Mexican counterparts (SEMA and ECOSUR), community and other relevant stakeholders. § Collaborate closely with the Executive Director towards developing and maintaining partnerships with national and international organizations relating to funding, training and capacity building opportunities for SACD. § At the discretion of the Executive Director, may be required to represent SACD at national, and occasionally international, level on issues pertaining to the protected area. Evaluation Evaluation will be conducted annually by the Executive Director and will include: § Fulfilment of this Terms of Reference and contract § Adherence to SACDs policies and operational procedures § Assessment of implementation and output success of the following plans: § Surveillance and Enforcement Plan § Research and Monitoring Plan § Sustainable Fishery Plan Qualifications The primary qualifications / experience required for the post include: § Marine resource management § Sustainable fishery management § Experience working in a tropical, developing country environment § Experience working with communities / fishermen § Data collection and analysis § Planning and plan implementation § Working as a team leader § Good writing skills Fluent English / Spanish important § Accommodation and food are provided. § Monthly stipend available after the 3 month probationary period. § Possible option to extend beyond 1 year Please submit an application letter by 12th July, 2014, outlining you interest and experience in the above areas, and a CV to: Mr. Joel Verde Executive Director, Sarteneja Alliance for Conservation and Development Sarteneja Belize Central America E-mail: <mailto:sacdsarteneja@gmail.com> sacdsarteneja(a)gmail.com

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New publication on EIA at marine renewable energy developments
by Ruth Leeney 21 Jun '14

21 Jun '14

Dear MARMAM subscribers, The following paper has recently been published and may be of interest to some marine mammal biologists contributing to Environmental Impact Assessments, particularly for marine renewable energy developments. R.H. Leeney, D. Greaves, D. Conley, A.M. O'Hagan. (2014) *Environmental Impact Assessments for wave energy developments: Learning from existing activities and informing future research priorities*. Ocean & Coastal Management (published online). 9 pp. *Abstract* Plans for Marine Renewable Energy Installations (MREI) are developing worldwide, yet many questions still remain about the impacts such developments may have on marine ecosystems and on coastal and oceanographic processes. This uncertainty, combined with a lengthy and complex Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) phase prior to consent, has slowed the growth of the marine renewables sector. Information on completed and ongoing EIAs at MREI sites across Europe was summarised and compared amongst sites and with completed, comprehensive EIAs for Horns Rev offshore wind farm and the SeaGen tidal turbine site at Strangford Lough. This allowed for the identification of commonalities and differences in monitoring activities, and of data gaps in the wave energy EIA process. Studies on the socio-economic impacts of MREIs were lacking, as were monitoring of fish, fish habitats, electromagnetic fields and their impacts on marine wildlife. Even amongst sites monitoring similar topics, methodologies varied greatly. Science cannot inform the management of marine renewables whilst there are inconsistencies in baseline and impact monitoring, as this study has documented. A streamlined EIA process and collaborations between researchers and developers are required to move the industry forward. Available at: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0964569114001732 -- Ruth H. Leeney, PhD Benguela Research & Training Walvis Bay, Namibia T: (+264)-81-809-8214 *http://publicationslist.org/ruth.leeney <http://publicationslist.org/ruth.leeney>* *www.westafricacetaceans.blogspot.com <http://www.westafricacetaceans.blogspot.com>* *The Protect Africa's Sawfishes project* https://www.facebook.com/ProtectAfricasSawfishes

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New paper on harbor porpoise in Cook Inlet, Alaska
by Kim Shelden - NOAA Federal 19 Jun '14

19 Jun '14

The following new paper has just been published: Shelden, K.E.W., B.A, Agler, J.J. Brueggeman, L.A. Cornick, S.G. Speckman, and A. Prevel-Ramos. 2014. Harbor porpoise, Phocoena phocoena vomerina, in Cook Inlet, Alaska. Marine Fisheries Review 76(1-2):22-50. The paper can be downloaded for free at: http://spo.nmfs.noaa.gov/mfr761-2/mfr761-22.pdf Abstract: Harbor porpoise, Phocoena phocoena vomerina, in Cook Inlet, Alaska, are managed as part of the Gulf of Alaska (GOA) stock. It is not known if this population is distinct from porpoise in the GOA stock found outside Cook Inlet. No long-term dedicated studies of harbor porpoise have occurred in Cook Inlet. The objective here is to provide a summary of occurrence in Cook Inlet derived from archaeological data, anecdotal reports, and systematic surveys. Maps were created for each dataset. For 1,500 years, Alutiiq Eskimo subsistence societies occupied lower Cook Inlet until abandoning the region around 600 A.D. During that time, harbor porpoise exploitation increased and eventually made up over one-third of the faunal remains by number at midden sites. The Dena'ina and Chugach Alutiiq continued porpoise hunting into the period of early contact in the late 1700's, after which there is no mention of continued exploitation. Harbor porpoise were rarely mentioned in expedition accounts collected by naturalists in the late 1800's and early 1900's. Beginning in 1958, pelagic fur seal, Callorhinus ursinus, investigators collected cetacean sightings in Alaska waters when seals were not present. However, none of the harbor porpoise sightings occurred in Cook Inlet. With the exception of one net entanglement in upper Cook Inlet in 1956, sightings and strandings (including fisheries bycatch) were not reported in the inlet until the mid-1970's. Interactions with fisheries factored in a quarter of the stranded animals recovered in Cook Inlet. Systematic surveys of bird and marine mammal populations increased during the 1970's and continued sporadically to the present day. One dedicated harbor porpoise aerial survey conducted in August 1991 estimated the population at 136 (CV = 63.2%), but this survey did not include the shoreline and many of the bays throughout Cook Inlet. An uncorrected abundance of 249 (CV = 60.7%) in June 1998 was based on offshore sightings obtained during beluga whale, Delphinapterus leucas, aerial surveys. The largest abundance estimate, 428 harbor porpoise (95% C.I. 26-830), was obtained during vessel surveys designed to count seabirds in lower Cook Inlet during the summer of 1993. Harbor porpoise sighting rates, abundance and density estimates often were limited by survey area, effort, research platform, and study design. Therefore, each of these estimates is likely biased downward. In the last decade the region has seen expansion of the Port of Anchorage, proposals to build a bridge crossing Knik Arm, plans to development mining operations and supporting infrastructure, hydrokinetic energy generation proposals, oil and gas seismic exploration, and water quality effects from urban areas. The overall effect on harbor porpoise within the confines of Cook Inlet cannot be fully determined until we understand the genetic and demographic population structure of this highly mobile and cryptic species. -- Kim E.W. Shelden, M.M.A. Marine Biologist Cetacean Assessment and Ecology Program National Marine Mammal Laboratory NOAA, NMFS, Alaska Fisheries Science Center 7600 Sand Point Way N.E. Seattle, Washington 98115-6349 (206) 526-6275 office (206) 526-6615 fax kim.shelden(a)noaa.gov www.afsc.noaa.gov/nmml/ *Humans think they are smarter than dolphins because we build cars and buildings and start wars, etc., and all that dolphins do is swim in the water, eat fish, and play around. * *Dolphins believe that they are smarter for exactly the same reasons.* - Douglas Adams

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Corkscrew mortalities in UK seals - info request
by Sarah Dolman 19 Jun '14

19 Jun '14

Dear MARMAMers 'Corkscrew' mortalities have been occurring in some harbour and grey seal populations around the UK, where dead seals with characteristic spiral wounds are found on beaches. All of the seals have a characteristic wound consisting of a single smooth edged cut that started at the head and spiralled around the body. The wound was identified as the cause of death in all cases for which a detailed post-mortem examination was carried out. Post-mortem examinations of a number of harbour seals revealed they had been alive and healthy when the injuries were sustained, with no evidence of any underlying disease or disability (Bexton et al. 2012). Based on the pathological findings it was concluded that mortality was caused by a sudden traumatic event involving the strong rotational shearing force of a rotating blade. The injuries were consistent with the seals being drawn through a ducted propeller (Thompson et al., 2013). Other causes of death have been ruled out. A number of severely damaged seal carcasses had been found on beaches in eastern Scotland around St Andrews Bay, Tay and Eden Estuaries and the Firth of Forth, on Orkney in the Northern Isles, along the North Norfolk coast in England, and within and around Strangford Lough in Northern Ireland. Investigations, funded by the Scottish Government, have been underway for some time: http://www.smru.st-andrews.ac.uk/pageset.aspx?psr=152 Some references are provided below. We are aware that similar mortalities have occurred in eastern Canadian waters. We are aware of incidences in the Philippines historically, although we have no evidence of this at present. It would seem strange that such mortalities are not occurring elsewhere and so, are interested to find out if such injuries have been identified in other parts of the world, and to find out about the types of vessels involved and any effective technical solutions. I would be grateful if you would get in touch with me at sarah.dolman(a)whales.org<mailto:sarah.dolman@whales.org> if you have any information at all about occurrences of these injuries in other parts of the world, vessels involved and any efforts to successfully prevent these deaths. Thanks, Sarah Dolman Northeast Atlantic programme manager Whale and Dolphin Conservation Sarah.dolman(a)whales.org<mailto:Sarah.dolman@whales.org> Some relevant references: Bexton, S., Thompson, D., Brownlow, A., Barley, A., Milne, R. and Bidewell, C. 2012. Unusual Mortality of Pinnipeds in the United Kingdom Associated with Helical (Corkscrew) Injuries of Anthropogenic Origin. Aquatic Mammals 2012, 38, 229-240. https://wiki.ceh.ac.uk/download/attachments/172982689/Aquatic+Mammals+38+3+… Brownlow, A. 2013. Spiralling trauma? Describing a novel form of pinniped mortality in the United Kingdom. Abstract submitted to and presentation made at the 27th European Cetacean Society Conference, Setubal, Portugal. Thompson, D., Culloch, R. and Milne, R. 2013. Current state of knowledge of the extent, causes and population effects of unusual mortality events in Scottish seals. Report to Scottish Government. Marine Mammal Scientific Support Research Programme MMSS/001/11. Available online at: http://www.smru.st-and.ac.uk/documents/1282.pdf Thompson, D., Bexton, S., Brownlow, A. and Wood, D., Patterson, T., Pye, K., Lonergan, M. and Milne, R. 2007. Report on recent seal mortalities in UK waters caused by extensive lacerations. Available online at: http://www.smru.stand.ac.uk/documents/366.pdf [WDC - Whale and Dolphin Conservation]<http://www.whales.org/> Sarah Dolman Northeast Atlantic programme manager Telephone: +44 (0)1316 617 722 Mobile: +44 (0)783 449 8275 WDC, Whale and Dolphin Conservation Scottish Dolphin Centre Spey Bay Moray IV32 7PJ 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/seaworld.…]<http://uk.whales.org/campaigns/stop-selling-trips-to-seaworld-sir-richard?r…> ________________________________ 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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New paper on Soviet whaling
by Yulia Ivashchenko - NOAA Affiliate 17 Jun '14

17 Jun '14

The following new paper has just been published: Ivashchenko, Y.V. & Clapham, P.J. 2014. Too much is never enough: the cautionary tale of Soviet whaling. Marine Fisheries Review 76: 1-21. The paper can be downloaded for free at: http://spo.nmfs.noaa.gov/mfr761-2/mfr761-21.pdf ABSTRACT Despite being a signatory to the International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling (1946), the USSR conducted a 30y campaign of illegal whaling which arguably represents one of the greatest failures of management in the history of the industry. Here, using a variety of sources including published literature, formerly secret Soviet industry reports and interviews with former biologists and whalers, we provide an overview of the history, scope, and economic origins of Soviet whaling, and examine the domestic and international political context in which it was set. At various times during the period from 1933 into the 1970’s, the USSR operated a total of seven whaling factory fleets and several shore whaling stations. We estimate that 534,119 whales were killed, of which 178,726 were not reported to the International Whaling Commission (IWC). In the Southern Hemisphere, the greatest impact of these catches was on humpback whales, Megaptera novaeangliae, where (mostly illegal) takes of more than 48,000 whales precipitated a population crash and closure of shore whaling stations in Australia and New Zealand. The Southern Hemisphere also saw large illegal catches of southern right whales (Eubalaena australis). In the North Pacific, the greatest impacts were on sperm whales, Physeter macrocephalus, (where data on sex and length were routinely misreported together with falsified total catches), as well as on the two already-small populations of right whales, Eubalaena japonica, across the North Pacific and bowhead whales, Balaena mysticetus, in the Okhotsk Sea. Soviet whaling was driven by the state industrial planning system, which frequently set high production targets without regard to the ability of the resource to sustain the resulting large catches. We trace the evolution of the USSR’s public stance at the IWC while the nation was illegally whaling, and summarize its evolving positions on major issues, including catch limits, national quotas, the status of whale populations, and the International Observer Scheme (which the USSR opposed for many years, for reasons that are now obvious). We examine the ways in which the USSR and other nations exploited weaknesses in the Convention to block or delay decisions unfavorable to the industry. It is clear that many at IWC knew that the USSR was whaling illegally, but they were probably unaware of the large scope of this activity. It is also clear that the Soviets were not alone in falsification of catch data, a problem which underscores the inadequacy of the IWC’s existing procedures for inspection and enforcement with regard to current and possible future commercial whaling. Yulia V. Ivashchenko, Ph.D. Associate Scientist National Marine Mammal Laboratory Alaska Fisheries Science Center 7600 Sand Point Way NE Seattle, WA 98115, USA Tel: +1 206 526 4037 Email: *yulia.ivashchenko(a)noaa.gov <yulia.ivashchenko(a)noaa.gov>* *http://www.moscowproject.org <http://www.moscowproject.org>*

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