September 2014 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Aerial Observer Position - Provincetown, MA USA
by Stephanie Richardson 12 Sep '14

12 Sep '14

Aerial Observer Position - Right Whale Research Program Provincetown, MA - USA The Center for Coastal Studies (CCS) is seeking right whale aerial survey observers for the 2015 winter/spring season (January 1st to May 15th, 2015). Responsibilities include: participation in marine mammal aerial surveys of Cape Cod Bay and adjacent waters, photo analysis, data entry, and associated work; as part of an ongoing long term study of North Atlantic right whales. The ideal candidate will have the following qualifications: prior experience as a marine mammal aerial survey observer, experience in matching right whales (or other species of cetaceans), familiarity with digital SLR cameras, at least a B.S. with courses in biology, and the ability to work and live successfully in a team environment. This is a full-time temporary/seasonal position. Shared housing will be provided. Information about the CCS Right Whale Research Program is available at: http://coastalstudies.org/right-whale-research/population-monitoring/ Please submit cover letter, resume, and three references by October 15, 2014 to: Stephanie Richardson Human Resource Manager 115 Bradford Street Provincetown, MA 02657 or Email: srichardson(a)coastalstudies.org -- Stephanie Richardson Human Resource Manager Center for Coastal Studies 115 Bradford Street Provincetown, MA 02657 t. (508) 487-3622 Ext. 113 f. (508) 487-4495

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The Whale: An Exploration - a day-long conference of scientists, artists and film-makers discussing the past and future of the whale, National Martime Museum, London 20 Sept 2014
by Philip Hoare 12 Sep '14

12 Sep '14

Hello, Could we submit this for posting? very best Prof Philip Hoare, University of Southampton The Whale: An Exploration. An all-day conference at the National Maritime Museum, London, 20 September.http://www.rmg.co.uk/whats-on/events/the-whale A unique day event investigating and celebrating one of the ocean’s most captivating and mysterious residents. In the company of award winning writers, artists, film-makers and specialists in cetacean studies and conservation. Navigating the fluctuating human relationship with one of the ocean's most remarkable and threatened creatures, Philip Hoare (Leviathan, The Sea Inside); sound-recordist and composer Chris Watson (Life, Frozen Planet); former whaler and Greenpeace activist John Burton; Rob Deaville (UK Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme); Mark Carnall (Grant Museum of Zoology); and Steve Deput (author/discoverer of Jonah the Circus Whale) join acclaimed artist film-maker Jessica Sarah Rinland for a multi-faceted voyage into the extraordinary world of the whale. Taking place in the week of the International Whaling Commission’s biennial global meeting, the event will consider the challenges facing current whale populations while also tracking their energising presence in literature, film and music.

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The European Cetacean Society Conference 2015 _ 1st Announcement
by Adriana Vella 12 Sep '14

12 Sep '14

Dear Marmam, For your attention! *1st Announcement of the 29th European Cetacean Society Conference.* Conference dates: *23rd to 25th of March 2015* Workshop dates: *21st and 22nd of March 2015* Venue:* lntercontinental* *MALTA, in St. Julians.* The theme of the 2015 ECS Conference in Malta is: '*Marine Mammal Conservation - from Local to Global*'. *This theme would be supported by a number of keynote presentations that will look at how conservation efforts are being managed at a range of levels and the links between them. This will include consideration of local, national, regional and global conservation initiatives, as well as methods and mechanisms for addressing both short and long-term impacts. In addition to original research contributions on the usual range of topics that include, but are not limited to, health, genetics, by-catch, acoustics, abundance, distribution, ecology, breeding, behaviour, conservation, welfare, historical perspectives, we also welcome critical assessments of conservation policy.* *Link to 1**st** Announcement document with relevant info:* *https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/4378145/1st%20announcement%20ECS%20conf%202015.pdf <https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/4378145/1st%20announcement%20ECS%20conf…>* Below please find some snapshots prepared by BICREF, the ECS Conference 2015 organizing entity in Malta. A youthful lovely feel of Malta for you to share: http://youtu.be/kRarajsRXcM A video promo of Malta and BICREF for the upcoming ECS conference in 2015. Enjoy! http://youtu.be/QhF-rEVzEQA This and more information to be uploaded soon on the ECS Website. See you in Malta :) Regards, *Adriana* Dr. Adriana Vella, Ph.D (Cantab.) Founder and Co-president The Biological Conservation Research Foundation, NGO bicref(a)gmail.com & Conservation Biology Research Group, Senior Lecturer and Cetacean Researcher University of Malta adrianajvella(a)gmail.com ECS Conference 2015 – Malta organiser

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seeking help to know Interaction between dolphin and fisher community
by Shambhu Paudel 12 Sep '14

12 Sep '14

Dear all, I have conducted fisher man survey in three major river systems of Nepal (n=170), where dolphins are distributed and data were collected in following aspects: socio economic , fishing strategy, dolphin status, distribution and their habitat, best livelihood options to reduce pressure over river systems. All the data were collected by questionnaire survey. Most of data are categorical and some are numerical figure. From these collected data, i want to see how the dolphin and fisher community interact each other ( i.e. resource competition) to identify possible consequences and to suggest best management plan for the conservation authorities. I need appropriate statistical analysis and also support for developing final journal manuscript as soon as possible. Therefore, I am seeking help from any interested marine ecologist or statistical analyst to solve this problem as soon as possible. With regards, shambhu paudel -- *Assistant Professor for Wildlife/GIS/RS * * ||*Kathmandu Forestry College ||Kathmandu, Nepal || www.kafcol.edu.np Cell: 977-9841-170723 *South Asia Representative for *World Cetacean Alliance www.worldcetaceanalliance.org

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Ocean Science Consulting NZ DOC-approved MMO & PAM training course
by OSC Course Coordinator 11 Sep '14

11 Sep '14

Ocean Science Consulting Limited (OSC) is running a Marine Mammal Observer (MMO) and Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) training course, which has been approved by the New Zealand Department of Conservation (DOC), as being consistent with standards in the '2013 code of conduct for minimising acoustic disturbance to marine mammals from seismic survey operations' (the Code). OSC's DOC-approved course is currently the first and only combined MMO and PAM training available in the world for working in NZ waters. The first course ran successfully in May 2014, and due to popular demand, will be available to candidates again in November 2014, in preparation for the Antipodean seismic exploration season. The Code is regarded as international best practice, particularly concerning the establishment of observer training and performance standards. To meet DOC's requirements, OSC had to develop the most comprehensive and intensive training course on the market today. There is a current shortage of trained MMO and PAM Operators for New Zealand waters, so successful graduates will therefore have a significant commercial advantage (PAM Operators in particular). The knowledge, skills and experience derived from this PAM training will also be applicable worldwide. OSC's high quality course involves responsive personal (including one-to-one) tuition throughout, hands-on experience with state-of-the-art PAM equipment during classroom theory and practical sessions, and field practice aboard a custom-designed environmental survey vessel at sea. OSC is a technology-focused marine science company with over a decade of experience in supplying commercial and scientific MMO and PAM services to the offshore and other marine-related industries worldwide (www.osc.co.uk <http://www.osc.co.uk>). Based in Scotland, OSC also has a branch in New Zealand servicing the Asia-Pacific region (www.osc-nz.co.nz <http://www.osc-nz.co.nz>). Our course instructors are highly experienced and degree-level qualified scientists, practiced MMOs and PAM Operators, and authors of the 'Marine Mammal Observer and Passive Acoustic Monitoring Handbook' (www.marinemammalobserverhandbook.co.uk <http://www.marinemammalobserverhandbook.co.uk>), which forms the manual for the course. Our knowledge and expertise are second-to-none, so this course is the obvious choice for anyone wishing to train and prepare as a competent MMO and PAM Operator to work in the field anywhere in the world (please note additional local qualifications and experience may be required). The next course will be run in Dunbar, East Lothian, UK, for 10 days from 10--19 November 2014. All candidates must have their own equipment, including reticle binoculars, handheld GPS, ID guide, and a laptop with NZ data forms, software required for their GPS, and PAMGuard pre-loaded. To register for the course, please send your CV to courses(a)osc.co.uk <mailto:courses@osc.co.uk>. The deadline for applications is 30 September 2014, but places will likely be awarded sooner. Upon acceptance to the course, a £225 non-refundable deposit towards the £2,250 total cost per candidate is required to secure your position. Course costs do not include accommodation or food, and candidates are required to make their own travel arrangements to and from Dunbar. Once payment has been received, each candidate will receive an author-signed pre-release copy of the 'Marine Mammal Observer and Passive Acoustic Monitoring Handbook', which must be read prior to attending the course. Please note that this is not simply an 'attend-and-pass course'. In accordance with DOC's requirements, successful candidates must achieve 'results of 75% and above', although we will provide further reassessment procedures for those initially scoring less than 75%. This high pass mark is a key selling point for successful candidates. This course is being organised by popular request, so we anticipate high demand and places will be allocated on a first-come-first-served basis. We look forward to seeing you on our course soon. -- MMO & PAM Course Coordinator OSC Limited Ocean House 4 Brewery Lane Belhaven, Dunbar East Lothian, Scotland EH42 1PD T: +44 (0)1368 865 722 F: +44 (0)1368 865 729 W: www.osc.co.uk

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New Publication
by Bree Witteveen 11 Sep '14

11 Sep '14

Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to announce the publication of the following article: Witteveen, B.H., De Robertis, A., Guo, L., and Wynne, K.M. Using dive behavior and active acoustics to assess prey partitioning by fin and humpback whales near Kodiak Island, Alaska. Marine Mammal Science DOI:10.1111/mms.12158 Abstract Near the Kodiak Archipelago, fin (Balaenoptera physalus) and humpback (Megaptera novaeangliae) whales frequently overlap spatially and temporally. The Gulf Apex Predator-prey study (GAP) investigated the prey use and potential prey partitioning between these sympatric species by combining concurrent analysis of vertical whale distribution with acoustic assessment of pelagic prey. Acoustic backscatter was classified as consistent with either fish or zooplankton. Whale dive depths were determined through suction cup tags. Tagged humpback whales (n = 10) were most often associated with distribution of fish, except when zooplankton density was very high. Associations between the dive depths of tagged fin whales (n = 4) and the vertical distribution of either prey type were less conclusive. However, prey assessment methods did not adequately describe the distribution of copepods, a potentially significant resource for fin whales. Mean dive parameters showed no significant difference between species when compared across all surveys. However, fin whales spent a greater proportion of dive time in the foraging phase than humpbacks, suggesting a possible difference in foraging efficiency between the two. These results suggest that humpback and fin whales may target different prey, with the greatest potential for diet overlap occurring when the density of zooplankton is very high. The article can be access via http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/mms.12158/full or by requesting an electronic reprint from bree.witteveen(a)alaska.edu. Thank you, Bree Witteveen -- Briana H. Witteveen Research Assistant Professor University of Alaska Fairbanks School of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences Marine Advisory Program Kodiak Seafood and Marine Science Center 118 Trident Way Kodiak, AK 90615 907-486-1519 http://seagrant.uaf.edu/map/gap/index.php

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New publication
by Gallo, Juan Pablo Gallo 10 Sep '14

10 Sep '14

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce our new publication: *Gallo-Reynoso J.P., E. O. Francisco and Ch. L. Ortiz. 2014. Age estimation on long-beaked common dolphins, Delphinus capensis, from the Gulf of California. Estimación de la edad en el delfín común de rostro largo, Delphinus capensis, del **Golfo de California. * THERYA, august, 2014 Vol.5(2): 449-460. DOI: 10.12933/therya-14-198 *Abstract:* *Introduction: *We estimated the age of 41 long-beaked common dolphins, Delphinus capensis, found stranded in Sonora and Baja California beaches in the Gulf of California from 1981 to 2000. The aim of our work was to know the age and if possible the size of stranded dolphins and the possible causes of their stranding.*Methods:* Dentinal growth layers in teeth were revealed using an acid-etching technique; it involves preparation of half-etched teeth by grinding and polishing with sandpaper (220-600 grit) and demineralization in 5% formic acid. A stereo-microscope was used for counting annual growth layer groups (GLGs). Four different readers of dentinal layers assisted to obtain the estimate of age.*Results:* Age category estimates were: 17 individuals were adults (12-21 GLGs), 10 individuals were subadults (7-12 GLGs), 10 individuals were juveniles (2-7 GLGs), and 4 individuals were nursing calves (<1 GLG). 15 individuals were measured and sexed on the field (6 calves, 6 subadults and 3 adults). Larger dolphins were the older ones: the longest male of 264.7 cm presented 21 GLGs, and the longest female of 252.4 cm was 18 GLGs (one GLG corresponding to one year). Independent of the sex of the dolphins, the regression of age on length was significant with an r2 = 0.7068, P < 0.0001.*Discussion:* Age estimates can serve to know the vulnerability and incidence of long-beaked common dolphins of different ages due to toxic algae effects (Domoic acid) or to the biomagnification of man-made toxins used for agriculture, due to the ingestion of small pelagic fishes that accumulates these toxins. It also can provide insight in fishery interactions and mortality on D. capensis in the Gulf of California. With regards Dr. Juan Pablo Gallo Reynoso Profesor-Investigador Centro de Investigación en Alimentación y Desarrollo A.C., Unidad Guaymas Carretera a Varadero Nacional km 6.6 Col. Las Playitas, Guaymas, Sonora C.P. 85480, México Teléfono: +52 (622) 225 28 24 http://www.ciad.mx/guaymas/nutrias/INDEX.HTM https://www.researchgate.net/profile/JP_Gallo-Reynoso/?ev=hdr_xprf

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Job opening: software development for analysis & management of digital images
by Peter Boveng - NOAA Federal 10 Sep '14

10 Sep '14

A one-year position is open in Seattle, Washington, for a person to develop software for analysis and management of digital images used in marine mammal population monitoring and research. The position with Ocean Associates, Inc., may be filled either by direct hire or a subcontract. A brief summary of the position is available here: http://oceanassoc.com/Jobs/InfoSysSpecIV.html For further information, please contact me or Ocean Associates, Inc. -Peter -- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Peter Boveng Polar Ecosystems Program Leader National Marine Mammal Laboratory NOAA Alaska Fisheries Science Center 7600 Sand Point Way NE Seattle, WA 98115 USA tel: +1.206.526.4244 peter.boveng(a)noaa.gov http://www.afsc.noaa.gov/nmml/polar

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PhD position in Bielefeld University, Germany
by Fritz Trillmich 09 Sep '14

09 Sep '14

Animal Behaviour PhD-Position (E13/65%) Doktorandenstelle (E13/65%) Department of Animal Behaviour Bielefeld University Germany A PhD position (E13/65%) to study the energetics of reproduction and the ensuing consequences at the population level in Galapagos sea lions (Zalophus wollebaeki) is available in the Department of Animal Behaviour at Bielefeld University from January 1st 2015 or soon thereafter. The position is available for three years and is funded by the German Science Foundation (DFG). We seek a bright and highly motivated student who has a proven record of field experience studying wild animals. A very good Master degree or equivalent in a relevant topic (e.g. animal behaviour, behavioural ecology, population ecology, evolutionary ecology) is expected. The ideal candidate will be able to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team, will have experience with both statistics and genetic techniques and, in addition to excellent spoken and written English, will be able to speak Spanish. The study will take place on Caamaño, a small islet in the Galapagos archipelago. We have studied Galapagos sea lions there since 2003 and most sea lions are individually marked (www.uni-bielefeld.de/biologie/animalbehaviour/trillmich/sealions.html) Field seasons on Caamaño last from September-December and February-March each year. Caamaño is a small island and there are no facilities at all, so an ability to work in truly primitive conditions is essential. The successful candidate will be based at the Department of Animal Behaviour at Bielefeld University (www.uni-bielefeld.de/biologie/animalbehaviour/home.html) and will be supervised by Oliver Krüger, Fritz Trillmich and Joe Hoffman. The department is the oldest of its kind in Germany and currently hosts six principal investigators, seven postdocs and fifteen PhD students. It offers a stimulating international environment and an excellent research infrastructure including a brand new molecular laboratory. The working language of the Department is English. Together with the Evolution and Animal Ecology research groups housed in the same building, there are some 50 scientists and PhD students from over ten different countries working on related topics in behaviour, ecology and evolution. Bielefeld is a city of 325,000 inhabitants with all expected amenities and easy access to the Teutoburger Wald for hiking and other outdoor pursuits. It offers a high standard of living and is well connected to most major European cities. To apply for the position, please provide: (i) a letter of motivation including a 1-2-page statement of your research experience; (ii) a CV including publication list; (iii) names and contact details of three referees willing to write confidential letters of recommendation. All materials should be emailed as a single PDF file to: oliver.krueger(a)uni-bielefeld.de. The application deadline is October 15th 2014 and interviews will take place shortly thereafter. The preferred start date is January 1st 2015 but is flexible and will depend on the timeframe of the most qualified applicant. For further information, please see http://www.uni-bielefeld.de/biologie/animalbehaviour/home.html or contact Oliver Krüger via email (oliver.krueger(a)uni-bielefeld.de) with any informal inquiries. The University of Bielefeld is an equal opportunity employer. We particularly welcome applications from women and handicapped people. Given equal suitability, qualifications and professional achievement, women wand handicapped people will be given preference, unless particular circumstances apply.

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Marine Rescue Opportunity
by Peter Wallerstein 09 Sep '14

09 Sep '14

JOB OPPORTUNITY WITH MARNE ANIMAL RESCUE SPECIALISTS Marine Animal Rescue Specialists (MAR) is authorized by the National Marine Fisheries Service for pinniped and dolphin rescues along with whale dis-entanglement calls. Over the past two decades MAR has conducted 4,000 marine mammal rescues. In 2013, MAR rescued 420 marine mammals. We are looking for a couple of individuals with experience in marine mammal rescue. www.marspecialists.org Send in information only if you have pinniped rescue experience. MAR is looking for committed individuals who would like to make rescuing marine animals a career. Training will be provided by MAR to ensure continued high level of response for any marine animal calls. MAR will not consider candidates looking for a temporary position. Long-term applicants will be the only ones considered. POSITION: MARINE ANIMAL RESCUE SPECIALIST LOCATION: MAR’s authorized territory is Los Angeles County from Pacific Palisades to Long Beach and west to Catalina, California. HOURS: 8 HOURS PER DAY 5 DAYS PER WEEK Be prepared to work long days from February to June. SALARY: Commensurate with experience and skills JOB DESCRIPTION: Must be available five days a week, 8 hours per day for response, rescue and transportation of marine animals. Will be responsible for accurately evaluating the condition of a stranded marine animal. Will be responsible for conducting rescue operations on beaches, rock jetties, docks and other common as well as uncommon stranding locations, and to learn the proper use of specialized marine animal rescue, transportation and safety equipment. Must be able to work in cooperation with local agencies and volunteers and be responsible to know all local, state and Federal laws pertaining to the rescuing of marine animals. START: February 1, 2015 REFERENCES AND REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS · Provide background/references · A valid drivers license with no points · Minimum one year experience in rescuing seals and sea lions · Must correctly identify local marine animal species along with knowledge of birthing seasons and natural behaviors of marine animals · Some animal-related emergency medical experience · Must meet challenging physical fitness requirements · 24 hour Hazwhoper certificate · Small boat handling · Able to drive 4WD Pickup truck OTHER REQUIRED RESPONSIBILITIES: · Maintain rescue and transportation equipment · Responsible for school visits · Must be enthusiastic with good communication skills and be able to work with others, including Coast Guard, Lifeguards, Police, etc. · When on-call, must answer calls promptly · Must pass County Beach Safety Driving Course · Coordinate volunteers Send in your cover letter, resume and references to the email address below. Contact: Peter Wallerstein, pw(a)marspecialists.org www.marspecialists.org

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