September 2015 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

North Atlantic Beaked Whale Photo-ID Project
by Rebecca Boys 08 Sep '15

08 Sep '15

Please could the following message be sent out on MARMAM. Thank you. Dear MARMAM, Apologies for cross posting. We are trying to develop a photo-ID database for the North Atlantic beaked whales in collaboration with as many partners as possible. The project is being run by Universidade La Laguna (ULL), Tenerife in collaboration with the World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) and its partners. We are asking for photographs and data of any beaked whale species in the North Atlantic to be submitted on the Cetabase website: http://www.cetabase.info/index-i.php You will retain ownership of any photos and data that you submit, and your contribution will help us to gain vital information on these data deficient species. Please find below the instructions for using Cetabase. If you have any problems please do not hesitate to contact me. Thank you, Rebecca Boys rebecca(a)worldcetaceanalliance.org Without collaboration we will achieve nothing more than a drop in the ocean. ~ Jean-Michel Cousteau, Honorary President, WCA Studio 3, Lower Promenade, Madeira Drive, Brighton, BN2 1ET, UK Office: +44(0)1273 355011. www.worldcetaceanalliance.org North Atlantic Beaked Whale Photo-ID Project – trial phase I am writing to ask if you would be happy to submit a small number of beaked whale images from your database or image archive as part of a trial we are running until 20th October 2015. Our plan is to develop a North Atlantic Beaked Whale Photo-Identification Catalogue in collaboration with as many partners as possible, and this trial will help us understand who is willing to help and what data may be available. The project is being led by the University of La Laguna (ULL) in collaboration with the World Cetacean Alliance and its Partners. We are asking if you could submit five images or more of beaked whales to the ULL Cetabase website at: http://www.cetabase.info/index-i.php . You will retain ownership of the images and data use and your contribution will give us vital information on the potential for further collaboration and data gathering throughout the North Atlantic. We will then review the contributions at the World Whale Conference in the Azores, 26-27 October 2015, and provide you with a feedback report and next steps after this event. If you can help with just a few minutes of your time to upload some images and information to Cetabase we would be extremely grateful. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch for more information or assistance with Cetabase. Once the trial is complete we will contact you again with the initial results and our next step plans to continue the project. With best wishes, Rebecca Boys Email: rebecca(a)worldcetaceanalliance.org Further info Most beaked whale species remain poorly studied yet we are aware of a number of threats, including an extreme sensitivity to loud sounds. Scientific studies are also increasingly showing how site faithful beaked whales can be, so local populations could be at high risk when threatened by continual man-made impacts such as military sonar activity in specific locations. Photo-identification of beaked whales remains an important tool for us to learn more about their distribution, movements and life history parameters. It is essential that we continue to photo-identify beaked whales and make our information available in a central resource if we are to improve our attempts to protect them and their habitats. INSTRUCTIONS CETABASE 1. HOW TO REGISTER AS A USER The first step to using the resources CETABASE makes available is to register as a user. To do this, select Collaborate in the main menu. You must fill in a series of details and add a brief explanation of your objectives, the species and study area. Once registered, each time you access Cetabase you have to log in as a user. The username is your e-mail and you choose the password. You can alter or update your details at any time via the Change My Data tab that appears in the menu on the left. 2. PHOTO-IDENTIFICATION CATALOGUE Cetabase offers a unique tool to create a virtual photo-identification catalogue according to species and sighting area, so that anyone, wherever they are in the world can create their own catalogue and/or access the different catalogues available. 2.1 Create a new individual To add a new individual, you enter through the menu, Individuals: New individual. Various fields are displayed, ready to be filled in. ALL are mandatory except for Name (Mnemo) and Observations. 5.2- Individuals/Sightings Sighting Statistics: the following tables may be generated: a) Overall record of captures catches with Q and M: - for a species - for all species b) Capture case-histories for each species c) Table of sightings arranged by season d) General table of sightings with individuals - for a species - for all species e) Social Composition Table (under construction)

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PhD Opportunity - Cetacean acoustics - Cape Town South Africa
by Simon Elwen 08 Sep '15

08 Sep '15

A PhD position is available to join a project investigating the environmental factors limiting the ranges of cetaceans around the Western Cape, South Africa, with implications for climate change. The area lies at the border between two biogeographic zones with the range limits of 5 species of dolphin occurring within the study area (Indo-Pacific bottlenose Indian Ocean humpback, dusky, Heaviside's and common dolphins). In addition, southern right, Bryde's and humpback whales occur regularly. The project will be using a range of data sources including citizen science, historic archives, small boat surveys for photo ID, and Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM). The PhD project on offer will use the PAM data and involve comparing and analysing data collected with different acoustic recorders (C-PODs and Sound Traps). The project will focus on using modelling techniques to investigate long-term trends in cetacean presence and interaction with environmental and biological covariates. Beyond this core question, there is considerable scope to taylor aspects of the PhD to your interests (or be involved through co-supervision of lower-level students) with questions focussing on call types and rates for some poorly described focal species, detection distances, sound scape modelling, human interaction etc. Students will be registered through the University of Pretoria but based predominantly in Cape Town with the Sea Search Africa research group ( www.seasearch.co.za) We are looking for self motivated and independent students who show initiative and demonstrate project leadership skills. Essential skills include: - Strong analytical background, and experience with acoustic data. - Familiarity with Matlab and or R and PamGuard, - Analysing large and diverse data sets and data modelling. - Publication focussed and experienced - Driving license Preferred skills - - Small boat work with cetaceans (to join photo-ID surveys) - SA Class IV diver or ability and desire to achieve such (to assist with instrument deployments) The position does have a South African National Research Foundation (NRF) Grantholder linked bursary but as per NRF guidelines, preference will be given to South African citizens or permanent residents. Although recent changes in the exchange rate make the amount seem laughable in USD or GBP, it is a useful amount of money in South Africa. Additional remuneration / salary supplementation is available through various short contract jobs through Sea Search Africa, including a 6 month acoustic monitoring contract starting ASAP. Applications and enquiries may be sent to Dr Simon Elwen ( simon.elwen(a)gmail.com) ASAP. Please include a Cover letter and Curriculum Vitae Regards Simon Elwen -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- Simon Elwen Ph.D. Research Fellow at the Mammal Research Institute, University of Pretoria Based at Sea Search Africa - 4 Bath Rd ,Muizenberg Cape Town. Phone: +27 21 788 1206 (Off SA), +27 71 139 5951 (Mob SA), +264 81 421 4968 (Mob Namibia) Sea Search Africa: www.seasearch.co.za & Namibian Dolphin Project: www.namibiandolphinproject.com

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New Paper: Genomewide investigation of adaptation to harmful algal blooms in bottlenose dolphins
by Kristina Cammen 07 Sep '15

07 Sep '15

My co-authors and I would like to share the news that several papers resulting from our investigation of the influence of genetic variation on susceptibility of bottlenose dolphins to harmful algal blooms have been published over the past year. Our most recent publication, “Genomewide investigation of adaptation to harmful algal blooms in bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus),” is now available as Early View online in the journal Molecular Ecology. Cammen, K. M., Schultz, T. F., Rosel, P. E., Wells, R. S. and Read, A. J. (2015), Genomewide investigation of adaptation to harmful algal blooms in common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). Molecular Ecology. doi: 10.1111/mec.13350 Abstract. Harmful algal blooms (HABs), which can be lethal in marine species and cause illness in humans, are increasing worldwide. In the Gulf of Mexico, HABs of *Karenia brevis* produce neurotoxic brevetoxins that cause large-scale marine mortality events. The long history of such blooms, combined with the potentially severe effects of exposure, may have produced a strong selective pressure for evolved resistance. Advances in next-generation sequencing, in particular genotyping-by-sequencing, greatly enable the genomic study of such adaptation in natural populations. We used restriction site-associated DNA (RAD) sequencing to investigate brevetoxicosis resistance in common bottlenose dolphins (*Tursiops truncatus*). To improve our understanding of the epidemiology and aetiology of brevetoxicosis and the potential for evolved resistance in an upper trophic level predator, we sequenced pools of genomic DNA from dolphins sampled from both coastal and estuarine populations in Florida and during multiple HAB-associated mortality events. We sequenced 129 594 RAD loci and analysed 7431 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). The allele frequencies of many of these polymorphic loci differed significantly between live and dead dolphins. Some loci associated with survival showed patterns suggesting a common genetic-based mechanism of resistance to brevetoxins in bottlenose dolphins along the Gulf coast of Florida, but others suggested regionally specific mechanisms of resistance or reflected differences among HABs. We identified candidate genes that may be the evolutionary target for brevetoxin resistance by searching the dolphin genome for genes adjacent to survival-associated SNPs. Other related papers include: Cammen KM, Wilcox LA, Rosel PE, Wells RS, Read AJ (2015) From genome-wide to candidate gene: An investigation of variation at the major histocompatibility complex in bottlenose dolphins exposed to red tides. Immunogenetics 67:125-133. Cammen KM, Rosel PE, Wells RS, Read AJ (2014) Lack of variation in voltage-gated sodium channels of common bottlenose dolphins exposed to neurotoxic algal blooms. Aquatic Toxicology 157:150-158. All PDFs are available from the respective journals’ websites. Alternatively, pdf requests can be sent to kristina.cammen(a)maine.edu. -- Kristina Cammen NSF Postdoctoral Fellow in Biology School of Marine Sciences University of Maine, Orono

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FINAL OFFER FOR CETACEAN LIVE-ABOARD SURVEY IN THE HEBRIDES
by Volunteer Coordinator 07 Sep '15

07 Sep '15

*LAST REDUCTIONS OF THE 2015 FIELD SEASON!* Dear All, The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust (HWDT) conducts cetacean surveys throughout our field season from aboard our research yacht (http://www.whaledolphintrust.co.uk/research-Silurian.asp) Silurian. Every year we welcome aboard enthusiastic volunteers who are willing to contribute directly to our research work. Volunteers, in effect, become marine mammal scientists for the duration of the survey; living and working aboard Silurian, assisting with day-to-day running, as well as working together as a team to carry out visual and acoustic surveys. To find out more about the research onboard please follow the link (http://www.whaledolphintrust.co.uk/research-on-silurian.asp) We have produced a short a short video about joining us aboard, please CLICK HERE to watch Volunteers will assist fully in the collection of data, with mega-fauna and sea bird identification training provided. Acoustic and visual methods are combined to produce comprehensive data sets. During encounters photographs are taken of dorsal fins to try and identify the individual, gaining a better understanding of species movements and interactions with each other. The data collected, and subsequent information produced is essential when monitoring the distribution, relative abundance and habitat preference of cetacean species in the Hebrides. Only with coherent data can effective conservation and management strategies be designed to enable long-term protection of the amazing species found in Hebridean waters. As a volunteer onboard Silurian, you will have the opportunity to see first-hand the amazing variety of marine wildlife the UK has to offer including whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals, sharks and seabirds. You will explore some of the remotest, wildest parts of the British Isles - anchoring each night in a different secluded bay off one of the many Hebridean islands, venturing ashore to explore if you wish. The opportunity to gain sailing experience is also available, although no certificates are issued. Rendezvous location is in Tobermory on the Isle of Mull, where HWDT is based. More information on specific surveys will be provided on request. There is a monetary value attached to participating which includes accommodation (aboard) and food throughout the duration. The income generated allows HWDT to continue this well established research programme, you can be assured that without your contribution the research couldn't be undertaken. 2015 Survey Dates: * 22nd - 30th September; £685 (35% off original price) · 5th - 13th October*; £805 <http://www.whaledolphintrust.co.uk/stand_alone.asp?page=militarysurvey.asp> (15% off original price) * Joint Warrior <http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/news-and-latest-activity/news/2013/april/10/130 410-joint-warrior> Military Exercise Monitoring Survey (http://www.whaledolphintrust.co.uk/stand_alone.asp?page=militarysurvey.asp) For further information about our surveys please go online to: http://www.whaledolphintrust.co.uk/get-involved-join-us-onboard.asp For Further information about HWDT please go online to: www.hwdt.org Or contact HWDTs volunteer coordinator Morven Russell Email: volunteercoordinator(a)hwdt.org <https://lists.uvic.ca/mailman/listinfo/marmam> Telephone: 01688 302620 Thank you, and hope to see you aboard this season! Morven Russell Volunteer Coordinator Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust 28 Main Street Tobermory Isle of Mull PA75 6NU Tel: 01688 302620 <mailto:volunteercoordinator@hwdt.org> volunteercoordinator(a)hwdt.org <http://www.hwdt.org/> www.hwdt.org Please note my standard working days are Monday, Wednesday and Friday The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust is dedicated to enhancing knowledge and understanding of Scotlands whales, dolphins and porpoises (cetaceans) and the Hebridean marine environment through education, research and working within Hebridean communities as a basis for the lasting conservation of local species and habitats.

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Clearwater Marine Aquarium: call for Internship Applications
by Cassie Seebart 06 Sep '15

06 Sep '15

*CALL FOR INTERNSHIP APPLICATIONS* (Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Clearwater, FL) Clearwater Marine Aquarium conducts rescue, rehabilitation, and release efforts for sick or injured marine life. If rescued animals are deemed un-releasable due to their physical limitations or need for continuous care, Clearwater Marine Aquarium can provide permanent care for these animals. Clearwater Marine Aquarium offers intensive, hands on internships for individuals interested in particular aspects of the marine animal care field. The *Stranding Team Internship *provides interns with a unique opportunity to gain hands on experience in the response of live and dead dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and North American river otters. Intern responsibilities include, but are not limited to, assisting with the monitoring, rescue, transport, data collection, rehabilitation, release, and necropsy of stranded aquatic animals. Interns will also be given ample opportunities to further their skill sets relating to writing and public speaking. This will be achieved through duties such as writing weekly newsletters and presenting daily guest narrations. The Stranding Team seeks enthusiastic, dedicated, and hardworking individuals who are interested in promoting wildlife conservation through stranding efforts. The *Marine Mammal Training Internship* is designed to give individuals an inside look into what it takes to care for marine animals, with emphasis on common bottlenose dolphins, <http://www.seewinter.com/animals-exhibits/meet-animals/dolphins>North American river otters and African great white pelican. During your internship, you will learn how to prepare diets, clean to USDA standards, maintain exhibits, provide enrichment/mental stimulation and give public presentations to educate our visitors as well as promote environmental conservation. Through a classroom lecture series, you will also learn how trainers use principles such as positive reinforcement, operant conditioning and shaping to train. Candidates should be able to perform physically demanding duties and ideally be enrolled in a four-year college program in psychology, biology, marine biology or another related field. Hands-on animal experience, such as volunteering at an animal shelter or completing other marine mammal internships at another facility is required. SCUBA, First Aid and CPR certification is also a plus. The *Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Internship* offers a hands-on learning experience caring for rehabilitating sea turtles as well as permanent residents at Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Interns will be exposed to all aspects of the field including stranding, triage, food prep, exhibit maintenance, operating under USDA and FWC standards, animal restraint, basic target training, enrichment, daily husbandry and, occasionally, more extensive surgical procedures. Interns are able to practice many duties necessary for future animal care careers. After completing this internship, previous interns have used their experiences to gain employment in vet clinics or animal rehabilitation jobs, gained admission to veterinary school, or pursued educational and conservational outreach. The Sea Turtle department has an additional *Sea Turtle Nesting Internship*, in the summer only, during which nesting interns will assist in patrol of about 25 miles of beach. Interns will conduct all aspects of sea turtle nesting including nest marking, night patrol, hatchling release, inventory, caging, data input, and much more. Clearwater Marine Aquarium offers 3 internship time frames annually. The Spring Internship runs from January 2016 through May 2016. The application deadline for this internship is October 1, 2015. To learn more about Clearwater Marine Aquarium’s animal care internships and how to apply, please visit the “About Us” page on www.seewinter.com and select the link for “Internships.”

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Protected Species Observer and Passive Acoustic Monitoring Training Courses - 6-10 October, Houston, Texas
by Sam Nichols 05 Sep '15

05 Sep '15

Seiche Training is running its two day Protected Species Observer (PSO) and three day Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) training courses in Houston, 6-7 and 8-10 October 2015. PSO course 6-7 October This two day BSEE-compliant course provides the skills needed to become a Protected Species Observer. Highest quality training both in the classroom and on board a vessel to allow delegates to gain experience with marine mammal identification while at sea. Certificate for offshore work awarded upon successful completion of course. Cost - $800 PAM course 8-10 October Houston This three day PAM course provides the skills needed to become an offshore PAM operator. Run by Seiche's highly experienced team with thorough support material, interactive PAMGuard workshops and a boat session, this course will expand delegates' knowledge of acoustic monitoring and provide insight into industry requirements for environmental mitigation. Cost - $800 Please contact s.hancock(a)seiche.com for more information, modules and costs. PSO & PAM courses also running in Abu Dhabi (8-12 November), Plymouth UK (23-27 November with JNCC MMO accreditation) and San Francisco (7-11 December). www.seiche.com

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Job announcement: Marine Mammal Biologist, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Port Charlotte, FL
by Reinert, Tom 04 Sep '15

04 Sep '15

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Fish and Wildlife Research Institute Wildlife Research - Marine Mammals TITLE: OPS Biological Scientist I-FWC (two positions) POSITION #'s: 77907479 and 77902156 LOCATION: Port Charlotte, FL RATE OF PAY: $13.00-14.25/hour, 40 hours/week; one position is eligible for the higher salary level which is dependent on qualifications and expected renewal of grant-funded support; current grant expires 9/30/2016; if grant support is not renewed, the position remains but rate reverts to base pay of $13.00/hr. CLOSING DATE: 9/16/2015 DESCRIPTION OF JOB DUTIES: Duties include but are not limited to fielding calls from FWC Law Enforcement, other agencies, and the general public regarding marine mammals, particularly manatees and cetaceans; verification of mortalities and distressed manatees and cetaceans, potentially in need of rescue. Recovery of manatee carcasses from a ten county area in Southwest Florida and stranded cetaceans from a three county region. Conduct field necropsies on badly decomposed manatee carcasses and transport fresh to moderately decomposed manatee carcasses to the necropsy facility in St. Petersburg. Participate in the marine mammal stranding network, including coordination of capture and transportation of injured manatees and live cetaceans to the appropriate rehabilitation facility and conduct necropsies on fresh dead to badly decomposed stranded cetaceans. Conduct aerial surveys of manatees, track radio-tagged manatees and photograph manatees for photo identification purposes. Participate in aerial synoptic surveys for manatees. Operate a computer and software such as Arcview, Excel, Access and Word. Participate in data entry, office work, report writing and public outreach including working with the media. Perform tasks such as general cleaning of office and equipment, vehicle, trailer and boat maintenance and other tasks assigned by supervisor. Work long, unscheduled hours on short notice that include some evenings, most weekends and frequently on holidays. Occasional overnight travel required. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: A bachelor's degree with a major in one of the biological sciences. REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Applicant must obtain boater safety certification within the first six months of employment. Applicant must be able to swim proficiently. Field work is highly physical and applicant must be willing and able to lift 50 lbs on a regular basis. Must have the ability to work both as a team member as well as independently in various field situations. Must be able to work under adverse field conditions, potentially nights, on weekends and holidays. Must be able to establish and maintain effective and cooperative working relationships; think logically and apply problem-solving techniques; effectively communicate verbally and in writing; and maintain a valid driver's License. PREFERRED EXPERIENCE: Marine mammal stranding-response experience; previous participation in NOAA's Marine Mammal Stranding Network is highly desirable. Knowledge and the ability to use personal computers, field gear, and cameras are preferred. Demonstrated writing ability, preferably in research-related areas. The ability to safely operate and trailer boats less than 30 feet in length is also highly desired. 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 availability and you must meet eligibility requirements) * Deferred Compensation - voluntary * Employee Assistance Program - voluntary WHAT BENEFITS ARE NOT APPLICABLE TO OPS EMPLOYEES? * Any form of paid leave * Paid holidays * Participation in the Florida Retirement System * Reinstatement rights or retention rights APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: Please submit a current resume, three references, and a cover letter along with your State of Florida Employment Application in People First, as an attachment via the People First website: http://peoplefirst.myflorida.com<http://peoplefirst.myflorida.com/>. Applicants are required to submit a complete, up-to-date, State of Florida Employment Application Form electronically in People First (http://peoplefirst.myflorida.com<http://peoplefirst.myflorida.com/>) or faxed to 1-888-403-2110 by the closing date listed. Resumes and supporting documentation may be submitted in People First, but do not replace the requirement for a completed State of Florida Employment 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. 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.

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final extension of abstract submission for RIEMMCCA workshop at SMM
by Laura J. May-Collado 04 Sep '15

04 Sep '15

Hi everyone we are extending the abstract submission deadline to *September 10, 2015*. We encourage all scientists from Central America and the Caribbean to participate. This is a great opportunity to learn what is happening in our countries and also a great opportunity to establish regional collaboration. *Symposium Agenda: *RIEMMCCA Network of Aquatic Mammal Specialists of Central America and the Caribbean *Date: DECEMBER 12,* * 2015 at the San Francisco Biennial (all day)* *Cost*: $45 *Overview*: The intent of this symposium is to review the state-of-knowledge of the aquatic mammals of *Central America* and the *Caribbean* and to enhance collaboration and communication between scientists in the region. The symposium will consist of presentations (oral and poster) and a discussion session to identify gaps in knowledge and conservation issues, importance of communicating our science (public and in peer reviewed journals) and future research directions for the region. We invite national and international scientists working in the region to present their work by submitting a 300 word abstract (English and Spanish abstracts are welcome) to the following email address riemmcca .smm2015(a)gmail.com. Abstract submission will close on *SEPTEMBER 10, 2015*. Thanks!

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Stu Innes Award, San Francisco, 2015. Please post!
by Lindsay Porter 04 Sep '15

04 Sep '15

*Marine Mammal Biennial, San Francisco, USA December 2015* *Stu Innes Award * *Call for Applications* On May 21, 2000, the world of marine mammal research lost two talented scientists and cherished colleagues, Stuart Innes and Malcolm Ramsay. Drs. Innes and Ramsay were conducting field research near Resolute Bay, Nunavut, Canada when their helicopter crashed. Both Stuart and Malcolm are remembered with affection and admiration for their boundless energy and devotion to their scientific endeavours in the Arctic. Stuart was a vocal advocate for supporting students in their efforts to develop a career in Arctic marine mammal research. He believed that the Biennial Marine Mammal Conferences hosted by the Society for Marine Mammalogy were a good opportunity for young researchers to learn, network, and develop enthusiasm from the leaders in the field. As a tribute to Stuart, friends and colleagues have established the “S. Innes Memorial Student Travel Bursary” to help support a student’s travel to this conference each time it is held. The award is open to post-secondary students conducting marine mammal research in the Arctic. Applications should consist of the following: 1. The student’s name, affiliated institution, level (MSc or PhD) and year of study and CV 2. Name and address of supervisor 3. One additional reference 4. The accepted abstract submitted to the 2015 Biennial conference 5. 400 words describing the project the award will contribute to, highlighting the direct benefits of the award. A selection committee of Stuart’s colleagues will review the applications and select one winner. The committee’s decision is final. After the conference, a brief report should be submitted summarizing how the student benefited from the conference experience. The award this year is $1000.00 USD. Questions and applications should be sent by email to Lindsay Porter lindsay.jp(a)gmail.com Applications must be received by midnight *30 September 2015*.

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new paper: Combined physiological and behavioral observations to assess the influence of vessel encounters on harbor seals in glacial fjords of southeast Alaska
by Karpovich, Shawna A (DFG) 04 Sep '15

04 Sep '15

My coauthors and I would like to announce that the following paper is now available online: Combined physiological and behavioral observations to assess the influence of vessel encounters on harbor seals in glacial fjords of southeast Alaska Shawna A. Karpovich, John P. Skinner, Jeff E. Mondragon, Gail M. Blundell Highlights • Heart rate increased by 5 bpm when seals were directly approached by vessels. • Vessel approaches generally caused greater suppression of in-water heart rates. • Heart rate during the haulout following a vessel approach was elevated by 6 bpm. • Incidental vessel traffic caused a 4 bpm/vessel increase in seal heart rate. • Elevated heart rates suggest increased energetic costs associated with vessels. Abstract Most studies examining disturbance of seals define disturbance as entry into the water. However, behavior alone may not be an accurate indicator of the timing, magnitude, or physiological cost of disturbances. This study examines changes in harbor seal heart rates in response to two levels of vessel disturbances; 1) ‘incidental traffic’ defined as presence of vessels in the area while seals were hauled out; and 2) ‘experimental disturbance’ defined as direct vessel approaches to seals until the seal entered the water. Incidental traffic resulted in a 4 bpm vessel− 1 increase in heart rate while seals were hauled out. Mean incidental traffic during haulouts was 0.26 (range 0 to 8.95) vessels, and small vessels caused the largest increase in heart rate. Experimental disturbances resulted in a 5 bpm increase in heart rate upon initiation of vigilance, defined as the head-lift behavior. In-water heart rate was significantly lower after an experimental disturbance compared to other water entries, suggesting that seals shift to an energetically conservative mode in response to disturbances. During the haulout following an experimental disturbance, seal heart rate was significantly higher than other haulouts, suggesting that there is an added energetic cost of disturbance. Also, sex, mass, current and previous haul-out duration, in-water duration, day of year, hour of day, ambient temperature, and light level were found to have significant influence on harbor seal heart rates; demonstrating that a complex assortment of factors affect heart rate and careful consideration of these factors must be included in disturbance studies. Whereas previous findings have shown that vessel encounters alter seal behavior, this study presents evidence that encounters have energetic and physiological consequences while the seals are hauled out and these consequences persist for some time after the water entry behavior. Accordingly, exposure of harbor seals to increased vessel traffic may result in altered behavior, increased energetic expenditures, and increased exposure to stress, negatively affecting the health, condition, and reproductive success of harbor seal populations that reside in glacial fjords. The pdf can be downloaded at http://www.sciencedirect.com.arlis.idm.oclc.org/science/article/pii/S002209… Alternatively pdf requests can be sent to shawna.karpovich(a)alaska.gov<mailto:shawna.karpovich@alaska.gov>

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