October 2016 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

PSO / MMO Training in Galveston, TX and Juno Beach, FL
by abostwick 30 Oct '16

30 Oct '16

There are a few spots available in Protected Species Observer (also known as Marine Mammal Observer) training on November 18-19 in Galveston, TX at the Moody Gardens Aquarium. This class will also visit the NOAA Sea Turtle Facility, where we can discuss the identifying traits and behaviors of different species and age classes of sea turtles, while viewing the animals in person, a value which cannot be obtained in viewing static pictures. This BOEM/BSEE-compliant PSO certification course covers the regulations for reducing seismic survey impacts to marine mammals and sea turtles, objectively documenting animal behavior, and how to visually locate and identify the animals. Course comprehension is measured with examinations on regulations and animal identification. Successful completion of this course provides professional Protected Species Observer Certification. Lunch is provided and included in the course fee (college/graduate/government discounts available), along with various identification guides and regulatory documents (which will be yours to keep), admission to Moody Gardens, the tour, and advice on applying to PSO positions. MPSC is also holding PSO training at the Loggerhead MarineLife Center in Juno, Beach FL on February 25-26, 2017. For more information, please contact Angela at ABostwick(a)PSOCertifications.com, by phone at 832-523-2402, or visit the website at http://www.protectedspeciesobservers.com/. Thank you, Angela Bostwick / Founder Marine Protected Species Consulting ProtectedSpeciesObservers.com <http://www.ProtectedSpeciesObservers.com> https://Facebook.com/ProtectedSpeciesObservers/

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Seeking Research Assistants for Gray Whales Count 2017, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
by Michael H Smith 29 Oct '16

29 Oct '16

RESEARCH ASSISTANT (RA) POSITIONS AVAILABLE - seeking volunteer Research Assistants to participate in Gray Whales Count (GWC) 2017 survey of the northbound migration of Gray whales (Eschrichtius robustus) migrating through the nearshore of the Santa Barbara Channel. GWC is seeking Research Assistants (RA) to work with Project Coordinator and team of observers to assist in our annual survey, conducted from shore at Counter Point, in the Coal Oil Point Reserve, Goleta, California, USA, adjacent to the campus of the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB). This position is open to citizens of the United States of America and those authorized to work in the United States with an appropriate visa in hand. The 2017 survey begins Tuesday, February 21 and continues every day through May 25, from 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Sunday. If Gray whale calves are continuing, we may need to extend the survey through May 31. We are looking for passionate, caring individuals who are willing to commit for the entire survey, ~100 survey days, and be available to begin Saturday, February 18 to train and assist with preparations. GWC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization for research and education. The primary goal of research is to estimate the number of Gray whales and Gray whale calves migrating northbound through our corridor and to share our data to complement similar sampling-studies along the California coast. A secondary goal is to document the variety and quantity of other marine mammals in the ocean area around our site, which is now a Marine Protected Area. We are able to monitor human activity, including interactions with marine mammals, including Gray whales. Goals of education are to teach the process of scientific research to Counters and to give them the opportunity to conduct a meaningful study, to experience marine mammals in their natural environment, and to share this process and our enthusiasm with publics through direct interchange, outreach, and various media. RAs will be trained by the Project Coordinator and, in-turn, share the responsibility for training new volunteers and conducting research and education. Applicable skills learned and achieved include: > Process, concepts, and protocols of the survey, including use of equipment and data-entry. > Ability to identify a multitude of marine mammal species from a distance, including but not limited to: Gray whales, Humpback whales, Bottlenose dolphins, Common dolphins, Pacific white-sided dolphins, Harbor seals, California Sea lions, Sea otters, etc. > Identify behaviors of these marine mammals > Distinguish calves from juveniles and adults > Identify vessels and vessel operations > Gather detailed, consistent data, with ability to teach and check others’ work > Learn about marine mammals in their natural environment and the forces that affect them, both natural and anthropogenic > Developing responsibility and a working relationship within a team Because of the training required, applicants must be willing to commit full-time to the project for the time period involved, approximately 100 days, which can be extended if the applicant desires to be involved with data entry and analysis). This will entail up to 9 hours of work a day for at least 5 days a week. (With training, RA’s are required to work everyday the first two weeks.) The Count is 7 days per week and the RA may commit additional hours to the Count as desired. The more time you can put in, the more you will get out of your experience. Priority will be given to those candidates with associative career goals. Previous experience is a plus but not a condition. This is an invaluable opportunity to gain extensive experience in real-time, scientific fieldwork in an environment rich with diverse populations of marine mammals. You will work with equally diverse individuals who are caring, attentive, and curious. Gray whales are a sentinel species traveling from temperate lagoons in Mexico, along the dynamic California Current at the eastern edge of the North Pacific Ocean to the Arctic waters of northern Alaska in one of the longest marine mammal migrations. Requirements: > Even though we are situated in Southern California, you must be able to withstand harsh weather conditions. Fieldwork can be, at times, physically and mentally demanding. > Willingness to work long hours. > Commit for a minimum of 100 days, full time (minimum five days per week). > Enrolled in or completed a degree in biology, marine science, zoology, environmental science, animal behavior or a related field. > Previous field experience with marine wildlife and observation is a plus but not required. > Ability to work in a team environment to produce consistent, high quality results. We cannot stress this enough. You will be trained to be a leader of an operation with people of differing experience and dedication. > Be enthusiastic and possess a caring, positive attitude, with a strong desire to learn. > Be adaptable and patient. The migration is characterized by pulses rather than a steady stream; and weather is the unknown factor: wind, rain, and fog can shut us down. > We strive for a perfection that cannot be attained. We are forgiving and learn from experience. This is a volunteer position. The selected RAs will be responsible for their own transportation to and from Santa Barbara/Goleta, California and daily to the survey site. Recognizing that living costs are high in this area, Gray Whales Count will award a $500 stipend to assist each RA with expenses upon successful completion of the RA position. RAs will be responsible for all for living expenses while volunteering for Gray Whales Count. To apply: Please send cover letter/résumé to Project Coordinator, Michael Smith michael(a)graywhalescount.org <mailto:michael@graywhalescount.org>. We strongly recommend you look over our website: graywhalescount.org <http://www.graywhalescount.org/GWC/The_Count/The_Count.html> to familiarize yourself with our operation. In the cover letter, please address why you wish to participate in Gray Whales Count; how this particular experience will be meaningful to you; and how this might advance your career goals. There is no deadline to apply. The position will remain open until it is filled. Please consider applying early in order to arrange travel plans and to secure room and board.

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New publication on the foraging activity of deep diving odontocetes
by Giacomo Giorli 28 Oct '16

28 Oct '16

Dear MARMAM Readers My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the following recent publication in the Journal of the Acoustical Society of America: *Giorli, G., Neuheimer, A., Copeland, A. and Au, W.W., 2016. Temporal and spatial variation of beaked and sperm whales foraging activity in Hawai'i, as determined with passive acoustics. The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America, 140(4), pp.2333-2343.* *ABSTRACT:* Beaked and sperm whales are top predators living in the waters off the Kona coast of Hawai’i. Temporal and spatial analyses of the foraging activity of these two species were studied with passive acoustics techniques. Three passive acoustics recorders moored to the ocean floor were used to monitor the foraging activity of these whales in three locations along the Kona coast of the island of Hawaii. Data were analyzed using automatic detector/classification systems: M3R (Marine Mammal Monitoring on Navy Ranges), and custom-designed MATLAB programs. The temporal variation in foraging activity was species-specific: beaked whales foraged more at night in the north, and more during the day-time off Kailua-Kona. No day-time/night-time preference was found in the southern end of the sampling range. Sperm whales foraged mainly at night in the north, but no day-time/night-time preference was observed off Kailua-Kona and in the south. A Generalized Linear Model was then applied to assess whether location and chlorophyll concentration affected the foraging activity of each species. Chlorophyll concentration and location influenced the foraging activity of both these species of deep-diving odontocetes. Here is a link to the paper: http://scitation.aip.org/conte nt/asa/journal/jasa/140/4/10.1121/1.4964105 This paper is the last of a series of publication that aims at describing the foraging activity of deep diving odontocetes in different ocean basins /environments. The other publication are: *Giorli, G., Neuheimer, A., & Au, W. (2016). Spatial variation of deep diving odontocetes’ occurrence around a canyon region in the Ligurian Sea as measured with acoustic techniques. Deep Sea Research Part I: Oceanographic Research Papers, 116, 88-93.Giacomo Giorli, Whitlow W. L. Au, Anna Neuheimer, (2016). Differences in the foraging strategy of deep diving odontocetes in the Ligurian Sea determined by passive acoustic recorders. Deep sea Research Part I, 107, 1-8. Giacomo Giorli, Whitlow W. L. Au, Helen Ou, Susan Jarvis, Ronald Morrissey, David Moretti, (2015). Acoustic detection of biosonar activity of deep diving Odontocetes at Josephine Seamount High Seas Marine Protected Area. J. Acoust. Soc. Am., 137, 2495.Whitlow W. L. Au, Giacomo Giorli, Jessica Chen, Adrienne Copeland, Marc Lammers, Michael Richlen, Susan Jarvis, Ronald Morressey, David Moretti, Holger Klinck.(2013) Nighttime Foraging by Deep Diving Echolocating Odontocetes off the Hawaiian Islands of Kauai and Ni’iahu as Determined by Passive Acoustic Monitors. J. Acoust. Soc. Am. Volume 133, Issue 5, pp. 3119-3127.* Please feel free to contact me for any inquiries or requests Best Regards, Giacomo Giorli, Ph.D Univeristy of Hawaii at Manoa Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology Marine Mammal Research Program P.O. Box 1346, Kaneohe, 96744 giacomog(a)hawaii.edu

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Job Announcement_Rescue Program Director_New York State Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Response Program
by Kim Durham 27 Oct '16

27 Oct '16

[cid:image002.jpg@01D2307E.A4DAA210]Job Announcement Rescue Program Director Date: October 27, 2016 Department: Rescue and Rehabilitation Reports To: Executive Director Available: Immediately Position Location: Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation, Riverhead, NY Hours: Full Time salary position (inclusive of weekends and holidays). Hotline coverage required. The Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation ("RFMRP") is excited to announce an opening for an experienced Rescue Program Director. If you are passionate for the rehabilitation and preservation of marine mammals and sea turtle, if you are interested in managing their care and the team that supports that effort, we look forward to speaking with you. Duties: * Provide liaison between veterinarian staff and animal care/husbandry staff * Provide clinical management as prescribed by RFMRP veterinary staff * Oversee all aspects of health assessments and medical procedures as directed by veterinary staff including, but not limited to, performing physical examination and conducting blood draws, and administering IV fluids and medication to pinnipeds, sea turtles, and cetaceans * Respond to calls reporting stranded marine mammals and sea turtles and provide education to the public via "Hotline" coverage. * Prepare, organize, manage and provide training programs for volunteer staff * Manage all maintenance of data records and databases * Oversee maintenance programs for all medical and water quality equipment * Provide liaison with the Regional and National Stranding Networks, interact with state (NYS Department of Environmental Conservation) and local municipalities in all matters relating to the operation of the Stranding Investigations Program * Provide liaison to Riverhead Foundation's Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). * Provide support to educational outreach programs and assist with the instruction of local university marine mammal and sea turtle rehabilitation class. * Assist with and/or perform post mortem examinations inclusive of field necropsies of marine mammals and sea turtles. * Manage and provide response, husbandry and medical care for pinniped, cetacean and sea turtle species recovered by the RFMRP's Rescue and Rehabilitation Program * Provide assistance with grant writing, final and departmental report publications. * Assist with production and publication of data originating from the Stranding Investigations Program via professional meetings. Qualifications: * Bachelor of Arts or Science degree in Biology, Marine Science or related field. * Advanced degree preferred. * Demonstrated management experience. * Minimum of 10 years experience in marine mammal and sea turtle stranding, species identification or other related marine mammal and sea turtle activities. * Minimum of 10 years of animal triage and husbandry of marine mammal and sea turtle species. * Understanding and application of veterinary technology inclusive of sampling procedures, diagnostic techniques and clinical laboratory equipment. Working knowledge of pharmacology and diagnostic imaging (radiograph, ultrasound) a plus. * Veterinary Technician required. * A valid driver's license with a clean driving record. * Experience driving large trucks * Strong written and verbal communication skills. * Strong leadership skills in routine and emergency situations. * Strong organizational and time management skills. * Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, GIS and Access software. * Working knowledge of life support systems and equipment used within aquariums (pumps, filtration units, ozone generators) Typical Physical Demands: Candidate will engage in moderate to a high level of physical activity daily (i.e., performing husbandry duties). Position will require work within extreme weather conditions for long hours, sometimes overnight. Candidates should be able to lift 50 pounds and otherwise be is good physical condition. About the Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation The Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation (RFMRP) is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization whose mission is to protect our marine environment through education, rehabilitation, and research. The RFMRP is a member of the Greater Atlantic Region Stranding Network and is located within the Long Island Aquarium and Exhibition Center in Riverhead, New York. The RFMRP is dedicated to the response, rehabilitation and release of pinnipeds, sea turtles and cetacean species. The rehabilitation facility is the largest pinniped rehabilitation facility and the only long-term cetacean rehabilitation facility within Northeastern United States. The RFMRP's Rescue and Rehabilitation Program responds to approximately 250 stranded marine mammals and sea turtles annually. The RFMRP's Aquatic Animal Health and Conservation Program is dedicated to providing educational outreach programs to the public to further conservation and promote environmental stewardship of the coastal and marine environment. To Apply: Please send your cover letter and resume to careers(a)riverheadfoundation.org<mailto:careers@riverheadfoundation.org> Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.

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Job Announcement_New York State Marine Mammal & Sea Turtle Response Program
by Kim Durham 27 Oct '16

27 Oct '16

[cid:image003.jpg@01D2307A.C2DAACA0]Job Announcement Rescue Program Supervisor Date: October 27, 2016 Department: Rescue and Rehabilitation Reports To: Rescue Program Director Available: Immediately Position Location: Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation, Riverhead, NY Hours: Full Time salary position (inclusive of weekends and holidays). Hotline coverage required. The Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation ("RFMRP") is excited to announce an opening for an experienced Rescue Program Supervisor. If you are passionate for the rehabilitation and preservation of marine mammals and sea turtle, if you are interested in managing their care and the team that supports that effort, we look forward to speaking with you. Duties: * Provide liaison between veterinarian staff and animal care/husbandry staff * Provide clinical management as prescribed by RFMRP veterinary staff * Oversee all aspects of health assessments and medical procedures as directed by veterinary staff including, but not limited to, performing physical examination and conducting blood draws, and administering IV fluids and medication to pinnipeds, sea turtles, and cetaceans * Respond to calls reporting stranded marine mammals and sea turtles and provide education to the public via "Hotline" coverage. * Prepare, organize, manage and provide training programs for volunteer staff * Manage all maintenance of data records and databases * Oversee maintenance programs for all medical and water quality equipment * Provide liaison with the Regional and National Stranding Networks, interact with state (NYS Department of Environmental Conservation) and local municipalities in all matters relating to the operation of the Stranding Investigations Program * Provide liaison to Riverhead Foundation's Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). * Provide support to educational outreach programs and assist with the instruction of local university marine mammal and sea turtle rehabilitation class. * Assist with and/or perform post mortem examinations inclusive of field necropsies of marine mammals and sea turtles. * Manage and provide response, husbandry and medical care for pinniped, cetacean and sea turtle species recovered by the RFMRP's Rescue and Rehabilitation Program * Provide assistance with grant writing, final and departmental report publications. * Assist with production and publication of data originating from the Stranding Investigations Program via professional meetings. Qualifications: * Bachelor of Arts or Science degree in Biology, Marine Science or related field. * Minimum of 3 years experience in marine mammal and sea turtle stranding, species identification or other related marine mammal and sea turtle activities. * Minimum of 2 years of animal triage and husbandry of marine mammal and sea turtle species. * Understanding and application of veterinary technology inclusive of sampling procedures, diagnostic techniques and clinical laboratory equipment. Working knowledge of pharmacology and diagnostic imaging (radiograph, ultrasound) a plus. * Veterinary Technician preferred. * A valid driver's license with a clean driving record. * Experience driving large trucks * Strong written and verbal communication skills. * Strong leadership skills in routine and emergency situations. * Strong organizational and time management skills. * Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, GIS and Access software. * Working knowledge of life support systems and equipment used within aquariums (pumps, filtration units, ozone generators) Typical Physical Demands: Candidate will engage in moderate to a high level of physical activity daily (i.e., performing husbandry duties). Position will require work within extreme weather conditions for long hours, sometimes overnight. Candidates should be able to lift 50 pounds and otherwise be is good physical condition. About the Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation The Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation (RFMRP) is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization whose mission is to protect our marine environment through education, rehabilitation, and research. The RFMRP is a member of the Greater Atlantic Region Stranding Network and is located within the Long Island Aquarium and Exhibition Center in Riverhead, New York. The RFMRP is dedicated to the response, rehabilitation and release of pinnipeds, sea turtles and cetacean species. The rehabilitation facility is the largest pinniped rehabilitation facility and the only long-term cetacean rehabilitation facility within Northeastern United States. The RFMRP's Rescue and Rehabilitation Program responds to approximately 250 stranded marine mammals and sea turtles annually. The RFMRP's Aquatic Animal Health and Conservation Program is dedicated to providing educational outreach programs to the public to further conservation and promote environmental stewardship of the coastal and marine environment. To Apply: Please send your cover letter and resume to careers(a)riverheadfoundation.org<mailto:careers@riverheadfoundation.org> Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.

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New pubblication on Mediterranean monk seals toxicology
by Annalisa Zaccaroni 27 Oct '16

27 Oct '16

Dear MARMAM colleagues, It is with great pleasure that my co-authors and I would like to share our most recent publication in SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT: Costanza Formigaro, Alexandros A. Karamanlidis, Panagiotis Dendrinos, Letizia Marsili, Marina Silvi, Annalisa Zaccaroni (2017). Trace element concentrations in the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus) in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. Science of the Total Environment 576: 528-537. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.10.142 Abstract: The Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus) is one of the most endangered marine mammals in the world. The biggest sub-population of the species survives in Greece, where understanding the effects of pollution on the survival of the species has been identified as a national research and conservation priority. From 1990 to 2013 we collected tissue samples from 59 deceased monk seals in order to: (i) Define the concentration of trace elements (As, Pb, Cd, Hg, Se, Cr, Ni) in three different matrices (i.e., blubber, liver and kidney), (ii) Determine whether differences in trace element concentrations are age- or gender-related, (iii) Evaluate the potential effects of these pollutants. The study recorded differences in trace element concentrations among matrices, but in general, trace element exposure in Mediterranean monk seals in Greece was low and within the non-acutely toxic levels for Pinnipeds. Only arsenic concentrations were at the upper limit of the normal range observed in other marine mammals (0.69 ± 0.55 mg/kg w.w. in blubber, 0.79 ± 0.62 mg/kg w.w. in liver and 0.79 ± 0.59 mg/kg w.w. in kidney). We recorded also exceptionally high Hg concentrations in a single adult female (24.88 mg/kg w.w.). Age- and gender-related differences were also recorded and were due to various biological, ecological and chemical factors. Based on the results of the study, potentially adverse effects on the immune and endocrine system of the Mediterranean monk seal from some pollutants (e.g., As, Cd, Se, Ni, Cr) cannot be ruled out, which may expose the Mediterranean seal population in Greece to epizootics and stochastic phenomena of mass mortality. It is therefore of utmost importance that pollutant monitoring becomes an integral component of the standard monitoring protocol of the endangered Mediterranean monk seal in the eastern Mediterranean. Full text and PDF files can be downloaded here http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048969716323348 http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.10.142 Alternatively, please send PDF requests to annalisa.zaccaroni(a)unibo.it<mailto:annalisa.zaccaroni@unibo.it>. All the best, Annalisa Zaccaroni Dept. Veterinary Medical Sciences University of Bologna Viale Vespucci 2 Cesenatico (FC) 47042 tel. +39 0547 338944 fax +39 0547 338941 mobile +39 347 5951709 annalisa.zaccaroni(a)unibo.it<mailto:annalisa.zaccaroni@unibo.it>

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New publication: Emergence of the Zoonotic Biliary Trematode Pseudamphistomum truncatum in Grey Seals (Halichoerus grypus) in the Baltic Sea
by Charlotta Moraeus 27 Oct '16

27 Oct '16

Dear MARMAM subscribers, We are pleased to announce the publication of the following paper which was recently published in PLOS ONE: Neimanis AS, Moraeus C, Bergman A, Bignert A, Höglund J, Lundström K, Strömberg A, Bäcklin B-M. (2016) Emergence of the Zoonotic Biliary Trematode Pseudamphistomum truncatum in Grey Seals (Halichoerus grypus) in the Baltic Sea. PLoS ONE 11(10): e0164782. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0164782 Abstract The biliary trematode Pseudamphistomum truncatum parasitizes a wide range of fish-eating mammals, including humans. Here we report the emergence of this parasite in grey seals (Halichoerus grypus) in the Baltic Sea. One hundred eighty-three of 1 554 grey seals (11.9%) examined from 2002-2013 had detectable hepatobiliary trematode infection. Parasite identification was confirmed as P. truncatum by sequencing the ITS2 region of a pool of five to 10 trematodes from each of ten seals collected off the coast of seven different Swedish counties. The proportion of seals parasitized by P. truncatum increased significantly over time and with increasing age of seals. Males were 3.1 times more likely to be parasitized than females and animals killed in fishery interactions were less likely to be parasitized than animals found dead or hunted. There was no significant difference in parasitism of seals examined from the Gulf of Bothnia versus those examined from the Baltic Proper. Although the majority of infections were mild, P. truncatum can cause severe hepatobiliary disease and resulted in liver failure in at least one seal. Because cyprinid fish are the second intermediate host for opisthorchiid trematodes, diets of grey seals from the Baltic Sea were analysed regarding presence of cyprinids. The proportion of gastrointestinal tracts containing cyprinid remains was ten times higher in seals examined from 2008 to 2013 (12.2%) than those examined from 2002 to 2007 (1.2%) and coincided with a general increase of trematode parasitism in the host population. The emergence and relatively common occurrence of P. truncatum in grey seals signals the presence of this parasite in the Baltic Sea ecosystem and demonstrates how aquatic mammals can serve as excellent sentinels of marine ecosystem change. Investigation of drivers behind P. truncatum emergence and infection risk for other mammals, including humans, is highly warranted. This paper is available via open access and can be downloaded from the following link: http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0164782 Kind regards Charlotta Moraeus [Beskrivning: Beskrivning: Beskrivning: Description: Description: Description: Description: nrm_logo] Charlotta Moraeus Curator Department of Environmental Research and Monitoring +46 (0)8-5195 5144 charlotta.moraeus(a)nrm.se<mailto:charlotta.moraeus@nrm.se> Swedish Museum of Natural History P.O. Box 50007 SE-104 05 Stockholm Sweden www.nrm.se<http://www.nrm.se/>

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New publication: critical review of inferring foraging from location and dive data in pinnipeds (Matt Carter, Plymouth University)
by Matthew Carter 27 Oct '16

27 Oct '16

Subject: New publication: critical review of inferring foraging from location and dive data in pinnipeds (Matt Carter, Plymouth University) Dear MARMAM colleagues, On behalf of my co-authors I am pleased to share the publication of the following review article on inferring foraging from location and dive data in pinnipeds. Navigating uncertain waters: a critical review of inferring foraging behaviour from location and dive data in pinnipeds<http://media.wix.com/ugd/3edaea_66631a0740f64f9a835f084471b4117b.pdf> (2016) Carter, MID; Bennett, KA; Embling, CB; Hosegood, PJ; Russell, DJF. Movement Ecology 4 (25). DOI: 10.1186/s40462-016-0090-9 ABSTRACT: In the last thirty years, the emergence and progression of biologging technology has led to great advances in marine predator ecology. Large databases of location and dive observations from biologging devices have been compiled for an increasing number of diving predator species (such as pinnipeds, sea turtles, seabirds and cetaceans), enabling complex questions about animal activity budgets and habitat use to be addressed. Central to answering these questions is our ability to correctly identify and quantify the frequency of essential behaviours, such as foraging. Despite technological advances that have increased the quality and resolution of location and dive data, accurately interpreting behaviour from such data remains a challenge, and analytical methods are only beginning to unlock the full potential of existing datasets. This review evaluates both traditional and emerging methods and presents a starting platform of options for future studies of marine predator foraging ecology, particularly from location and two-dimensional (time-depth) dive data. We outline the different devices and data types available, discuss the limitations and advantages of commonly-used analytical techniques, and highlight key areas for future research. We focus our review on pinnipeds - one of the most studied taxa of marine predators - but offer insights that will be applicable to other air-breathing marine predator tracking studies. We highlight that traditionally-used methods for inferring foraging from location and dive data, such as first-passage time and dive shape analysis, have important caveats and limitations depending on the nature of the data and the research question. We suggest that more holistic statistical techniques, such as state-space models, which can synthesise multiple track, dive and environmental metrics whilst simultaneously accounting for measurement error, offer more robust alternatives. Finally, we identify a need for more research to elucidate the role of physical oceanography, device effects, study animal selection, and developmental stages in predator behaviour and data interpretation. The article is full open access and available for download at the following link: http://rdcu.be/lZ08<http://em.rdcu.be/wf/click?upn=KP7O1RED-2BlD0F9LDqGVeSAZ0-2B8HX-2BMdW48mFiC…> Please don't hesitate to contact me directly for any queries. Best wishes, Matt Carter PhD Student Marine Biology and Ecology Research Centre School of Marine Science and Engineering Plymouth University matthew.carter(a)plymouth.ac.uk<mailto:matthew.carter@plymouth.ac.uk> https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Matt_Carter2 ________________________________ [http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/images/email_footer.gif]<http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/worldclass> This email and any files with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the recipient to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient then copying, distribution or other use of the information contained is strictly prohibited and you should not rely on it. If you have received this email in error please let the sender know immediately and delete it from your system(s). Internet emails are not necessarily secure. While we take every care, Plymouth University accepts no responsibility for viruses and it is your responsibility to scan emails and their attachments. Plymouth University does not accept responsibility for any changes made after it was sent. Nothing in this email or its attachments constitutes an order for goods or services unless accompanied by an official order form.

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New publication: Dall's porpoise distribution
by Keiko Sekiguchi 26 Oct '16

26 Oct '16

Dear MARMAM, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce our new publication of Dalls porpoise on Zoological Science. Sachiko Suzuki, Keiko Sekiguchi, Yoko Mitani, Hiroji Onishi and Takehiko Kamito. 2016. Distribution of Dall's porpoise, Phocoenoides dalli, in the North Pacific and Bering Sea, based on T/S Oshoro Maru 2012 summer cruise data. Zoological Science 33(5):491-496. Doi:10.2108/zs150141. Abstract: Dalls porpoise (Phocoenoides dalli) is a small toothed cetacean, widely inhabiting the North Pacific Ocean and adjacent seas, between about 30 and 62°N; however, only limited studies of its ecology have been made in nearshore areas. A cetacean sighting survey lasting 60 days was conducted during the 2012 summer cruise of the T/S Oshoro Maru (Hokkaido University, Japan) in the North Pacific Ocean and Bering Sea. Based on this data, the distribution of Dalls porpoises and the factors controlling it in the pelagic habitat were investigated. A total of 808 individual Dalls porpoises in 166 groups were sighted during a total of 469.6 hr and 4946.6 nm observations. The cruise consisted of three legs and the average porpoise group size was significantly larger in Leg 1. The sightings were concentrated at water depths of less than 1000 m and near eastern Aleutian passes. Sighting clusters were found on the 200 m isobath of the southeastern Bering Sea continental slope. There was a peak in sightings where the sea surface temperature (SST) was relatively cold, between 5 and 7°C. Although similar track routes were taken in Leg 1 and Leg 3, the number of sightings per unit effort was larger in Leg 1. This difference may have arisen from the significant rise in SST as the season progressed. Relatively large group size found in this study might relate with prey abundance along the Aleutian Islands. The full article can be downloaded at http://www.bioone.org/toc/jzoo/33/5 or e-mail me for PDF at <ksekiguc(a)hawaii.edu> Regards, Keiko Sekiguchi **************************************************************************** ******************* Keiko Sekiguchi, Ph.D. (Cetacean Biology) Research Fellow, the International Christian University, Tokyo, Japan E-mail: <mailto:ksekiguc@hawaii.edu> <ksekiguc(a)hawaii.edu> **************************************************************************** *******************

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Potential PhD Studentship Opportunity: Grey seal life history, behaviour and molecular ecology.
by TWISS, SEAN D. 26 Oct '16

26 Oct '16

Project Title: A multi-level approach to quantifying individuality in stress coping ability of wild animals Application Deadline: Thursday, January 05, 2017 Supervisors: Dr. Sean Twiss (Durham Univ.), Dr. Andreanna Welch (Durham Univ.), Dr. Patrick Pomeroy (SMRU, University of St. Andrews), Dr Amanda Bishop (Alaska SeaLife Center). Project description: Organisms have evolved mechanisms to cope with natural stressors, but rapid environmental change is subjecting species to new threats or more unpredictable and extreme natural stressors. Conventional studies focus on species or ecosystem level responses to change, such as range or phenological shifts, but these are products of variation in individual responses. Individuals can show differing coping-styles; proactive individuals express little flexibility and are less responsive to environmental stimuli, whereas reactive individuals are more flexible and responsive. Underpinning these behavioural characteristics are physiological differences associated with the autonomic nervous system. Understanding how individuals differ in their ability to cope with stressors, and the consequences if they fail to do so, is critical for quantifying species’ resilience to current and future threats of climate change and anthropogenic disturbance. Such understanding requires integrative studies that uncover links between molecular and physiological mechanisms of stress coping and the individual outcomes in terms of behaviour and fitness. This project aims to investigate stress reactivity across these levels of biological organisation. Within molecular ecology, interest has grown in the effect of environmental stressors on telomere dynamics. Although telomeres generally get shorter each time a cell divides, telomeric DNA is particularly susceptible to oxidative damage and chronic stress exposure accelerates telomere attrition even in adulthood, affecting health and longevity. Thus, telomere attrition rate could indicate general levels of oxidative damage and, therefore, exposure to stress. However, work on wild, non-human populations is still sparse. This study will integrate molecular indicators of stress (telomere erosion) with measures of behavioural and physiological stress reactivity in wild, breeding grey seals (Halichoerus grypus). Fieldwork will encompass 3 successive autumnal breeding seasons at the Isle of May (Scotland) colony, where 30-40 adult, known age females with pups are handled routinely as part of a long-term study of life-histories. Each female’s behavioural phenotype will be characterized in situ using established observational and experimental protocols which quantitatively place individuals on a proactive-reactive axis. In addition, focal females will be equipped with heart-rate data-loggers to provide physiological indices of coping-style. This studentship will add another dimension to this investigation of stress reactivity by quantifying individual differences in telomere erosion rates in relation to behavioural and physiological indicators of coping style. Repeat sampling across years will allow quantification of telomere attrition, giving a molecular indicator of the preceding year’s ‘stress’. The longitudinal study design will allow the student to control for maternal age, pup sex, inter-annual differences in maternal investment and environmental conditions (e.g. colony density, weather). Training: The student will gain extensive inter-disciplinary training in field behavioural observation, application of biotelemetry devices, organisation of fieldwork logistics and safety, along with molecular genetic techniques. Beyond these, the student will develop critical thinking, writing, and teamwork skills as part of dynamic, interdisciplinary, and supportive research groups. Eligibility: Applications for this project are welcome from suitably qualified candidates worldwide. Applicants must be applying to start a full-time PhD in the Faculty in October 2017. They must have fulfilled the University’s requirements regarding English language ability and must not require a presessional course as a condition of their place. See: https://www.dur.ac.uk/learningandteaching.handbook/1/3/3/ Funding and how to apply: This project is in competition with others for funding (via the Durham Doctoral Studentship scheme). Success will therefore depend on the quality of applications received, relative to those for competing projects. If you are interested in applying, in the first instance contact Dr Sean Twiss, (s.d.twiss(a)durham.ac.uk) with a CV and covering letter, detailing your reasons for applying for the project. Only the best applicants will be asked to submit an application. Candidate requirements: Potential candidates should be able to demonstrate the ability to conduct prolonged and isolated fieldwork in harsh conditions, while remaining dedicated and enthusiastic. Ability to work independently and as part of a team is essential. In addition, candidates will require strong technical and analytical skills, including experience of modern molecular genetic techniques and statistical modelling. A UK driving licence (or equivalent) is also desirable, but not essential. UK and Non-UK students are advised that to be considered for the Durham Doctoral Studentship, the minimum requirements include an excellent undergraduate degree with either postgraduate or work experience in a relevant discipline and scientific publication(s) in peer reviewed journals. _________________________________ Dr. Sean Twiss, Senior Lecturer in Behavioural Ecology and Animal Behaviour, Department of Biosciences, South Road, Durham University, Durham, DH1 3LE, UK. E-mail: s.d.twiss(a)durham.ac.uk Web-site: https://www.dur.ac.uk/biosciences/about/schoolstaff/academicstaff/?id=1132 Blog: http://sealbehaviour.wordpress.com/ Behaviour, Ecology and Evolution Research (BEER) Centre: www.dur.ac.uk/beer-centre<http://www.dur.ac.uk/beer-centre> Tel: +44 (0)191 334 1350 (office) Tel: +44 (0)191 334 1247 (lab) Fax: +44 (0)191 334 1201 _________________________________

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