October 2016 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Marine Animal Rehabilitation & Environmental Education Internship
by Margot Madden 20 Oct '16

20 Oct '16

Marine Animal Rehabilitation & Environmental Education Internship The National Marine Life Center is seeking qualified students to fill our spring internship positions. Marine Animal Rehabilitation/Education interns will assist NMLC staff and volunteers with education projects and animal husbandry. See below for the complete details. The National Marine Life Center (NMLC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to rehabilitating and releasing stranded marine mammals and sea turtles, seals in order to advance science and education in marine wildlife health and conservation. Animal Care Responsibilities- Depending on need and case load, interns will assist with the care of the NMLC rehabilitation patients including seals, sea turtles, and freshwater turtles. Animal Care duties will include animal restraint, cleaning, disinfecting tanks, equipment, and environmental enrichment devices, food preparation, administering feeds including tube feeding, data entry, maintenance and water quality testing. Interns will also assist animal care staff with medical procedures, admission exams, necropsies and release events. Education Responsibilities- Interns will assist with environmental education programs, including on-site programs, off-site programs, fairs, and festivals. Interns will assist in giving public presentations to guests of NMLC and educate them on marine animals and conservation. Interns will assist in the gift shop; assist with various office projects and event promotion. Other Responsibilities- Each intern will take on a project which they will work on for the duration of their internship. The project must be proposed by the student and agreed upon with the NMLC staff. At the end of the internship, the intern will present the project to the staff, volunteers, and members of the public. Each intern will also be assigned a weekly chore to assist with the upkeep of the facility and equipment, and will be required to attend regularly scheduled intern meetings. Positions are unpaid, interns must have their own transportation, and housing is not provided, but NMLC will offer suggestions. Qualifications- * The internship is open to students who are currently enrolled in, or recently graduated from an accredited college or university. * Preference will be given to students or recent graduates working towards biology, environmental studies, marine science, education, or other related fields. * Intern should demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills. * Students that are adaptable, responsible, hardworking, willing to learn, and have attention to detail are encouraged to apply. * Must be able to work independently and as part of a team. * Spring interns should be available to work from January 2nd 2017-May 31st 2017. * Interns should expect to work 40 hours per week which will include early morning and/or late night seal feedings. * If an intern plans to receive school credit for an internship they must notify staff prior to the internship start date, and it will be the responsibility of the applicant to ensure all required paperwork is completed and submitted. To Apply- Send your resume, cover letter, and one letter of reference to Margot Madden & Kate Shaffer at apply(a)nmlc.org or PO Box 269, Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts 02532. Applications must be received by November 15th for the spring semester. Margot Madden Animal Care and Volunteer Coordinator National Marine Life Center P.O. Box 269, 120 Main Street Buzzards Bay, MA 02532-0269 p. (508) 743-9888 X306 f. (508) 759-5477 www.nmlc.org mmadden(a)nmlc.org --- This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. https://www.avast.com/antivirus

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New Publication: Vocal matching
by Stephanie King 20 Oct '16

20 Oct '16

Dear all, My co-author and I are pleased to notify you of the online publication of our paper "Vocal matching: the what, the why and the how" in Biology Letters. In this review, we use cetaceans and other taxa (e.g. songbirds) to describe and clarify the term vocal matching as an interactive vocal behaviour. The abstract is as follows: Over the years, vocal matching has progressed beyond being an interesting behavioural phenomenon to one that now has relevance to a wide range of fields. In this review, we use birds and cetaceans to explain what vocal matching is, why animals vocally match and how vocal matching can be identified. We show that while the functional aspects of vocal matching are similar, the contexts in which matching is used can differ between taxa. Whereas vocal matching in songbirds facilitates mate attraction and the immediate defence of resources, in parrots and cetaceans it plays a role in the maintenance of social bonds and the promotion of behavioural synchrony. We propose criteria for defining vocal matching with the aim of stimulating more matching studies across a wider range of taxa, including those using other, non-vocal, communication modalities. Finally, we encourage future studies to explore the importance of vocal learning in the development of vocal matching, and the information it may provide to third parties in the communication network. You can download the article here: http://rsbl.royalsocietypublishing.org/content/12/10/20160666 Kind regards, Stephanie ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Stephanie L. King, PhD Society in Science - Branco Weiss Fellow Centre for Evolutionary Biology School of Animal Biology University of Western Australia 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009 Ph 0864881773 (W) 0447 265840 (M) www.sharkbaydolphins.org Please visit my homepage to find out more about my research: http://slking.weebly.com “Because in the end, you won’t remember the time you spent working in the office or mowing your lawn. Climb that goddamn mountain.” — Jack Kerouac

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New publication on humpback whale pregnancy and stable isotopes
by Casey Clark 19 Oct '16

19 Oct '16

Dear Colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce our most recent article, published in Conservation Physiology: Clark, C.T., A.H. Fleming, J. Calambokidis, N.M. Kellar, C.D. Allen, K.N. Catelani, M. Robbins, N.E. Beaulieu, D. Steel, and J.T. Harvey. 2016. Heavy with child? Pregnancy status and stable isotopes as determined from biopsies of humpback whales. Conservation Physiology. DOI: 10.1093/conphys/cow050 Abstract: Understanding reproductive rates of wild animal populations is crucially important for management and conservation. Assessing pregnancy status of free-ranging cetaceans has historically been difficult; however, recent advances in analytical techniques have allowed the diagnosis of pregnancy from small samples of blubber tissue. The primary objectives of this study were as follows: (i) to test the efficacy of blubber progesterone assays as a tool for diagnosing pregnancy in humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae); (ii) to estimate the pregnancy rate of humpback whales in Monterey Bay, California; and (iii) to investigate the relationship between stable isotopes and reproductive status of these whales. Progesterone concentrations of female whales fell into two distinct groups, allowing for diagnostic separation of pregnant and non-pregnant individuals. Pregnancy rate varied between years of the study (48.4%% in 2011 and 18.5% in 2012), but fell within the range of other estimates of reproductive success for this population. Stable carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios were examined to investigate the impacts of pregnancy on these values. Neither δ15N nor δ13C varied in a consistent way among animals of different sex or reproductive status. The relationship between δ15N and δ13C was strongly positive for male and non-pregnant female humpbacks; however, no relationship existed for pregnant whales. This difference may be indicative of the effects of pregnancy on δ15N, resulting from tissue synthesis and reduced excretion of nitrogenous waste, as well as on δ13C through increased mobilization of lipid stores to meet the energetic demands of pregnancy. Ultimately, our results support the use of blubber progesterone assays for diagnosing pregnancy in humpback whales and indicate that, when paired with other approaches (e.g. stable isotope analysis), pregnancy status can be an informative tool for addressing questions about animal physiology, ecology and population biology. This information will provide for more effective management and conservation efforts in a rapidly changing world. The full text can be downloaded here: http://conphys.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/full/cow050? <http://conphys.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/full/cow050?ijkey=UIIa5TFqN4q…>ijkey=UIIa5TFqN4qUGL5&keytype=ref <http://conphys.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/full/cow050?ijkey=UIIa5TFqN4q…> Best regards, Casey Clark PhD Candidate CFOS/WERC University of Alaska Fairbanks

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Whales of Guerrero Research Project Winter 2017 Internship Opportunity
by Katherina Audley 19 Oct '16

19 Oct '16

The Whales of Guerrero Research Project is seeking two early career marine biologists to assist with our research and education program located in the state of Guerrero (SW Pacific Mexico) from January 2-March 18, 2016. Find project and position description and contact information below. Thank you! Katherina Audley PROYECTO DE INVESTIGACIÓN DE LAS BALLENAS DE GUERRERO Invierno 2017 - Fecha límite 01 de noviembre 2016 Marco teórico: El proyecto de Investigación de las ballenas de Guerrero (WGRP) es un Estudio de campo con fondos privados y de alcance comunitario. El cual se lleva a cabo en el estado de Guerrero, México, cerca de las ciudades gemelas de Ixtapa y Zihuatanejo, en la costa del Océano Pacífico. Este proyecto es el primer estudio dedicado a la investigación de las ballenas jorobadas y otros mamíferos marinos en el estado de Guerrero, ya que existe una falta de información y sensibilización sobre las ballenas y otros cetáceos que habitan el lugar entre los operadores de embarcaciones, guías de turistas, residentes y visitantes de la región. Objetivos del proyecto: § Contribuir para tener una mejor comprensión de la estructura, abundancia, distribución y dinámica de migración de las ballenas jorobadas y otros mamíferos marinos que visitan y habitan la región. § Crear una mayor conciencia entre los operadores de embarcaciones, guías de turismo, educadores, residentes y visitantes sobre métodos responsables para la observación de ballenas y prácticas de ecoturismo, así como también sobre la conducta y la biología de las ballenas jorobadas. Los objetivos de investigación del proyecto serán realizados mediante muestreos del área desde embarcaciones en agua y puntos fijos en tierra, durante los meses de enero y marzo de cada año durante los próximos 2 años (temporadas invernales 2017-2018). El estudio de la temporada 2017 incluirá dos esfuerzos simultáneos en agua: 1) localizar, foto identificar y grabar cantos de ballenas jorobadas y 2) Recoger datos ocasionales sobre la presencia de otros mamíferos marinos, incluyendo cuatro especies de delfines (Tursiops truncatus, Stenella attenuata, Steno bredanensis y Delphinus delphis). Las embarcaciones para la investigación serán pangas de pesca de fibra de vidrio con una longitud de 6 metros y operadas por los pescadores locales, quienes participan en el proyecto como expertos de la región, ciudadanos científicos y guías de ecoturismo en formación. Además, el trabajo de campo con base en tierra se dedicará al registro de la ocurrencia de mamíferos marinos (principalmente ballenas jorobadas) y su actividad en superficie, en relación con todas las embarcaciones de la zona. El trabajo de fotoidentificación de aletas caudales contribuirá a nuestro catálogo local de fotoidentificación de ballenas jorobadas, así como a otros grandes catálogos ya existentes, elaborados por colegas investigadores en otras partes de México y Estados Unidos. De igual manera se grabarán vocalizaciones de ballenas jorobadas con el fin de distinguir la presencia y ausencia de cantos durante la temporada invernal en la región. Estos datos también serán compartidos con los investigadores dedicados al análisis de los subtipos de patrones de cantos y sus cambios a través del tiempo en otras partes de México y los Estados Unidos. Los datos colectados durante el estudio servirán para: (1) Apoyar a la región para convertirla en una zona de agregación de mamíferos marinos reconocida por SEMARNAT. Lo cual ayudará a obtener mayores recursos para el estudio y protección de las ballenas. (2) Identificar las áreas que son altamente sensibles para las ballenas jorobadas, en relación con la actividad de barcos camaroneros y otras actividades antropogénicas potencialmente dañinas de la región. (3) Contribuir con la comunidad científica más grande para el estudio y comprensión de la población de ballenas jorobadas del Pacífico Norte. Vamos a crear conciencia sobre la conducta en superficie de la ballena jorobada y las buenas prácticas de observación de ballenas mediante la organización y facilitación de talleres y sesiones de formación dirigidas a los operadores de embarcaciones, pescadores, dueños de negocios orientados al turismo, residentes y visitantes de la región. Estos esfuerzos serán dirigidos por pasantes de carrera y científicos y educadores establecidos de México y Estados Unidos. Además, un número de mastozoólogos marinos y educadores de biología marina pasará períodos cortos de tiempo en el estudio con el equipo de WGRP durante toda la temporada, esto, con el fin de participar en nuestros esfuerzos de divulgación, proporcionar conocimientos y apoyo a nuestros esfuerzos de investigación y fortalecer la comprensión de la comunidad científica de los mamíferos marinos en el estado de Guerrero y su relación con las poblaciones más grandes. Sitio web Para obtener más información acerca del Proyecto de Investigación de las ballenas de Guerrero, por favor visite: Nuestra página web del proyecto en: http://www.whalesinmexico.com <http://www.whalesinmexico.com> y en Facebook en : http://www.facebook.com/whalesinmexico <http://www.facebook.com/whalesinmexico> Colocación de internos voluntarios: El WGRP está en el proceso de selección de internos voluntarios para nuestro programa de estancia de la temporada invernal 2017. Se requiere un mínimo de 10 semanas de participación durante 2 enero a 18 marzo. Las solicitudes deben presentarse antes del día 1 de noviembre del año en curso. Debe considerarse que solamente estamos buscando de 2 internos para esta temporada y que el número de solicitudes que recibimos es muy superior al número de lugares que se tienen disponibles. Los candidatos seleccionados participarán en los siguientes proyectos de investigación: 1) Monitoreo en campo de ballenas jorobadas y foto identificación. Este estudio continuará el seguimiento de la población migratoria de las ballenas jorobadas en Barra de Potosí, Zihuatanejo, Ixtapa y las aguas circundantes. Los deberes en campo consistirán en: asistir en panga para realizar sondeos de identificación fotográfica de ballenas jorobadas en mar, cinco días a la semana, seis horas por día. Los datos de conducta, ubicación, número de individuos y los datos ambientales se registrarán para cada grupo de mamíferos marinos. Los internos serán rotados entre los diferentes estudios de campo, en tierra y en agua, durante el tiempo de duración de la temporada 2017 y deben considerar que pasarán un promedio del 40% de su tiempo recolectando datos desde tierra (en un faro) y el otro 60% en agua (en una panga de pesca 6 metros de longitud). 2) Organización y análisis de datos. Además de los deberes de campo realizados durante 3-4 días por semana en el agua, los internos deben estar preparados para pasar un promedio de 1-2 días por semana llevando a cabo ciertas responsabilidades en tierra, las cuales incluirán: la realización de las bases de datos de fotoidentificación de aletas de ballenas jorobadas y delfines de dientes rugosos, la captura de datos en computadora, la descarga y registro de imágenes y vídeos, la importación y compresión de los sonidos grabados, la organización, mantenimiento y comparación de los catálogos de fotoidentificación y la reparación, cuidado y mantenimiento del equipo, entre otras funciones según sea necesario. 3) Talleres de operación de embarcaciones de seguridad y eventos comunitarios. Se espera que los Internos sirvan como embajadores del proyecto, por lo cual deben ser capaces de responder preguntas relacionadas con la conducta y la biología de las ballenas jorobadas cuando estén frente a un grupo. Además, se espera que puedan funcionar como educadores y naturalistas para los patrocinadores del proyecto, turistas y guías locales que se unen a nosotros en las embarcaciones para trabajar como ciudadanos científicos de nuestro Proyecto. También se requiere que los internos participen en la realización de talleres y charlas de la ballena jorobada y de otros mamíferos marinos en escuelas, bibliotecas, hoteles y otros lugares, según sea necesario, como mínimo una vez por semana. Los internos deben considerar que pasarán aproximadamente el 60% de su tiempo en el trabajo de campo (un mínimo de cinco días a la semana, por lo menos 6 horas por día), y alrededor del 40% de su tiempo en el de trabajo de los datos, el cuidado y mantenimiento del equipo y la participación en los esfuerzos de divulgación y educación en la comunidad. No existe una compensación monetaria para los puestos que los internos llevarán a cabo. Sin embargo, el proyecto proporcionará un sitio de alojamiento durante el tiempo de duración de la temporada y un estipendio de viaje de $250 que será proporcionado para apoyar el transporte desde y hacia la región. Los internos deberán cubrir los gastos de sus propios alimentos, transporte local, internet y teléfono y gastos personales durante el curso de su estancia. Cualidades de los Internos Los solicitantes deberán idealmente tener las siguientes cualidades: *Mínimo de 24 años de edad y realice o recientemente haya finalizado sus estudios Universitarios y/o que tenga experiencia comparable en el campo de la biología marina. *Que demuestre un compromiso y pasión por los mamíferos marinos, la educación y la divulgación científica para con a la comunidad y el desarrollo de ecoturismo marino responsable. *Bilingüe (Español/Inglés), con la capacidad de trabajar en un rango amplio rango de culturas incluyendo: la cultura rural mexicana de un pueblo de pescadores, los turistas norteamericanos y residentes extranjeros, además de los burócratas mexicanos. *Que demuestren sensibilidad y tacto a la hora de trabajar y desarrollar las actividades y talleres con los habitantes de la comunidad incluyendo: pescadores y operadores de embarcaciones, residentes del pueblo (niños y adultos), turistas y residentes extranjeros, y burócratas mexicanos entre otras personas, según sea el caso. *Un título o grado en Biología, Biología Marina, Ecología, Zoología o un campo relacionado y/o experiencia comparable. *Conocimiento básico en programas de computación de Microsoft Office (especialmente Excel y Access), el conocimiento de Lightroom y Mysticetus son un plus. Las habilidades para la edición de fotos y vídeos también son una ventaja. *Se valorará la experiencia de investigación de campo. *Debe ser capaz de nadar. *No propenso a los mareos. *Que muestre entusiasmo y deseos de aprender una variedad de métodos de investigación en campo y en laboratorio. *Que demuestre una capacidad de trabajo en equipo, rigor, una fuerte capacidad de organización, atención al detalle, resistencia, auto-motivación y capacidad de trabajar de forma independiente. *La disposición de pasar un mínimo de 10 a 12 semanas de trabajo a tiempo completo (5-6 días / semana) como voluntario en nuestro programa. Instrucciones para la solicitud de los internos: Para solicitar un lugar para la estancia del Proyecto de Investigación de las Ballenas de Guerrero, las personas interesadas deben completar y proporcionar a WGRP los siguientes documentos y datos: 1. Su nombre, fecha de nacimiento, sexo, dirección postal permanente, número de teléfono, dirección de correo electrónico, el colegio o la universidad a la que actualmente asiste o asistió más recientemente, el grado de estudio con el que cuenta en el momento de la estancia, el área principal de estudio, el grado más alto que ha recibido, el año en que espera graduarse, otros colegios o universidades a los que haya asistido y la fecha que se dispone a participar en las prácticas. 2. Una carta de una a dos páginas de declaración de Interés que describa: a) Los intereses en el programa(s) que eligió y sus metas profesionales, b) las razones para solicitar una estancia en WGRP, y c) por qué cree que debería ser seleccionado para una estancia en WGRP. (Este carta se puede enviar como un documento de Word o un archivo pdf o, como último recurso, por fax o por correo a nosotros). 3. Una copia no oficial de su más reciente expediente universitario que enumeré todos los cursos de nivel universitario que ha tomado hasta la fecha y las calificaciones que ha recibido. En ambos casos se aceptan copias no oficiales y oficiales. Si la escala de calificaciones de su escuela se diferencia de la escala de 4.0, por favor incluya una explicación de esa escala. (Este documento puede ser enviado como un archivo pdf, salvado directamente de la página web de su escuela como un jpg o png imagen o un archivo htm y copiado y pegado en un documento de Word o, como último recurso, por fax o por correo a nosotros). 4. Dos cartas de recomendación de personas capaces de comentar sobre sus habilidades de investigación y cualidades. 5. Un resumen de vida o curriculum vitae que describa cualquier trabajo pertinente, estancias, pasantías, trabajo voluntario, becas y/u otras actividades que haya realizado o en las que haya participado, así como otras habilidades o logros que quiera destacar. (Esto puede ser enviado como un archivo de documento Word o pdf, como último recurso, por fax o por correo a nosotros). 6. Enviar un correo electrónico a la directora del proyecto WGRP (Katherina Audley), al correo electrónico Katherina(a)whalesinmexico.com, indicando su nombre, información de contacto, fechas exactas y la duración de la disponibilidad, donde se enteró de la oportunidad de la estancia (por ejemplo, SOMEMMA, MarMam, Facebook (si es así, qué página), Whalefish, etc.), y que ha proporcionado todos los documentos para la solicitud a nosotros, como se detalla más arriba. Todas las solicitudes serán revisadas; aquellas recibidas durante el plazo de solicitud de 01 de noviembre se les darán mayor prioridad. Los participantes que resulten exitosos serán contactados el 2 de diciembre de 2016. Whales of Guerrero Research Project Internship Winter 2017 - Deadline November 1, 2016 Background The Whales of Guerrero Research Project (WGRP) is a privately-funded research and education project located in the state of Guerrero, Mexico, near the twin cities of Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo on the Pacific Ocean coast. This project is the first to investigate humpback whales and other marine mammals in-depth in the state of Guerrero. There is an absence of information and awareness about whales and other cetaceans among boat operators, tour guides, residents and visitors to the region. Project Goals The goals of the Whales of Guerrero Research Project¹s are to: Contribute to a better understanding of the structure, abundance, distribution and dynamics of the humpback whales and other marine mammals which migrate through and reside in the region. Raise awareness about responsible whale watching and ecotourism practices and humpback whale behavior and biology among boat operators, tour guides, educators, residents and visitors. Educate Guerrero residents and surrounding community about local marine megafauna to motivate lasting changes toward a healthy marine ecology We will accomplish our research goals by conducting field studies from January through March annually for the next 2 years (winters 2015-2018). The 2017 study will include on-water efforts to locate, photo-identify and record the songs of humpback whales and collect occurrence data on other marine mammals including six dolphin species. The research boat is a 6-meter fishing panga. Local fishermen collect data, operate the research boat and work as citizen scientists in partnership with our research team. Fluke identification photos will contribute to our local fluke identification catalog as well as to larger existing fluke identification catalogs maintained by research colleagues elsewhere in Mexico and the US. We also will record humpback whale vocalizations to note presence/absence and also share these data with researchers elsewhere in Mexico and the US. Data collected will (1) help the region to become a SEMARNAT-acknowledged marine mammal site, which will garner further resources to study and protect the whales, (2) identify potentially sensitive regions for humpback whales relative to shrimp boat activity, gillnet fishing and other potentially harmful anthropogenic activities, and (3) contribute to the scientific community¹s understanding of the Northeastern Pacific Humpback Whale population. We will raise awareness regarding whale watching practices and humpback whale behavior by hosting and facilitating workshops and training sessions geared toward boat operators, fishermen, tourist-oriented business owners, residents and visitors. Community outreach and education programs take place daily, ranging from school programs to community events to public workshops. Website For more information about the Whales of Guerrero Research Project, please visit: Our project website at: http://www.whalesinmexico.com and on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/whalesinmexico Volunteer Intern Positions The WGRP is in the process of selecting volunteer interns for our Winter 2016 internship program. A minimum of 11 weeks of participation is required during 2 January - 18 March. Applications are due by November 1st. Please note that we are only seeking 2 interns this season and we receive many more applications than we have openings. Successful candidates will participate in the following research projects: 1) Humpback whale field monitoring and photo-identification. This study will continue monitoring the migratory community of humpback whales in Barra de Potosi, Zihuatanejo, Ixtapa and the surrounding waters. Duties in the field will consist of assisting with boat-based photographic identification surveys for humpback whales 3-4 days per week, six hours per day. Behavioral, location, individual, and environmental data will be recorded for each marine mammal group. Interns are responsible for diplomatically training and supporting rigorous, consistent data collection practices (DSLR camera, GPS, hydrophone and note taking) among our local fishermen team members. 2) Data organization and analysis. Intern responsibilities include: office-based photo-identification of humpback whales and rough-toothed dolphin fins, computer data entry, video logging, fluke identification catalog maintenance, equipment repair, upkeep and maintenance and other duties. In addition to spending 3-4 days per week on water, interns should be prepared to spend an average of 1-2 days per week organizing, matching and maintaining the fluke and fin identification catalogs, importing and compressing recorded sound, maintaining and repairing equipment and attending to other field duties as needed. 3) Safe boat operation workshops, training and educational programs and community events. Interns will be expected to serve as continuous ambassadors for the project and be available to field questions on humpback whale behavior and biology whenever they are in the public. In addition, they will be expected to serve as educators and naturalists to project supporters and local guides who join us on the boat to work with us as citizen scientists on our project. Interns will also be expected to participate in and conduct humpback whale and marine mammal workshops in schools, libraries, hotels and other venues, as needed, a minimum of 1-2 times per week. Interns should expect to spend about 60% of their time in the field (a minimum of 3-4 days per week, at least 6 hours per day), and about 40% (2-3 days/week) of their time working with data, performing equipment maintenance and participating in community outreach and education efforts. There is no compensation for these internship positions. However, the project will provide for living accommodations (homestays with local hosts in the village) during the time of the internship, and a $250 travel stipend will be provided to support transportation to and from the region. Interns must cover the expense of their own food, local transportation, internet, telephone and miscellaneous personal expenses during the course of their internship. Intern Qualifications Applicants will ideally have the following qualifications: * Minimum of 24 years of age and engaged in or recently completed graduate studies or comparable marine biology field experience * A demonstrated commitment to and passion for marine mammals, education and community outreach and the development of responsible marine ecotourism * Bilingual (Spanish 90-100%/English 75-100%) * Proven ability to work within a range of cultures including: rural Mexican fishing village culture, North American tourists and foreign residents and Mexican government officials * A background or degree in Biology, Marine Biology, Ecology, Zoology or a related field or comparable experience * Basic computer proficiency in Microsoft Office programs (especially Excel) * Knowledge of Lightroom and Mysticetus are a plus; photo and video editing skills also a plus * Strong photo ID skills with a DSLR camera (We work with Nikon cameras.) * Marine mammal field research experience * Must be able to swim * Not prone to seasickness * Enthusiasm and desire to learn a variety of field and lab based research methods * Demonstrated teamwork, rigor, strong organizational and problem solving skills, attention to detail, stamina, self-motivated * Independence, as in able to perform operations without supervision and ability to anticipate a problem and formulate a solution on one¹s own and the ability to work independently * A willingness to spend a minimum of 10-12 weeks working full-time (5-6 days/week) as a volunteer with our program. * Flexible and resourceful; adaptable to changes in study plans, cultural sensitivity Intern Application Instructions To apply for a Whales of Guerrero Research Project internship, interested persons should complete and provide to WGRP the following application materials: 1. Your name, birthdate, gender, permanent mailing address, phone number, e-mail address, the college or university you are currently attending or most recently attended, your year of study at the time of the internship, your major field of study, the highest degree you have received, the year you expect to graduate, other colleges or universities you have attended and the dates you are available to participate in the internship. 2. A one- to two-page Statement of Interest that describes: a) your interests in the program(s) you choose and your career goals, b) your reasons for applying for a WGRP internship, and c) why you should be selected for a WGRP internship. (This can be sent as a Word document or a PDF.) 3. An unofficial copy of your most recent college transcript that lists all college-level courses you have taken to-date and the grades you have received. Both unofficial and official copies are accepted. If your school's grading scale differs from the 4.0 scale, please include an explanation of that scale. (Sent as a PDF file, saved from your school's website as a jpg or png image or an html file, copy-and-pasted into a Word document.) 4. Two letters of recommendation from individuals capable of commenting on your research skills and qualifications. Be sure to include e-mail and phone number contacts for your references with each letter. 5. A resume or curriculum vitae describing any relevant jobs, internships, volunteer work, scholarships and/or other activities that you have held or participated in and other skills or accomplishments that you wish to identify. (This can be sent as a Word document or PDF file.) 6. Send an email to WGRP Project Director (Katherina Audley, katherina(a)whalesinmexico.com stating your name, contact information, exact dates and duration of availability, where you learned about the internship opportunity (e.g., SOMEMMA, MarMam, Facebook (and if so which page), Whalefish, colleague, advisor, etc.), and that you have provided all application materials to us, as detailed above. All applications will be reviewed; those received by the application deadline of November 1st will be given first priority. Successful applications will be contacted by December 1, 2016.

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California Job Opportunities
by Jeff Hall 19 Oct '16

19 Oct '16

California Wildlife Center is excited to announce job opportunities in its Marine Department. CWC is a fast growing organization located in the Santa Monica Mountains of Malibu, and has been involved in marine mammal rescue since 1998. In 2013, CWC opened its own marine mammal rehabilitation facility, and is actively working to expand capacity in the coming years. The following positions are now available for qualified candidates: Marine Program Assistant, Stranding Coordinator, Assistant Stranding Coordinator, and Marine Mammal Pathology Technician. Detailed job descriptions, duties, and application instructions can be found at www.cawildlife.org<http://www.cawildlife.org>. To apply for the listed positions please follow the application instructions found on California Wildlife Center's website at www.cawildlife.org<http://www.cawildlife.org> or by emailing Marine Program Manager Jeff Hall at jeff(a)cawildlife.org with a cover letter and resume. Applications will be accepted until November 9, 2016. Job Descriptions Stranding Coordinator and Assistant Stranding Coordinator To be responsive to the local community and visitors from around the world in performing all of the duties necessary to rescue stranded marine mammals anywhere along the 27-miles of the City of Malibu’s coastline, and transport them to rehabilitation for long- term care. Duties include proper and timely animal assessment, tracking, dispatch, capture and handling, stabilization, volunteer training and coordination. Provide public education about the natural history of marine mammals and the provisions of the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Collect data on Malibu strandings: locations, causes, and outcomes. Maintain good rapport with all involved government agencies (including City of Malibu, California Department of Fish & Game, Los Angeles County Fire Department - Lifeguards, Los Angeles County Beaches and Harbors, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, National Marine Fisheries Service, and California State Parks). Qualifications: At least two years’ direct experience in marine mammal rescue. BA/BS or higher degree (preference given to marine or biology related fields of study). Excellent public relations skills. Commitment to professionalism in animal welfare. Marine Mammal Pathology Technician Data and sample collection from dead-stranded and euthanized marine mammals collected from Los Angeles County. Submission of collected data and samples to appropriate agencies. Respond to all confirmed reports of dead-stranded marine mammals within CWC’s territory. Collect basic morphometric data from all dead-stranded marine mammals. Conduct necropsies on all early Code 3 or better dead-stranded marine mammals as well as marine mammals euthanized by CWC. Prepare and submit samples collected during necropsy for histopathology, toxicology and other tests. Prepare and send backlog of samples in CWC’s possession for analysis. Qualifications At least two years’ direct experience in pathology, necropsy, or sample collection. BA/BS or higher degree (preference given to marine or veterinary related fields of study). Preference may be given to veterinary students and/or those with previous marine mammal experience. Excellent public relations skills. Commitment to professionalism. Marine Program Assistant Perform all duties of a marine mammal rehabilitator including, but not limited to: process patient intakes, oversee and perform general husbandry of marine mammal patients, administer medication and fluid therapies, coordinate and manage patient releases, maintain all rehabilitation equipment and enclosures. CWC marine mammal program support. Marine animal response and transport. Volunteer and intern training and leadership. Qualifications At least two years’ direct experience in marine mammal rehabilitation and husbandry. BA/BS or higher degree (preference given to marine or biology related fields of study). Excellent public relations skills. Commitment to professionalism. -- JEFF Hall Marine Program Manager California Wildlife Center P.O. Box 2022 Malibu CA 90265 (310)458-9453 www.cawildlife.org [1454955848633_facebook.gif]<https://www.facebook.com/californiawildlifecenter>[1454955852743_instagram.png]<https://www.instagram.com/cawildlife/>[1454955856559_twitter.gif]<https://twitter.com/cawildlife> [1454955866497_cwclogo.jpg]<http://www.cawildlife.org/>

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HOSPITAL MANAGER VETERINARY TECHNICIAN FOR THE MARINE MAMMAL CENTER SAUSALITO CA
by Maya Bott 19 Oct '16

19 Oct '16

MISSION At The Marine Mammal Center, we are guided and inspired by a shared vision of a healthy ocean for marine mammals and humans alike. The Marine Mammal Center advances global conservation through marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation, scientific research, and education ROLE DESCRIPTION The Hospital Manager directs daily clinical operations of our Sausalito veterinary hospital under the guidance and leadership of the Staff Veterinarian. This position supervises and trains staff, interns, volunteers and students in animal husbandry, administration of medications, sample collection/ processing and record keeping. This role is responsible for patient assessment and routine procedures, including physical exams, surgical assistance, processing and collecting biological samples and general support of research projects. The Hospital Manager has expansive management responsibility, including supervision of TMMC's veterinary technician interns and management of the onboarding and training of veterinary students and others who are here to learn. The Hospital Manager works in close collaboration with our Volunteer Coordinators and the Animal Husbandry Manager to ensure our Animal Husbandry Volunteer Crews are adequately trained to support the rehabilitation of the animals. QUALIFICATIONS + EXPERIENCE * Associate or Bachelor degree in biology or related field * Certified Veterinary Technician with ability to become a Registered Veterinary Technician in the state of California * Experience managing an animal hospital of equal or greater size * A minimum of 1 year of hands-on experience in marine mammal or wildlife husbandry and medical care. * Experience successfully managing large teams of both staff and volunteers; strong track record of bring solutions and helping people work together * Experience creating and implementing successful training and internship programs Please click on the link below to see more detailed job description. TO APPLY: Please submit a cover letter and resume at (https://tmmc.recruiterbox.com/jobs/fk06ywl) Maya Bott Human Resource Assistant The Marine Mammal Center 2000 Bunker Road Fort Cronkhite Sausalito, CA 94965 415-289-7348

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New paper on underwater noise impact in dolphin communication
by Lis Bittencourt 19 Oct '16

19 Oct '16

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to share with you a recent publication in Marine Pollution Bulletin regarding underwater noise influence in dolphin communication: Bittencourt, L.; Lima, I.M.S.; Andrade, L.G.; Carvalho, R. R.; Bisi, T. L.; Lailson-Brito, J. Jr.; Azevedo, A. F. (2016) "Underwater noise in an impacted environment can affect Guiana dolphin communication" DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.10.037 Abstract: This study focused onwhistles produced by Guiana dolphin under different noise conditions in Guanabara Bay, southeastern Brazil. Recording sessions were performed with a fully calibrated recording system. Whistles and underwater noise levels registered during two behavioral stateswere compared separately between two areas. Noise levels differed between the two areas across all frequencies. Whistle duration differed between areas andwas negatively correlatedwith noise levels.Whistling ratewas positively correlated with noise levels, show- ing thatwhistling ratewas higher in noisier conditions. Results demonstrated that underwater noise influenced Guiana dolphin acoustic behavior. Here is the link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.10.037 Or email me: lis.bitt(a)gmail.com Best regards, Lis Bittencourt Mestre em Oceanografia Doutoranda no Programa de Pós-Graduação em Oceanografia - UERJ Laboratório de Mamíferos Aquáticos e Bioindicadores - MAQUA Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro - UERJ Rua São Francisco Xavier, 524, 4º andar - sala 4002 bloco E Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro - RJ CEP 20550-013 Tel: 21 2334-0795

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New publication on Bioaccumulation of trace element concentrations in common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) from Portugal
by Silvia Monteiro 19 Oct '16

19 Oct '16

Dear Marmam Readers, I am very pleased to announce the following publication: Monteiro SS, Pereira AT, Costa É, Torres J, Oliveira I, Bastos-Santos J, Araújo H, Ferreira M, Vingada J, Eira C. Bioaccumulation of trace element concentrations in common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) from Portugal. Marine Pollution Bulletin (2016) Abstract The common dolphin (*Delphinus delphis*) is one of the most abundant species in Atlantic Iberia, representing a potentially important tool to assess the bioaccumulation of trace elements in the Iberian marine ecosystem. Nine elements (As, Cd, Cu, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Se and Zn) were evaluated in 36 dolphins stranded in continental Portugal. Dolphins had increasing Hg concentrations (16.72 μg·g−1 ww, liver) compared with previous studies in Atlantic Iberia, whereas Cd concentrations (2.26 μg·g−1 ww, kidney) fell within reported ranges. The concentrations of some trace elements (including Cd and Hg) presented positive relationships with dolphin length, presence of parasites and gross pathologies. Common dolphins may help biomonitoring more offshore Atlantic Iberian areas in future studies, which would otherwise be difficult to assess. For an early view of this paper, please visit: *http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0025326X16308499 <http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0025326X16308499>* If you are unable to download the article, please contact me by email and I will be happy to send you a copy: s.monteiro(a)ua.pt Best wishes, Silvia Monteiro ---------------------------------------- Postdoctoral researcher CESAM (Centro de estudos do ambiente e do Mar) University of Aveiro Portugal s.monteiro@ <http://www.bio.ua.pt/>ua.pt www.cesam.ua.pt/silvia.monteiro <http://www.cesam.ua.pt/index.php?tabela=pessoaldetail&menu=95&user=1040> Sociedade Portuguesa de Vida Selvagem/Portuguese Wildlife Society University of Minho Portugal www.socpvs.org

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Training course on Underwater Noise and Environmental Noise Impact Modelling
by Nicolai Francis Heilskov 19 Oct '16

19 Oct '16

Dear Sir, Please post the following: DHI <http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=hubqqjyab.0.0.8dkaiauab.0&id=preview&r=3&p=http…> (Danish Hydraulic Institute) is running a course in end of November on Risk Assessment of Environmental Noise Impacts and Underwater Acoustics Modelling<http://www.dhigroup.com/upload/publications/course-calendar/DK_2016_CourseD…>, which is available for booking<http://www.theacademybydhi.com/course-sessions/modelling-of-underwater-acou…>. You want to understand how to manage noise impacts effectively. You want to get hands on training on best practice on how to model transmission of acoustic noise. We will train you in numerical modelling and how to combine it with biological knowledge (noise from dredging, shipping, wind farm operations and oil and gas exploration and production, etc.). The course is aimed at regulators, environmental consultants, researchers and policy/ environmental professionals. [cid:image004.png@01D22A25.49E6BA60]<http://www.dhigroup.com/upload/publications/course-calendar/DK_2016_CourseD…>DHI has been on the forefront in researching noise impacts on whales dolphins, porpoises and other marine life, developing frameworks for assessing them and for providing real solutions that can be used as tools in EIAs. By combining ocean acoustics and marine mammal science, DHI developed its new risk based approach to noise assessment. Join us for a course to learn more: * 15-16th November at DHIs in Hoersholm, Denmark - for further info and registration click here<http://www.theacademybydhi.com/course-sessions/modelling-of-underwater-acou…> Get an appetizer and familiarize yourself with the new Underwater Acoustics Simulator (UAS) in MIKE Powered by DHI 2016 online here<http://www.theacademybydhi.com/research-and-publications/tech-talk/underwat…> Best regards, Nicolai F. Heilskov Senior Hydraulic Research Engineer and Acoustics Expert Ports and Offshore Technology [DHI logo] DHI Agern Allé 5 DK-2970 Hørsholm Denmark Tel: +45 4516 9200 Direct: +45 4516 9438 Mobile: +45 2121 7325 nfh(a)dhigroup.com<mailto:nfh@dhigroup.com> www.dhigroup.com<http://www.dhigroup.com> The expert in WATER ENVIRONMENTS This message contains information which may be confidential and privileged. Unless you are the intended recipient (or authorised to receive this message for the intended recipient), you may not use, copy, disseminate or disclose any information contained in it thereof. If you have received this communication in error, please advise the sender appropriately by reply e-mail, and then delete it. Thank you very much.

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two new publications on environmental niche modelling of cetaceans in the Central North Atlantic
by Rui Prieto 19 Oct '16

19 Oct '16

Dear Marmam subscribers, We are pleased to announce the publication of two articles on environmental niche modelling of cetaceans in the Azores (Central North Atlantic). Both articles are open access and can be downloaded directly from the respective journals’ webpages using the DOI links provided below. 1. Tobeña, M.*, Prieto, R.*, Machete, M., and Silva, M.A. (2016). Modeling the potential distribution and richness of cetaceans in the Azores from fisheries observer program data. Frontiers in Marine Science 3. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2016.00202. * These authors have contributed equally to this work. Abstract: Marine spatial planning and ecological research call for high-resolution species distribution data. However, those data are still not available for most marine large vertebrates. The dynamic nature of oceanographic processes and the wide-ranging behavior of many marine vertebrates create further difficulties, as distribution data must incorporate both the spatial and temporal dimensions. Cetaceans play an essential role in structuring and maintaining marine ecosystems and face increasing threats from human activities. The Azores holds a high diversity of cetaceans but the information about spatial and temporal patterns of distribution for this marine megafauna group in the region is still very limited. To tackle this issue, we created monthly predictive cetacean distribution maps for spring and summer months, using data collected by the Azores Fisheries Observer Programme between 2004 and 2009. We then combined the individual predictive maps to obtain species richness maps for the same period. Our results reflect a great heterogeneity in distribution among species and within species among different months. This heterogeneity reflects a contrasting influence of oceanographic processes on the distribution of cetacean species. However, some persistent areas of increased species richness could also be identified from our results. We argue that policies aimed at effectively protecting cetaceans and their habitats must include the principle of dynamic ocean management coupled with other area-based management such as marine spatial planning. 2. Prieto, R.*, Tobeña, M.*, and Silva, M.A. (2016). Habitat preferences of baleen whales in a mid-latitude habitat. Deep Sea Research Part II: Topical Studies in Oceanography. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.dsr2.2016.07.015. * These authors have contributed equally to this work. Abstract: Understanding the dynamics of baleen whale distribution is essential to predict how environmental changes can affect their ecology and, in turn, ecosystem functioning. Recent work showed that mid-latitude habitats along migratory routes may play an important role on the feeding ecology of baleen whales. This study aimed to investigate the function of a mid-latitude habitat for blue (Balaenoptera musculus), fin (Balaenoptera physalus) and sei (Balaenoptera borealis) whales occurring in sympatry during spring and summer months and to what extent their environmental niches overlap. We addressed those questions by developing environmental niche models (ENM) for each species and then making pairwise comparisons of niche overlap and relative habitat patch importance among the three species. ENMs were created using sightings from the Azorean Fisheries Observer Program from May to November, between 2004 and 2009, and a set of 18 predictor environmental variables. We then assessed monthly (April–July) overlap among ENMs using a modified Hellinger׳s distance metric (I). Results show that the habitat niches of blue and fin whales are strongly influenced by primary productivity and sea surface temperature and are highly dynamic both spatially and temporally due to the oceanography of the region. Niche overlap analyses show that blue and fin whale environmental niches are similar and that the suitable habitats for the two species have high degree of spatial coincidence. These results in combination suggest that this habitat may function as a mid-latitude feeding ground to both species while conditions are adequate. The sei whale model, on the other hand, did not include variables considered to be proxies for prey distribution and little environmental niche overlap was found between this species and the other two. We argue that these results suggest that the region holds little importance as a foraging habitat for the sei whale. With the very best regards to all, Rui Prieto MARE – Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre; IMAR Centre at the University of the Azores 9901-862 Horta Portugal Tel: (351) 292200475 Fax: (351) 292200411 E-mail: rprieto(a)mare-centre.pt http://www.whales.uac.pt

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