February 2016 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Summer 2016 Internship Opportunities in Savannah, Georgia
by Perrtree, Robin 17 Feb '16

17 Feb '16

The Savannah State University Dolphin Sciences Laboratory (SSUDS lab) is accepting applications for Summer 2016 interns. There are 4 positions available. Application deadline is March 28th. The SSUDS lab is located adjacent to the marsh on the campus of Savannah State University in coastal Georgia. The SSUDS lab led by Dr. Tara Cox studies spatial ecology and conservation biology of long-lived marine vertebrates, marine and coastal policy and management, and human interactions with marine mammals. Current projects include: Human-interaction behaviors (particularly begging), stock structure and abundance estimates, mother/calf distribution and habitat use, and diet of common bottlenose dolphins. Interns will support graduate research on common bottlenose dolphins living in the local waterways. In addition, there may be opportunities to help other marine science graduate students with diverse fieldwork. Dates: May 16th - July 29th (Start and end dates are flexible) Location: Savannah State University in Savannah, Georgia Time: Interns are expected to commit to ~40 hours per week and their time will be split between lab and field work. Lab duties include: photo-identification, data entry and double checking Field duties - dolphin surveys (~5-7 days per month): assisting with small boat-based photo-identification surveys including sighting dolphins, data recording, photography, and environmental measurements Field duties - prey assessment surveys (~2-3 days per month): assisting with trawl deployment and retrieval, fish identification and measurement, acoustic recordings, plankton sampling Qualifications: * Minimum age of 18 years old * Currently or recently enrolled in a college-level program in marine biology, biology, zoology, or related field * Strong interest in marine mammals, the environment, and conservation * Computer proficiency, especially MS Office; MS Access and ArcGIS experience a plus * Enthusiastic, attentive to detail, responsible, and dedicated * Works well in a team environment as well as individually * Ability to work long days in the sun/heat on a small boat * One of the 4 positions requires previous work with fish identification. Direct experience with trawl gear (net deployment/retrieval, winch operation, etc.) is highly preferred. An ideal intern for this position will be comfortable around machinery as the position will require equipment operation; training will be provided. Safety gear must be worn at all times, even in extremely hot temperatures, and work is nearly continuous throughout an 11-hour trawl day (2-3 days per month). This intern will also participate in regular dolphin surveys and lab photo-identification duties. To apply please submit the following via email with the subject "SSUDS Internship" to perrtreer(a)savannahstate.edu<mailto:perrtreer@savannahstate.edu>. All attached file(s) must be named starting with your last name (e.g., Perrtree_SSUDS_coverLetter_summer_2016.doc). * A cover letter describing why you are interested in this position, how the experience will help you meet your long-term goals, and your dates of availability. * A resume (or curriculum vitae) describing your relevant training and experience. * Current academic transcripts (unofficial are sufficient). * Names and contact information for two references. This position is unpaid, and interns are responsible for providing their own housing and transport to Savannah, GA. If accepted, we can provide contact information for possible shared housing opportunities with SSU students. This is a great opportunity to work with scientists and graduate students in the field and lab while gaining experience with photo-identification and boat-based marine mammal surveys. Savannah State University offers a Master of Science in Marine Sciences; thus, successful interns may have future opportunities for graduate study in the SSUDS lab. For more information about Marine Sciences at SSU please visit: http://www.savannahstate.edu/cost/nat-science/marine-sci.shtml Robin Perrtree SSUDS Lab Manager Marine Sciences Technician Savannah State University

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Bottlenose dolphins in Central Argentina
by Els Vermeulen 17 Feb '16

17 Feb '16

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce the publication of the following article: Vermeulen, E., Balbiano, A., Beleguer, F., Colombil, D., Failla, M., Intrieri, E., Bräger, S. 2016. *Site-fidelity and movement patterns of bottlenose dolphins in central Argentina: essential information for effective conservation. *Aquatic Conservation. DOI: 10.1002/aqc.2618 Abstract: 1. The effectiveness of conservation measures such as marine protected areas (MPAs) for the conservation of cetaceans is determined by how well their home range or critical habitat is covered. The present study seeks to provide information on the site-fidelity and movement patterns of individual bottlenose dolphins (*Tursiops truncatus*) in central Argentina. 2. Between 2007 and 2013, photo-identification data of bottlenose dolphins were collected in four study sites some 90–200km apart from each other along the central Argentinean coast. 3. Results show long-term site-fidelity (over 5 years) in one of the study areas. Re-sighting rates further suggest the existence of different sub-populations of bottlenose dolphins, but also confirm some connectivity (with movements over 200–290 km) and thus potential for gene flow within the region. 4. Considering the population declines of bottlenose dolphins in Argentina, information on site-fidelity and movement patterns will be of value to improve the effectiveness of existing MPAs for the conservation of the species as well as prioritizing areas for increased research. This article can be downloaded at the link below, or requested by email to elsvermeulen5(a)gmail.com http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/aqc.2618/abstract Kind regards, Els ---------------------------------------- Els Vermeulen, PhD Marine Mammal Biologist SANCOR Post-doctoral fellow - University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa Co-director, Sea Search, Cape Town, South Africa - www.seasearch.co.za - www.sousaproject.org Co-founding Director, Whalefish - www.whalefish.org Cell: +27 (0)60 9714301

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New paper: Sex-specific patterns in abundance, temporary emigration and survival of Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins in coastal and estuarine waters.
by Kate Sprogis 16 Feb '16

16 Feb '16

Dear MARMAM Colleagues, We are pleased to announce the following open access publication in Frontiers in Marine Science: Sprogis, K.R., Pollock, K.H., Raudino, H.C., Allen, S.J., Kopps, A.M., Manlik, O., Tyne, J.A., and Bejder, L. (2016). Sex-specific patterns in abundance, temporary emigration and survival of Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) in coastal and estuarine waters. Frontiers in Marine Science 3:12. doi: 10.3389/fmars.2016.00012.<http://journal.frontiersin.org/article/10.3389/fmars.2016.00012/abstract> Abstract: Inherent difficulties in determining the sex of free-ranging, sexually monomorphic species often prevents a sex-specific focus on estimating abundance, movement patterns and survival rates. This study provides insights into sex-specific population parameters of Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus). Systematic, boat-based photo-identification surveys (n = 417) were conducted year-round from 2007-2013 in coastal and estuarine waters off Bunbury, Western Australia. Pollock’s Robust Design was used to quantify population parameters for three datasets: i) adults and juveniles combined, ii) adult females and iii) adult males. For all datasets, abundance estimates varied seasonally, with general highs during summer and/or autumn, and lows during winter. Dolphins had seasonally structured temporary emigration rates with similar trends between sexes. The derived return rate (1-γ’) of temporary emigrants into the study area was highest from winter to spring, indicating that dolphins had a high probability of return into the study area during spring. We suggest that the return of dolphins into the study area and increase in abundance is influenced by the breeding season (summer/autumn). Prey availability is likely a main driver responsible for the movement of dolphins out of the study area during winter. Seasonal apparent survival rates were constant and high (0.98-0.99) for all datasets. High apparent survival rates suggest there is no permanent emigration from the study area. Our sex-specific modeling approach offers a comprehensive interpretation of the population dynamics of a top predator in a coastal and estuarine environment and acts as a model for future sex-based population studies on sexually monomorphic species. The article is freely available from Frontiers in Marine Science: http://journal.frontiersin.org/article/10.3389/fmars.2016.00012/abstract<http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/mms.12260/abstract> A publication summary is on our website: http://mucru.org/new-publication-sex-specific-patterns-in-abundance-tempora… Kind regards, Kate Sprogis PhD Cetacean Research Unit | School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, 90 South St, Murdoch WA 6150, Australia k.sprogis(a)murdoch.edu.au<mailto:k.sprogis@murdoch.edu.au> | MUCRU Kate Sprogis<http://mucru.org/group-members/kate-sprogis> | Kate Sprogis Photography<http://katesprogisphotography.com/> [cid:ECB12812-B5FC-4314-AA62-8F92A32DF800] Recent paper: Sprogis, K., Raudino, H., Rankin R., MacLeod, C. and Bejder, L. 2016. Home range size of adult Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) in a coastal and estuarine system is habitat and sex-specific. Marine Mammal Science<http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/mms.12260/abstract>. 32(1): 287–308.

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Vocal learning in a cross-fostered Risso's dolphin
by Livio Favaro 16 Feb '16

16 Feb '16

Dear list members, we are pleased to announce publication of the following manuscript: Favaro L., Neves S., Furlati S., Pessani D., Martin V. & Janik VM. (2016). Evidence suggests vocal production learning in a cross-fostered Risso’s dolphin (Grampus griseus). Animal Cognition. doi: 10.1007/s10071-016-0961-x Abstract Vocal learning is a rare skill in mammals, and we have limited information about the contexts in which they use it. Previous studies suggested that cetaceans in general are skilled at imitating sounds, but only few species have been studied to date. To expand this investigation to another species and to investigate the possible influence of the social environment on vocal learning, we studied the whistle repertoire of a female Risso’s dolphin (Grampus griseus) that was stranded at an early age and was subsequently raised in a group of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). We show that this cross-fostered animal produced vocal signals more akin to those of its Tursiops poolmates than those of Risso’s dolphins in the wild. This is one of very few systematic cross-fostering studies in cetaceans and the first to suggest vocal production learning in the Risso’s dolphin. Our findings also suggest that social experience is a major factor in the development of the vocal repertoire in this species. The full text is available for download online at: http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10071-016-0961-x <http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10071-016-0961-x> Best wishes, Livio Favaro -- Livio Favaro, PhD Università degli Studi di Torino Dip. Scienze della Vita e Biologia dei Sistemi Laboratorio di Zoologia e Biologia Marina Via Accademia Albertina, 13 - 10123 Torino Tel. +39.011.6704538 / 78 Fax +39.011.6704508 e-mail livio.favaro(a)unito.it <mailto:livio.favaro@unito.it> <http://www.sibm.it/47%20SIBM/principale47sibm.htm>

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Seeking research assistants in Shark Bay
by Simon Allen 16 Feb '16

16 Feb '16

[cid:3E1A8159-126A-4BF3-8464-3357B44F4B07] The Shark Bay Dolphin Research Alliance (sharkbaydolphins.org) is seeking two field assistants for the 2016 field season (late-June through November) in Shark Bay, Western Australia. We seek an assistant for the Dolphin Innovation Project, which operates out of the small township of Useless Loop in the western gulf of Shark Bay. The assistant is required from late-June until the end of August (just over two months). We also seek a field assistant for the Dolphin Alliance Project, based in Monkey Mia in the eastern gulf of Shark Bay. The assistant is required from late-June through the end of November (just over five months). In both projects, we will be conducting boat-based surveys and focal follows, collecting a combination of photo-ID, acoustic, behavioural and genetic data from the resident dolphins. These different aspects will be the focus of the field effort at different periods throughout the field season. Weather permitting, days on the water can be long and tiring in variable conditions, but you will encounter dolphins that form complex alliances, and those that exhibit remarkable foraging specialisations, as well as the myriad of other wildlife (e.g. sharks, rays, turtles, dugongs) inhabiting this remote World Heritage Area. On windy days, you will be working on photo-matching and processing, data entry, and the long-term database. We seek assistants who have demonstrable prior field experience, including familiarity with conducting photo-ID and the handling of small (<6m) boats, and those who are comfortable assisting with the collection of small skin/blubber samples using a remote biopsy system. You will need to be a hard-working, easy-going, team player, as we live and work in close quarters for extended periods. Given our remote location, it can be very difficult to accommodate strict dietary requirements. These are volunteer positions and you need to make your own way to Shark Bay, but food and accommodation (in caravans or dongas) on-site is covered by the Shark Bay Dolphin Research Alliance. Since it takes time to train field assistants, preference will be given to those who can commit for the entire time for each of the respective projects. If you’re interested and capable, please send a letter of interest, CV/resume and email contacts for two referees to information(a)sharkbaydolphins.org<mailto:information@sharkbaydolphins.org> by Mon. 29th Feb, 2016. All the best, The Shark Bay Dolphin Research Alliance team.

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New publication on management units of killer whales in Spain
by Ruth Esteban 16 Feb '16

16 Feb '16

Dear MARMAM subscribers, We are pleased to announce the publication of the following paper in "Ecological Indicators": Ruth Esteban, Phililppe Verborgh, Pauline Gauffier, Joan Giménez, Vidal Martin, Mónica Pérez, Marisa Tejedor, Javier Almunia, Paul D. Jepson, Susana García-Tíscar, Lance G. Barret-Lennard, Christophe Guinet, Andrew D. Foote, Renaud de Stephanis. *Using a multi-disciplinary approach to identify a critically endangered killer whale management unit.* *Abstract* A key goal for wildlife managers is identifying discrete, demographically independent conservation units.Previous genetic work assigned killer whales that occur seasonally in the Strait of Gibraltar (SoG) andkiller whales sampled off the Canary Islands (CI) to the same population. Here we present new analy-ses of photo-identification and individual genotypes to assess the level of contemporary gene flow andmigration between study areas, and analyses of biomarkers to assess ecological differences. We identi-fied 47 different individuals from 5 pods in the SoG and 16 individuals in the CI, with no matches foundbetween the areas. Mitochondrial DNA control region haplotype was shared by all individuals sampledwithin each pod, suggesting that pods have a matrifocal social structure typical of this species, whilstthe lack of shared mitogenome haplotypes between the CI and SoG individuals suggests that there waslittle or no female migration between groups. Kinship analysis detected no close kin between CI and SoGindividuals, and low to zero contemporary gene flow. Isotopic values and organochlorine pollutant loadsalso suggest ecological differences between study areas. We further found that one individual from a podwithin the SoG not seen in association with the other four pods and identified as belonging to a poten-tial migrant lineage by genetic analyses, had intermediate isotopic values and contaminant between thetwo study areas. Overall our results suggest a complex pattern of social and genetic structuring corre-lated with ecological variation. Consequently at least CI and SoG should be considered as two differentmanagement units. Understanding this complexity appears to be an important consideration when mon-itoring and understanding the viability of these management units. Understand the viability will helpthe conservation of these threatened management units. You can downloaded at this link: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1470160X16000571 Kind Regards, Ruth Esteban Ruth Esteban, PhD. CIRCE ( Conservation Information and Research on Cetaceans) C/Cabeza de Manzaneda 3 C.P. Pelayo-Algeciras (Cádiz) Spain +34675837508

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HUMPBACK WHALE SAILING RESEARCH INTERNSHIPS IN SILVER BANKS, THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
by Pierre Gallego 16 Feb '16

16 Feb '16

HUMPBACK WHALE SAILING RESEARCH INTERNSHIPS IN SILVER BANKS, THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC The Marine Biology non-profit Organization Odyssea (www.odyssea.lu) and Pangaea Exploration (www.panexplore.com) are opening two one-week humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) research internships in Silver Banks, in the North of the Dominican Republic. Part of the National Marine Mammal Sanctuary, this is the largest reproductive aggregation of humpback whales in the North Atlantic where thousands of whales congregate to give birth to their calves and to mate. The internship will take place on board Sea Dragon, a 72ft (22m), 90,000lb displacement steel hulled sailing vessel. Silver Banks is one of the few places in the world where in-water observations of humpback whales are allowed. These internships are available for durations of one week each from March 24-31 and from April 1-8. Volunteers will be introduced to and participate in the research techniques involving boat-based photo identification, behavioral studies, humpback whale acoustics, biopsies and in-water interactions. No previous experience is required. Active participation of all interns in all on-bard duties (cooking, cleaning etc.) is expected. The dates of the internships are (departing and arriving in Puerto Plata, the Dominican Republic): 24-31 March 2016 1-8 April 2016 Cost of the internship: 3350 USD This fee includes: - Board and room during the entire stay on Sea Dragon Boat-based humpback whale photo-identification and behavioral data collection Introduction to humpback whale acoustics, with on-site data analysis Training sessions in cetacean research techniques Introduction to biopsy taking and sample processing In-water observations of humpback whales and their calves Lectures on biology and conservation of cetaceans This fee does not include flights to and from the Dominican Republic, transfers to/from Puerto Plata, the visa on arrival (10$), compulsory health and travel insurance, and personal expenses. At the end of the internship a certificate will be issued summing up all the skills acquired by the participants. No previous experience requested. If you are interested in joining this internship, please contact us at info(a)odyssea.lu and we will send you a detailed document to assist you with your travel arrangements. Dr Pierre Gallego President of Odyssea www.odyssea.lu Sent from my iPhone

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Volunteer Wildlife and Dolphin Watching Guides 2016
by Stones Brett 16 Feb '16

16 Feb '16

Subject: [MARMAM] Volunteer Wildlife and Dolphin Watching Guides. Volunteer Wildlife and Dolphin Watching Guides Required Volunteer Position offered to a marine biology enthusiast with a passenger boat trip company to assist with wildlife guiding activities. SeaMôr Wildlife and Dolphin Watching Boat Trips are looking for enthusiastic and hardworking boat crew to fill positions offered during the periods of April to June, June to end of August, July to end of August and August to end of October. We would also accept a person who is able to commit to the whole period of April to end of October. The position requires working on the wildlife watching boat as crew and a wildlife guide and also assisting with sales and marketing of the trips. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn some great skills such as boat handling, general seamanship, enhancing your public speaking skills, and hopefully help inspire the next generation of marine biologists. The trips run from the beautiful towns of New Quay and Abaereron in Cardigan Bay, which is home to the largest population of bottlenose dolphins in the UK. Harbour porpoises, grey seals and a variety of sea birds are also amongst the many animals that can be viewed on the trips. WHAT SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE YOU WILL GAIN:Public speaking and guiding experienceCrewing on a commercial passenger boatBoat handling and general seamanshipCustomer service and team work ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS:Fluent spoken EnglishInterest in marine wildlife and boatingFlexibility and the ability to work outdoorsGood communication skillsGood customer service skillsExperience of working in a small team DESIRABLE:Marine biology (or similar) qualificationRYA powerboat licenseInterest in marketingWebsite editing and design Other info:This is an unpaid post, however, there will be an element of paid work available, and free accommodation is provided. How to apply:If you are interested in this position, email with which period you're interested in, along with your CV to Brett Stones, info(a)seamor.org, or call us on 07795242445. Website www.seamor.org facebook www.facebook/seamordolphins

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ECS workshop
by Annalisa Zaccaroni 15 Feb '16

15 Feb '16

As the deadline for registration to ECS workshops is getting closer, we would just remind all interested that there are still places available for the workshop "Anthropogenic threats to marine mammals of the Mediterranean area", which will be held on March 13th, Sunday, from 9.30 till 17.30. All information about the workshop can be found at http://europeancetaceansociety.eu/conference/workshops-0#Anthropogenic threats to marine mammals of the Mediterranean area This workshop is aimed at reviewing the current state of knowledge on threats to the marine mammals of the Mediterranean Sea, putting together experts on pathology, acoustics, toxicology and population monitoring. The workshop will turn the focus of the discussion from a single research topic (e.g. toxicology, pathology, etc.) to the whole environment marine mammals live in, to get to a more complete scenario of threats, of present knowledge and of research gaps that require attention. The outcomes of the workshop will allow the identification of future conservation and management issues, e.g. in relation to naval disturb, habitat disruptions, pollution. The day will comprise of some specialist presentations focused on each potential threat to marine mammals, and of a second sessions during which researches will be presented. Contributions from young researchers will be encouraged, as well as the presence and participation of students. Confirmed speakers are: Fabian Ritter from M.E.E.R., Alessio Maglio from Sinay, Sandro Mazzariol from University of Padua, Tilen Genov from Morigenos. Presentations from young researchers and students on any of the topics of the workshop are more than welcome!!! Dr. 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 NZ DOC-approved PAM training courses -
by Sam Nichols 15 Feb '16

15 Feb '16

*New Zealand Experienced Passive Acoustic Monitoring Assessment (PAM)* *New Zealand Passive Acoustic Monitoring Training (PAM)* Seiche Training is pleased to announce two new training courses for 2016 approved by the New Zealand Department of Conservation (DOC). *New Zealand Experienced PAM Assessment * *25, 26 and 27 April 2016* *Devon, UK* This three day assessment will result in candidates gaining DOC approved accreditation as an experienced PAM Operator. After successfully completing the seven modules, and after DOC approval, you will be recognised by the New Zealand government as an Experienced PAM Operator (or a Trained PAM Operator for those with less than 12 weeks’ experience in NZ waters). You will need a minimum of 12 weeks’ experience offshore as a PAM Operator to enrol on this course. Offshore experience can be from any location, however, those with less than 12 weeks’ experience in New Zealand waters will achieve a ‘trained’ status that can be upgrade to an ‘experienced’ status upon completion of 12 weeks as a PAM operator in New Zealand waters. *New Zealand PAM Training* This course will result in candidates gaining DOC approved accreditation as a PAM Operator. It is suitable for candidates working within the industry wanting to expand their skillset as well as those new to PAM. The New Zealand Department of Conservation requires that those working as PAM Operators in New Zealand complete approved training and assessment. The course covers eleven modules and is consistent with the standards set out in the 2013 Code of Conduct for minimising acoustic disturbance to marine mammals from seismic survey operations. Please contact training(a)seiche.com for more information, modules, costs, new dates and an application form for these courses. *Seiche Training provides world-class marine courses and professional training for individuals, companies and schools in the UK and around the globe. **Bespoke courses and in-house company training on all topics relating to Passive Acoustic Monitoring, Marine Mammal Monitoring and Underwater Acoustics can also be provided.* www.seichetraining.com

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