September 2016 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New publication on sperm whales in Australia
by Christopher Johnson 18 Sep '16

18 Sep '16

Dear MARMAM readers, We have published a new paper in Frontiers in Marine Science. Crowdsourcing Modern and Historical Data Identifies Sperm Whale (Physeter macrocephalus) Habitat Offshore of South-Western Australia Authors: Christopher M. Johnson, Lynnath E. Beckley, Halina Kobryn, Genevieve E. Johnson, Iain Kerr and Roger Payne http://journal.frontiersin.org/article/10.3389/fmars.2016.00167/full Abstract: The distribution and use of pelagic habitat by sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) is poorly understood in the south-eastern Indian Ocean off Western Australia. However, a variety of data are available via online portals where records of historical expeditions, commercial whaling operations, and modern scientific research voyages can now be accessed. Crowdsourcing these online data allows collation of presence-only information of animals and provides a valuable tool to help augment areas of low research effort. Four data sources were examined, the primary one being the Voyage of the Odyssey expedition, a 5-year global study of sperm whales and ocean pollution. From December 2001 to May 2002, acoustic surveys were conducted along 5200 nautical miles of transects off Western Australia including the Perth Canyon and historical whaling grounds off Albany; 60 tissue biopsy samples were also collected. To augment areas not surveyed by the RV Odyssey, historical Yankee whaling data (1712–1920), commercial whaling data (1904–1999), and citizen science reports of sperm whale sightings (1990–2003) were used. Using Maxent, a species distribution modeling tool, we found that the submarine canyons off Albany and Perth provide important habitat for sperm whales. Current technology, along with current understanding of sperm whale bioacoustics and habitat preferences, provides strong motivation for undertaking long-term passive acoustic studies that can monitor the sperm whale population within Australia's EEZ waters (Perth and Albany canyons) as a way of informing future marine management and policy decisions. Any questions, feel free to contact me anytime. Sincerely, Chris Chris Johnson Manager, Ocean Sciences WWF-Australia 60 Leicester St. Level 3, Carlton, Victoria 3053 AUSTRALIA t: +61 437 226 011 | t: +61 3 9016 7553 em: cjohnson(a)wwf.org.au<mailto:cjohnson@wwf.org.au> skype: chris.earthocean | tw: @earthocean | linkedin: http://bit.ly/2aoVPbQ

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THESIS PROJECTS FOR BSc AND MSc IN MARINE MAMMALS SCIENCE OFFERED AT THE BDRI (SPAIN)
by Bruno Diaz Lopez 17 Sep '16

17 Sep '16

Are you looking for a thesis project in Marine Mammals Science? The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI) invites applications for dissertation/thesis projects in a dynamic, international, and competitive research environment. The main research topics of the BDRI include cetacean’s ecology, ethology, ecological modeling and bioacoustics. Highly motivated students in the fields of zoology, marine biology, veterinary and related disciplines are invited to apply for an internship with thesis project at the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI). Below you can see a list of the thesis topics that will be offered in 2017 at BDRI’s headquarters in O Grove, NW Spain. 1. Population variation in bottlenose dolphin social communication. 2. Population variation in signature whistles production and characteristics in resident bottlenose dolphins. 3. Acoustic communication and associated behaviour of the common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). 4. Feeding strategies of a resident population of bottlenose dolphins in Arousa Firth (Galicia, Spain). 5. Diving behaviour of bottlenose dolphins and impact ofmarine traffic in the Arousa Firth (Galicia, Spain). 6. Diving behaviour of harbour porpoises in the Arousa Firth (Galicia, Spain). 7. Using habitat models to identify suitable sites for marine protected areas for dolphins and porpoises in Galician waters, NW Spain. 8. Cetaceans distribution and use of habitat along the Arousa Firth (NW Spain). 9. Bottlenose dolphin social structure and group dynamics in the Arousa Firth (NW SPain). 10. Population variation and evolution of natural marks in bottlenose dolphins. Implications for mark-recapture studies. Students will participate as research assistants in an on-going, long-term research program dealing with marine mammals’ research in the Galician waters (NW Spain). Students will collect data in the field and analyse and interpret data in the lab. Students will be under direct supervision of the chief biologist Bruno Diaz Lopez and the marine ecologist Séverine Methion. ABOUT YOU We look for persons who are highly motivated, eager to learn, and have a positive attitude. WORKING PLACE The BDRI is located in a pleasant research center sited at O Grove, Galicia (NW Spain). The institute and research vessel are equipped with the state-of-the-art technology, and the study area has especially good conditions for bottlenose dolphin research due to the existence of a resident population. The BDRI is a very international environment, and the everyday working language is English. APPLICATION The application written in English, Spanish, Italian, or French should include a cover letter explaining the applicant’s motivations, CV, copies of relevant certificates/diplomas, and if possible reference letter. Please download the internships/thesis general information and application form at: <www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/internships.pdf> <www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/applicationinternships.doc> The application labeled ‘Application Thesis Project’ should be submitted via email at: severine(a)thebdri.com ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Start and end dates are flexible but the position requires a minimum of 30 days between January and November 2017. If the student intends to receive academic credit, he/she will be responsible for making all arrangements with their educational institutions. The BDRI is a private and self-funded centre, hence, there is an internships/tuition fee including the thesis supervision, training, accommodation in an apartment, and other expenses derived of both the thesis project and your participation as research assistant (housing, use of equipment, lab work, field trips, use of research vessel). Successful applicants will be responsible for their own transportation expenses to and from the research centre (O Grove, Galicia, Spain). There is no deadline to apply. However, approved applications are accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. More information can be obtained directly from severine(a)thebdri.com Best regards, Bruno Díaz López Chief biologist and Director The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI Avenida Beiramar 192, O Grove 36980, Pontevedra, Spain www.thebdri.com 0034 684 24 8552 This email is confidential to the intended recipient(s) and the contents may be legally privileged or contain proprietary and private informations. It is intended solely for the person to whom it is addressed. If you are not an intended recipient, you may not review, copy or distribute this email. If received in error, please notify the sender and delete the message from your system immediately. Please note that neither the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI nor the sender accept any responsibility for any viruses and it is your responsibility to scan the email and the attachments (if any). Thank you for your cooperation.

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bioacoustics position open at BOEM
by Cody, Mary 16 Sep '16

16 Sep '16

please post: BOEM currently has a position open in our headquarters office for a biologist or oceanographer with a strong background in bioacoustics. The person selected will serve as a subject matter expert on bioacoustics. The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) manages the exploration and development of the nation's offshore resources. For information about our bureau go to: http://www.boem.gov/ The following DEU and MP announcements have been posted on USAJOBS: *Interdisciplinary (Biologist/Wildlife Biologist/Oceanographer)* *GS-0401/0486/1360-12/13* BOEM, Office of Environmental Programs Division of Environmental Assessment Duty Location: Sterling, VA *BOEM-MMGG-16-RD-103(DEU)* Hyperlink to USAJOBS: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/449744700 *BOEM-MMGG-16-RD-104(MP)* Hyperlink to USAJOBS: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/449745500 *Closing Date:* Wednesday, September 28th *APPLICATION INFORMATION:* Applications must be submitted online using the "Apply Online" link from the job announcement in USAJOBS; please follow the "How to Apply" instructions in the announcement. Remember to thoroughly review the vacancy announcement and carefully read and follow all instructions. *IMPORTANT:* It is strongly recommended that you use the USAJobs Resume Builder because it was designed to ensure that your resume includes the standard information needed. The Resume Builder is available at https://help.usajobs.gov/index.php/Resume_Builder. Mary Cody Marine Biologist Bureau of Ocean Energy Management VAM-OEP 45600 Woodland Road Sterling Virginia 20166 Mary.Cody(a)BOEM.GOV <https://mail.google.com/mail/?view=cm&fs=1&tf=1&to=Mary.Cody@BOEM.GOV>

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MarmamNews is back!
by Richard Mallon-Day 16 Sep '16

16 Sep '16

Hello Y'all, Back in the early years of the Marmam Listserv, late 1990's, I had a little side project for tracking news items concerning whales and dolphins called MaramNews. This service is back and available as DolphinWatch.com. Currently we are tracking over 400 story lines from just the past 45 days. Yours, Rich Mallon-Day rmallonday(a)dolphinwatch.com

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New chapter on Advances in Marine Biology
by Ruth Esteban 16 Sep '16

16 Sep '16

Dear All, We are pleased to announce the publication of the following chapter: Esteban, R., Verborgh, P., Gauffier, P., Alarcón, D., Salazar-Sierra, J.M., Giménez, J., Foote, A.D. and de Stephanis, R., 2016. Conservation Status of Killer Whales, Orcinus orca, in the Strait of Gibraltar. *Advances in Marine Biology*. Abstract: Killer whales (*Orcinus orca*) in the Mediterranean Sea are currently restricted to the Strait of Gibraltar and surrounding waters. Thirty-nine individuals were present in 2011, with a well-differentiated social structure, organized into five pods. Killer whale occurrence in the Strait is apparently related to the migration of their main prey, Atlantic bluefin tuna (*Thunnus thynnus*). In spring, whale distribution was restricted to shallow waters off the western coast of the Strait where all pods were observed actively hunting tuna. In summer, the whales were observed in the shallow central waters of the Strait. A relatively new feeding strategy has been observed among two of the five pods. These two pods interact with an artisanal drop-line fishery. Pods depredating the fishery had access to larger tuna in comparison with pods that were actively hunting. The Strait of Gibraltar killer whales are socially and ecologically different from individuals in the Canary Islands. Molecular genetic research has indicated that there is little or no female-mediated gene migration between these areas. Conservation threats include small population size, prey depletion, vessel traffic, and contaminants. We propose the declaration of the Strait of Gibraltar killer whales as an endangered subpopulation. A conservation plan to protect the Strait of Gibraltar killer whales is urgently needed, and we recommend implementation of a seasonal management area where activities producing underwater noise are restricted, and the promotion of bluefin tuna conservation. A copy can be downloaded at: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0065288116300050 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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The Marine Mammal Center 2017 Rescue and Response Internships
by Laura Chapman 15 Sep '16

15 Sep '16

RESCUE & RESPONSE INTERNSHIP ANNOUNCEMENT - 2017 The Rescue & Response team at The Marine Mammal Center is seeking applicants for internships working primarily with stranded pinnipeds, as well as occasional cetaceans and sea otters. These positions are unpaid and applicants are responsible for their own accommodations. Unfortunately, we are unable to host international applicants at this time. Internship Opportunities are available at the following locations. * San Luis Obispo Operations in Morro Bay * Monterey Bay Operations in Moss Landing * Main Hospital in Sausalito Program Description: The Rescue Team Internship is an exciting opportunity for individuals who are interested in increasing their experience and knowledge of marine mammal behavior and the Marine Mammal Stranding Network. Interns will be responsible for answering the animal hotline and rotating the after-hours on-call. Interns will coordinate rescue and triage response throughout the Center's over 600-mile rescue range. Interns will have the opportunity to participate in marine mammal rescues, releases and other field responses as available. In addition, interns will be required to assist in other departments and with animal care duties (feed preparations, medical charting, and pen cleaning) for on-site pinnipeds. Other duties may include: participation in training classes, data entry and tracking, maintaining rescue equipment and assorted miscellaneous tasks. Intern Responsibilities & Qualifications: The internship is open to all applicants 21 years of age or older, with an avid interest in marine biology, zoology, general biology, policy or a related field. If the intern intends to receive university credit for their internship, they are responsible for making all arrangements with their educational institution. Interns must be able to work for a minimum of 3 months, 5 days a week, at least 40 hours per week. Work schedule must be flexible and may include weekends and holidays. This is an unpaid position and all interns are responsible for obtaining housing and transportation. Applicants should demonstrate excellent communication skills and have practical computer knowledge with programs such as Word, Access, and Excel. This internship position involves a fair amount of physical activity, such as: lifting, restraining and moving animals. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply following the links below. Please note that each internship period is reviewed separately, meaning that applicants interested in multiple time periods are required to submit separate applications. There is some flexibility on the end date of internships, and interns are often encouraged to stay on passed their required end date if possible. Internship Period Application Deadline Notification of acceptance by Start and End Dates Application Link Winter October 9th, 2016 November 1st, 2016 December 5th 2016 - March 8th 2017 Winter Internship<https://tmmc.recruiterbox.com/jobs/fk06nys> Spring January 8th, 2017 February 1st, 2017 March 1st - June 7th 2017 Spring Internship<https://tmmc.recruiterbox.com/jobs/fk06ne6> Summer February 1st, 2017 March 1st, 2017 June 1st - September 6th 2017 Summer Internship<https://tmmc.recruiterbox.com/jobs/fk06nej> Fall June 11th, 2017 July 1st, 2017 August 30th - December 6th 2017 Fall Internship<https://tmmc.recruiterbox.com/jobs/fk06ne2> The Marine Mammal Center is a non-profit hospital dedicated to the rescue and release of sick, injured or orphaned marine mammals, and to research about their health and diseases. Volunteers and staff have responded to more than 18,500 sea lions, seals, dolphins, porpoises, and other marine life. The Center uniquely combines its rehabilitation program with scientific discovery and education programs to advance the understanding of marine mammal health, ocean health and conservation. For more information, please visit our website at www.marinemammalcenter.org<http://www.marinemammalcenter.org>.

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Job Opening extended through 21 September: Biological Science Technician Position open with NPS Glacier Bay Harbor Seal Program
by Womble, Jamie 15 Sep '16

15 Sep '16

Please note that the following job posting for a Biological Science Technician with the NPS-Glacier Bay National Park harbor seal monitoring program in Juneau, Alaska, has been extended until September 21, 2016. The National Park Service is currently recruiting for a Biological Science Technician (GS-0404-07) to work with the Glacier Bay National Park harbor seal program in Juneau, Alaska. The duties and details of the position are listed below. The job posting is open effective September 12, 2016 and closes on September 21, 2016. Details of the position and how to apply can be found at the following link on USA jobs. https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/450292900/ *Biological Science Technician (GS-0404-07) * Job Announcement Number: GLBA-16-1799670-DECS $22.45 per hour Work Schedule is Full Time - Temporary NTE 1039 hours Location: Juneau, Alaska *Position Duties* As a Biological Science Technician, you will perform a variety of tasks in support of daily work operations associated with harbor seal monitoring in Glacier Bay National Park at the NPS office in Juneau, Alaska. Responsibilities include compiling and summarizing data in tabular, graphic, GIS, or narrative form, and reporting results in detail and prepares extensive field notes conducting survey and collecting field data. Works independently or as a member of a team conducting data processing in GIS, aerial photographic surveys, biological surveys, or other necessary field work. Assists professional biologists by reviewing, cataloging, performing literature review and extracting and compiling data as needed for report preparation. Thank you, Jamie ************************************* Jamie N. Womble, Ph.D. Wildlife Biologist National Park Service Glacier Bay Field Station 3100 National Park Road Juneau, Alaska 99801 USA 907.364.1577 (phone) 907.364.2606 (fax) Jamie_Womble(a)nps.gov http://www.nps.gov/glba/naturescience/seal.htm

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New publication: Effects of environmental variables on surface temperature of breeding adult female northern elephant seals and pups
by Codde, Sarah 15 Sep '16

15 Sep '16

My co-authors and I are pleased to announce our recent publication in the Journal of Thermal Biology: Codde, S.A., Allen, S.G, Houser, D.S., Crocker, D.E. 2016. Effects of environmental variables on surface temperature of breeding adult female northern elephant seals, *Mirounga angustirostris*, and pups. Journal of Thermal Biology 61, 98-105. Full article access available until November 1: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jtherbio.2016.09.001 Abstract: Pinnipeds spend extended periods of time on shore during breeding, and some temperate species retreat to the water if exposed to high ambient temperatures. However, female northern elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris) with pups generally avoid the water, presumably to minimize risks to pups or male harassment. Little is known about how ambient temperature affects thermoregulation of well insulated females while on shore. We used a thermographic camera to measure surface temperature (Ts) of 100 adult female elephant seals and their pups during the breeding season at Point Reyes National Seashore, yielding 782 thermograms. Environmental variables were measured by an onsite weather station. Environmental variables, especially solar radiation and ambient temperature, were the main determinants of mean and maximum Ts of both females and pups. An average of 16% of the visible surface of both females and pups was used as thermal windows to facilitate heat loss and, for pups, this area increased with solar radiation. Thermal window area of females increased with mean Ts until approximately 26 °C and then declined. The Ts of both age classes were warmer than ambient temperature and had a large thermal gradient with the environment (female mean 11.2±0.2 °C; pup mean 14.2±0.2 °C). This large gradient suggests that circulatory adjustments to bypass blubber layers were sufficient to allow seals to dissipate heat under most environmental conditions. We observed the previously undescribed behavior of females and pups in the water and determined that solar radiation affected this behavior. This may have been possible due to the calm waters at the study site, which reduced the risk of neonates drowning. These results may predict important breeding habitat features for elephant seals as solar radiation and ambient temperatures change in response to changing climate. Feel free to contact me for any inquiries or requests at: sarah_codde(a)nps.gov Thanks, Sarah Sarah Codde Marine Ecologist Inventory & Monitoring Program Point Reyes National Seashore Phone: (415) 464-5210 Fax: (415) 663-8132 *Sarah_Codde(a)nps.gov <Sarah_Codde(a)nps.gov>*

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Tenure Track Mammalogy Faculty and Curator at HSU
by Patricia D Goley 15 Sep '16

15 Sep '16

Humboldt State University is seeking a tenure-track Mammalogist and Vertebrate Museum Curator to begin in AY 2017/2018. For more information please see the add below. Feel free to contact Dawn Goley for more information. *Tenure-Track Mammalogy Faculty and Curator* *Department of Biological Sciences* *Humboldt State University (HSU) - Job #7710* Inviting applications for an academic year tenure-track faculty position in *Mammalogy *starting August 2017. This individual will also serve as *Curator* of the HSU Vertebrate Museum. To view full vacancy announcement and to apply, please visit: http://www2.humboldt.edu/aps/docs/jobs/2017-18%20Vacancies/ 7710_1718_BIOL_Mammalology_Vacancy.pdf Position open until filled. First review of applications is November 1, 2016. HSU is a Title IX/AA/EOE. Dawn Goley Professor of Zoology Director of the Marine Mammal Education and Research Program Director of the HSU Marine Mammal Stranding Program Department of Biological Sciences Humboldt State University Arcata, California 95521 707-826-4168 xt 1 Science B 236

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JOB POSTING: Rehabilitation Manager
by Dittmar, Jennifer 15 Sep '16

15 Sep '16

Dear colleagues, The National Aquarium's Animal Rescue team is looking for a Rehabilitation Manager to manage all aspects of the care and welfare of live animals undergoing rehabilitation with Animal Rescue. The responsibilities include directing the day-to-day husbandry and medical care of marine turtles and marine mammals undergoing rehabilitation for the purpose of release back to the natural environment; managing the Animal Rescue department rehabilitation facilities and associated life support; managing staff, and volunteers participating in the daily care and treatment of animals undergoing rehabilitation; working collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders at all times and upholding the values and goals of the National Aquarium. The Rehabilitation Manager will provide liaison with the Regional and National Stranding Networks, and collaborate with federal, state, and local municipalities in all matters relating to wildlife rehabilitation at the National Aquarium. This role will provide 24-hour coverage of Stranding Hotline, communicate and cooperate with NOAA Fisheries Service and US Fish and Wildlife Service, per federal permitting regulations, and collaborate with pertinent government organizations, non-government organizations, and partner institutions for dispositions of stranded animals. This role will also participate in all Animal Rescue-focused research activities involving live animals, execute outreach education events/programs, coordinate and assist with public/media relations, as well as attend lectures and seminars, etc. to obtain continuing education credits needed to maintain certifications and licenses. Preferred requirements of this job include Veterinary Technician experience or license, experience with closed aquatic systems, and experience training, instructing, and coaching staff and volunteers. The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's in biology, aquatic sciences, psychology, or related science preferred. Minimum of 3 years' experience in an aquarium or zoological field (or similar), with experience caring for aquatic reptiles, and/or marine mammals. This position also requires a valid and current motor vehicle operator's license, an acceptable driving record, and the ability to drive a variety of vehicles (cars, vans/trucks). If you have an appreciation for working in a mission-driven organization; and passion for the National Aquarium's mission of inspiring conservation of the world's aquatic treasures, please apply for this outstanding opportunity! HOW TO APPLY Interested and engaged applicants should apply through our website http://aqua.org/jobs Requests for reasonable accommodation can be made by emailing HR(a)aqua.org<mailto:HR@aqua.org> Thank you, Jennifer Dittmar Jennifer Dittmar Marine Animal Rescue Manager 410-986-2377 [P] | 410-986-2356 [F] National Aquarium, Baltimore, MD 111 Market Place, Suite 800 (Office) | 501 East Pratt Street (Aquarium) | Baltimore, MD 21202 [The National Aquarium]<http://www.aqua.org> The National Aquarium inspires conservation of the world's aquatic treasures. [WATERblog]<http://www.aqua.org/blog> [Like us on Facebook] <http://www.facebook.com/nationalaquarium> [Follow us on Twitter] <http://twitter.com/natlaquarium>

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