January 2017 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Marine Education Internship Summer 2017 - Provincetown, MA USA
by Stephanie Richardson 09 Jan '17

09 Jan '17

*Summer 2017 Internship Opportunity* The Center for Coastal Studies is a non-profit organization dedicated to conducting scientific research with emphasis on marine mammals of the western North Atlantic and on the coastal and marine habitats and resources of the Gulf of Maine. CCS has been conducting research and marine and coastal educational programs on Cape Cod for over 40 years. *Education Responsibilities*-Intern will assist with environmental education programs, including on-site programs, off-site programs, and festivals, including CCS’s signature summer week of events: Whale Week: A Celebration of the Sea. Interns will assist in staffing the Center’s marine discovery center; designing and delivering presentations, answering questions about CCS, marine mammals and ocean conservation issues, and other general duties. Interns must have their own transportation, and housing is not provided. A small stipend is provided. Qualifications- - The internship is open to students who are currently enrolled in, or recently graduated from an accredited college or university. High school students may also be considered. - Preference will be given to students or recent graduates working towards environmental studies, education, marine science, biology or other related fields. - Intern should demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills. - Intern should be a self-starter able to take responsibility for completing projects. - Students that are adaptable, responsible, hard working, willing to learn, and have attention to detail are encouraged to apply. - Must be able to work independently and as part of a team. - Must be comfortable working with all ages, including young children. - Must be comfortable working outside in all conditions. - Must be comfortable working with and handling marine species. - Interns must be able to commit to at least two-three months; preferred start date-end date beginning June to mid August, but dates are flexible based on school schedules. - Interns must work a minimum of 20 hours per week. - Schedule is flexible but intern may have to work some weekends and evenings. - Preference will be given to students with secured housing on Cape Cod. To Apply- Send your resume, cover letter, and one letter of reference to Stephanie Richardson at srichardson(a)coastalstudies.org or 5 Holway Ave, Provincetown, Massachusetts 02567. Applications must be received by March 17, 2017. -- Stephanie Richardson Human Resource Manager Center for Coastal Studies 115 Bradford Street Provincetown, MA 02657 t. (508) 487-3622 Ext. 113 f. (508) 487-4495 “Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts.” -Rachel Carson

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New publication on humpback whale genetic structure across the South Atlantic and Indian Oceans
by Kershaw, Francine 09 Jan '17

09 Jan '17

Dear MARMAM community, On behalf of my coauthors, I am pleased to announce a new publication on humpback whale population genetic structure across the South Atlantic and western and northern Indian Oceans in the journal Molecular Ecology. Multiple processes drive genetic structure of humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) populations across spatial scales Francine Kershaw, Inês Carvalho, Jacqueline Loo, Cristina Pomilla, Peter B. Best, Ken P. Findlay, Salvatore Cerchio, Tim Collins, Marcia H. Engel, Gianna Minton, Peter Ersts, Jaco Barendse, P. G. H. Kotze, Yvette Razafindrakoto, Solange Ngouessono, Michael Meÿer, Meredith Thornton and Howard C. Rosenbaum Version of Record online: 8 JAN 2017 | DOI: 10.1111/mec.13943 http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/mec.13943/full Abstract Elucidating patterns of population structure for species with complex life histories, and disentangling the processes driving such patterns, remains a significant analytical challenge. Humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) populations display complex genetic structures that have not been fully resolved at all spatial scales. We generated a data set of nuclear markers for 3575 samples spanning the seven breeding stocks and substocks found in the South Atlantic and western and northern Indian Oceans. For the total sample, and males and females separately, we assessed genetic diversity, tested for genetic differentiation between putative populations and isolation by distance, estimated the number of genetic clusters without a priori population information and estimated rates of gene flow using maximum-likelihood and Bayesian approaches. At the ocean basin scale, structure is governed by geographical distance (IBD P < 0.05) and female fidelity to breeding areas, in line with current understanding of the drivers of broadscale population structure. Consistent with previous studies, the Arabian Sea breeding stock was highly genetically differentiated (FST 0.034-0.161; P < 0.01 for all comparisons). However, the breeding stock boundary between west South Africa and east Africa was more porous than expected based on genetic differentiation, cluster and geneflow analyses. Instances of male fidelity to breeding areas and relatively high rates of dispersal for females were also observed between the three substocks in the western Indian Ocean. The relationships between demographic units and current management boundaries may have ramifications for assessments of the status and continued protections of populations still in recovery from commercial whaling. If you would like a copy of the PDF, please contact fkershaw(a)nrdc.org<mailto:fkershaw@nrdc.org>. With best wishes, Francine FRANCINE KERSHAW, PH.D. Marine Mammals Science Fellow NATURAL RESOURCES DEFENSE COUNCIL 40 W 20TH STREET NEW YORK, NY 10011 T 212.727.4564 c 917.450.0994 FKERSHAW(a)NRDC.ORG<mailto:FKERSHAW@NRDC.ORG> @Francinekershaw http://www.francinekershaw.site Please save paper.Think before printing.

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New publication on the social structure of Icelandic killer whales: A multilevel society of herring-eating killer whales indicates adaptation to prey characteristics
by Sara Tavares 09 Jan '17

09 Jan '17

Dear colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce that the following paper has been published online: A multilevel society of herring-eating killer whales indicates adaptation to prey characteristics Sara B. Tavares; Filipa I.P. Samarra; Patrick J.O. Miller Behavioral Ecology 2016; doi: 10.1093/beheco/arw179 Abstract Non-social factors can influence animal social structure. In killer whales (Orcinus orca), fish- versus mammal-eating ecological differences are regarded as key ecological drivers of their multilevel society, including group size, but the potential importance of specific target prey remains unclear. Here, we investigate the social structure of herring-eating killer whales in Iceland and compare it to the described social structures of primarily salmon- and seal-eating populations in the Northeast Pacific, which form stable coherent basic units nested within a hierarchical multilevel society. Using 29023 photographs collected over 6 years, we examined the association patterns of 198 individuals combining clustering, social network structure, and temporal patterns of association analysis. The Icelandic population had largely weak but non-random associations, which were not completely assorted by known ranging patterns. A fission–fusion dynamic of constant and temporary associations was observed but this was not due to permanent units joining. The population-level society was significantly structured but not in a clear hierarchical tier system. Social clusters were highly diverse in complexity and there were indications of subsclusters. There was no indication of dispersal nor strong sex differences in associations. These results indicate that the Icelandic herring-eating killer whale population has a multilevel social structure without clear hierarchical tiers or nested coherent social units, different from other populations of killer whales. We suggest that local ecological context, such as the characteristics of the specific target prey (e.g., predictability, biomass, and density) and subsequent foraging strategies may strongly influence killer whale social association patterns. Available online at: http://beheco.oxfordjournals.org/content/early/2016/12/28/beheco.arw179.ful… For any questions do not hesitate to contact me at: sbt3(a)st-andrews.ac.uk If you want to know more about the Icelandic Orca research project you can check our website www.icelandic-orcas.com or Facebook page www.facebook.com/icelandic.orcas Best regards, Sara Tavares PhD Candidate Sea Mammal Research Unit Bute Building University of St Andrews KY16 9TS Tel: +44 (0) 1334 463607 Twitter: @_SMRU_ www.icelandic-orcas.com https://icelandic-orcas.blogspot.com www.facebook.com/icelandic.orcas

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Undergraduate or Master's Level Student Needed for Blue whale habitat use Research Project in Patagonia-Chile
by Gustavo Chiang 09 Jan '17

09 Jan '17

Fundacion MERI is in need of a highly motivated undergraduate or Master's level student to assist the work on the internal database to be added to the Southern Hemisphere Blue Whale Catalogue ( <http://bluewhalecatalogue.org/> http://bluewhalecatalogue.org/) with the data we have collected since 2014. The student is expected to run analysis of habitat use (oceanography) in relation to blue whale sightings. The student will be partially funded by our research team. Students with experience in oceanography will be strongly considered. At the same time the student would be required to participate in the marine mammal field monitoring program we carry on in Patagonia. The student will work in the project between 6-10 months during 2017. Project specifics will be provided upon inquiry. Interested candidates please email Dr. Gustavo Chiang at <mailto:gchiang@fundacionmeri.cl> gchiang(a)fundacionmeri.cl for more information. Please include any questions, as well as a CV and previous experience/skills (if any ). Contact http://www.caserta.cl/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/LOGOTIPO-MERI_firmaMail.png GUSTAVO CHIANG, Ph.D. Director Cientifico <mailto:gchiang@fundacionmeri.cl> gchiang(a)fundacionmeri.cl (+562) 2 953 5192 . (+569) 5 214 8013 Av. Presidente Kennedy lateral 5682, piso 2 Vitacura, Santiago - Chile <http://www.fundacionmeri.cl/> www.fundacionmeri.cl

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3nd Announcement 2017 ECS Conference in Denmark
by Jonas Teilmann 09 Jan '17

09 Jan '17

Dear All The 13th of January, this coming Friday is deadline for abstracts and workshop proposals for this year’s ECS conference in Middelfart, Denmark. We hope that many of you will submit an abstract, come and celebrate the ECS 30 year anniversary and make this a great conference. We will do all we can to make this a memorable event, both with regard to science and social networking. The conference will be at the most beautiful time of year in Denmark, in an old renovated castle at the seaside where there will be porpoise guarantee. Looking forward to see you all! On behalf of the organizers, Jonas Teilmann MORE INFORMATION<http://www.europeancetaceansociety.eu/conference/31st-annual-conference-den…> Click on More Information to visit out webpage [cid:image001.jpg@01D2579E.E608C770] ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DEADLINE 13 JANUARY 2017 ECS, Danish Marine Mammal Society and Aarhus University invites you to attend the 31st Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society at Hindsgavl Castle, Middelfart, Denmark Main conference will be on 1-3 May, 2017 Workshops will take place on 29-30 April, 2017 ________________________________ This year's theme is: CONSERVATION IN THE LIGHT OF MARINE SPATIAL USE ________________________________ INVITED KEYNOTE SPEAKERS Professor Lars Bejder, Murdoch University, Cetacean Research Unit, Australia Dr. Asha De Vos, Post-doctoral scholar, University of California, Santa Cruz Dr. Len Thomas, University of St. Andrews, Scotland ________________________________ IMPORTANT DATES Abstract and workshop submission deadline: 13 January 2017 (23:45 CET) Early registration deadline: 15 March 2017 (23:45 CET) Video abstract submission deadline: 1 March 2017 (23:45 CET) Late registration deadline and: 1 April 2017 (23.45 CET) ________________________________ MORE INFORMATION<http://www.europeancetaceansociety.eu/conference/31st-annual-conference-den…> Click on More Information to visit out webpage [cid:image002.jpg@01D2579E.E608C770]

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PSO / MMO Training in Juno Beach FL Feb 25-26
by abostwick 07 Jan '17

07 Jan '17

MPSC is holding Protected Species Observer training (also known as Marine Mammal Observer training) on February 25-26 in Juno Beach, Florida. This class will meet at the Loggerhead MarineLife Center, and will include a private tour of the facility. We will discuss the identifying traits and behaviors of different species and age classes of sea turtles while viewing the animals in person, a value which cannot be obtained in viewing static pictures. This BOEM/BSEE-compliant PSO certification course covers the regulations for reducing seismic survey impacts to marine mammals and sea turtles, documenting animal behavior, and how to visually locate and identify the animals. Course comprehension is measured with examinations on regulations and animal identification. Successful completion of this course provides professional Protected Species Observer certification. Lunch is provided and included in the course fee (college/graduate/government discounts available), along with various identification guides and regulatory documents (yours to keep), a private tour of the Loggerhead MarineLife Center, and advice on applying to PSO positions. MPSC is also holding PSO training in Honolulu, Hawaii on April 8-9. For more information, please contact Angela Bostwick at ABostwick(a)PSOCertifications.com, by phone at 832-523-2402, or visit the website at http://www.protectedspeciesobservers.com/ <http://www.protectedspeciesobservers.com/> . Thank you, Angela Bostwick / Founder Marine Protected Species Consulting ProtectedSpeciesObservers.com <http://www.ProtectedSpeciesObservers.com> https://Facebook.com/ProtectedSpeciesObservers/

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BOEM denies geophysical survey permits in Atlantic
by Jasny, Michael 06 Jan '17

06 Jan '17

Today, the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) announced that it had denied all six applications for seismic oil and gas surveys now pending off the U.S. east coast. In denying the permits, BOEM concluded that the environmental risks of allowing the surveys to go forward outweighed the benefits. In particular, it cited as reasons for denial the potential harm to marine mammals, including the North Atlantic right whale; the possible future availability of lower-impact seismic technologies, such as vibroseis, if surveys are deferred; the lack of any immediate need for seismic exploration given the removal of the Atlantic from the administration's 5-year leasing program; and the possibility that data acquired today could become outdated if leasing is opened too far into the future. About the North Atlantic right whale, BOEM wrote: "Given that the next Five Year Program excludes the Atlantic from leasing from 2017-2022, and the potential for less intrusive seismic technologies in the near future, the potential disadvantage to this small, critically endangered, and declining population is not worth the risk." BOEM's press release on the denials is here: https://www.boem.gov/press01062017/. Please let me know if you have questions. Michael Michael jasny Director, Marine Mammal Protection NATURAL RESOURCES DEFENSE COUNCIL 4479 W. 5th Avenue Vancouver, bc v6r1s4 T 604.736.9386 c 310.560.5536 mjasny(a)NRDC.ORG<mailto:mjasny@NRDC.ORG> Please save paper. Think before printing.

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CAPE VERDE HUMPBACK WHALES RESEARCH INTERNSHIP
by AIMM Internships 06 Jan '17

06 Jan '17

*BACKGROUND: *The Marine Environment Research Association is a non-profit, non-governmental organization focused on the research and conservation of marine species, running an ongoing study of cetaceans in southern Portugal (Algarve) and Boa Vista, Cape Verde. This project aims to obtain baseline information on species occurrence, behavior, and social structure of the local cetacean populations in order to obtain scientific data to support conservation measures and inform marine management policies. The main species observed are Humpback whales (*Megaptera novaeangliae*) and the rough-toothed (*Steno bredanensis*) although more than 14 species of cetacean were describe to the Cape Verde region. Sea turtle could be also find in the ocean, mostly the Green turtle (*Chelonia mydas*), Loggerhead turtle and Leatherback turtle (*Dermochelys coriacea*) AIMM Interns are hard-working individuals who are willing to contribute to the association and support on-going activities, while experiencing fieldwork at sea, learning data collection and processing methodologies, and being a part of AIMM's team of researchers and marine biologists for a period of time. All team members and participants share accommodation, house tasks, knowledge and experience in an environmental friendly and multicultural environment. *WHERE:* Boa Vista Island, Cape Verde, África *WHEN:* The field season lasts from 1st of March to 31st of May, 2017. The minimum internship attendance is 14 days, preferably starting on a Monday. *FIELDWORK: *The field trips are conducted in an opportunistic platforms (commercial whale-watching boats). Fieldwork is dependent on weather conditions and seat availability in the whale-watching boats. Field days can be intense, especially in the peak of season, but are fulfilling and good fun. The interns will be trained to: · Conduct on-board surveys of marine species occurrence; · Record effort tracks on a handheld GPS; · Collect data on behavior, group size, species, etc.; · Collection of photos to photo-identification and underwater videos while on-board. *DATA ANALYSIS: *This will be conducted on a daily basis and will entail entering data into established databases and spreadsheets, photo-identification processing, and preliminary data interpretation. *INTERNSHIP FEES:* AIMM is a non-profit organization that relies on donations from our volunteers, partners, and conservation-minded people like you so that we may continue our important research and education programs. This internship requires a monetary contribution which is used to off-set the cost of accommodation and running a non-profit. For more information on internship fees for the 2017 season, please contact: interns(a)aimm-portugal.org with the title “Cape Verde Internship” *Included* in the fee is: · Accommodation in the research house; · Transportation to/from the marina; · Fieldwork on a commercial whale-watching vessels. *Not included* in the fee is: · Transportation to/from Boa Vista Island, Cape Verde; · Meals / food; · Free time activities; · Personal insurance (all participants should have health and/or travel insurance); · Personal expenses. *INTERNS ARE EXPECTED TO:* · Be above the age of 18; · Have a mature attitude towards marine mammal research and environment; · Be autonomous and flexible; · Be able to live and work in an international team and mainly outdoors at sea; · Speak English; · Participate for minimum 2 weeks. *Preference will be given* to those who have: · Relevant marine mammal field experience · Working experience on research vessels · Experience working from dolphin/whale watching platforms · Experience in photo-identification · Professional cameras that can be used for photo-ID · Availability to stay for longer periods of time *INTERNSHIP APPLICATION: * Applicants should send an e-mail to interns(a)aimm-portugal.org, subject “*Cape Verde Internship*” with your Resume/CV, personal statement on which are your expectations and the period of time that you want do the internship. You will received an e-mail with the availability for the internship and all the others details. Applications will be accepted during all season, however, early application is recommended due to limited vacancies. *Contacts*: interns(a)aimm-portugal.org | www.aimmportugal.org |

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SUBMISSION: Announcing two new science books on polar bears
by sjcrock＠shaw.ca 06 Jan '17

06 Jan '17

Dr. Susan J. Crockford is pleased to announce a pair of short science books on polar bears available through Amazon (including Amazon US, Canada and UK). These science books offer the information critical for understanding current issues in polar bear ecology and conservation, with one fashioned specifically with kids in mind. Author website https://susancrockford.com/non-fiction-titles/ 1. Polar Bears: Outstanding Survivors of Climate Change https://www.amazon.com/dp/1541139712/ Suitable for adults and high school students This full-color volume contains the critical information readers need to understand polar bear ecology and conservation issues without drowning in detail: the most up-to-date information available in an easy to digest format that is fully referenced. 2. Polar Bear Facts and Myths https://www.amazon.com/dp/1541123336/ Suitable for children aged 7 and up This beautiful, full color summary is written in a question and answer format, in language that readers of all ages can understand (age 7 and up). The book takes a sensible, big-picture approach to that many readers will appreciate and is based on the most up-to-date information available. Dr. Susan Crockford is a professional zoologist who has been a long-standing member of the Society of Marine Mammalogy. She has studied polar bear ecology and evolution for more than 20 years and writes a popular blog (almost 900,000 views since 2012) about polar bears past and present called www.polarbearscience.com. For years, readers have been asking for books (for adults and children) that offer the same rational, broad perspective on polar bear conservation and ecology as her science writing and public lectures (primarily offered through the University of Victoria’s Speakers Bureau). In Polar Bear Facts and Myths, Susan has written the kind of book about polar bears the public has been clamouring for: one that doesn’t frighten children by conflating predicted model outcomes with present, observed conditions. In Polar Bears: Outstanding Survivors of Climate Change, Susan presents the popular lecture she gives with the same name in book format (with references). Both books are short, useful summaries that draw upon the most recent scientific literature available. Susan J. Crockford, Ph.D. (Zoology/Evolutionary Biology/Archaeozoology) University of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada email: scrock(a)uvic.ca See my author website www.susancrockford.com

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IMMS Animal Training Internship (Summer)
by Katherine Burton 06 Jan '17

06 Jan '17

IMMS Animal Training Internship Summer: May - August 2017 Deadline: March 1, 2017 The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies ("IMMS") is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in 1984 for the purposes of public education, conservation, and research on marine mammals in the wild and under human care. Located in Gulfport, Mississippi, IMMS has been an active participant of the National Stranding Network since its inception. IMMS is the premier stranding organization in the Mississippi-Louisiana-Alabama region of the Gulf Coast with the capability and expertise to care for sick and injured marine mammals. IMMS serves as an important educational outlet for the Mississippi Gulf Coast, incorporating programs for conservation, education and research of marine mammals and their environment. Program Description The IMMS Animal Training Internship Program is designed as a way for students/individuals interested in a career in animal care and training to gain valuable experience in a real-world setting. Interns will primarily be trained in aspects of animal care, but will also participate in other activities at IMMS. Our goal is to give interns a well-rounded experience in a variety of areas while providing expert training and experience. This is an unpaid position and all interns are responsible for their own housing and transportation. Duties The IMMS animal care and training staff is in charge of caring for Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, California sea lions, and large parrots. Interns will work directly with animal care staff and be exposed to all aspects of the daily routine. Heavy emphasis is placed on basic tasks such as food preparation, and daily cleaning and facility maintenance. Interns will learn how to train animals with operant conditioning through observation and may assist during sessions. Enrichment is very important to the well-being of our animals and interns will be asked to design and implement an enrichment device for our dolphins and/or birds. Interns will also give educational presentation to guests before they interact with our animals, as well as help staff with daily water quality. Because we want interns to have a well-rounded experience, they will also be asked to assist in other departments. Interns may participate as 1) environmental educators and assist in giving presentations to the public, 2) research assistants that help with our many wild dolphin based research studies, or 3) emergency responders as IMMS is part of the Southeast Regional Marine Mammal Stranding Network and responds to stranded marine mammals and sea turtles. Eligibility Requirements Interns must be: * 18 years or older. * A recent graduate or actively pursuing a college degree in the sciences. * Willing to accept the internship as an unpaid position. * Able to commit to a minimum of at least 12 weeks, 40 hours a week. The internship can be extended depending on work performance. * Available to work weekdays, weekends, and holidays. * Able to lift 50 lbs, work long hours on your feet, and work outside in extreme conditions. * Able to maintain a positive attitude, good work ethic, sense of responsibility, and a strong willingness to learn. * Financially stable enough to obtain housing and transportation, though IMMS staff will do their best to assist you in making arrangements. * Able to comply with IMMS rules and regulations. To Apply Please send the following documents to: kburton(a)imms.org<mailto:kburton@imms.org> with "Animal Training Internship" in the subject line. * IMMS Animal Training Internship Application<http://www.imms.org/downloads/applications/AnimalTrainingInternApplication.…> * Resume with cover letter. * Two letters of recommendation - Provide at least one academic, and one work/volunteer- related reference if applicable. Letters may be emailed from the applicant or the person providing the recommendation letter. * A copy of your current official college transcript. Applicants may submit an unofficial copy. * Full photograph Documents must be in one of the following formats - PDF, .doc, .docx, and must be submitted together with your first and last name and the date in the file name. Ex) 2013Aug_Jane_Doe_Resume, 2013Aug_Jane_Doe_Application, 2013Aug_Jane_Doe_Transcript. Katherine Burton Marine Mammal Trainer Rescue and Rehab Specialist Animal Training Internship Coordinator Institute for Marine Mammal Studies 10801 Dolphin Lane Gulfport, MS 39503

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