November 2017 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New publication on bearded seal vocal complexity in Svalbard
by Giovanni de Vincenzi 23 Nov '17

23 Nov '17

Dear colleagues, we are pleased to share the recent publication of our paper in Journal of Acoustical Society of America: Parisi, I., de Vincenzi, G., Torri, M., Papale, E., Mazzola, S., Bonanno, A., Buscaino, G. 2017. Underwater vocal complexity of Arctic seal Erignathus barbatus in Kongsfjorden (Svalbard). Journal of Acoustical Society of America, DOI: https://doi.org/10.1121/1.5010887 Abstract: In this study the description of underwater vocal repertoire of bearded seal in Svalbard (Norway) was extended. Two autonomous passive acoustic recorders were deployed for one year (August 2014–July 2015) in the inner and outer parts of the Kongsfjorden, and 1728 h were recorded and 17 220 vocalizations were found. Nine different vocalization classes were identified and characterized using ten acoustic parameters. The calls showed heterogeneous spectral features, but share the descending trend of frequency modulation. The different classes emerged were discriminated primarily by bandwidth and duration, and then by minimum frequency, central frequency, and maximum frequency in this order. This study represents a step forward to improve the understanding of the acoustic behaviour and the social function of these calls, and identified long passive acoustic monitoring as an effective method to assess vocal complexity and the ecology of marine species producing sounds. To request a pdf copy please email me at: giovanni.devincenzi(a)iamc.cnr.it or Elena Papale at: elena.papale(a)iamc.cnr.it All the best Giovanni de Vincenzi _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Giovanni de Vincenzi, Marine Biologist. Institute for Coastal Marine Environment of the National Research Council (IAMC-CNR). Spianata San Raineri, 4, 98122, Messina (ME), ITALY Cofounder of Association eConscience - Art of Soundscape Via Provinciale 610, 90046, Monreale, Palermo, ITALY Mobile: +393393285855 Skype: Giovanni de Vincenzi Alternative e-mail: gioggio.devincenzi(a)gmail.com

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25th Annual B.C. Marine Mammal Symposium Live on YouTube
by David Rosen 22 Nov '17

22 Nov '17

The 25th Annual B.C. Marine Mammal Symposium will be streamed live on YouTube this Saturday, November 25 from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time. Join us for short presentations as well as discussion on issues pertaining to whales, porpoise, sea lions and other marine mammals. This all-day event is open to students, researchers, educators, businesses and others involved with or interested in marine mammals. Anyone is welcome to attend! The entire event will be broadcast live on YouTube, where you are welcome to ask questions and join the discussion. Tune in at any time during the event. You can sign up for a YouTube event reminder and watch the event live here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtoEaTNkAfY To attend in person, please RSVP here: https://goo.gl/iuQojf We hope you will join us! UBC Marine Mammal Research Unit The Pacific Wildlife Foundation Pacific Whale Watching Association Porpoise Conservation Society

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Seeking Film Festival Entries
by PWF Research Department 21 Nov '17

21 Nov '17

On February 16, 2018 Pacific Whale Foundation is hosting the second annual World Whale Film Festival at the beautiful Ka’anapali Beach Hotel on Maui, Hawaii. The World Whale Film Festival is part of Maui Whale Festival <http://mauiwhalefestival.org/>, a series of events and activities that raise awareness and inspire action to protect whales and their ocean habitat. Our goal is to bring together bright and creative minds to present visual media that will promote learning, inspire activism and provoke progressive discussion. Presenters have the option to attend the event and present their film in front of our live audience. We are currently seeking entries for short length films (under 15 minutes). We encourage any members of the MARMAM community who have a film they would like to enter, or recommend as an entrant, to please contact us. *World Whale Film Festival Guidelines* *Eligibility:* Filmmakers from around the world of all skill levels are encouraged to participate. We are looking for powerful storytelling about whales, dolphins and other marine life in their natural ocean environment. Films should be no longer than 15 minutes in duration. *Ethics:* Pacific Whale Foundation supports ethical visual storytelling that accurately represents cultures, ecosystems and wildlife. The welfare of all marine wildlife and the environment must be respected and remain undisturbed. Federal, state and regional regulations must be followed and applicable permits must be valid at time of filming for material to be considered. *Format:* Acceptable formats include video, film, multi-media presentations, photography, illustrations and other moving images. You can send digital files in .mov or .mp4 format. *Rights & Permissions:* By entering the World Whale Film Festival, you acknowledge that the content you submit is your own creative work and does not infringing upon the rights of any other person or entity. You will retain copyright of any submitted work and may continue to use it in any manner you choose. You agree that the work may be used for promotional purposes on Pacific Whale Foundation media platforms, including but not limited to websites, social media sites, and printed materials. *Selection Process:* Entries will be considered for selection based on originality, message, technical excellence, artistic merit, and overall impact. The story behind your work may play a part in the selection process, so please include a brief summary about each submission. Final selections will be announced in January 2018. Selected participants will be invited to present their work at the 2nd Annual World Whale Film Festival on Friday, February 16, 2018. Send your entries by email: filmfestival(a)pacificwhale.org Or mail: Attn: World Whale Film Festival Pacific Whale Foundation 300 Ma'alaea Rd, Ste 211 Wailuku, HI 96793 *Research Department* Pacific Whale Foundation 300 Ma'alaea Rd., Suite 211 Wailuku, HI 96793, USA Phone: +1 808-856-8338 Email: research(a)pacificwhale.org Website: www.pacificwhale.org -- https://www.pacificwhale.org/cruises/activities/welcome-home-the-whales-lah… CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission and any accompanying attachments contain information belonging to the sender which may be confidential and legally privileged. This information is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to whom this electronic mail transmission was sent as indicated above. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution, or action taken in reliance on the contents of the information contained in this transmission is strictly prohibited. If you have received this transmission in error, please notify the sender immediately and destroy all copies of this transmission and all attachments. Thank you!

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seeking laboratory collaboration
by Russell Fielding 20 Nov '17

20 Nov '17

Dear MARMAM list, Several months ago I posted a request for collaboration in analyzing cetacean tissue samples collected from the artisanal whaling operation at St. Vincent in the Caribbean for contaminants. I got a good response but thus far have not made contact with a lab that could do targeted analysis for certain compounds. I'm interested in finding a lab that can detect and measure concentrations of POPs, major organochlorines (e.g. DDT, DDE, PCPs), and perhaps fluorinated and brominated compounds. I have ~120 samples of muscle, blubber, kidney, and liver tissues from a variety of small cetacean species (*Orcinus orca, Grampus griseus, Globicephala macrorhychus, *and* Pseudorca crassidens*) and a few samples from an unknown *Stenella* species). At this point I am only interested in collaborating with labs in the US since my CITES permits are not valid for export. Finding one US-based lab that can do all of the analyses mentioned above would be ideal. If you're interested, please contact me at the email address or phone number below. Thanks very much, Russell Fielding --- Russell Fielding, Ph.D. Department of Earth and Environmental Systems The University of the South Sewanee, TN 37383 USA office: Snowden Hall 211B phone: 931-598-1815 email: russell.fielding(a)sewanee.edu web: sewanee.edu/faculty/fielding

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Two outreach positions available for cetacean research charity in UK.
by Kathy James 20 Nov '17

20 Nov '17

We are pleased to announce that we have two outreach opportunities available in Cardigan Bay, Wales. We are looking for a National Whale and Dolphin Watch Assistant from 28th May - 2nd September 2018 and an Education and Outreach Assistant from 16th July - 21st October 2018. For more details on both, please visit: http://www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk/internships/. Please note that the National Whale and Dolphin Watch Assistant role is an opportunity for undergraduates and those new to the field to gain some experience. A little more about us. Sea Watch Foundation The Sea Watch Foundation is a national marine environmental research charity that aims to achieve better conservation of whales and dolphins in the seas around Britain and Ireland, by involving the public in scientific monitoring of populations and the threats they face. It is the longest-running research charity in UK focusing upon cetaceans around the British Isles, and maintains a national sightings database, the largest in Europe. It works closely with all the UK statutory conservation agencies, and advises UK government, the UNEP Regional intergovernmental Conservation Agreement - ASCOBANS, the European Commission, as well as the major conservation charities and marine industries operating in the UK. At Sea Watch Wales, we are dedicated to raising awareness, knowledge and conservation of the marine wildlife of the region. Research in Cardigan Bay The purpose of our research here is to monitor the marine mammal populations inhabiting Cardigan Bay, so as to gain information to aid the conservation and long-term wellbeing of these animals and the local marine environment. This is achieved by conducting various projects including: . Estimating the abundance and distribution of bottlenose dolphins, harbour porpoises and grey seals within Cardigan Bay using distance sampling and opportunistic boat surveys . Maintaining and updating a catalogue of photographically identified bottlenose dolphins in Wales in order to study their abundance, social structure, movements and life histories. We look forward to hearing from you! Kathy James Sightings Officer Sea Watch Foundation Aberystwyth Business Hub 21 Bridge Street Aberystwyth Ceredigion SY23 1PZ Tel: 01970 623906 www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk <https://www.facebook.com/seawatchfoundation/C:/Users/Sea%20Watch%20Foundati on/Documents/ADMIN%20MISC> facebook <https://twitter.com/SeaWatchersUK> twitter Ever shop online? Sign up for <https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/seawatch/> Easy Fundraising and raise money for the Sea Watch Foundation while you shop at no cost to you! All your donations directly support our research!

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Internship positions available for bottlenose dolphin monitoring project in Cardigan Bay, UK.
by Kathy James 20 Nov '17

20 Nov '17

We are pleased to announce that we are now accepting applications for Research Interns and a Research Assistant to aid our work on bottlenose dolphins in Wales, UK. You'll find further details here: http://www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk/internships/. A little more about us. Sea Watch Foundation The Sea Watch Foundation is a national marine environmental research charity that aims to achieve better conservation of whales and dolphins in the seas around Britain and Ireland, by involving the public in scientific monitoring of populations and the threats they face. It is the longest-running research charity in UK focusing upon cetaceans around the British Isles, and maintains a national sightings database, the largest in Europe. It works closely with all the UK statutory conservation agencies, and advises UK government, the UNEP Regional intergovernmental Conservation Agreement - ASCOBANS, the European Commission, as well as the major conservation charities and marine industries operating in the UK. At Sea Watch Wales, we are dedicated to raising awareness, knowledge and conservation of the marine wildlife of the region. Research in Cardigan Bay The purpose of our research here is to monitor the marine mammal populations inhabiting Cardigan Bay, so as to gain information to aid the conservation and long-term wellbeing of these animals and the local marine environment. This is achieved by conducting various projects including: . Estimating the abundance and distribution of bottlenose dolphins, harbour porpoises and grey seals within Cardigan Bay using distance sampling and opportunistic boat surveys . Maintaining and updating a catalogue of photographically identified bottlenose dolphins in Wales in order to study their abundance, social structure, movements and life histories. We look forward to hearing from you! Kathy James Sightings Officer Sea Watch Foundation Aberystwyth Business Hub 21 Bridge Street Aberystwyth Ceredigion SY23 1PZ Tel: 01970 623906 www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk <https://www.facebook.com/seawatchfoundation/C:/Users/Sea%20Watch%20Foundati on/Documents/ADMIN%20MISC> facebook <https://twitter.com/SeaWatchersUK> twitter Ever shop online? Sign up for <https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/seawatch/> Easy Fundraising and raise money for the Sea Watch Foundation while you shop at no cost to you! All your donations directly support our research!

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Deadline Reminder Dec 15: Study Abroad Course Bahamas
by Deirdre Yeater 19 Nov '17

19 Nov '17

Hello! Enjoy a hands-on learning course, examining the behavioral and social ecology of Atlantic spotted and bottlenose dolphins. You will also learn about ecotourism and human impacts on the marine environment. Receive 3 credits; visiting students welcome! Sacred Heart University and Dolphin Communication Project are offering a study abroad course for Biology or Psychology course credits this summer 2018. The course will be in offered in The Bahamas on 18 May – 24 May, with an online learning component before and after the travel abroad. Check out the website and apply for Bahamas Program here:http://studyabroad. sacredheart.edu/ Applications and deposits are due by 15 December 2017! Cheers! Deirdre Yeater yeaterd(a)sacredheart.edu -- Deirdre Yeater, PhD Associate Professor Sacred Heart University Department of Psychology

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Alzheimer's disease in dolphins
by William Rossiter 19 Nov '17

19 Nov '17

Alzheimer's disease in humans and other animals: A consequence of postreproductive life span and longevity rather than aging. Gunn-Moore, Danièlle et al. Alzheimer's & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer's Association , Volume 0 , Issue 0 , DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jalz.2017.08.014 Abstract Alzheimer's disease and diabetes mellitus are linked by epidemiology, genetics, and molecular pathogenesis. They may also be linked by the remarkable observation that insulin signaling sets the limits on longevity. In worms, flies, and mice, disrupting insulin signaling increases life span leading to speculation that caloric restriction might extend life span in man. It is our contention that man is already a long-lived organism, specifically with a remarkably high postfertility life span, and that it is this that results in the prevalence of Alzheimer's disease and diabetes. Methods We review evidence for this hypothesis that carries specific predictions including that other animals with exceptionally long postreproductive life span will have increased risk of both diabetes and Alzheimer's disease. Results and Conclusions We present novel evidence that Dolphin, like man, an animal with exceptional longevity, might be one of the very few natural models of Alzheimer's disease. Keywords: Longevity, Insulin signaling, Alzheimer's pathology, Animal models, Tau, Amyloid, GSK-3 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> William Rossiter Cetacean Society International rossiter(a)csiwhalesalive.org

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Marine Mammal Observer Association - Setting the Standards for Marine Mammal Monitoring & Mitigation Worldwide
by Marine Mammal Observer Association 18 Nov '17

18 Nov '17

Dear Marine Mammal Observers & Passive Acoustic Monitoring Operators, The Marine Mammal Observer Association (MMOA) is a membership based association with the aim of bringing together and representing individuals who work commercially and professionally as Marine Mammal Observers (MMOs), Protected Species Observers (PSOs) and Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) Operators who implement mitigation measures to protect marine life during industry operations. The MMOA also provides a platform for professional conversation and education. Research has shown that there are many valid reasons to be a part of a professional organisation, these include: - Demonstrating that you have the experience, qualifications and skills in your field[1] <https://mail.google.com/mail/u/3/#_ftn1> - Enhancing individual credibility and dedication to continuous professional development[1] <https://mail.google.com/mail/u/3/#_ftn1> - Providing networking opportunities[1] <https://mail.google.com/mail/u/3/#_ftn1> - Providing access to career development opportunities[1] <https://mail.google.com/mail/u/3/#_ftn1> - Setting a code of conduct and demonstrating individual levels of commitment to maintaining these standards[2] <https://mail.google.com/mail/u/3/#_ftn2> - They also foster the development of professional attitudes, which include[3] <https://mail.google.com/mail/u/3/#_ftn3>: - The professional role we carry out to ensure the protection of endangered/ at risk species - Dedication to the field through acquisition of current knowledge - Using the professional organization as a major reference for professional standards - Self-regulation (through following the code of conduct set by the association) The MMOA strives to stay up to date with the latest research in the field and offer a unified position on mitigation measures. We then represent these views in feedback to regulatory authorities, academics and industry. This is designed to improve the communication between these bodies and to improve the standards of marine mammal mitigation. Most recently, we responded to the JNCC’s call for comments on their suggested updates. We provide a platform for experienced MMOs and PAMs to exchange information, ask questions and discuss relevant issues through the member forum and our information directory. We also encourage newcomers to the field to use the members' information directory to educate themselves on their new role and reach out for support from senior members when necessary. Whether the industry is in a downturn or upturn, you can maintain your connection to the field and your passion for the role you play in mitigation measures by joining our association. Please take a moment to review our website and see how we can provide a service to you and your colleagues by joining. www.mmo-association.org We have an election for our committee once a year and if you are interested in more than just membership, we encourage you to follow-up membership with a more involved role by running for a committee position, which is also a great way to demonstrate your CPD. Sincerely, The Marine Mammal Observer Association Executive Committee ------------------------------ [1] <https://mail.google.com/mail/u/3/#_ftnref1> *https://www.ctp.org.uk/resettlement-guide-article/benefits-of-joining-a-399704 <https://www.ctp.org.uk/resettlement-guide-article/benefits-of-joining-a-399…>* [2] <https://mail.google.com/mail/u/3/#_ftnref2> *http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/alumni/careers/graduatecareers/finding/professional-associations.aspx <http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/alumni/careers/graduatecareers/finding/professi…>* [3] <https://mail.google.com/mail/u/3/#_ftnref3> Yeager, S. J. 1981. *Fostering the development of professionalism: An exchange theory perspective of the decision to join a professional association*. Southern Review of Public Administration (5) 3:314-338 -- The Marine Mammal Observer Association (MMOA) Communications House 26 York Street London W1U 6PZ *info(a)mmo-association.org <info(a)mmo-association.org> * *www.mmo-association.org <http://www.mmo-association.org>* * <https://www.facebook.com/The-Marine-Mammal-Observer-Association-MMOA-152181…> <https://twitter.com/MMO_association> [image: https://www.linkedin.com/company/3028634?trk=tyah&trkInfo=clickedVertical%3…] <https://www.linkedin.com/company/3028634?trk=tyah&trkInfo=clickedVertical%3…>*

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Cetacean Research & Marine Biology Internships in Spain
by Bruno Díaz López 17 Nov '17

17 Nov '17

Cetacean Research & Marine Biology Internships in Spain The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI) <http://www.thebdri.com/>, a marine science and education centre, offers unique hands-on research experiences designed to foster success in both undergraduate and postgraduate fields. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION - This internships program enables aspiring marine scientists to work in conjunction with leading marine biologists as they undertake ground-breaking research on the charismatic marine mega-fauna in one of the most productive oceanic regions on the world (Galicia, North-western coast of Spain). No fewer than 22 cetacean species have been recorded in these waters over the years. Some, such as common bottlenose dolphins, short-beaked common dolphins, harbour porpoises, minke whales, Risso's dolphins, long-finned pilot whales, humpback whales, beaked whales, sei whales, fin whales, and blue whales have been recorded by the BDRI team in 2017. BDRI scientists conduct research across a wide range of subject areas that link marine top predators (cetaceans and marine birds) ecology with their physical environment, society and population dynamics; explore their interactions with human activities (such as fisheries, aquaculture and marine traffic); and investigate their behaviour and acoustic communication. With state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, students will be trained to participate with multiple research projects involving a combination of boat-based surveys onboard research vessels, land-based observations, laboratory work (photo-identification, GIS, bioacoustics, diet analysis, diving behaviour, video analysis, database work, etc), and strandings (response, rescue, necropsy, and data collection). The BDRI is a very international environment, and the everyday working language is English. Laboratory work days typically last six hours and field days typically exceed seven hours and occur several times per week (weather dependent). There will be two days off per week. HOW TO APPLY – The internship is open to all applicants 18 years of age or older. An academic background in biology, veterinary or natural science, coupled with motivation and interest in marine research make the most qualified individuals. Internship start and end dates are flexible but the position requires a minimum of 30 days continuous commitment sometime between 8th January 2018 through to end November 2018. The BDRI is a private and self-funded centre, hence, this internship requires a monetary contribution which is used to off-set the cost of accommodation in an apartment, training, use of research equipment, facilities and research vessels, and other expenses (access to wifi in the apartment, kitchen utensils, electricity, taxes, etc). Successful applicants will be responsible for their own transportation expenses to and from the research centre (O Grove, Galicia, Spain). Interested candidates should submit an application with the following: - A cover letter including your availability; - A resume describing training, experience and relevant skills; - BDRI's application form, you can download from <http://www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/applicationinternships.doc> Please send these items as e-mail attachments to: severine(a)thebdri.com Approved applications are accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. Positions are open until filled. For more information about BDRI's research projects, please visit <https://www.thebdri.com> or our Facebook page. Best regards, and see you in Galicia! Bruno Díaz López Chief biologist and Director The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI Avenida Beiramar 192, O Grove 36980, Spain www.thebdri.com 0034 684 248552 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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