March 2017 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New paper on the use of drones for California sea lion counting and categorization
by Mario A. Pardo 29 Mar '17

29 Mar '17

Dear MARMAM community, On behalf of my coauthors, I am pleased to announce the recent publication of our note in Marine Mammal Science: Adame, K., M.A. Pardo, C. Salvadeo, E. Beier, F. Elorriaga-Verplancken (2017) Detectability and categorization of California sea lions using an unmanned aerial vehicle. Marine Mammal Science. DOI: 10.1111/mms.12403. The study provides functions for correcting the abundance estimations of California sea lions made from boat-based counts, by comparing them with those made from photographs taken by a drone. It also highlights the categorization bias of the traditional counting method in the Gulf of California. You can get the PDF reprint of the note directly from the journal's site at: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/mms.12403, or upon personal request to the authors at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/313903846_Detectability_and_catego… Kind regards, Mario A. Pardo CICESE - Unidad La Paz CONACYT Research Fellow Miraflores 334, La Paz, BCS 23050, Mexico Phone: +52(612)1213031 Ext. 28116

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Volunteer Research Assistants needed in Findhorn, North East Scotland, for summer 2017
by North 58° Sea Adventures 29 Mar '17

29 Mar '17

Volunteer Research Assistants needed in Findhorn, North East Scotland, for summer 2017. North 58° Sea Adventures is a family owned and operated business, operating from Findhorn Marina since 2012. North 58° aims to offer our trip boats as a platform for research in order to better understand the wildlife we encounter on our tours. We are seeking voluntary research assistants to assist for an 8 week period from beginning of July to end of August. Research will comprise of sighting data, photo identification and behavioural studies, mainly of Seals’ and Bottlenose Dolphins but occasionally also Basking sharks, Minke whales and other dolphin species. Research will be conducted on our wildlife watching tours (either on short 2 hour trips or full day excursions. Successful candidates will rotate between 3 roles; 1) naturalist position on fauna tours, assisting guides and collecting data, 2) managing wildlife centre 3) data organisation. The roles will be rotated and bad weather days used as data catch up or days off. We are preferably looking for people that have; · A strong interest and education in Marine biology/ecology or other related field- specifically marine mammals and large marine vertebrate · Guiding experience- must be good at communicating with the public and have ability to interpret local and wildlife info to passenger guests · Observation Experience- including use of binoculars and DSLR cameras · Experience on boats- not susceptible to seasickness easily · Ability to work calmly and politely under pressure and in sometimes stressful situations · Ability to learn, be adaptive, hardworking, positive and outgoing as well as have a lot of patience · Willingness to work long hours outdoors, in sometimes unfavourable conditions · Some photo ID and matching experience is desirable · Ability to work well as both a team and an individual · Physical fitness- working on RIBs can be bumpy and are therefore not recommended working platforms for anyone with severe back or knee problems. Accommodation Food and Travel Assistants will be responsible for their own travel costs, and personal expenses but accommodation will be provided throughout the research period. Accommodation is a large static caravan on site at Findhorn Marina. Each assistant will get their own room, however living area, kitchen, bathroom, etc will be communal with the other research assistants. You will be a moments’ walk from the Marina building where most land work will take place. This is an excellent opportunity for an early career biologist or naturalist to gain valuable fieldwork skills, as well as research techniques, on the water experience and public interpretation through guiding. How to Apply: Please email your cv, covering letter specifying any relevant experience and qualifications to Pippa Low (pippa(a)north58.co.uk) . For further information regarding our company please visit www.north58.co.uk

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New Publication: Body condition changes arising from natural factors and fishing gear entanglements in North Atlantic right whales (Eubalaena glacialis)
by Heather Pettis 28 Mar '17

28 Mar '17

Dear colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the publication of the following article: Pettis, H. M., Rolland, R. M., Hamilton, P. K., Knowlton, A. R., Burgess, E. A., & Kraus, S. D. (2017) Body condition changes arising from natural factors and fishing gear entanglements in North Atlantic right whales Eubalaena glacialis. Endangered Species Research, 32, 237-249. ABSTRACT: Body condition has been correlated with survival and reproductive success in both terrestrial and marine mammals, including North Atlantic right whales Eubalaena glacialis. We used photographs of individually identified right whales to assess visual changes in body condition in reproductive females, adult males, juveniles, and entangled whales. Images from sightings of individual whales were grouped sequentially by habitat region, and each group of images was assigned a body condition score of good, fair, or poor based on the dorsal profile posterior to the blowholes. Temporally consecutive groups of images (n = 1496) of 340 individual whales were compared to investigate the frequency, direction, and minimum timeframe between changes in body condition. Changes in body condition scores of right whales were significantly influenced by group category. Lactating females and severely entangled right whales were more likely to exhibit declining body condition than other groups. Resting females were significantly more likely to improve in condition than other groups but exhibited the longest timeframe for improving condition. Young juveniles were less likely to improve in condition compared to adult males, but remained in compromised condition less frequently than older juveniles and adult males. The shortest timeframes between changing body condition scores were 11 d for declining condition and 12 d for improving condition. This study demonstrates that photographic analysis can detect rapid body condition changes and identifies groups of right whales that are particularly vulnerable to declining condition and delayed recovery from energetically taxing events. The publication is open access and available at https://doi.org/10.3354/esr00800 Kind regards, Heather Pettis ********************* Heather Pettis Associate Scientist Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life New England Aquarium Central Wharf Boston, MA 02110 617.226.2144 http://andersoncabotcenterforoceanlife.org<http://andersoncabotcenterforoceanlife.org/> www.narwc.org [Anderson Cabot logo]

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New publication: Intra- and interspecific niche partitioning in striped and common dolphins inhabiting the southwestern Mediterranean Sea
by Joan Giménez Verdugo 28 Mar '17

28 Mar '17

Dear all, We are pleased to announce the publication of the following paper in "Marine Ecology Progress Series": Giménez, J., Cañadas, A., Ramírez, F., Afán, I., García-Tiscar, S., Fernández-Maldonado, C., Castillo, JJ & de Stephanis, R. (2017). Intra-and interspecific niche partitioning in striped and common dolphins inhabiting the southwestern Mediterranean Sea. *Marine Ecology Progress Series*, *567*, 199-210. *Abstract:*Community structure and functioning is shaped by resource partitioning between co-occurring species. Niche differentiation among sympatric species can be reached through trophic, spatial or temporal segregation to avoid competitive exclusion. Intraspecific segregation in the use of habitats and resources might determine, in turn, a population’s niche width and interspecific segregation. The Alboran Sea is the only area in the Mediterranean where common and striped dolphins coexist abundantly. Therefore, these putative competing species provided the opportunity to investigate niche partitioning through spatial modelling and trophic analysis. Density surface modelling and nitrogen and carbon stable isotopes (δ15N and δ13C) were used to investigate spatial and trophic niche partitioning at inter- and intraspecific levels. The 2 species showed high isotopic overlap. However, we could not rule out the possibility of interspecific trophic segregation, as isotopic similarity does not necessarily mean true ecological or dietary similarity. Among conspecifics, variations in δ15N and δ13C values with dolphin length pointed to ontogenetic dietary changes in striped dolphins, while sex played only a minor role in δ13C values. Spatially, these species tended to segregate their core areas of distribution, with common dolphins being more coastal than striped dolphins, which occupied adjacent, deeper waters. Overall, the main enabler for the coexistence of common and striped dolphins in the Alboran Sea was spatial segregation. You can download the paper in: http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/meps/v567/p199-210/ or visit my ResearchGate (https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Joan_Gimenez <https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Joan_Gimenez2>) Kind Regards, -- *Joan Giménez Verdugo* *PhD Student* *Severo Ochoa* Estación Biológica de Doñana (EBD-CSIC) Department of Conservation Biology Americo Vespucio Ave, s/n 41092 Sevilla (Spain) www.ebd.csic.es --- Research Gate: Joan Giménez <https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Joan_Gimenez2> Phone: +34 619 176 849 ü Please consider the environment before printing this E-mail ;

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Job opportunity with MAR Specialists
by Peter Wallerstein 27 Mar '17

27 Mar '17

JOB OPPORTUNITY WITH MARNE ANIMAL RESCUE SPECIALISTS Marine Animal Rescue Specialists (MAR) is authorized by the National Marine Fisheries Service for pinniped and dolphin rescues along with whale dis-entanglement calls. Over the past three decades MAR has conducted 5,000 marine mammal rescues. In 2015, MAR rescued 495 marine mammals. We are looking for a couple of people with experience in marine mammal rescue. www.marspecialists.org You must have pinniped, especially sea lion rescue experience to apply. POSITION: MARINE ANIMAL RESCUE SPECIALIST LOCATION: MAR’s authorized territory is Los Angeles County from Pacific Palisades to Long Beach and west to Catalina, California. HOURS: 8 HOURS PER DAY 2 DAYS PER WEEK Be prepared to work long days from January to June. SALARY: Commensurate with experience and skills JOB DESCRIPTION: Must be available five days a week, 8 hours per day for response, rescue and transportation of marine animals. Will be responsible for accurately evaluating the condition of a stranded marine animal. Will be responsible for conducting rescue operations on beaches, rock jetties, docks and other common as well as uncommon stranding locations, and to learn the proper use of specialized marine animal rescue, transportation and safety equipment. Must be able to work in cooperation with local agencies and volunteers and be responsible to know all local, state and Federal laws pertaining to the rescuing of marine animals. START: Within a couple of months REFERENCES AND REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS · Provide background/references · A valid drivers license with no points · Minimum one year experience in rescuing seals and sea lions · Must correctly identify local marine animal species along with knowledge of birthing seasons and natural behaviors of marine animals · Some animal-related emergency medical experience · Must meet challenging physical fitness requirements · 24 hour Hazwhoper certificate · Small boat handling · Able to drive 4WD Pickup truck OTHER REQUIRED RESPONSIBILITIES: · Maintain rescue and transportation equipment · Responsible for school visits · Must be enthusiastic with good communication skills and be able to work with others, including Coast Guard, Lifeguards, Police, etc. · When on-call, must answer calls promptly · Must pass County Beach Safety Driving Course · Coordinate volunteers MAR is looking for committed individuals who would like to make rescuing marine animals a career. Training will be provided by MAR to ensure continued high level of response for any marine animal calls. MAR will not consider candidates looking for a temporary position. Long-term applicants will be the only ones considered. Send in your cover letter, resume and references to the email address below. Contact: Peter Wallerstein, pw(a)marspecialists.org www.marspecialists.org

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MMO/PAM/PSO Job Opportunity, South America, May 2017
by Panagiota Giogli 27 Mar '17

27 Mar '17

We are currently looking for MMO/PAM/PSO consultants to work on seismic surveys in South America, starting next month. We are particularly interested in local nationals who are dedicated observers and fulfil the following criteria: -JNCC or comparable body. -Graduates in Marine Biology/Marine Science/ Environmental Science. Additional requirements- · BOSIET/HUET or equivalent training · Valid Offshore medical certificate · Proficient level in English language Please send your updated CV stating your availability to info(a)geo-mar.com Regards, The GMC Recruitment Team

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Early View version of paper on Beaked whales with rostrum deformities
by ana dinis 27 Mar '17

27 Mar '17

Dear MARMAM readers, We are pleased to announce the publication (available via early view) of the following paper in the "Notes" section of the next Marine Mammal Science issue: "Beaked whales with rostrum deformities: Implications for survival and reproduction" Authors: Ana Dinis, Robin W. Baird, Sabre D. Mahaffy, Vidal Martín, Filipe Alves Link to online article:http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/mms.12406/fullDOI: 10.1111/mms.12406 Sincerely, Ana Dinis, PhD CIIMAR-Madeira, ARDITI-OOM Phone:+351291721216http://home.ciimarmadeira.org/index.php?page=anadinis

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Research Opportunities available in Iceland
by Megan Whittaker 27 Mar '17

27 Mar '17

Research Opportunities available in Iceland Elding Whale Watching Reykjavik and Whale Watching Akureyri (Iceland) is offering research placements on board their vessels. For further information regarding the companies please visit our websites at www.elding.is and www.whalewatchingakureyri.is. This can be through Erasmus to gain experience or using data collected for your BSc, MSc thesis in connection with your university. Data collection involves both onboard collection and on land processing with focus on humpback whales, minke whales and white-beaked dolphins. Data that you can then use for your studies. Onboard data collection: Photo ID, GPS marking, Behavioural Studies, environmental studies. Onland: Photo processing, ID matching, Opportunities are available between May and September - preference will go to those that can stay the longest, this is to minimise data error and creates a stronger bond with the staff. Please note: Those living in a country outside the EEA can only stay for 3 months maximum. Provided: accommodation, equipment (you may wish to use your own personal camera), fun monthly activities and events, 1 hot meal a day. Not provided: travel costs and travel insurance to and from Iceland and personal expenses. If you are interested and would like more information please email: Megan Whittaker megan(a)elding.is -- Kind Regards Megan Whittaker Head Naturalist and Research co-ordinator Elding Adventures at Sea Ægisgarður 5, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland Tel. (+354) 519 5090 elding(a)elding.is www.elding.is Add us on Facebook Elding Whale Watching Reykjavík <http://www.facebook.com/EldingWhaleWatching> Follow us on Twitter: EldingWhale <https://twitter.com/eldingwhale> Check our Videos on YouTube: Reykjavik Activitie <http://www.youtube.com/reykjavikactivities>s Please think of the environment; please don't print this e-mail unless you really need to.

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ECS Annual student meeting: Institution presentations
by Rebecca Boys 27 Mar '17

27 Mar '17

Dear all, At the ECS 2017 conference in Denmark we will be holding our annual student meeting on Tuesday 2nd May during the lunch break. If you work at an institution that would like to present something specifically to students, such as internship/ volunteer placements, then please contact me on ecs.students(a)gmail.com so that I can get an idea of how many institutions would like to present. Thank you, -------------------------------------------------------------- Rebecca Boys Marine Biologist ECS Student Representative IMAR - Dept. Oceanography and Fisheries University of the Azores 9901-862 Horta, Faial, Azores

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Seal Rehabilitation Manager and Fall Internship Positions Open at Seal Rescue Ireland
by Seal Rescue Ireland 26 Mar '17

26 Mar '17

ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS - at Seal Rescue Ireland Courtown Harbour, Co Wexford Ireland 1. Animal Care Manager 2. Fall Marine Rehabilitation and Education Internship Seal Rescue Ireland is a very busy marine animal rescue and rehabilitation facility located in Courtown Ireland. It is the only seal rehabilitation facility in Ireland and responds to strandings along the entire coast of Ireland. Most strandings are Grey and Common Seal pups who have been wounded, orphaned or injured. The organization also maintains an active education program and research program. Position: ANIMAL CARE MANAGER Job Summary: This is a full time position which includes free room and board (including basic food) and a small stipend. There is a minimum commitment of 6 months yet applicants that can stay longer will take priority (visa assistance available if required). There are possibilities of position growing into a full time paid position in the future for the right long term candidate. Manage daily operations of the centre (hospital and visitor centre) including manage all aspects of animal care - treatment plans, strandings, inventory, husbandry and collaboration with local vet. This position is split between working with the animals and working on management tasks in the office. He or she will also be required to work closely with the Hospital Operations Manager in all aspects involved in running a wildlife hospital including but not limited to fundraising, budgeting, and event planning. Managers are also responsible for managing the volunteer house. Requirements: Applicants must have a background or interest in areas of study such as Pre-Vet, Biology, Zoology, or any other animal related field. Previous work with marine mammal rehabilitation is required (prefer 2 years or more). Ability to multitask and have organizational methods is a must considering the complexity of the position. Applicants MUST be comfortable with computers and Microsoft office programs, be comfortable speaking in front of a crowd, friendly with people, be comfortable giving direction/teaching, and self-motivated. Applicants should be agile with a good sense of balance in order to maneuver around the exhibits and holding areas, and must be able to lift 25 kilograms. Applicants must possess the ability to adapt to an ever-changing work environment, and be available to work nights, weekends and holidays. Must be 25 or older and possess a driver's license (international licenses allowed). Duties Include: . Overseeing daily operations at centre including hospital and visitor centre . Supervise, recruit, and train interns, volunteers and assistant managers . Coordinate rescues, releases and other conservation events . Management of Seal Records Database . Responsible for managing specific programs within the organization . Managing stranding network volunteers (400+ volunteers) and monitoring rescue hotline . Responsible for hospital inventory and stock checks . Supervising and participating in daily animal diet preparations, routine cleaning of enclosures, medical treatments (injections), tube feeding, record keeping and upgrading animals and diets . Overseeing maintenance of the hospital and grounds . Participate in educational talks and tours . Assisting with fundraisers, educational events, clerical duties and office work as needed . Representing Seal Rescue Ireland at networking events Send a resume and cover letter and available dates to: Meadow Greenwood, Subject: Animal Care Manager Position sealrescueireland(a)gmail.com Telephone: 087 461 3798 www.sealrescueireland.org Position: MARINE ANIMAL REHABILITATION AND EDUCATION INTERNSHIP Job Summary: The facility is currently accepting applications for their internships starting in July and Fall. This is a full time position for a minimum of 12 weeks. Priority will be given to candidates who can stay a longer period of time. This position provides the intern with work experience in the rescue and rehabilitation effort of stranded marine mammals. The candidate is responsible for assisting in the daily husbandry care and maintenance of rehabilitation animals. Participation in the rescue groups educational program and fundraising program are required. Each intern will be responsible for planning one fundraiser or similar project. Requirements: Applicants must have a background or interest in areas of study such as Pre-Vet, Biology, Zoology, or any other animal related field. Applicants must have the ability to understand and follow written and oral instruction, and have effective communication skills. Applicants should be agile with a good sense of balance in order to maneuver around the exhibits and holding areas, and must be able to lift 25 kilograms. Applicants must possess the ability to adapt to an ever-changing work environment, and be available to work nights, weekends and holidays. Public speaking skills are highly encouraged. Previous animal care and handling skills are preferred. Duties Include: . Daily animal diet preparations, routine cleaning of enclosures and work areas. . Assist with rescue and release of stranded animals. . Assist with the rescue hotline. . Assist in the care and maintenance of the Center's rehabilitation animals.(feeding, restraining, medical treatment, daily care) . Participate in educational talks and tours. . Maintain and update medical records. . Help to ensure that the rehabilitation clinic and quarantine area is stocked and prepared to receive animals. . Provide assistance to the Manager and rehabilitation staff as needed. . Assisting with fundraisers and educational events . Assisting with clerical duties and office work as needed (it is a small rehabilitation centre so you will gain experience in all aspects of how a rehabilitation centre runs and operates) . Performs other duties relating to the Center's goals and mission statement as required. This is an unpaid position. For some applicants Intern housing is available at 85 Euro/Week (includes food) if desired. Interns are responsible for all travel expenses. Send a resume and cover letter and available dates to: Internship Coordinator Subject: Rehabilitation Internship sealrescueireland(a)gmail.com Telephone: 087 461 3798 www.sealrescueireland.org Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/sealrescueireland

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