March 2017 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New Paper: Predicting cetacean distributions in data-poor marine ecosystems
by Jessica Redfern - NOAA Federal 07 Mar '17

07 Mar '17

Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to announce publication of the following paper: Redfern, J.V., Moore, T.J., Fiedler, P.C., de Vos, A., Brownell, R.L., Forney, K.A., Becker, E.A. & Ballance, L.T. (2017) Predicting cetacean distributions in data-poor marine ecosystems. Diversity and Distributions. The abstract appears below and the full article can be accessed here: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ddi.12537/abstract Please contact me (Jessica.Redfern(a)noaa.gov) if you would like a copy of the PDF. Sincerely, Jessica *Abstract* Aim: Human activities are creating conservation challenges for cetaceans. Spatially explicit risk assessments can be used to address these challenges, but require species distribution data, which are limited for many cetacean species. This study explores methods to overcome this limitation. Blue whales (*Balaenoptera musculus*) are used as a case study because they are an example of a species that have well-defined habitat and are subject to anthropogenic threats. Location: Eastern Pacific Ocean, including the California Current (CC) and eastern tropical Pacific (ETP), and northern Indian Ocean (NIO). Methods: We used 12 years of survey data (377 blue whale sightings and c. 225,400 km of effort) collected in the CC and ETP to assess the transferability of blue whale habitat models. We used the models built with CC and ETP data to create predictions of blue whale distributions in the data-poor NIO because key aspects of blue whale ecology are expected to be similar in these ecosystems. Results: We found that the ecosystem-specific blue whale models performed well in their respective ecosystems, but were not transferable. For example, models built with CC data could accurately predict distributions in the CC, but could not accurately predict distributions in the ETP. However, the accuracy of models built with combined CC and ETP data was similar to the accuracy of the ecosystem-specific models in both ecosystems. Our predictions of blue whale habitat in the NIO from the models built with combined CC and ETP data compare favourably to hypotheses about NIO blue whale distributions, provide new insights into blue whale habitat, and can be used to prioritize research and monitoring efforts. Main conclusions: Predicting cetacean distributions in data-poor ecosystems using habitat models built with data from multiple ecosystems is potentially a powerful marine conservation tool and should be examined for other species and regions.

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Request for Manatee and Dugong Articles
by Cynthia Taylor 07 Mar '17

07 Mar '17

The editors of Sirenews, the newsletter of the IUCN Sirenia Specialist Group, would like to request articles for the upcoming edition. Updates on manatee and dugong research, management, education, and conservation activities from around the world are encouraged. The deadline for submissions is APRIL 1, 2017. Please submit articles to <mailto:ctaylor@sea2shore.org> ctaylor(a)sea2shore.org. Thank you - Cyndi Taylor and James Powell Sea to Shore Alliance ___________________________ Cynthia R. Taylor Assistant Director/Research Scientist <http://www.sea2shore.org/> HI RES S2S LOGO 4411 Bee Ridge Rd. #490 Sarasota, FL 34233 USA 941.232.4587; ctaylor(a)sea2shore.org www.sea2shore.org <http://www.sea2shore.org/>

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Cetacean Photo-identification Volunteer Position in the Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand
by Rankmore, Krista 07 Mar '17

07 Mar '17

___________________________________________________________________ Cetacean Photo-identification Volunteer Position in the Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand A volunteer is required to assist with an ongoing study investigating the site fidelity cetaceans in the Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand. This project is part of the ongoing research for the Hauraki Gulf Cetacean Project under the Coastal-Marine Research Group (C-MRG) at Massey University Albany, Auckland. DATES: While the field season runs year round, currently volunteers are needed from March – August 2017. A minimum commitment of three months is required and priority will be given to those who can commit for longer periods. LOCATION: Auckland, New Zealand FIELDWORK: The volunteer position involves conducting field surveys, primarily collecting photo identification of common dolphins, Bryde’s whales, bottlenose dolphins and killer whales (dependent on sightings). The successful applicant will gain valuable experience in conducting marine mammal field research, identifying individuals based on dorsal fin characteristics, and the use of databases for archiving field data. Field work is physically and at times mentally demanding but it is a great opportunity to gain knowledge in visual cetacean surveying, to get hands-on field experience in relation to survey techniques, photo-identification, behavioural observations, and improve practical skills (data analysis, photo-identification). Fieldwork is weather dependent and can vary between weekdays and weekends. Surveys will be conducted from a 20m whale and dolphin watching vessel. RESPONSIBILITIES: . Assisting with boat-based photo-identification surveys from a local whale and dolphin watching vessel collecting environmental, location, and behavioural data. . Subsequent data entry and archiving of photo-identification information. As this is a volunteer position, there is unfortunately no monetary compensation or living provisions. The successful candidate should arrange their own accommodation in Auckland, living expenses, travel costs and visa. PREREQUISITES: . Be reliable, adaptable, hardworking and patient as fieldwork is highly weather dependent. This means time off during bad weather and long consecutive days in the field when weather permits. . Have a mature and independent attitude towards marine mammal research . Be able to work independently . Speak fluent English . Be sociable, enthusiastic and have a positive attitude . Strong interest in the marine environment and conservation . Participants should be comfortable working on boats QUALIFICATIONS: . The project is well suited to upper level undergrads, recent graduates and graduate students who have some background in biology, marine biology, ecology, zoology or related fields . Basic computer proficiency in MS Office (especially Excel) Preferred qualifications but not required: . Field research including photo-identification experience . Previous experience in survey techniques and especially in marine mammal research . Prior experience working on research vessels APPLICATION PROCESS: Applicants should send a short email to K.Hupman(a)massey.ac.nz, using “photo-identification position” as the subject line. The email should include an outline of why you would like to work on this project, the dates when you are available to assist on the project, your qualifications and relevant experience. Please also attach a brief CV including at least one reference acknowledging your relevant experience. Early application is recommended as applications will be examined in order of reception. All the best, Krista ---------------------------------- Krista Hupman, PhD Adjunct Researcher Coastal-Marine Research Group Institute of Natural and Mathematical Sciences Massey University Private Bag 102 904 Auckland, New Zealand Tel: +64 (0)220 256 290 Email: k.hupman(a)massey.ac.nz Web: http://cmrg.massey.ac.nz/ _____________________________________________________________________________ Dr. Krista Hupman (nee Rankmore) Coastal-Marine Research Group Institute of Natural and Mathematical Sciences Massey University Private Bag 102 904 Auckland, New Zealand Tel: +64 (0)9 414 0800 Ext: 43791 (office) Cell: +64 (0)220 256 290 Email: k.rankmore(a)massey.ac.nz<mailto:k.rankmore@massey.ac.nz> Web: http://cmrg.massey.ac.nz/ Courier: Massey University, Bld 5, Gate 4, Old Albany Highway, Albany, Auckland

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Summer Volunteer Opportunities with Cetus’ Robson Bight Warden Program!
by Robson Bight 07 Mar '17

07 Mar '17

Summer Volunteer Opportunities with Cetus’ Robson Bight Warden Program! Cetus is a non-profit, marine conservation society, which operates in the waters around Victoria and Alert Bay, British Columbia, Canada. Since 2005 we have worked to reduce disturbances to marine mammals on the British Columbia coast and promote respect for our marine environment through on-the-water and land-based education, outreach and direct monitoring activities. The Robson Bight Marine Warden Program operates in Johnstone Strait, in the waters around the Robson Bight (Michael Bigg) Ecological Reserve. The ecological reserve is designated for the protection of critical habitat of the Northern resident killer whales. This is a unique area where the whales often come to rub their bodies along the underwater beaches. Our marine wardens monitor vessels and marine mammal populations, and educate boaters and kayakers about the reserve and their impacts around it. The Robson Bight Marine Warden Program is comprised of a water based monitoring and educational component and a land based monitoring station called Eagle Eye, situated on a cliff opposite the ecological reserve. *Cetus is looking for enthusiastic and hard working individuals to fill the Robson Bight Marine Warden Program Summer Volunteer positions:* Volunteer positions will be based out of a rustic field camp in Boat Bay on West Cracroft Island located near Alert Bay, British Columbia, Canada. Positions will be offered between June 26th and September 8th 2017. We require a minimum 3-week commitment. Preference will be given to those who are able to stay for the full 11 weeks. Successful applicants will have the opportunity to be involved with a variety of possible tasks ranging from community outreach and education to marine mammal response and data collection. Our programs focus on protecting British Columbia’s marine mammal populations and encouraging others to do the same. Interns may also have the opportunity to spend time on our monitoring vessels in which case they will participate in data collection, data entry and on-the-water boater education. *Responsibilities include: * - Educating boaters, kayakers, park visitors, and members of the public about the marine mammal viewing guidelines, marine species at risk, the conservation issues they face and the boundaries of the Robson Bight (Michael Bigg) Ecological Reserve - Collecting and entering data on marine mammals and vessel activity - Public interpretation in the form of dock talks and participation in community events - Potentially helping to respond to injured, sick or dead marine mammals in support of the BC Marine Mammal Response Network - Observing and recording cetaceans in support of the BC Cetacean Sightings Network - Assisting with general administrative duties - Camp duties, which includes cooking, cleaning, general maintenance and heavy lifting *What skills and experience will volunteers gain?: * - Experience educating the public on important conservation issues - Experience with field data collection and entry - Interpretive skills and techniques - Potential for experience in marine mammal response - Experience with fundraising and community outreach - Experience working with Microsoft Access *Essential Requirements: * - Fluent spoken English - Interest in marine wildlife and conservation - Flexibility - Ability to work long hours, outdoors, in all weather conditions - The ability to live & work comfortably in a remote coastal wilderness camp setting with staff & volunteers - The physical ability to carry 40lbs of gear to and from the vessel to base camps (this varies from across the street to down a rocky shoreline). In addition to this volunteers are required to hike, 3km (each way), from the base camp to the observation site on alternate days, which takes approximately 1 hour (one way) *Additional Information: *These positions are unpaid and carry a cost to the interns of $125/ week to cover accommodations, extra fuel and dinners (volunteers will be responsible for their own breakfasts and lunches). Warden volunteers will need to bring their own tent and sleeping bag. Tent pads and tarps will be provided as will camp cooking equipment etc. *How to apply: *Please forward your cover letter, resume and two references via *email* by *April 17th, 2017*. Please indicate your availability. Only successful applicants will be contacted. *Contact:* Marie Fournier, Cetus Research & Conservation Society, Email: robsonbight(a)cetussociety.org For more information please visit our website www.ProtectOurWhales.com --

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Reminder for NWSSMM 2017
by Allegue, Hassen 06 Mar '17

06 Mar '17

Hi all, This is a reminder that registration and abstract submission for the 21st Annual Meeting of the Northwest Student Chapter of the Society for Marine Mammalogy (NWSSMM) are due ***April 1st 2017***. You can register and submit your abstract at https://goo.gl/forms/deYxcNWYjEQEHiYD2https://goo.gl/forms/deYxcNWYjEQEHiYD2 Note that limited housing with student hosts will be available on a first-come-first-serve basis. Please indicate on your registration if you would like to be considered for accommodations. We also would like to announce that the plenary speaker on Saturday morning will be Dr. John K.B. Ford. Having studied marine mammals since the 1970s, Dr. Ford has made his name synonymous with killer whale research in British Columbia. He has studied a wide range of topics in these animals from communication, to foraging behaviour, to the evolution of social groups. He has also undertaken research on gray whales, minke whales, fin whales, Dall’s porpoise, harbour porpoise and other marine mammals in Pacific Northwest waters. Dr. Ford is the outgoing head of the Cetacean Research Program at the Pacific Biological Station, and is a leader in conservation, research, and outreach in the field of marine mammalogy. He is sure to bring wonderful insights to the NWSSMM annual meeting. In addition, during the day a Philosopher’s Café will be held to encourage discussion on hot topics in marine mammalogy. These discussion groups will be led by different experienced marine mammal scientists such as: · Dr. Peter Ross (Vancouver Aquarium) · Dr. Stephen Raverty (B.C.’s Ministry of Agriculture) · Ms. Rowenna Gryba (Stantec) · Dr. Lorrie Rea (University of Alaska Fairbanks) · and Dr.Brian Fadely (NOAA) For more information check out our facebook event page (https://www.facebook.com/events/941465349316782/) Sincerely, NWSSMM Meeting Organizers

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New England Aquarium -- Employment Opportunity
by Mike Deedy 06 Mar '17

06 Mar '17

Fisheries Research Associate The Consortium for Wildlife Bycatch Reduction ("Bycatch Consortium"), based at the New England Aquarium (NEAq), is a collaborative research program between the fishing industry and scientific institutions with the goal of reducing bycatch, especially of threatened non-target species. Its project portfolio includes the development and testing of innovative fishing gear modifications in the lab and with fishermen. The Consortium is seeking a Fisheries Research Associate to coordinate and conduct research involving three of its projects: (1) Whale-release ropes in the lab and with lobster trap (pot) fishermen in the Gulf of Maine; (2) Acoustically released pop-up buoys on board research and fishing vessels in the Gulf of Maine; and (3) Ship-based deployment and evaluation of shark bycatch deterrents on George's Bank. **This is a one year grant-funded position upon hire. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 1. Provide orientation and training to fishermen for implementing boat-based tests of experimental fishing gear. 2. Coordinate other outreach functions with them and their fishing associations in fulfilling the objectives of these projects. 3. Provide prototype ropes and shark bycatch deterrents to fishermen (which may involve hands-on work to integrate weak sleeves into new ropes), and collecting ropes from fishermen at the end of sea trials. 4. Ensure that trial data is being properly collected and recorded, and will participate in fishing trials on board lobster and longline fishing vessels. 5. Carry out lab tests of whale-release ropes working from the campus of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, and be expected to co-author reports and journal publications. QUALIFICATIONS Minimum Training and Experience * Minimum of a Master's Degree in marine science, fisheries engineering, or a closely related field required. * Minimum of one year of relevant professional work experience. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities * Have outstanding abilities to communicate and coordinate fieldwork with fishermen. * A strong preference is for a research coordinator that is rooted in, or deeply familiar with, the eastern US lobster and/or longline fishing industry. * Comfortable being at sea which might be for multiple days and nights at-a-time. * A strong foundation in scientific methods combined with knowledge and respect for the local fishing industry are important. * Excellent communication and analytical skills, exceptional writing ability, and an attention to detail are essential. * An acceptable candidate will have authored published papers in peer review journals and/or technical reports. For more information and to apply online please visit: http://neaq.applicantpro.com/jobs/ New England Aquarium is committed to diversity in the workplace and is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer as defined by the EEOC. Mike Deedy Employment & Training Specialist New England Aquarium Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110 617.226.2115 mdeedy(a)neaq.org<mailto:mdeedy@neaq.org> [NEAq_logo (2)]

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Passive Acoustic Methods for Fine-scale Tracking of Harbour Porpoises
by Jamie Macaulay 06 Mar '17

06 Mar '17

Dear MARMAM, We are pleased to announce the release of our new paper: *Passive Acoustic Methods for Fine-scale Tracking of Harbour Porpoises in Tidal Rapids* Jamie Macaulay, Jonathan Gordon, Douglas Gillespie, Chloe Malinka & Simon Northridge. ABSTRACT: The growing interest in generating electrical power from tidal currents using tidal turbine generators raises a number of environmental concerns, including the risk that marine mammals might be injured or killed through collision with rotating turbine blades. To understand this risk, information on how marine mammals use tidal rapid habitats and in particular, their underwater movements and dive behaviour is required. Porpoises, which are the most abundant small cetacean at most European tidal sites, are difficult animals to tag, and the limited size of tidal habitats means that any telemetered animal would be likely to spend only a small proportion of time within them. Here, an alternative approach is explored, whereby passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) is used to obtain fine scale geo-referenced tracks of harbour porpoises in tidal rapid areas. Large aperture hydrophone arrays are required to obtain accurate locations of animals from PAM data and automated algorithms are necessary to process the large quantities of acoustic data collected on such systems during a typical survey. Methods to automate localisation, including a method to match porpoise detections on different hydrophones and separate different vocalising animals, and an assessment of the localisation accuracy of the large aperture hydrophone array are presented. The paper is available here: Macaulay, J., Gordon, J., Gillespie, D., Malinka, C., & S. Northridge. (2017). "Passive acoustic methods for fine-scale tracking of harbour porpoises in tidal rapids." *The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America* *141*(2): 1120-1132. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1121/1.4976077 Cheers Jamie Macaulay

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IMPORTANT//HWWC 2017, Reunion Island, Abstract submission has been extended
by Dina ANDRIANAIVORAVELONA 03 Mar '17

03 Mar '17

Dear All, Due to numerous requests, the abstract submission deadline of the 2nd edition of Humpback Whale World Congress (HWWC 2017, http://www.hwwc.mg [1]) has been extended to March 17, 2017. The title of this edition is « HUMPBACK WHALES: NEW AND INTERDISCIPLINARY APPROACHES TO UNDERSTAND AND PROMOTE THE CONSERVATION OF MIGRATORY SPECIES« , which will allow attendees to receive insights into diverse research fields, methods, and applications Scientific topics of this international congress are : * Basic Research: Anatomy, Biology, Ecology, Ethology, Population dynamics, Engineer Sciences, Economics, History, Hunting. * Applied Research Methodology (visual observations, acoustic, genetics, tags, drones), data collection and storage protocols, tools and support software analysis (fluke's identification, automatic classification of sound units). * Regional Collaboration: Programs Workshops will encourage the exchange of information, practices, and experiences to favor partnerships focused on conservation. * Management, conservation and implementation of sustainable development policy: Preventive measures, establishment and management of marine protected areas, control measures on the impact of human activities, role of participatory science, alternatives to the use of natural resources. * Economy and social involvement: Humpback whales are coastal species, generating direct and indirect economic activities. This session will aim to explore viable strategies to preserve economic and social initiatives, with an emphasis on potential benefits and limitations PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR ABSTRACT At info(a)hwwc.mg The HWWC will take place in Reunion Island, Indian Ocean, at the Museum of Stella Matutina, from July 3 to 7, 2017 Feel free to send any question/request to secretary(a)hwwc.mg Best regards, -- [2] DINA ANDRIANAIVORAVELONA EXECUTIVE SECRETARY TEL: +262 6 92 25 40 58 SECRETARY(a)HWWC.MG WWW.HWWC.MG [2] Links: ------ [1] https://www.hwwc2015.org [2] http://www.hwwc.mg

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last volunteer positions for Berau Cetacean Monitoring (Indonesia) available 30 May-10 June & new positions opened 19 -30 Sept 2017
by Danielle Kreb 03 Mar '17

03 Mar '17

Hello Everyone! The Conservation Foundation for Rare Aquatic Species of Indonesia is offering positions for motivated volunteers and/or students to engage in the Berau large marine vertebrates program. 1-2 positions are available for 30 May-10 June and 4-5 positions for 19-30 September 2017. This long-term program (since 2007) aims to protect a high diversity of large marine vertebrates including cetaceans, turtles, whale sharks and manta rays in the Marine Park of Derawan Archipelago, East Kalimantan, Indonesia. Besides raising awareness and engaging local communities in sustainable handycraft and ecotourism activities, part of the conservation program includes a long-term monitoring program of large marine vertebrates in the area. Surveys are being conducted by the local NGO Yayasan Konservasi RASI (under guidance of Dr. Danielle Kreb and Ir. Budiono. The research team involves experienced RASI staff, local students, as well as local and overseas (student) volunteers. Volunteers are welcome to join the program for 12 days and conduct an eight-days boat-based monitoring survey in the beautiful and protected landscape of the Berau archipelago.We will collect data to determine relative abundance, assessing seasonal species diversity and site fidelity as well as habitat usage of large marine vertebrates. Besides photo-id collection of cetaceans, we will also take photo-id of whale sharks. For 2017 we will focus our monitoring effort on three areas (Derawan, Maratua, Biduk-Biduk) that are assigned as ecotourism area to assess long-term distribution patterns and recommendations to local governments based on megavertebrates distribution/ activity patterns. We also conduct coral reef monitoring at several locations during the survey days by snorkling. Cetacean species directly encountered during the surveys so far include, (dwarf)spinner-, spotted-, Fraser’s-, Risso’s-, rough-toothed-,long-beaked common dolphins as well as common bottlenose and Indo-Pacific bottlenose-dolphins, Irrawaddy and Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, dwarf sperm whale-, melon-headed- and false killer whales, sperm-, fin- and humpback whales..Volunteers will have the opportunity to learn theory and practice of Reefcheck monitoring for the Indo-Pacific. We also include the opportunity to do recreational things such as snorkling in the stingless jelly fish lake of Kakaban, visiting caves in Maratua Island, exploring the famous Mirror lake (Labuan Cermin), Angel waterfall (Air Terjun Bidadari), snorkling near Manta Rays and/or whale sharks following good practice protocols. Date: 30 May -10 June 2017 & 19-30 September 2017 Deadline for applying (May-June Survey): 10 March 2017. Selected candidates will be notified by 12 March 2017. For the October survey, first applying suitable candidates will be prioritized until all positions are filled. Day by day schedule, qualifications for volunteers and costs involved (10% discount to students at all degrees or finished no longer than one year after their degree) can be downloaded from a flyer posted on our website at: http://www.ykrasi.org/coastal.html. (click ' read more about this volunteer opportunity'). We are looking forward to your participation! Regards, Danielle and Budiono -------------------------- Danielle Kreb (Ph.D.) Scientific Program Advisor Yayasan Konservasi RASI Rare Aquatic Species of Indonesia Komplek Pandan Harum Indah (Erlyza) Blok C, No. 52 Samarinda 75124 Kalimantan Timur, Indonesia Tel/ fax: + 62.541.744874 Mobile: 081346489515 http://www.ykrasi.org Facebook group/page: Rare Aquatic Species of Indonesia Member of IUCN/SSC Cetacean Specialist Group *“To the dolphin alone, nature has given that which the best* *philosophers seek: friendship for no advantage. Though it has no* *need of help from any man, it is a genial friend to all and has helped mankind.”* *–Plutarch*

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Dolphin Innovation Project seeks volunteers for field work in Shark Bay
by Sonja Wild 03 Mar '17

03 Mar '17

Dear Marmamers, We are seeking assistants for the Dolphin Innovation Project’s (www.sharkbaydolphins.org<https://deref-gmx.net/mail/client/dereferrer/?redirectUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fshar…>) 2017 field season in Shark Bay, Western Australia. Three positions are available: one from mid-June through September (~14 weeks) and two from late July through September (~9 weeks). Our research is conducted out of the small township of Useless Loop in the western gulf of Shark Bay. We carry out boat based surveys, collecting a combination of photo-ID, behavioural, ecological and genetic data from the resident dolphins and their environment. These different aspects will be the focus of the field effort at different periods throughout the field season. Days on the water can be long and tiring in variable conditions, but you will encounter dolphins that form complex alliances, and those that exhibit remarkable foraging specializations, as well as the myriad of other wildlife (e.g. sharks, rays, turtles, dugongs) inhabiting this remote World Heritage Area. When the weather does not permit fieldwork, you will be working on photo matching and processing, data entry, and the long-term database. We seek dedicated, hard-working individuals with the willingness and ability to acquire new skills, as well as work diligently on routine tasks. As we live and work in close quarters for extended periods, we need easy-going team players, and a positive attitude is imperative. Prior field experience, including familiarity with conducting photo-ID and the handling of small (<6m) boats are desirable qualities. These are volunteer positions and you need to make your own way to Shark Bay, but food and accommodation (in dongas, i.e. single person quarters) on-site are covered. Preference will be given to those who can commit for the entire time for each of the respective positions. If you are interested in volunteering on our project, please send your CV, including contact details of two referees and a short cover letter, in a single PDF to PhD candidate and field team leader Sonja Wild (bssw(a)leeds.ac.uk) Please indicate whether you are available to start in June or July. Deadline for applications is the Friday, 24th of March. Best wishes, The Dolphin Innovation Project

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