August 2017 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New paper on dolphin whistles and ambient noise
by Peter Simard 30 Aug '17

30 Aug '17

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce the publication of the following article in the journal Bioacoustics: *Whistling in a noisy ocean: bottlenose dolphins adjust whistle frequencies in response to real-time ambient noise levels* (Chantal van Ginkel, Danielle Becker, Shannon Gowans & Peter Simard). The paper is available on the following link (or by contacting me): http://www.tandfonline.com/eprint/fmkdYaCfGbWt9I747EQy/full Abstract: Common bottlenose dolphins (*Tursiops truncatus*) use complex acoustic behaviours for communication, group cohesion and foraging. Ambient noise from natural and anthropogenic sources has implications for the acoustic behaviour of dolphins, and research shows that average ambient noise levels alter dolphin acoustic behaviour. However, when background noise levels are highly variable, the relationships between noise and acoustic behaviour over short time periods are likely important. This study investigates whether bottlenose dolphins altered the temporal and spectral qualities of their whistles in relation to the ambient noise present at the time the whistles were produced. Dolphin groups were recorded in Tampa Bay (western Florida) between 2008 and 2015. Six whistle parameters were analysed in spectrogram software (minimum frequency, maximum frequency, bandwidth, peak frequency, duration and number of inflection points) and ambient noise levels were calculated immediately prior to each whistle. Linear regression analysis indicated that the minimum, maximum and peak frequencies of whistles had significant positive relationships with the ambient noise levels present at the time of the whistles. These models suggested that for each 1 dB increase in ambient noise, minimum frequency increased by 121 Hz, maximum frequency increased by 108 Hz and peak frequency increased by between 122 and 144 Hz. As ambient noise is typically low frequency, this suggests that bottlenose dolphins increased whistle frequency in response to real-time noise levels to avoid masking. Future research to determine the fitness consequences of noise-induced changes in the communication behaviour of dolphins would be an important contribution to conservation efforts. On behalf of the co-authors Peter Simard -- Peter Simard, Ph.D. Visiting/CPT Professor, Environmental Studies Eckerd College Dolphin Project http://www.eckerd.edu/dolphin-project https://www.eckerd.edu/environmental-studies/faculty/simard/ Office: 119A, Galbriath Marine Science Laboratory Eckerd College 4200 54th Ave. South St. Petersburg, FL 33711

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JOB OPENING: Parasite Lab Research Asst (part-time)
by Kathy Zagzebski 29 Aug '17

29 Aug '17

MARINE MAMMAL PARASITE LAB RESEARCH ASSISTANT (part-time) Job Announcement The National Marine Life Center, an independent, non-profit marine animal hospital and science and education center on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, seeks a part-time Parasite Lab Research Assistant to assist in its Marine Mammal Parasitology Laboratory. Responsibilities include: logging parasite specimens received, entering data into the parasite database, taking photos of parasite samples, identifying common parasites according to established protocols, drafting parasite reports, and generally assisting the Science Director & Attending Veterinarian. For more information and a complete job description, visit: http://nmlc.org/about/staff/job-opportunities/. This is a grant-funded, part-time, hourly position with no benefits. Continuation beyond one year is contingent upon renewed grant funding. Requirements: B.A./B.S. in a related field and/or equivalent work experience; microscope skills; excellent organizational skills as well as verbal and written communication skills; ability to work independently. To apply, e-mail cover letter, resume, and the names of three professional references to Kathy Zagzebski, President & Executive Director, kzagzebski(a)nmlc.org <mailto:doneil@nmlc.org> . Position open until filled. The National Marine Life Center is a small, independent, non-profit marine animal hospital and science and education center. Our mission is to rehabilitate and release stranded marine mammals and sea turtles in order to advance science and education in marine wildlife health and conservation. To learn more, visit our website at www.nmlc.org. The National Marine Life Center is an equal opportunity employer. *********************************** Kathy Zagzebski President & Executive Director National Marine Life Center P.O. Box 269, 120 Main Street Buzzards Bay, MA 02532 kzagzebski(a)nmlc.org www.nmlc.org <http://www.nmlc.org/> @MarineLifeCtr 508-743-9888 x301 Fax 508-759-5477 Cell 774-313-8850 I Goodsearch.com for the National Marine Life Center! I #shopwithasmile for the National Marine Life Center at <https://www.amazon.com/gp/f.html?C=2J5HJCK1RSMM0&K=A4Z00E3QMTMD6&R=F2FJK4GD GHL0&T=C&U=https%3A%2F%2Fsmile.amazon.com%2Fch%2F04-3290276%3Fref_%3Dpe_2172 510_219750730&A=NSJYJPZEJ2GBH9SD55TKUVHAAS4A&H=DELNTZ9MOL8HG9VATUDCQXHXKQKA& ref_=pe_2172510_219750730> https://smile.amazon.com/ch/04-3290276 ********************************** --- This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. https://www.avast.com/antivirus

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Spring 2018 Internship Opportunity in Savannah, Georgia
by Perrtree, Robin 29 Aug '17

29 Aug '17

Savannah State University Dolphin Sciences Laboratory (SSUDS lab) internships The SSUDS lab is located adjacent to the marsh on the campus of Savannah State University in coastal Georgia. The SSUDS lab, led by Dr. Tara Cox, studies spatial ecology and conservation biology of long-lived marine vertebrates, marine and coastal policy and management, and human interactions with marine mammals. Current projects include: Human-interaction behaviors (particularly begging), stock structure and abundance estimates, life history indices of moms and calves, and genetics of common bottlenose dolphins. In addition, there may be an opportunity to participate in a new manatee project. The SSUDS Lab selects volunteer interns during three seasons each year: * Winter/Spring (positions January to May, applications due by October 1st); * Summer (positions May to August, applications due by March 1st); * Fall (positions August to December, applications due by June 1st). Interns will support graduate research on common bottlenose dolphins living in the local waterways. There may be additional opportunities to help other marine science graduate students with diverse fieldwork. The SSUDS lab is currently accepting applications for Winter/Spring 2018 interns. There are 1-2 positions available. Application deadline is October 1st. Dates: Jan 8 - May 25 (Start and end dates are flexible) Location: Savannah State University in Savannah, Georgia Time: Interns are expected to commit to ~30 hours per week, and their time will be split between lab and field work. Dolphin surveys will be conducted 2 days per month, with additional surveys in May. Duties: Lab duties: photo-identification, data entry and double checking Field duties: assisting with small boat-based photo-identification surveys including sighting dolphins, recording data, photographing dorsal fins, and measuring environmental variables Stranding response: although strandings are rare and unpredictable, you may be asked to help with data collection and necropsies Extra Opportunities: Local Volunteer Opportunities: Previous interns have taken advantage of their spare time to get involved with our network of marine science researchers in Georgia 1) Other SSU Marine Science Program Labs (field and lab research on sea stars, shrimp, flatfish, stingrays, oyster restoration, marine chemistry, etc.) 2) Tybee Island Marine Science Center (environmental education) 3) Skidaway Institute of Oceanography 4) GA DNR Non-game Department (cetacean, manatee, and sea turtle research) Qualifications: * Minimum age of 18 years old * Currently or recently enrolled in a college-level program in marine biology, biology, zoology, or related field * Strong interest in marine mammals, the environment, and conservation * Computer proficiency, especially MS Office; MS Access and ArcGIS experience a plus * Excellent verbal communication skills, fluent in English * Enthusiastic and dedicated, with strong interpersonal skills and ability to maintain a professional appearance and demeanor * Strong sense of responsibility, work ethic, and attention to detail * Works well in a team environment as well as individually * Ability to work long days in the sun/heat/cold on a small boat To apply please submit the following via email with the subject "SSUDS Internship" to perrtreer(a)savannahstate.edu<mailto:perrtreer@savannahstate.edu>. All attached files must be named starting with your last name (e.g. Lastname-SSUDS_application_spring_2018.doc, Lastname-transcript). Please combine your application materials into 1-2 files. * A cover letter describing why you are interested in this position, how the experience will help you meet your long-term goals, and your dates of availability. * A resume (or curriculum vitae) describing your relevant training and experience. * Current academic transcripts (unofficial are sufficient). * Names and contact information for two references. International applicants will be considered, but it is the responsibility of the applicant to acquire necessary visas and documentation This position is unpaid, and interns are responsible for providing their own housing and transport to Savannah, GA. If accepted, we can provide contact information for possible shared housing opportunities with SSU students. This is a great opportunity to work with scientists and graduate students in the field and lab while gaining experience with photo-identification and boat-based marine mammal surveys. Savannah State University offers a Master of Science in Marine Sciences; thus, successful interns may have future opportunities for graduate study in the SSUDS lab. For more information about Marine Sciences at SSU please visit: https://www.savannahstate.edu/cost/mar-env-science/marine-science/index.sht… Robin Perrtree SSUDS Lab Manager Marine Sciences Technician Savannah State University Office: Harris Hall 103 912-358-3301 (office) 941-323-2750 (cell)

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New paper on temporal resolution for niche modelling in dynamic environments
by marc fernandez 29 Aug '17

29 Aug '17

Dear colleagues, You may be interested in our recent methodological paper published on the Journal of Biogeography on how to select the temporal scale of environmental variables when modelling species distributions in dynamic environments, such as cetaceans: The importance of temporal resolution for niche modelling in dynamic marine environments http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jbi.13080/abstract Marc Fernandez, Chris Yesson, Alexandre Gannier, Peter I Miller and José MN Azevedo Abstract: Highly dynamic ocean environments can experience dramatic changes over relatively short timeframes, affecting the spatial distribution of resources and therefore the presence or absence of highly mobile species. We use simulation studies to investigate how different temporal resolutions might affect the results of species distribution models for highly mobile species (e.g. cetaceans) in marine environments. We developed three virtual species with different habitat preferences influenced by (1) only static (topographic), (2) only dynamic (oceanographic), and (3) both dynamic and static variables. Assuming that species would reposition themselves daily according to these preferences (as has been observed for large marine foragers such as cetaceans), we used two different approaches (generalized linear model and generalized boosted model) to test the effect of using daily, weekly and monthly environmental datasets to model distributions. The results showed that the selection of different temporal scales has a very important effect on model predictions. When dynamic variables are important components of habitat preference, models based on daily or weekly timeframes performed best at reconstructing the known niche. It is important that we consider temporal resolution when applying species distribution models. Several factors (e.g. species ecology and oceanographic characteristics of the ecosystem) should be taken into consideration when selecting an adequate temporal scale for niche modelling. For fine scale applications (e.g. dynamic ocean management), highly dynamic ecosystems, and highly mobile species, our results suggest exploring temporal resolution of 7–8 days rather than coarser temporal scales. For some applications annual, seasonal or even monthly averages may produce inferior or inaccurate models. Cheers, Marc Fernandez Ph. D candidate; cE3c - Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes/Azorean Biodiversity Group, and Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade dos Açores, Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal

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New publication: Using multipath reflections to obtain dive depths of beaked whales from a towed hydrophone array
by Annamaria Izzi 28 Aug '17

28 Aug '17

Dear MARMAM, On behalf of my co-authors, I would like to announce the publication of our article: DeAngelis, A. I., Valtierra, R., Van Parijs, S. M., & Cholewiak, D. 2017. Using multipath reflections to obtain dive depths of beaked whales from a towed hydrophone array. The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America 142(2): 1078-1087 doi:10.1121/1.4998709. Abstract Beaked whales are deep divers, emitting echolocation clicks while at depth. Little is known about the dive behavior of most species; however, passive acoustic data collected with towed hydrophone arrays can provide depth information using multipath reflections of clicks coupled with a two-dimensional localization of the individual. Data were collected during a shipboard survey in the western North Atlantic Ocean using a towed linear hydrophone array. Beaked whale tracks were classified as either Cuvier’s (Ziphius cavirostris) or Gervais’/True’s (Mesoplodon europaeus/Mesoplodon mirus). Weighted species average depths and weighted species standard deviations were 1158 m *+* 287 m for Cuvier’s (n= 24), and 870 m *+* 151 m for Gervais’/True’s (n= 15). Depth uncertainties ranged from 3% to 142% of the average depth. Slant ranges were corrected for depth to provide average horizontal perpendicular distance estimates. The average horizontal perpendicular distance distribution exhibited fewer detections in the first bin than the second. This is the first report of dive depths for Gervais’/True’s beaked whales and use of this method to obtain depths for beaked whales using a towed linear array. For the full article, please visit the publisher's website http://asa.scitation.org/doi/full/10.1121/1.4998709. To request a PDF copy, please email annamaria.izzi(a)noaa.gov. Cheers, Annamaria Annamaria Izzi DeAngelis *Research Analyst* Passive Acoustics Research Group | Northeast Fisheries Science Center 166 Water Street, Woods Hole, MA 02543

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New publication: Population genetic structure of Guiana dolphin (Sotalia guianensis) from the southwestern Atlantic coast of Brazil
by Juliana Ywasaki 28 Aug '17

28 Aug '17

Dear MARMAM Colleagues, We are pleased to announce the recent publication of the following paper in *Plos One*: Ywasaki Lima J, Machado FB, Farro APC, Barbosa LdA, da Silveira LS, Medina-Acosta E (2017) Population genetic structure of Guiana dolphin (*Sotalia guianensis*) from the southwestern Atlantic coast of Brazil. PLoS ONE 12(8): e0183645. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0183645 Abstract: *Sotalia guianensis* is a small dolphin that is vulnerable to anthropogenic impacts. Along the Brazilian Atlantic coast, this species is threatened with extinction. A prioritized action plan for conservation strategies relies on increased knowledge of the population. The scarcity of studies about genetic diversity and assessments of population structure for this animal have precluded effective action in the region. Here, we assessed, for the first time, the genetic differentiation at 14 microsatellite loci in 90 *S. **guianensis* specimens stranded on the southeastern Atlantic coast of the State of Espírito Santo, Brazil. We estimated population parameters and structure, measured the significance of global gametic disequilibrium and the intensity of non-random multiallelic interallelic associations and constructed a provisional synteny map using Bos taurus, the closest terrestrial mammal with a reference genome available. All microsatellite loci were polymorphic, with at least three and a maximum of ten alleles each. Allele frequencies ranged from 0.01 to 0.97. Observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.061 to 0.701. The mean inbreeding coefficient was 0.103. Three loci were in HardyWeinberg disequilibrium even when missing genotypes were inferred. Although 77 of the 91 possible two-locus associations were in global gametic equilibrium, we unveiled 13 statistically significant, sign-based, non-random multiallelic interallelic associations in 10 two-locus combinations with either coupling (D’ values ranging from 0.782 to 0.353) or repulsion (D’ values -0.517 to -1.000) forces. Most of the interallelic associations did not involve the major alleles. Thus, for either physically or non-physically linked loci, measuring the intensity of non-random interallelic associations is important for defining the evolutionary forces at equilibrium. We uncovered a small degree of genetic differentiation (FST = 0.010; P-value = 0.463) with a hierarchical clustering into one segment containing members from the southern and northern coastal regions. The data thus support the scenario of little genetic structure in the population of *S. **guianensis* in this geographic area. This article is freely available online at: http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0183645 For any questions, please feel free to contact me: ju.ywasaki(a)gmail.com Best regards, Juliana Ywasaki Lima -- Juliana Ywasaki Lima - Lic, M.Sc., D.Sc. Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro - UENF Laboratório de Morfologia e Patologia Animal Núcleo de Pesquisa com Animais Selvagens - NEPAS Campos dos Goytacazes-RJ CEP: 28013-600/ 2000 - Brasil

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Ocean Sciences Meeting 2018 Session Announcement: “Ship-to-Shore”: Ocean Sciences in a Changing World
by Stephanie Sharuga 28 Aug '17

28 Aug '17

Dear Colleagues, We would like to announce and extend an invitation to submit abstracts for an Education, Outreach and Policy session at the Ocean Sciences Meeting 2018 to be held in February 2018 in Portland, OR. The title of the session is "Ship-to-Shore": Ocean Sciences in a Changing World. Typically, when the science world thinks of "ship-to-shore" their first thoughts are of telepresence programs and live video feeds from submersibles. With our session, we are hoping to draw a more diverse crowd than just that. All fields of ship-based research, including those working with marine mammals, are developing ways to better interact with other researchers and the general public from "ship-to-shore". Some of these education and outreach programs use social media platforms (e.g. Twitter, blogs) while others use film or live video interviews - the possibilities are endless. We want to hear how you get your ship-based research across to the rest of the world. It is our goal to have a session representing diverse and innovative "ship-to-shore" research, education, and outreach programs and perspectives from around the world. International and early career scientists, as well as students, are thus highly encouraged to submit abstracts. Please share this announcement widely among your peers! Abstracts are due September 6, 2017. Note that you may submit two abstracts to the Ocean Sciences Meeting 2018 if one of them is, for example, being submitted to an Education, Outreach and Policy session. For more detailed guidelines and instructions on submitting an abstract, refer to: http://osm.agu.org/2018/abstract-submissions/. More information on the session: “Ship-to-Shore”: Ocean Sciences in a Changing World Session ID#: 27952Session Description:In recent years, the use of telepresence and other technologies in remote ocean science research has expanded considerably. As these technologies continue to advance and grow in popularity, new opportunities to engage with scientists in the field through “ship-to-shore” communication, education, and outreach have emerged. Ship-to-shore opportunities have the ability to reach large, diverse audiences globally and create interactive research and learning experiences by which we can promote ocean exploration, facilitate research, and educate and inspire future generations. Examples of “ship-to-shore” are wide-ranging and include, but are not limited to, the use of live video and data feeds, interactive video and conference calls, social media interactions, and more. This session aims to provide a forum for presenting ship-to-shore research, education, and outreach programs, with the goal of sharing international experiences and lessons learned. Many programs and opportunities exist, but often they are not known on a global scale and are therefore underutilized. Presentations will describe existing case studies and examples of how scientists and educators are using ship-to-shore connections to engage with students, the public, stakeholders, and other researchers.Primary Chair: Stephanie M Sharuga, The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine Co-chairs: Carlie Wiener, Schmidt Ocean Institute, Palo alto, CA, United States, Nicole Raineault, Ocean Exploration Trust, Narragansett, RI, United States and Elizabeth Lobecker, NOAA Office of Ocean Exploration and Research, Durham, NH, United States To view the session and submit an abstract, please go to the following link:https://agu.confex.com/agu/os18/preliminaryview.cgi/Session27952 Please don't hesitate to contact me (stephanie.sharuga(a)noaa.gov) or my co-chairs if you have any questions. Best,Stephanie Stephanie Sharuga, PhD T 224.688.0519 www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniesharuga @DrStephSharuga

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46th EAAM Annual Conference communication_host Zomarine Italy
by Cristina Pilenga 28 Aug '17

28 Aug '17

Cristina Pilenga cpilenga(a)zoomarine.it Zoomarine Italy is proud to host the 46th EAAM Annual Conference, 13th-16th March 2018 Experts, professionals and students from all Europe, and over, will get together to share the state of the art in aquatic mammals' field: case studies, protocols and research results concerning husbandry, welfare and conservation of the aquatic mammals. In addition a Welfare Workshop the 12th of March 2018. www.eaam.org

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Volunteer expeditioners to monitor cetaceans distribution off the North-western Iberian Peninsula
by Bruno Díaz López 28 Aug '17

28 Aug '17

On behalf of the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI) <http://www.thebdri.com/>, I am pleased to announce that we are currently accepting applications for volunteer expeditioners to participate in a new research project monitoring cetaceans off the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park (Spain). Program Description: - When and Where: From 2nd until 15th October 2017 our research team will carry out the first boat based surveys to monitor the pesence of cetaceans and marine birds offshore the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park (NW Spain). This is an important hotspot for cetaceans and marine birds, an important area of upwelling and it is considered to be one of the most productive oceanic regions in the world. - Objectives: The BDRI Ship Tyba III will be engaged in a marine mammal assessment survey of waters around the islands of Cíes, Ons, and Sálvora (Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park) extending offshore to the limits of the continental shelf. The overall objective of the expedition is to understand the distribution of the dolphin and whale species commonly found in this area. No fewer than 22 cetacean species have been recorded in these waters over the years. Some species are found there year-round while others are seen only occasionally. Being the first legs of the transects we dont know what we will find but we have high expectations of high biodiversity as during this period there is high primary productivity. Common bottlenose dolphins, minke whales, harbour porpoises, short-beaked common dolphins, and Risso's dolphins have been recorded quite frequently by the BDRI team in coastal waters. For this research expedition one of the main objectives will be to record the presence of other cetacean species along the continental shelf such as: orcas, fin whales, sperm whales, beaked whales, long-finned pilot whales, etc. And the exciting part is that it is yet to be discovered! Moreover, we will monitor the presence of multiple species of marine birds such as different species of shearwaters, gulls, petrels, terns, skuas, gannets, auks, cormorants and much more. The cetacean species that migrate through or live in these waters face constant threats from human activities: heavy shipping traffic, fisheries and pollution. Participating as volunteer expeditioner you will help researchers to find out how these activities affect marine mammals and develop strategies to reduce these risks. - How: During 5 daily cruises per week, the research team on the Tyba III will conduct visual surveys of cetaceans and marine birds along predetermined transects. Daily procedures and field schedule are strongly dependent on current weather conditions. Daily monitoring surveys usually last between 8 and 10 hours, but can sometimes last up to 14 hours. The ship will depart from O Grove to transit to the study area every day and will return every night at the harbour. The data collected will provide information on cetacean density, distribution, group size and composition. Photographs taken by the researchers will document the distribution of individual cetaceans. Data on the distribution and abundance of seabirds will be recorded to further characterize the ecosystem in which the cetaceans live. Along with the marine life observations, environmental data will be collected to characterize cetacean habitat and its variation over time. During bad weather the volunteers will work together with researchers on data sorting and data analysis at the BDRI's lab. The scientific field party will consist of three experienced marine mammal researchers and research assitants. Chief Scientist for the expedition is BDRI chief biologist Bruno Díaz López. Participants Requirements: This program is an opportunity to participate in a boat-based research expedition and to obtain training in marine mammals and marine birds research. Participants join the research team and have a hands-on experience working from BDRI's research vessel whilst based at the BDRI's Research Station in the town of O Grove (Pontevedra, Spain). - This program is open to all applicants 18 years of age or older. - No previous experience is required and all training and equipment will be provided to participants. - A strong interest in marine biology and conservation, self-motivation, and willingness to learn and work under often difficult (but rewarding) open ocean boat-based field conditions. As a research assitant, you will be encouraged to work hard and gain an insight of what it is actually like to work as a marine mammal researcher. The BDRI is a very international environment, and the working language is English. Participation fee: The BDRI is a small private and self-funded centre, hence, there is an participation fee (560 Euros for the week and 1 000 Euros for two weeks) which includes the boat based surveys, training, accommodation in an apartment, use of equipment, and other expenses derived of your participation in the expeditions and lab work. Successful applicants will be responsible for their own transportation expenses to and from the research centre (O Grove, Galicia, Spain). The income generated allows BDRI to carry out the expenses generated by this research expedition, you can be assured that without your contribution this type of research couldn't be undertaken. How to apply: Positions are open for one week or two weeks until filled (maximum 9 volunteer expeditioners). Approved applications are accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. Interested candidates should submit an email with a cover letter explaining why you are interested in the project and your availability (i.e. one or two weeks) to: info(a)thebdri.com For more information about BDRI's research and conservation work, please visit www.thebdri.com or our Facebook page. Best regards, and see you onboard! Lastest scientific articles published by the BDRI: - Diaz Lopez B., 2017. Temporal variability of predator presence around a fin fish farm in the North-western Mediterranean Sea. Marine Ecology 38(1), e12378. - Diaz Lopez B. and Methion S., 2017. The impact of shellfish farming on common bottlenose dolphins’ use of habitat. Marine Biology 164: 83. - Díaz López, B., Grandcourt, E., Methion, S., Das, H., Bugla, I., Al Hameli, M., Al Hameri, H., Abdulla, M; Al Blooshi, A; Al Dhaheri, S.(2017). The distribution, abundance and group dynamics of Indian Ocean humpback dolphins (Sousa plumbea) in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi (UAE). Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom, 1-9. 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

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Last Call - DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP IN PORTUGAL
by AIMM Internships 27 Aug '17

27 Aug '17

*DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP IN PORTUGAL* *BACKGROUND: *The Marine Environment Research Association - AIMM, 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). 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 Short-beaked common dolphins (Delphinus delphis), Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), and Harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena), although other species such as Minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) and Fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) can also be sighted. AIMM Interns are young, 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. Interns have the additional option to enrich their time with AIMM by beginning or improving their SCUBA skills with a PADI-certified instructor. *WHERE:* Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal *WHEN:* The field season lasts from May 1 - October 31, 2017. The minimum internship attendance is 7 days, preferably starting on a Monday. *FIELDWORK: *The field trips are conducted in AIMM's research vessel, Ketos, or in opportunistic platforms (commercial dolphin-watching boats). Fieldwork is dependent on weather conditions and seat availability in the dolphin-watching boats. Field days can be intense, especially in the peak of summer, 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 photo to photo-identification, acoustic recording, 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 in the Algarve. 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 *Included* in the fee is: · Accommodation in the research house; · Transportation to/from the marina; · Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner); · Fieldwork in the research vessel or commercial dolphin-watching vessels. *Not included* in the fee is: · Transportation to/from Albufeira; · Meals in restaurants and snacks; · 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 16; · 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 7 days. *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 fill up the online application at: http://www.aimmportugal.org/#!internship-aimm/cw7b After the confirmation e-mail, send your Resume/CV with updated photo and personal statement on which are your expectations and why do you want to work with AIMM to: interns(a)aimm-portugal.org with the subject “Internship 2017”. Applicants will be contacted to arrange internship dates and 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 | -- AIMM - Associação para Investigação do Meio Marinho / *Marine Environment Research Association* w <http://aimm-marineresearch.blogspot.pt/>ww.aimmportugal.org

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