August 2017 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New publication on Brydes whales habitat use off Southeastern Brazil
by Rodrigo Tardin 03 Aug '17

03 Aug '17

Dear all, We are pleased to announce our new publication on Marine Ecology Progress Series entitled: "Modeling habitat use by Bryde's whale, *Balaenoptera edeni*, off Southeastern Brazil. Rodrigo H. Tardin, Yongwan Chun, Sheila M. Simão, Maria Alice S. Alves ABSTRACT: Habitat-use models are a powerful tool for improving our understanding of the relationships between animals and their environment. With the development of GIS, these models have been used increasingly for the analysis of ecological data. However, they often suffer from inappropriate model specifications, particularly the assumption of independence, which is essential in conventional statistical models, and may often be violated during the collection of spatial data. Spatial autocorrelation occurs when the values of variables sampled close to each other are not independent, representing a major problem that must be accounted for systematically. We used a spatial eigenvector (SEV) generalized linear model framework to investigate the distribution of *Balaenoptera edeni* off Cabo Frio, in southeastern Brazil, an upwelling area impacted by human activities (tourism and fisheries). Sighting data were collected during 94 boat trips conducted between December 2010 and November 2014. A quasi-Poisson model using SEV indicated that the use of habitat by the whales varied with depth and the distance from the coast, and predicted that whales would be found most frequently around Cabo Frio Island and along the coastline, apparently overlapping with their prey. We found that habitat use was better predicted with the inclusion of SEV and that it is also possible to produce predictions of habitat use by correcting for spatial autocorrelation without the use of expensive surveys conducted by specialized research ships. This study provides useful insights into the habitat use of B. edeni the southwestern Atlantic Ocean, and represents an important contribution to the conservation of this data-deficient species. The publication can be found on: http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/meps/v576/p89-103/ Or it can be requested directly to me: rhtardin(a)gmail.com Cheers, Rodrigo

1 0

New publication on swim-with-dolphin tours
by Michael Lueck 02 Aug '17

02 Aug '17

Kia Ora MARMAMers Brooke and I are pleased to announce the publication of our paper on swim-with-dolphins tours in Kaikoura, NZ: Lück, M. & Porter, B.A. (2017). Experiences on swim-with-dolphins tours: an importance-performance analysis of dolphin tour participants in Kaikoura, New Zealand. Journal of Ecotourism. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/14724049.2017.1353609 Abstract: With increasing understanding of the complex concept of tourism satisfaction, a tool investigating the importance of, and satisfaction with, a number of tour components was developed in the 1970s: the importance–performance analysis. This study surveyed participants on swim-with-wild-dolphins tours in Kaikoura, New Zealand to investigate how they viewed the importance of and their satisfaction with a variety of content features on these tours. Questionnaires distributed after the tour experience included both closed-ended questions in Likert-scale format, as well as open-ended questions. Results show that tourists on swim-with-dolphins tours in New Zealand displayed high satisfaction rates, but also revealed some areas that can be improved. Themes identified as desired interpretive components, such as education about the threats to dolphins and the wider marine environment, and how tour participants can help to protect the marine environment, were also previously found in the literature as desired content, and represent the main areas recommended for improvement. Please find the full article here (the first 50 downloads are free): http://www.tandfonline.com/eprint/4EpYJZPK7WSXrC7seKKQ/full Ka kite micha & Brooke Professor Michael Lück School of Hospitality and Tourism | Faculty of Culture and Society | AUT University | Private Bag 92006 | Auckland | New Zealand e-mail: mlueck(a)aut.ac.nz | Phone: +64 9-921-9999 ext. 5833 | Fax: +64 9-921 9962 Associate Director, New Zealand Tourism Research Institute NZTRI <http://www.tri.org.nz>Co-chair, International Coastal & Marine Tourism Society (ICMTS)<http://www.coastalmarinetourism.org/> Member, International Competence Network for Tourism Research and Education (ICNT) <http://icnt.weebly.com/index.html>Member, Institute for Tourism Research<http://www.hs-harz.de>, University for Applied Sciences Harz, Germany Editor-in-Chief: Tourism in Marine Environments<https://www.cognizantcommunication.com/journal-titles/tourism-in-marine-env…> Associate Editor: Journal of Ecotourism<http://www.tandfonline.com/toc/reco20/current#.Up-dvY2yz64> Associate Editor: Human Dimensions of Wildlife<http://www.tandfonline.com/loi/uhdw20> <http://www.tandfonline.com/toc/reco20/current#.Up-dvY2yz64>Editorial Board: Marine Policy<http://www.journals.elsevier.com/marine-policy/>

1 0

Employment Opportunity- The Marine Mammal Center - Rescue & Response Apprenticeship
by Laura Chapman 02 Aug '17

02 Aug '17

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Rescue & Response Apprenticeship MISSION At The Marine Mammal Center, we are guided and inspired by a shared vision of a healthy ocean for marine mammals and humans alike. The Marine Mammal Center advances global conservation through marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation, scientific research, and education. OUR WORK We rescue and rehabilitate sick and injured marine mammals at our state-of-the-art veterinary facilities by engaging a dedicated workforce and a supportive community. We learn from the patients in our care and contribute to scientific understanding of the changing health of our ocean, taking action to address ocean threats and save endangered species. We lead as a teaching hospital by training veterinary professionals locally and internationally, and inspiring future ocean stewards through innovative school and public education programs. ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION The Marine Mammal Center is the largest facility of its kind in the world. Founded in 1975, the Center has grown into an internationally renowned and state-of-the art marine mammal hospital, research center, and educational organization. Each year, the Center treats 600 – 800 sick, injured, and orphaned marine mammals, with the goal of rehabilitation and release. Its professional staff collaborates with over 30 different scientific, educational, federal, state, and non-profit organizations from around the world. Marine mammal scientists and veterinarians from across the globe visit the Center and shadow its staff and volunteers to learn from the hundreds of animals treated each year, and from its acclaimed veterinary, scientific, and research staff. By collaborating with leading scientists and researchers to learn from the patients in their care, the Center expands and advances science to increase understanding of the health of the ocean and highlights implications for human health. In addition to its work within the scientific community, the Center’s formal and informal education programs reach 100,000 children and adults ever year. Ultimately, the Center’s work inspires action and fosters stewardship toward the care of our environment. Overlooking the ocean in the Marin Headlands, in Sausalito, CA, the Center operates three field stations in its 600-mile rescue range on the California coastline from San Luis Obispo through Mendocino County. With the addition of a facility in Kona, Hawaii, the Center’s rescue range has increased to include the entire Hawaiian archipelago. With an annual operating budget of just over $9M, 70+ staff depending on the time of year, and 1,200 actively engaged volunteers, the Center operates 24 hours per day, 365 days per year. Rescue & Response Apprentice The Rescue & Response Apprenticeship is a temporary (12 month), full time, non-exempt paid position, based out of the Sausalito Hospital. The position is designed to afford candidates the opportunity to work full-time alongside experienced marine mammal stranding responders to gain the skills needed to succeed in the field. The apprentice will train with TMMC’s marine mammal rescue and veterinary science staff, reporting directly to the Northern Range Operations Manager as a part of the Rescue & Response Team. Through practical experience, the apprentice will develop skills in the marine mammal stranding profession, including stranding preparedness, hotline coverage, volunteer coordination, marine mammal handling, assessment, transport, and release as well as data collection, data entry, report writing, and other related responsibilities. To be successful in this role, the Rescue & Response Apprentice must: * Come to fully understand the mission, the work, the values, and the credo of the organization * Learn to act and communicate in a manner that demonstrates a deep understanding of the organization and fulfill duties in a way that is strategic, in alignment with the credo, and informed by policy. The Rescue & Response Apprentice acts as a mentor to Rescue Interns and Volunteer Dispatchers. This role reports directly to the Northern Range Operations Manager ROLE DESCRIPTION The Rescue & Response Apprenticeship is designed to offer candidates the opportunity to deepen their understanding of all aspects of marine mammal stranding response, while providing support and continuity to The Marine Mammal Center’s central dispatch office. Based out of The Center’s Sausalito facility, this role receives public reports of stranded marine mammals in the rescue range and coordinates the appropriate response. The apprentice is involved in the organization and coordination of dispatch and transport activities across the entire California range. This role is expected to work some evenings, weekends, and overnight call. CORE COMPETENCIES * Ability to communicate effectively and with diverse audiences * Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work as a member of a multidisciplinary team * Ability to cultivate effective relationships with supervisors, volunteers and interns * Ability to maintain calm and professional in a high stress environment * Awareness of safety procedures for handling wild animals and working in the field * Strong leadership potential and problem solving skills MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES * Implement policies and procedures at the direction of the Northern Range Operations Manager and Veterinary Staff. Actively participate in problem solving to reach results * Answer the Stranded Animal Hotline, communicating with concerned members of the public with empathy and understanding * Coordinate assessment and rescue teams, from assessment to transport. Participate in rescues, transports, and releases as needed * Respond to public questions and concerns about distressed animals, volunteer opportunities, and all other general inquiries * Facilitate and maintain open lines of communication with co-workers and volunteers * Collect & process animal response data, including paper and electronic data entry * Assist in the training and support of Rescue & Response Interns and Volunteer Dispatchers QUALIFICATIONS * 21 years of age or older * Four-year college degree, preferably in biology or a related field * Maintaining a valid California Driver’s License and a clean driving record * Experience working with Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook and comfortable working with database software * Ability to frequently lift and carry objects weighing up to 30 pounds when moving supplies and animal carriers * Ability to stand, bend, stoop and crouch while working with animals or at events * Available for weekend and evening work as necessary, including overnight on-call duties PREFERED • Public speaking and/or customer service experience is desirable • Leadership experience, particularly organizing small groups in the field • Proven experience multitasking and decision-making in a high stress environment FURTHER INFORMATION LOCATION: Sausalito, CA HOURS: Full time Position, Non-Exempt APPLICATION CLOSING DATE: August 14th, 2017 TO APPLY: Click Here<https://tmmc.recruiterbox.com/jobs/fk0mbfb>

1 0

International Journal of Comparative Psychology: New Special Issue - Tribute to Dr. Stan Kuczaj - Part 2
by Hill, Heather 02 Aug '17

02 Aug '17

Greetings! We are pleased to announce the publication of the second half of the special issue inspired by Dr. Stan Kuczaj. Please go to our website: http://escholarship.org/uc/search?entity=uclapsych_ijcp;volume=30;issue=0 to visit the latest issue. The table of contents is as follows: Eskelinen, Hill, Walker, Trone The Legacy Lives on, a Year Later: Dr. Stan A. Kuczaj A Special Issue - Part 2<https://submit.escholarship.org/ojs/index.php/uclapsych_ijcp/editor/submiss…> Hanna, Brown, Winship, Cameron, Hill, Kuczaj A killer whale's (Orcinus orca) response to visual media<https://submit.escholarship.org/ojs/index.php/uclapsych_ijcp/editor/submiss…> Moreno, Highfill, Kuczaj II Does personality similarity in bottlenose dolphin pairs influence dyadic bond characteristics?<https://submit.escholarship.org/ojs/index.php/uclapsych_ijcp/editor/submiss…> Zapetis, Samuelson, Botero Acosta, Kuczaj Evaluation of a developing ecotourism industry: Whale watching in the Gulf of Tribugá, Colombia<https://submit.escholarship.org/ojs/index.php/uclapsych_ijcp/editor/submiss…> Ames, Zapetis, Witlicki, Wielandt, Cameron, Walker, Kuczaj Thunks: Evidence for varied harmonic structure in an Atlantic bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) sound<https://submit.escholarship.org/ojs/index.php/uclapsych_ijcp/editor/submiss…> Perazio, Kuczaj II Vocalizations produced by bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) during mouth actions in aggressive and non-aggressive contexts<https://submit.escholarship.org/ojs/index.php/uclapsych_ijcp/editor/submiss…> Makecha, Ghosal Elephant conservation: Reviewing the need and potential impact of cognition-based education<https://submit.escholarship.org/ojs/index.php/uclapsych_ijcp/editor/submiss…> Walker, Miller, Kuczaj, Solangi Seasonal, diel, and age differences in activity budgets of a group of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) under professional care<https://submit.escholarship.org/ojs/index.php/uclapsych_ijcp/editor/submiss…> Eskelinen, Borger-Turner Observations of a paternal male with bottlenose dolphin calf (Tursiops truncatus): A case study<https://submit.escholarship.org/ojs/index.php/uclapsych_ijcp/editor/submiss…> Winship, Poelma, Kuczaj, Eskelinen Behavioral asymmetries of pectoral fin use during social interactions of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus)<https://submit.escholarship.org/ojs/index.php/uclapsych_ijcp/editor/submiss…> Yeater, Guarino, Lacy, Dees, Hill Do belugas (Delphinapterus leucas), bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), & Pacific white-sided dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens) display lateralized processing when presented with familiar or novel objects?<https://submit.escholarship.org/ojs/index.php/uclapsych_ijcp/editor/submiss…> Thanks. Heather M. Hill, PhD Editor-in-Chief, International Journal of Comparative Psychology Associate Professor Psychology Department St. Mary's University One Camino Santa Maria San Antonio, TX 78228 210-431-6887

1 0

Ocean Sciences Session 28622 From Physics to Predators: Understanding Bottom-up Forcing of Pelagic Ecosystems
by Briana Abrahms - NOAA Affiliate 02 Aug '17

02 Aug '17

Dear Colleagues, We invite you to submit an abstract to the Ocean Sciences 2018 Session *'From Physics to Predators: Understanding Bottom-up Forcing of Pelagic Ecosystems'*. Abstracts can be submitted here: https://agu.confex.com/agu/os18/preliminaryview.cgi/Session28622. The submission deadline is 6 September 2017, 11:59 P.M. EDT. *Session ID*: 28622 *Topic Area*: Ecology and Physical Interactions *Session Description*: Physical oceanography is a fundamental determinant of micro- and macroecology in our oceans, driving vertebrate distributions and interactions through bottom-up processes. Understanding how oceanographic processes influence marine vertebrate distribution and ecology is not only of key interest to ecologists, but is also necessary for effective species conservation and management. A wealth of correlative studies have revealed the strong links between oceanography and vertebrate ecology, however holistic understanding of the mechanisms underlying these relationships remains limited due to the complex nature of these dynamic processes. The rapid advancement of animal tracking technologies, coupled with sophisticated ocean modeling and monitoring tools, now allow researchers to better interrogate these drivers. In this session we solicit contributions on established and potential mechanisms linking ocean biophysics to vertebrate distribution and ecology, from disciplines spanning physical oceanography to community ecology. The research shared in this session will highlight data sources, methods, and areas of opportunity to foster further cross-disciplinary research on marine physical-ecological systems. We welcome a broad range of current research related to this topic. Examples of marine mammal research that would fit well include identifying the drivers underlying associations between marine mammals and mesoscale ocean features (e.g. Della Penna et al. 2015, Scientific Reports), or applying mechanistic models to predict marine mammal density or distribution based on physical or biotic factors (e.g. Pardo et al. 2015, PLoS ONE). Primary Chair: *Briana Abrahms*, NOAA Southwest Fisheries Science Center, Environmental Research Division, Monterey, CA, United States Co-chairs: *Stephanie Brodie*, *Elliott L. Hazen* and *Isaac D Schroeder*, NOAA Southwest Fisheries Science Center, Environmental Research Division, Monterey, CA, United States

1 0

Ocean Sciences top predator session
by Mark Baumgartner 02 Aug '17

02 Aug '17

Dear Colleagues, The 2018 Ocean Sciences Meeting <http://osm.agu.org/2018/> will take place 11-16 February 2018 in Portland, Oregon. The meeting is an important venue for scientific exchange across broad marine science disciplines, with sessions on all aspects of oceanography. We would like to call your attention to a session <https://agu.confex.com/agu/os18/preliminaryview.cgi/Session27549> we will be chairing entitled “Advances in approaches to monitoring the occurrence, distribution, behavior, and ecology of top predators” (IS001). This session has been convened at the Ocean Sciences meetings since 2010, and it provides a wonderful opportunity for researchers studying a variety of taxa (including marine mammals, seabirds, sea turtles, and fish) to meet, exchange ideas, and explore commonalities in research methods, scientific questions, and conservation efforts. Please consider submitting an abstract <https://agu.confex.com/agu/os18/is/papers/index.cgi?sessionid=27549> and attending the meeting. Abstracts are due by 6 September 2017. More information on the session is below. Mark Baumgartner, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, mbaumgartner(a)whoi.edu <mailto:mbaumgartner@whoi.edu> Daniel Palacios, Oregon State University, daniel.palacios(a)oregonstate.edu <mailto:daniel.palacios@oregonstate.edu> ——————————— Topic: Ocean Observatories, Instrumentation and Sensing Technologies Title: IS001. Advances in approaches to monitoring the occurrence, distribution, behavior, and ecology of top predators Session ID: 27549 Session Description: Unlike most marine organisms, top predators can be monitored in the field as individuals, providing unique insight into behavioral strategies that influence the status and dynamics of populations. Tremendous technological and methodological progress has been made in marine animal detection, tagging, and tracking in the past decade, and this session seeks to gather researchers to share new insights into both top predator ecology and physiology gleaned from these state-of-the-art approaches. We encourage researchers working with autonomous platforms, passive acoustics, bio-logging, satellite telemetry, remote monitoring technologies, and other advanced methods to participate and present their latest results. ——————————— Some of the many marine mammal talks given at the Ocean Science top predator session in recent years: Benoit-Bird, K.J.; Moline, M.A.; Southall, B. The way to a whale’s habitat is through his stomach: a deep-diving, squid-hunting AUV provides insights into teuthivorous whale behavior Zitterbart, D.P.; Richter, S.Kindermann, L.Boebel, O. Automatic detection and identification of whales using thermal and visual imaging for cetacean censuses and marine mammal mitigation Pelland, N., J. Sterling, A. Springer, S. Iverson, D. Johnson, M.-A. Lea, N.A Bond, R. Ream, C. Lee and C. Eriksen. Satellite tagging, remote sensing, and autonomous vehicles reveal interactions between physiology and environment in a North Pacific top marine predator species (northern fur seal) Misarti, N., L. Horstmann, C.T. Clark, P. Charapata, L. Olson, T.L. Fulton and A.M. Jensen. It’s in their bones: 2000 years of pacific walrus adaptability and resilience. Parks, S.E.; Cusano, D.Stimpert, A.K.; Weinrich, M.Wiley, D. Ready, set, go: Evidence for acoustic coordination of bottom feeding by humpback whales using archival acoustic tag technology Labrousse, Sara, J-B. Sallee, A.D. Fraser, R.A. Massom, P. Reid, M. Sumner, C. Guinet, R. Harcourt, F. Bailleul, M. Hindell and J-B. Charrassin. Exploration of the relationships between sea ice patterns and foraging movements of a marine predator (elephant seal) in East Antarctica.

1 0

Pacific Northwest Protected Species Observer/Passive Acoustic Monitoring Technicians
by Jay Litchfield 02 Aug '17

02 Aug '17

A.I.S. Inc. is recruiting trained and experienced PSOs/PAM operators to join our team of observers for several potential upcoming projects in the Pacific Northwest. The primary purpose of these individuals is to reduce the potential for injury or harassment of protected species throughout the course of industry activities, by monitoring for protected species and implementing mitigation measures as project guidelines require. The potential work varies depending on the project. It may involve land based monitoring during pile driving activity, observation from small vessels that return to port each night, or require living offshore, for weeks at a time. During observations a schedule will be divided among the designated staff so that observers do not work more than 4 consecutive hours without a break and that they don't work no more than 12 hours in a day. Work is estimated to be available starting mid August. Candidates will be selected based on their experience identifying and documenting Pacific species of marine mammals, sea turtles, and birds. Compensation: $17.00 - $20.00 per hour (commensurate with experience). Travel expenses to and from the staging location will be reimbursable. To Apply: Please submit a resume, a cover letter detailing your PSO experience, 5 professional references (name, e-mail address and phone number), and any applicable credentials/certificates. Click the following link (https://goo.gl/Ch95B8 ) to complete our application and submit the required documents. More information: VEVRAA Federal Contractor Request Priority Protected Veteran Referrals Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Females/Protected Veterans/Disabled Additional questions regarding the position can be directed to Jay Litchfield at 508-990-9054. For more information please visit the AIS, Inc. website www.aisobservers.com<http://www.aisobservers.com>.

1 0

Volunteer education assistant - Cetacean conservation of Nicaragua
by Joëlle De Weerdt 02 Aug '17

02 Aug '17

*About ELI-Scientific* ELI-S is a nonprofit organization based in France that has been created in 2013. Our organization aims at promoting, protecting and conserving cetaceans. We have set up the research project “Cetacean Conservation in Nicaragua” in 2015. This pioneer project aims to generate knowledge on cetacean presence, distribution and habitat use patterns. The expected output is to generate: 1) scientific data on cetaceans in Nicaragua, 2) environmental awareness to the local communities in order to create a socio-economic relevance in conserving and protecting their natural environment and 3) responsible eco-tourism. ELI-Scientific is recruiting a volunteer education assistant to give environmental science classes during one semester in a local school in San Juan del Sur. The education assistant will be present during the field work on planned from January 22nd to April 22nd 2018 in San Juan del Sur. The offer includes the opportunity for the assistant to develop both professionally but also personally thanks to the unique experience to live within local communities in basic living conditions. A commitment for 6 months is expected. *Locations: *San Juan del Sur South-West of Nicaragua *Period: *January to June 2018 (6 months commitment, Dates to confirm) *Type of agreement: *Full time. 2 Days off per week. *Duties:* - Develop environmental science classes for kids aging from 10 to 16 years old - Give twice a week one-hour science classes in two local schools in San Juan del Sur - Network with local actors and integrate their initiatives in the science classes - Participate to public outreach and events - Organize field trips with children in order to discover local (marine) biodiversity and conservation initiatives - Update social media and website *Skills and qualifications:* - *Fluency in Spanish (!)* - *Enthusiastic, conscientious and hard working* - Experience of working in developing countries - *Experience in delivering educational activities* - Proactive with ability to work unsupervised - Interest in wildlife and conservation - Being able to work and live in a small team - Being able to live in basic living conditions *Desirable skills :* - An interest and knowledge of marine life - A background in biology, particularly marine biology/environmental science - Speaking English and/or French would be a plus This position is a volunteer and unpaid position, please contact the project director for more details. *To apply:* Please email a CV, 2 references and cover letter outlining your experience and motivations. Send this to joelle.deweerdt(a)eli-s.com with “Education assistant 2018” in the subject line. Interviews via Skype. Deadline: 15th of September 2017. *Contact:* For further information and any queries, please contact *Joëlle De Weerdt, Project Director* Email: joelle.deweerdt(a)eli-s.com More information? Website of Non profit: www.eli-s.com Website of Project: www.nicacetacea.org Facebook: ELI-Scientific

1 0

New publication on identifying long-term social avoidances
by Alexis Levengood 02 Aug '17

02 Aug '17

Hello, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the publication of our paper on identifying long-term social avoidances. Strickland K., Levengood A., Foroughirad V., Mann J., Krzyszczyk E., Frère C.H. 2017. A framework for the identification of long-term social avoidance in longitudinal datasets. Royal Society Open Science, 4: 170641. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsos.170641 Abstract: Animal sociality is of significant interest to evolutionary and behavioural ecologists, with efforts focused on the patterns, causes and fitness outcomes of social preference. However, individual social patterns are the consequence of both attraction to (preference for) and avoidance of conspecifics. Despite this, social avoidance has received far less attention than social preference. Here, we detail the necessary steps to generate a spatially explicit, iterative null model which can be used to identify non-random social avoidance in longitudinal studies of social animals. We specifically identify and detail parameters which will influence the validity of the model. To test the usability of this model, we applied it to two longitudinal studies of social animals (Eastern water dragons (Intellegama leseurii) and bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus)) to identify the presence of social avoidances. Using this model allowed us to identify the presence of social avoidances in both species. We hope that the framework presented here inspires interest in addressing this critical gap in our understanding of animal sociality, in turn allowing for a more holistic understanding of social interactions, relationships and structure. Please find the full article here: <http://rsos.royalsocietypublishing.org/content/4/8/170641.article-info><http://rsos.royalsocietypublishing.org/content/royopensci/4/8/170641.full.p…>http://rsos.royalsocietypublishing.org/content/4/8/170641 Cheers, Alexis Alexis Levengood PhD Candidate University of the Sunshine Coast Sippy Downs, Australia www.celinefrerelab.com<http://www.frerelab.com>

1 0

New publication on risk to cetaceans from marine debris in Maui, Hawaii.
by Jens Currie 01 Aug '17

01 Aug '17

Dear colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the publication of a new article: *Currie, J.J., Stack, S.H., McCordic, J.A., Kaufman, G.D. Quantifying the risk that marine debris poses to cetaceans in coastal waters of the 4-island region of Maui. Marine Pollution Bulletin 121 (2017): 69–77.* Abstract: Marine debris poses a considerable threat to biodiversity and ecosystems and has been identified as a stressor for a variety of marine life. Here we present results from the first study quantifying the amount and type of debris accumulation in Maui leeward waters and relate this to cetacean distribution to identify areas where marine debris may present a higher threat. Transect surveys were conducted within the 4-island region of Maui, Hawai'i from April 1, 2013 to April 15, 2016. Debris was found in all areas of the study region with higher concentrations observed where the Au'au, Kealaikahiki, and Alalakeiki channels converge. The degree of overlap between debris and cetaceans varied among species but was largest for humpback whales, which account for the largest portion of reported entanglements in the 4-island region of Maui. Identifying areas of high debris-cetacean density overlap can facilitate species management and debris removal efforts. The full article is available online at: authors.elsevier.com/a/ 1VPRj,ashmJXk or email us to request a PDF copy: research(a)pacificwhale.org -- *Jens Currie* *Senior Research Analyst* Pacific Whale Foundation 300 Ma'alaea Rd., Suite 211 Wailuku, HI 96793 Office: 808-856-8338 Cell: 808-990-5544 Fax: 808-243-9021 Email: jenscurrie(a)pacificwhale.org -- 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!

1 0