October 2018 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New publication: Estimating effective detection area of static passive acoustic data loggers from playback experiments with cetacean vocalisations.
by Hanna Nuuttila 26 Oct '18

26 Oct '18

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce the following publication in the Methods of Ecology and Evolution entitled: Estimating effective detection area of static passive acoustic data loggers from playback experiments with cetacean vocalisations. https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/2041-210X.13097 Authors: Hanna K. Nuuttila Katharina Brundiers Michael Dähne Jens C. Koblitz Len Thomas Winnie Courtene‐Jones Peter G. H. Evans John R. Turner Jim D. Bennell Jan G. Hiddink Abstract Passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) is used for many vocal species. However, few studies have quantified the fraction of vocalisations captured, and how animal distance and sound source level affect detection probability. Quantifying the detection probability or effective detection area (EDA) of a recorder is a prerequisite for designing and implementing monitoring studies, and essential for estimating absolute density and abundance from PAM data. We tested the detector performance of cetacean click loggers (C‐PODs) using artificial and recorded harbour porpoise clicks played at a range of distances and source levels. Detection rate of individual clicks and click sequences (or click trains) was calculated. A Generalised Additive Model (GAM) was used to create a detection function and estimate the effective detection radius (EDR) and EDA for both types of signals. Source level and distance from logger influenced the detection probability. Whilst differences between loggers were evident, detectability was influenced more by the deployment site than within‐logger variability. Maximum distance for detecting real recorded porpoise clicks was 566 m. Mean EDR for artificial signals with source level 176 dB re 1 μPa @ 1m was 187 m., and for a recorded vocalisation with source level up to 182 dB re 1 μPa was 188 m. For detections classified as harbour porpoise click sequences the mean EDR was 72 m. The analytical methods presented are a valid technique for estimating the EDA of any logger used in abundance estimates. We present a practical way to obtain data with a cetacean click logger, with the caveat that artificial playbacks cannot mimic real animal behaviour and are at best able to account for some of the variability in detections between sites, removing logger and propagation effects so that what remains is density and behavioural differences. If calibrated against real‐world EDAs (e.g., from tagged animals) it is possible to estimate site‐specific detection area and absolute density. We highlight the importance of accounting for both biological and environmental factors affecting vocalisations so that accurate estimates of detection area can be determined, and effective monitoring regimes implemented. This completes a set of publications on the performance on acoustic data loggers, C-PODs. For more information and access to the previous papers see https://www.swansea.ac.uk/staff/science/biosciences/h.k.nuuttila/name,16878… Sostres Alonso, M. & Nuuttila, H. (2014). Detection rates of wild harbour porpoises and bottlenose dolphins using static acoustic click loggers vary with depth. Bioacoustics, 1-10. https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa19380 doi:10.1080/09524622.2014.980319 Nuuttila, H., Thomas, L., Hiddink, J., Meier, R., Turner, J., Bennell, J., et. al. (2013). Acoustic detection probability of bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops truncatus, with static acoustic dataloggers in Cardigan Bay, Wales. The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America 134(3), 2596 https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa19381 doi:10.1121/1.4816586 Nuuttila, H. (2013). Identifying Foraging Behaviour of Wild Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and Harbour Porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) with Static Acoustic Dataloggers. Aquatic Mammals 39(2), 147-161. https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa19382 doi:10.1578/AM.39.2.2013.147 Kind regards, Hanna <’((>< <’((>< <’((>< <’((>< <’((>< Dr. Hanna Nuuttila SEACAMS2 Scientific Officer Open ocean ecology, marine mammals & marine renewables College of Science, Wallace Building Swansea University, Singleton Park , Swansea, Wales Coleg Gwyddoniaeth, Adelaid Wallace Prifysgol Abertawe, Parc Singleton, Abertawe, Cymru

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New publication: Chronic exposure of Hawaii Island spinner dolphins (Stenella longirostris) to human activities
by Julian Tyne 25 Oct '18

25 Oct '18

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce the following publication in the Royal Society Open Science entitled: Chronic exposure of Hawaii Island spinner dolphins (Stenella longirostris) to human activities. http://rsos.royalsocietypublishing.org/content/5/10/171506 Authors: Julian A. Tyne, Fredrik Christiansen, Heather L. Heenehan, David W. Johnston and Lars Bejder Abstract Habitat selection is strongly influenced by spatial variations in habitat quality and predation risk. Repeated exposure of wildlife to anthropogenic activities in important habitats may affect habitat selection, leading to negative biological consequences. We quantified the cumulative human exposure of a small, genetically isolated and behaviourally constrained spinner dolphin (Stenella longirostris) population, off Hawaii Island, and exposure effects on their daytime cumulative activity budget. Dolphins were exposed to human activities within 100 m for 82.7% of the daytime, with a median duration of 10 min between exposure events. Individual dolphins spent on average 61.7% (s.d. = 6.5) of their daytime resting. Of their total rest time, greater than 90% occurred inside sheltered bays. Despite high levels of human exposure, we did not observe an effect on dolphin resting behaviour. The short intervals between exposure events probably prevent dolphins from returning to a natural resting state before the next exposure event. Consequently, 'control' observations may represent a resting behaviour of a more vigilant nature. Chronic levels of exposure to human activities could lead to rest deprivation, displacement from preferred resting habitats and ultimately negative population level effects. These results have implications for new proposed legislation aiming to reduce dolphin exposure to human activities. Kind regards, Julian ______________________________________________________________ [GIC2018_Toolkit_eSignature]<https://impactchallenge.withgoogle.com/australia2018/charities/dugong-detec…> Julian Tyne PhD, Aquatic Megafauna Research Unit (AMRU) School of Veterinary and Life Sciences Murdoch University South Street Murdoch WA 6150 http://amru.org.au/group-member/julian-tyne/ http://scholar.google.com/citations?user=WQoZ0dUAAAAJ https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Julian_Tyne?ev=hdr_xprf http://orcid.org/0000-0002-0676-5659

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Aquarium of the Pacific Internship opportunity
by James Stewart 25 Oct '18

25 Oct '18

The purpose of the photo ID intern position is to give candidates experience in the process of collecting sighting photos and data in the field and preparing that material for later research. Photo ID interns will be collecting data on various cetaceans (dolphins, blue whales, humpbacks, fin whales, gray whales, etc.) while on whale watches. Primary responsibilities of the position include but are not limited, to handling photography equipment, participating in whale watches in various weather conditions, uploading photos and data to our database, and processing photos and sighting data for further utilization. Commitment: 240 hours total, average 15-20 hours per week for 12-15 weeks -Interns will receive training and experience in the following -Learning the methods of wildlife observation and data collection in the field -Using DSLR photography equipment -Taking dorsal and caudal fin photos of animals encountered during daily whale watches -Maintaining detailed data logs of sightings -Create a project to display to Aquarium guests using whale data -Photo processing with Adobe Lightroom and data entry with Microsoft Access What the Aquarium of the Pacific expects from interns -The drive and ability to learn tasks quickly and well -To perform all of their assigned duties promptly and reliably -To be prompt and on time -To exercise care and judgment when working on a boat -To abide by all Aquarium of the Pacific staff guidelines and policies -The ability to meet the minimum time commitments of the position Qualifications -Must be 18 years of age or older -Completed and pass a background check Skills, Knowledge and Abilities -Basic knowledge of ecological and biological principles -Some background knowledge of marine mammals -Strong communication skills to transmit information to staff, visitors and whale watch participants in a clear and thorough manner -Ability to manage multiple tasks -Must be able to lift and carry 50 lbs on stairs, boats, docks, etc. -Prior experience with DSLR cameras or photo software is preferred but not required Requirements -Must complete general orientation session -Research project completed during internship period (to be determined by student in collaboration with program coordinator) Follow the link to apply: http://www.aquariumofpacific.org/volunteer/college_internships/marine_mamma… James Stewart Education Coordinator Aquarium of the Pacific jstewart(a)lbaop.org<mailto:jstewart@lbaop.org> 562-951-1651

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Georgetown University Biology Graduate Student Applicants Wanted
by Caitlin Karniski 25 Oct '18

25 Oct '18

Georgetown University Biology Graduate Student Applicants Wanted Professor Janet Mann https://gufaculty360.georgetown.edu/s/contact/00336000014RY0bAAG/janet-mann (GU) and Dr. Céline Frère https://www.celinefrerelab.com/ (USC) are seeking graduate student (PhD) applicants to Georgetown University to work on a study of maternal effects in wild bottlenose dolphins, funded by the National Science Foundation. Competitive applicants should have a strong quantitative and theoretical background in genetics and behavioral ecology. Refer to https://biology.georgetown.edu/graduate/applicants for details. Email Janet Mann mannj2(a)georgetown.edu for additional information. *Deadline is December 1*. General Project Description: While several studies link sociality to fitness in long-lived mammals, maternal influence on inter- and intra-individual variation in sociality (e.g. dynamic social patterns) and fitness outcomes is relatively unexplored. Recent computational advances allow this project to incorporate multi-level, dynamic variation to advance understanding of how sociality evolved, i.e., transmission pathways. This study system, a 35-year longitudinal study of wild bottlenose dolphins, provides a unique opportunity to address these questions because of species characteristics, and the size, detail, and long-term nature of the dataset. This project will use: (1) novel quantitative genetics methodologies to unravel the importance of maternal effects on social behavior while accounting for both additive genetic variation and the mothers’ social environment; (2) next-generation sequencing combined with demographic data to construct accurate pedigree information from high- density single nucleotide polymorphisms; (3) dynamic social network modeling (social association/interaction matrices) to account for changing social attributes of individuals rather than just static traits. As such, this study will be a comprehensive exploration of how maternal effects impact social traits over the lifespan and across more than one generation within an evolutionary framework. In addition, this is the first study to do so in wild long-lived mammal with extensive maternal social transmission, while accounting for additive genetic variation. The results will provide significant advances by extending our study of the genetic and non-genetic mechanisms of inheritance, which play critical roles in evolution and responses to environmental change.

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FWC manatee internship availability
by Beard, Shelby 25 Oct '18

25 Oct '18

The Southeast manatee field station is currently seeking a candidate for the Winter 2019 internship! Application deadline is Sunday, November 11th. Interns will assist with manatee rescue, carcass salvage, and research in South Florida. The Southeast Field lab is offering one internship: a 6 month term for the winter 2019 session. The expected start date for the Winter 2019 internship will be around January 2nd, 2019. Start and end dates will be flexible. Working hours are typically five days a week, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some nights and weekends required. The position is located in Tequesta (east coast of Florida, just north of Palm Beach). The intern's duties include assisting with manatee rescue, carcass salvage, and research in South Florida. Interns will assist with manatee and cetacean field necropsies, temperature monitoring research, and conduct manatee photo ID. Interns will also complete mortality and rescue reports and assist with other office and public outreach work as needed. To perform the duties of the position, interns will operate trucks, trailers, and boats up to 22' in length. The intern is required to complete a project and present a 10-15 minute presentation at the end of their internship. Qualifications: Junior or senior college students and recent graduates are eligible. Applicants should have some research field experience; be able to drive large trucks; be computer literate; be comfortable speaking to the public; and be proficient in the use of digital cameras, telephoto lenses, and filters. Previous animal-handling experience is desirable. Ability to trailer flatbeds and boats, as well as operate watercraft up to 22' in length is desirable. Interns must possess a valid driver's license, be able to lift 50 pounds, and be able to swim. Applicants should understand that this internship will require them to be wet, dirty, and outdoors in all weather conditions. This position is unpaid and housing is not provided. Interns must provide their own transportation to and from the field station. If you are interested in applying for an internship with the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, the following information is required: * A cover letter describing area(s) of interest and the dates, days, and hours of availability * A résumé describing training and experience * A list of three references * An unofficial copy of your academic transcript Please send these items as e-mail attachments to: Interns(a)MyFWC.com<mailto:Interns@MyFWC.com> Or mail hard copies to: Internship Coordinator Fish and Wildlife Research Institute 100 Eighth Avenue SE St. Petersburg, FL 33701-5020 http://myfwc.com/research/manatee/research/internships-volunteers/se-fl-int… Shelby Beard Biological Scientist Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Marine Mammal Section 19100 SE Federal Highway, Tequesta, FL 33469 Wildlife Alert Hotline: 1-888-404-3922

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New Publication: High-throughput sequencing data provides insight into killer whale skin microbiome
by Andy Foote 25 Oct '18

25 Oct '18

Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to announce our study of variation in the killer whale skin microbiome published in a forthcoming special issue of Molecular Ecology on Species Interactions, Ecological Networks and Community Dynamics is now available online and can be freely viewed via this link: rdcu.be/91W7. Abstract Recent exploration into the interactions and relationship between hosts and their microbiota has revealed a connection between many aspects of the host's biology, health and associated micro‐organisms. Whereas amplicon sequencing has traditionally been used to characterize the microbiome, the increasing number of published population genomics data sets offers an underexploited opportunity to study microbial profiles from the host shotgun sequencing data. Here, we use sequence data originally generated from killer whale (Orcinus orca) skin biopsies for population genomics, to characterize the skin microbiome and investigate how host social and geographical factors influence the microbial community composition. Having identified 845 microbial taxa from 2.4 million reads that did not map to the killer whale reference genome, we found that both ecotypic and geographical factors influence community composition of killer whale skin microbiomes. Furthermore, we uncovered key taxa that drive the microbiome community composition and showed that they are embedded in unique networks, one of which is tentatively linked to diatom presence and poor skin condition. Community composition differed between Antarctic killer whales with and without diatom coverage, suggesting that the previously reported episodic migrations of Antarctic killer whales to warmer waters associated with skin turnover may control the effects of potentially pathogenic bacteriasuch as Tenacibaculum dicentrarchi. Our work demonstrates the feasibility of microbiome studies from host shotgun sequencing data and highlights the importance of metagenomics in understanding the relationship between host and microbial ecology. Sent on behalf of Beki, Jaelle, Katja and all coauthors, Andy -- Dr Andrew Foote Molecular Ecology Fisheries Genetics Lab, School of Biological Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Wales

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ANZSCSMM Abstract Deadline
by ANZSCSMM ANZSCSMM 24 Oct '18

24 Oct '18

Dear ANZSCSMM members, This is a friendly reminder that the fourth Australia/New Zealand Student Chapter Meeting of the Society for Marine Mammalogy will take place on November 29th and 30th, 2018, starting at 9 AM at Griffith University (Queensland). There will be an optional half-day R workshop on Wednesday afternoon, November 28th, which will be run by our colleagues at Griffth. This opportunity will be free, suitable for all levels of R users, and open to all interested conference participants. The Chapter has funding to provide meals during the two days of the conference, as well as the opportunity to cover most, if not all, accommodation costs for those travelling from outside of Brisbane (3 nights; depending upon need). We would, therefore, like to reiterate that all university students (undergraduates to postdocs) from Australia, New Zealand, the South Pacific, and Southeast Asia are welcome to attend. We encourage attendees to give an oral presentation (15 minutes) or to present a poster about their current (or planned) work on marine mammals. The deadline to submit an abstract (max. 300 words) has been extended to Friday, November 9th. Please send an email as soon as possible to anzscsmm(a)gmail.com <anzscsmm@gmail.com%3cmailto:anzscsmm@gmail.com%3cmailto:anzscsmm@gmail.com%3cmailto:anzscsmm@gmail.com> with the subject 'ANZSCSMM Abstract', along with your name, affiliation, presentation preference, abstract, the state/country you'll be travelling from, any dietary requirements, and a request for accommodation (if applicable). We will make decisions about travel grants based on the final number of participants. Those chosen to receive a travel grant will be notified the week after the deadline and will be reimbursed at the conference. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us! We will be sending out a schedule and an abstract book two weeks prior to the conference. We look forward to meeting you all, ANZ Student Chapter Heads Kate Indeck, Dana Cusano, and Jasmin Gross

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New article: Stable isotope analysis of fecal material provides insight into the diet of fin whales.
by marina arregui 24 Oct '18

24 Oct '18

Dear MARMAMers, We are pleased to announce the publication of the following paper in Marine Mammal Science: Stable isotope analysis of fecal material provides insight into the diet of fin whales Marina Arregui, Asunción Borrell, Gisli Víkingsson, Droplaug Ólafsdóttir and Alex Aguilar Article DOI: 10.1111/mms.12504 Abstract: In cetaceans, stable isotope analysis of tissues overcomes some of the potential biases encountered in studies of diet based on stomach content or fecal analysis. However, stable isotope ratios of tissues are only indicative of long-term feeding and may be misleading when recent shifts in prey consumption have occurred. Stable isotope ratios of feces stand as a potential alternative source for resolving short-term diet, but may be biased by digestive enzymes and bacteria. We investigate whether fecal stable isotope ratios of freshly dead fin whales are consistent with those of the main food found in their stomachs (krill) and with those of other potential prey. Results show that stable isotope ratios of krill remain unaltered after their transit along the digestive tract and, therefore, values in feces are reliable indicators of this prey consumption. In addition, the low isotope ratios of feces that visually appeared to contain only fish remains revealed a substantial contribution of krill in the digested food. This demonstrates that macroscopic gross fecal analysis may be misleading because less digestible components, like fish bones, may be overrepresented. We conclude that stable isotope ratios of feces contribute significant information to other techniques for short-term diet reconstruction. The paper is available online at https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/mms.12504 or you can contact me for a pdf version or for any questions at marina.arregui(a)ulpgc.es Best, Marina Arregui Enviado desde Outlook<http://aka.ms/weboutlook>

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New Publication: Manatee behavioral response to boats
by Athena Rycyk 24 Oct '18

24 Oct '18

Dear Colleagues, We are happy to announce the following paper in Marine Mammal Science: *Manatee behavioral response to boats* Athena M. Rycyk, Charles J. Deutsch, Margaret E. Barlas, Stacie K. Hardy, Katherine Frisch, Erin H. Leone, and Douglas P. Nowacek *Abstract* The long‐term viability of the Florida manatee is threatened in part by mortality from boat collisions. This study investigated manatee behavior during boat approaches to better understand factors that lead to manatee–boat collisions. Digital acoustic recording tags (DTAGs) and Argos‐linked GPS tags were deployed on 18 manatees in southwest Florida, and boat traffic around them was mapped. Suites of manatee behavioral, environmental, and boat‐related factors were recorded during opportunistic boat passes. We built generalized linear mixed models to determine which factors accounted for variation in occurrence, number, and timing of manatee behavioral changes during boat passes. Manatees responded to boats, changing their orientation, depth, and fluking behavior most often when a boat approached closely (<10 m). Manatees were also more likely to change their depth when not on a seagrass bed and when actively fluking before a boat pass. Boat speed did not affect the occurrence or intensity of manatee response. Compared to fast approaches, however, slower passes allowed the manatee more time to respond, and behavioral change occurred earlier relative to the time of the boat's closest point of approach. We conclude that faster boats likely pose a greater risk of collision with manatees than do slower boats. The full text can be accessed using the link below (*Open Access*): http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/mms.12491 Please feel free to contact me with any questions! Best regards, Athena Rycyk arycyk(a)ncf.edu -- *Athena Rycyk, Ph.D.* New College of Florida Assistant Professor of Biology & Marine Science 5800 Bay Shore Rd. Sarasota, FL 34243-2109

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Associate Scientist, Aerial Observer - New England Aquarium
by Ester Quintana 24 Oct '18

24 Oct '18

Good morning, We are looking to hire an experienced aerial observer to participate in aerial surveys for whales, dolphins and sea turtles in outer continental shelf federal waters off Massachusetts and Rhode Island, an area proposed for offshore alternative energy development. Duties will include serving as an observer on all aerial surveys; quality checking data; coordination with the chief scientist and flight crew; and analysis of vertical photographs for the detection and identification of marine mammal and turtle species. The majority of fieldwork will be aerial, although there may be opportunities to get involved in shipboard surveys with collaborators depending on contract opportunities. This is a grant funded staff position with at least 10 months of staffing provided. Additional service may be afforded only if additional grant funding is secured. SCHEDULE Office schedule will be Monday -- Friday, 9:00 AM -- 5:00 PM. Flight days will require irregular hours and some long days. Occasional weekends and holidays will be required. This is a temporary position with a 10 month time frame. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 1. Participates in all aerial survey activities, including observer logistics, scientific data collection, monthly reporting, photographic and data analysis. 2. Assists with monthly reports and final annual report writing. 3. Survey safety equipment and camera maintenance, preparation and in-flight troubleshooting. 4. Follow safe operational requirements for every survey area, maintains flight and data logs, assists data quality checking and assurance, assists summarizing data and reports. 5. Photo-analysis of digital imagery for species detection and identifications, data processing and analysis. 6. Conducts data quality checking and assurance. 7. Helps to oversee budgeting and spending for the program. 8. Performs other position-related duties, as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS Minimum Training and Experience * B.A or B.S in Biology or related science, M.S with comparable experience preferred. * A minimum of one year of marine mammal aerial survey flight time * Ditch training certified * CPR/First Aid certification * Field and lab safety and safety awareness training * Good communication and coordination skills * Meeting deadlines for data and report deliverables * Specialized photographic skills and photo-identification experience * Attention to detail for proofing and quality checking data * Ability to spend long hours performing photo analysis in the office * Comfortable flying in a small aircraft (Can’t get motion sickness) * Valid driver’s license Knowledge, Skills and Abilities * Participation in right whale, other large whale, and turtle aerial research programs * Maintaining and purchasing aerial survey equipment * Familiarity with digital photography equipment and field use * Computer skills, especially excel, access, word Physical Demands The physical demands listed are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the position. While performing the duties of this position, the employee is required to lift and operate photographic equipment weighing approximately 8 lbs during circling. Occasionally the employee is required to lift up to 50 lbs. Employee is required to apply advanced manual dexterity that requires extreme accuracy such as those used to repair complex equipment or electronic instruments. The employee must be comfortable sitting in a confined space during survey flights, for up to five hours at a time without a break. The employee must have excellent vision to sight marine species in-flight and confirm detections in photo analysis. Acute attention to detail is imperative for proofing documents, and quality checking data. It is necessary for the employee to differentiate between colors. Work Environment The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that the employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Aerial surveys will be conducted approximately one to four times per month. Survey work is performed in a small twin-engine aircraft, which is a noisy, confined environment and may include some vessel-based time so it is imperative that the employee does not suffer from motion sickness. Field work is performed outside, exposed to variations in the weather or in confined, cramped quarters for extended periods. Applicants can apply online at: https://neaq.applicantpro.com/jobs/875349.html Ester Quintana, Ph.D. Chief Scientist, Marine Mammal Surveys Anderson-Cabot Center for Ocean Life New England Aquarium Central Wharf Boston, MA 02110 Office number 617-226-2195 [cid:a3b003f6-d2fa-467d-b2b0-d789c4755cb9] <tel:%28617%29%20973-5457>

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