March 2018 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

new paper on Burmeister´s porpoises clicks
by Vanesa Reyes 08 Mar '18

08 Mar '18

Dear all, We are pleased to inform you about our recent publication in Marine Mammal Science entitled Clicks of wild Burmeister’s porpoises (Phocoena spinipinnis) in Tierradel Fuego, Argentina: Reyes Reyes, M.V., Marino, A., Dellabianca, N.A., Hevia, M., Torres, M., Raya Rey, A., Melcón, M.L. DOI 10.1111/mms.12489 Summary: Burmeister’sporpoise is one of the seven species of Phocoenidae family, and isendemic to South America. Acoustic recordings were obtained from a residentpopulation of Burmeister’s porpoises in the Beagle Channel, Argentina. Thespecies produces clicks with a median -3 dB bandwidth of 8 kHz, 10 dB durationof 144 µs, centroid frequency at 146 kHz, peak frequency at 138 kHz, and Q-3dBof 21. This study represents the first description of sounds produced byBurmeister’s porpoises in the wild, showing the presence of narrow-band highfrequency signals, similar to the other species of porpoises. Burmeister’sporpoises may obtain acoustic crypsis through NBHF clicks to avoid being heardby killer whales, a possible predator in the area. The article is available in Early View in http://rdcu.be/IndI or by email vanesa.reyes(a)cethus.org Cheers, Vanesa

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Internship opportunities in Hawaii - Hawaiian Monk Seal and Sea Turtle Field Response Teams - DEADLINE APPROACHING
by Jon Gelman 07 Mar '18

07 Mar '18

Announcing internship openings on our Hawaiian Monk Seal and Sea Turtle Field Response Teams on the Island of Oahu, Hawaii – DEADLINE APPROACHING ABOUT HAWAII MARINE ANIMAL RESPONSE (HMAR) We are Hawaii’s largest non-profit marine species response organization, covering approximately 300 miles of coastline on the Hawaiian Islands of Oahu and Molokai with our team of over 100 volunteers, interns and staff. Our field response team spends thousands of hours each year responding to reports of activity involving protected marine animals such as the endangered Hawaiian monk seal and endangered or threatened marine turtles to aid in species recovery, research and stranding support. Our work helps save these animals from deaths and injuries caused by disease, hookings, entanglement in marine debris and dangerous or inappropriate interaction with humans and pets. Equally important is our ability to use this extensive level of field activity as well as our presence in schools, community events and public venues to engage with tens of thousands of members of the public each year to build understanding, stewardship and support for Hawaii’s protected marine species and the coastal ecosystem we share. Learn more about us at www.h-mar.org. INTERN DUTIES * Surveying for, or responding to sightings of, endangered or threatened marine species such as Hawaiian monk seals and sea turtles to provide shoreline response to haul-outs and strandings. * Perform land-based field response to specific reports of marine mammal haul-out or stranding activity. * Perform land-based and in-water marine turtle stranding response, field intervention and research capture-mark-recapture activities * Report on animal behavior, provide basic animal assessment information, provide photo-documentation and other important data used in endangered marine species research, health management and species recovery efforts. * Perform outreach to the public to teach sustainable human interaction and fishery behaviors and encourage stewardship of Hawaii's endangered and threatened marine species. * Response team duties may also include escalated or emergency field response and assisting with endangered or threatened marine species intervention activity and stranding support. * Participate in dispatch and reporting activity such as the taking and documenting of phone calls or mobile-app generated reports of marine species activity, coordinating field response activity, data entry and generating reports. INTERNSHIP LOCATION These positions require on-island travel throughout the island of Oahu in the State of Hawaii. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS * This is an un-paid internship opportunity that requires the intern to live on the island of Oahu in the State of Hawaii for the period beginning 2 weeks prior to the start of the internship until the end of the internship. * The intern is responsible for all lodging, living and transportation costs associated with the internship. * U.S. citizenship or possession of passport and all applicable visas and work permits needed prior to and during the internship period. * 18 or more years of age. * English language fluency. * Must be a degree-seeking student or a graduate of a college or university program associated with one of the following courses of study: marine biology, marine ecology, conservation or a related field. * Minimum grade point average (GPA). For college/university graduates - a 2.7 cumulative GPA prior to the internship. For current students - a 2.7 cumulative GPA prior to and during the internship. * College credit: If college credit for this internship is desired it is the intern’s responsibility to obtain necessary approvals from the applicable college or university. Ability to walk in shoreline beach and rocky conditions for 2 miles. * Ability to lift and carry a minimum of 75 pounds for 100 feet in shoreline beach and rocky conditions. * Ability to swim required. * Experience with small boat operations and open ocean in-water environments (desired but not required). * Ability to maintain a calm demeanor in potentially stressful conditions. * Possess a team-based work ethic and attitude. * Acceptance of our Intern Policies, Waivers, Releases and Indemnifications. * Attend mandatory in-field or classroom training sessions as required. * Possess an interest and a desire to engage with the public. * Must have access to a reliable car or truck. Truck preferable. Motorcycles or scooters will not be sufficient. * Possession of a valid driver’s license. * Proof of automobile insurance carrying Hawaii minimum liability coverage levels. * Access to a cellular smartphone with 4G data service and camera. * Access to binoculars with at least a 10X magnification level, OR access to a digital camera (not a smartphone) with at least a 35X zoom lens and Wi-Fi capability. One of these two items is required. INTERNSHIP ACTIVITY EXPECTATIONS * Internship term: Minimum of 3 months (may be extended for up to 1 year upon mutual agreement) * Hours per week: 20 hours minimum however due to the unpredictable nature of marine animal response, the intern may sometimes be required to work beyond their normal scheduled hours. Travel time to and from training locations, field survey locations or response locations is not included in these minimum hours. The intern must be able and willing to work flexible hours including weekends and holidays. * The intern is expected to be available for response anywhere on the Island of Oahu in the State of Hawaii. INTERNSHIP PERIODS AND APPLICATION DEADLINES * Internship period - January 1st to April 30th each year, application deadline is the prior October 31st * Internship period - May 1st to August 31st each year, application deadline is the prior March 31st * Internship period - September 1st to December 31st each year, application deadline is the prior July 31st APPLICATION PROCESS Online internship application may be completed at www.h-mar.org/apply. Note the additional information below that must be submitted with your online application via email to info(a)h-mar.org. In addition to completion of the online application, please submit the following information via email to info(a)h-mar.org. (1) A cover letter of interest, maximum of 1 page, including your availability (i.e. preferred internship period). (2) Confirmation that you have, or will have, access to a reliable car or truck during the internship period (truck preferred). (3) A resume describing your training, experience, relevant skills and GPA (maximum of 2 pages). (4) Names and contact information for three references.

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IMCC5 and Oceans Online abstract submissions closing soon!
by SCB Marine Section 07 Mar '18

07 Mar '18

Hello, everyone! A reminder that abstract submission for the International Marine Conservation Congress (IMCC5) and Oceans Online are closing soon (16 March). Looking forward to seeing you in Kuching! Katie Society for Conservation Biology, Marine Section IMCC5 Call for Abstracts The 5th International Marine Conservation Congress, *Making Marine Science Matter, *will be held from 24 June - 29 June 2018 at the Waterfront Hotel Kuching, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. We welcome your abstracts for Oral, Speed, and Poster Presentations, and OceansOnline sessions *until 23:59NDT on 16 March 2018*. http://conbio.org/mini-sites/imcc5/registration/call-for-abstracts IMCC abstracts: We strongly encourage submissions from individuals and in cutting-edge marine conservation science or practice that can demonstrate how their presentation “makes marine science matter.” We also encourage submissions that align with a specific topic(s) of interest and/or addresses one or more of the 71 research questions <http://conbio.org/mini-sites/imcc5/about/71-research-questions>. We will review, however, all marine science and marine conservation submissions. Our key criterion for prioritizing submissions is proposals that “make marine science matter.” OceansOnline session proposals: OceansOnline proposals should be relevant to marine conservation communication and online tools and resources for marine conservation and marine science. Proposals for OceansOnline should select the “OceansOnline” category and sub-category of workshop, tool demonstration or facilitated discussion. You will be asked at submission to provide details on the outputs of your OceansOnline session and the potential benefiting agencies. You will also be asked about your plans for funding organiser/presenter attendance at the session (e.g. through institutional funding, private finance, IMCC travel grants, etc.). If you have questions about the call or need assistance making your submission, please contact us <info@imcc5.com?subject=I%20have%20a%20question%20about%20the%20Call%20for%20Abstracts> . http://conbio.org/mini-sites/imcc5/registration/call-for-abstracts

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Hiring 2018 Team for Soundwatch Boater Education Program in Washington
by Jenny Atkinson 07 Mar '18

07 Mar '18

Hello, MarMam, This is an updated description from our earlier post regarding internships. We are currently seeking candidates for the 2018 Soundwatch team including Project Coordinator, Vessel Driver/Educator and Intern. Thank you for sharing with your subscribers. Jenny The Whale Museum's Soundwatch Boater Education Program: Hiring Team for 2018 Summer Season Location: Friday Harbor, San Juan Island, Washington State, USA Open Positions: * Soundwatch Project Coordinator Job Description <https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0249/1083/files/Soundwatch_Program_Coordi nator_job_description.pdf?4397957382747746895> (year-round, full-time/exempt, includes health care benefits) * Soundwatch Seasonal Vessel Driver/Educator Job Description <https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0249/1083/files/Seasonal_Vessel_Driver_Ed ucator_Job_Description.pdf?4397957382747746895> (contract position, June-September, 24-32 hours weekly) * Soundwatch Intern Position Description <https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0249/1083/files/Soundwatch_Summer_Intern_ Job_Description.pdf?4397957382747746895> (seasonal position, 35-40 hours per week) For more information, please visit https://whalemuseum.org/pages/job-internship-volunteer-opportunities Established in 1979 as the first U.S. museum dedicated to whales living in the wild, The Whale Museum promotes stewardship of whales and the Salish Sea ecosystem through education and research. The Soundwatch Boater Education Program was initiated in 1993 by The Whale Museum to reduce disturbances to marine wildlife caused by irresponsible boater behaviors. This innovative program educates boaters on guidelines and regulations for marine wildlife through shore-based education, reinforces the learning experience through on-the-water educational patrols, monitors vessel activities to characterize vessel trends, and evaluate existing guidelines and laws. The main focus of our work is the endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales (SRKWs) but there are other marine mammal species of importance in our region, including Transient killer whales, Minke whales, Humpback whales, Fin whales, Harbor porpoise, Dall's porpoise, Harbor seals, Steller sea lions, and many other cetacean and pinniped species. Please visit The Whale Museum's Web site for more information on Soundwatch: http://www.whalemuseum.org/programs/soundwatch/soundwatch.html HOW TO APPLY: Application package should include: a cover letter, resume and up to five references (reference letter or contact information for each reference). Electronic submissions are encouraged in the form of a PDF compiled with the requested information. Please indicate which position you are applying for. Active review of submitted applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Note: International applicants required to have approved Visa and documentation to work in the U.S. at the time of submission. Applications accepted until April 6, 2018. PLEASE SEND APPLICATION MATERIALS TO: Jenny L. Atkinson, Executive Director The Whale Museum P.O. Box 945 Friday Harbor, Washington 98250 Or email (preferred) to: jenny(a)whalemuseum.org <mailto:jenny@whalemuseum.org> Jenny L. Atkinson Executive Director The Whale Museum P. O. Box 945 (62 1st St., N.) Friday Harbor, WA 98250 Phone: (360) 378-4710 ext. 26 Website: <http://www.whalemuseum.org/> www.whalemuseum.org Mission: to promote stewardship of whales and the Salish Sea ecosystem through education and research.

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HUMPBACK WHALE RESEARCH ON THE GREAT BARRIER REEF, AUSTRALIA (JULY-SEPT 2018) – RESEARCH ASSISTANT OPPORTUNITIES
by Lesley Douglas 07 Mar '18

07 Mar '18

The Great Barrier Reef Whale and Dolphin Research Programme is led by Blue Planet Marine and operated in collaboration with the Cetacean Ecology and Acoustics Laboratory at the University of Queensland, Australia. http://www.blueplanetmarine.com. Operating since 2016, the Programme will be based on a live-aboard research vessel in and around the world-famous Whitsunday Islands. The focus of the Programme is to: · Identify areas of the Great Barrier Reef that are most important for humpback whale breeding activities; · Gather information regarding the structure of the east Australian humpback whale sub-stock; and · Gain a better understanding of whale acoustic communication and the potential for anthropogenic impacts within the breeding grounds of the Great Barrier Reef. Running from July to September 2018, there are opportunities for Research Assistants to join the Programme, living aboard the research vessel. The minimum length of time Research Assistants may join is one research trip of six days. On a daily basis Research Assistants will be actively involved in all aspects of research activities, including: whale fluke photo identification; video recordings; collection of genetic samples; recording behavioural observations; and recording whale song and social sounds. You will also assist with vessel operations, including all day-to-day activities such as cooking, cleaning and vessel maintenance. Sea time can be validated towards a marine qualification. There is a participation fee for each 6-day research trip. The participation fee covers accommodation aboard the research vessel and food while on board, it also covers some of the costs of conducting the research. Research Assistants are responsible for all costs associated with travel to and from the Whitsundays. To find out more about The Great Barrier Reef Whale and Dolphin Research Project (including the dates of research trips), or to register online for a Research Assistant position, visit: http://www.blueplanetmarine.com. David Paton, Managing Director, Blue Planet Marine

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JOB posting: Marine Biologist Azores
by Rebecca Boys 06 Mar '18

06 Mar '18

Dear MARMAMers, This message is sent on behalf of Pedro Azevedo (Peter Whale Watching, Azores). There is a Marine Biologist position available on Faial island, Azores: Peter Whale Watching is currently searching for a Marine Biologist to work in the Azores Islands from April to the end of September, during the Whale Watching Season, to perform the following activities: * Guidance of Whale Whatching expeditions * Vending and coordination of other nature based activities * Development of scientific research and implementation of sustainable practices within the activities offered by the company We are one of the first Azorean companies offering Whale Watching experiences to the public and we are currently focused in optimizing the impact of our activities at the social, environmental and scientific levels. With that aim in mind we are currently searching for conscious professionals to collaborate with the implementation of our vision, preserving and enabling the protection of the beauty and the diversity of the Azoreans ecosystems. The requirements for the current position are as follows: * Academic background in Marine Biology (preferentially expertise in Cetaceans) * License to work on board (Carta de Marinheiro/Patrão Local or equivalent) * Fluency in Portuguese and English For further information or in case of interest you may reach us through the following contacts: * pedro.petercafe(a)outlook.com<mailto:pedro.petercafe@outlook.com> * Pedro Azevedo: +351 916712298 Thank you, Rebecca M Boys ECS Student Representative Marine Biologist at IMAR - Dept. Oceanography and Fisheries, University of the Azores

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Cetacean Research Opportunities available in Iceland
by Megan Whittaker 05 Mar '18

05 Mar '18

*Cetacean Research Opportunities available in Iceland Elding Whale Watching Reykjavik (Iceland) is offering research placements on board their vessels. For further information regarding the company please visit our website at www.elding.is <http://www.elding.is> This can be through Erasmus to gain experience or using data collected for your BSc, MSc thesis in connection with your university.Data collection involves both onboard collection and on land processing with focus on humpback whales, minke whales and white-beaked dolphins. Data that you can then use for your studies.Onboard data collection: Photo ID, GPS marking, behavioural studies, environmental studies.Onland: Photo processing, ID matching, cataloguing and updating sightings spreadsheets. Opportunities are available between May and September, preference will go to those that can stay the longest, this is to minimise data error and creates a stronger bond with the staff. Please note: those living in a country outside the EEA can only stay for 3 months maximum.Provided: accommodation, equipment (you may wish to use your own personal camera), fun monthly activities and events, 1 hot meal a day when working. Not provided: travel costs and travel insurance to and from Iceland and personal expenses.If you are interested and would like more information please email:Tess Hudson at tess(a)elding.is <tess(a)elding.is> *

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Summer Volunteer Opportunites with Cetus' Robson Bight Warden Program
by Erin Parsons 05 Mar '18

05 Mar '18

*Summer Volunteer Opportunities with Cetus’ Robson Bight Warden Program!Cetus is a non-profit, marine conservation society, which operates in the waters around Victoria and Alert Bay, British Columbia, Canada. Since 2005 we have worked to reduce disturbances to marine mammals on the British Columbia coast and promote respect for our marine environment through on-the-water and land-based education, outreach and direct monitoring activities. The Robson Bight Marine Warden Program operates in Johnstone Strait, in the waters around the Robson Bight (Michael Bigg) Ecological Reserve. The ecological reserve is designated for the protection of critical habitat of the Northern resident killer whales. This is a unique area where the whales often come to rub their bodies along the underwater beaches. Our marine wardens monitor vessels and marine mammal populations, and educate boaters and kayakers about the reserve and their impacts around it. The Robson Bight Marine Warden Program is comprised of a water based monitoring and educational component and a land based monitoring station called Eagle Eye, situated on a cliff opposite the ecological reserve.Cetus is looking for enthusiastic and hard working individuals to fill the Robson Bight Marine Warden Program Summer Volunteer positions:Volunteer positions will be based out of a rustic field camp in Boat Bay on West Cracroft Island located near Alert Bay, British Columbia, Canada. Positions will be offered between June 27th and September 7th 2018. We require a minimum 3-week commitment. Preference will be given to those who are able to stay for the full 11 weeks. Successful applicants will have the opportunity to be involved with a variety of possible tasks ranging from community outreach and education to marine mammal response and data collection. Our programs focus on protecting British Columbia’s marine mammal populations and encouraging others to do the same. Interns may also have the opportunity to spend time on our monitoring vessels in which case they will participate in data collection, data entry and on-the-water boater education. Responsibilities include: - Educating boaters, kayakers, park visitors, and members of the public about the marine mammal viewing guidelines, marine species at risk, the conservation issues they face and the boundaries of the Robson Bight (Michael Bigg) Ecological Reserve- Collecting and entering data on marine mammals and vessel activity - Public interpretation in the form of dock talks and participation in community events - Potentially helping to respond to injured, sick or dead marine mammals in support of the BC Marine Mammal Response Network- Observing and recording cetaceans in support of the BC Cetacean Sightings Network- Assisting with general administrative duties - Camp duties, which includes cooking, cleaning, general maintenance and heavy lifting What skills and experience will volunteers gain?: - Experience educating the public on important conservation issues- Experience with field data collection and entry - Interpretive skills and techniques- Potential for experience in marine mammal response - Experience with fundraising and community outreach - Experience working with Microsoft AccessEssential Requirements: - Fluent spoken English- Interest in marine wildlife and conservation (experience using theodolites for marine mammal surveys is a plus)- Flexibility- Ability to work long hours, outdoors, in all weather conditions- The ability to live & work comfortably in a remote coastal wilderness camp setting with staff & volunteers- The physical ability to carry 40lbs of gear to and from the vessel to base camps (this varies from across the street to down a rocky shoreline). In addition to this volunteers are required to hike, 3km (each way), from the base camp to the observation site on alternate days, which takes approximately 1 hour (one way)Additional Information: These positions are unpaid and carry a cost to the interns of $125/ week to cover accommodations, extra fuel and dinners (volunteers will be responsible for their own breakfasts and lunches). Warden volunteers will need to bring their own tent and sleeping bag. Tent pads and tarps will be provided as will camp cooking equipment etc. How to apply: Please forward your cover letter, resume and two references via email by April 3rd, 2018. Please indicate your availability. Only successful applicants will be contacted. Contact: Erin Parsons, Cetus Research & Conservation SocietyEmail: robsonbight(a)cetussociety.org <robsonbight(a)cetussociety.org>For more information please visit our website www.ProtectOurWhales.com <http://www.protectourwhales.com> * ----------- *Erin Parsons* Robson Bight Warden Program Supervisor Cetus Research and Conservation Society PO Box 90, Alert Bay, BC V0N1A0 robsonbight(a)cetussociety.org www.ProtectOurWhale <http://www.cetussociety.org/>s.com

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Science of Underwater Sound: A new, interactive, digital book available in the iBooks Store
by Holly Morin 05 Mar '18

05 Mar '18

Underwater sound has the potential to impact marine mammals and other marine species. It can be challenging to keep up with the latest research developments, as well as understand the multidisciplinary complexities of underwater sound. To provide an accurate, scientific resource on the science of underwater sound, the Discovery of Sound in the Sea (DOSITS) <http://www.dosits.org/> team has produced a new, interactive electronic book (eBook), Discovery of Sound in the Sea (DOSITS) Book II: Science of Underwater Sound <https://dosits.org/book/>, which contains high-resolution imagery, videos, and sound files. It provides a condensed electronic resource that focuses on the fundamental science of underwater sound, sound movement/propagation and sound measurement/signal levels, as well as advanced content, including ocean noise measurement, variability, and noise budgets. Several topics in the book are areas of active scientific research; new information will be integrated into the eBook as peer-reviewed publications become available. The content in this book is based on the DOSITS project, including its website, www.dosits.org. DOSITS content is based on well-understood scientific principles, peer-reviewed literature, and high-quality scientific data. Independent, scientific experts, who specialize in underwater acoustics, have reviewed all DOSITS content. The DOSITS project keeps its content as up-to-date as possible, incorporating new research findings twice a year. The book is available in the ITunes store <https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/discovery-sound-in-sea-book-ii-science-und…> for macOS, iPad, and iPhone. To view sample pages and access the book via an iTunes link, please visit the DOSITS website at www.dosits.org/book/. Information and an iTunes link for Book I: Importance of Sound in the Sea can also be found on this page. Questions? Please contact Holly Morin (holly_morin(a)uri.edu) *********************************** Holly Morin Marine Research Associate III URI/GSO/ISC (401) 874-6414 holly_morin(a)uri.edu

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FW: ECS workshop: 'Marine Renewable Energy - Current research and evidence gaps on impact on Marine Mammals'
by Walker, Rebecca (NE) 05 Mar '18

05 Mar '18

Dear Colleagues, We would like to invite you to participate in a workshop on ‘Marine Renewable Energy - Current research and evidence gaps on impact on Marine Mammals’ to be held on Friday 6th April 2018 ahead of the European Cetacean Society Conference in La Spezia, Italy. The workshop will start at 9am and finish by 5pm. There is a participation fee of €25, to be paid on the day. The workshop is being organised by members of the UK statutory nature conservation bodies (Natural England, Scottish Natural Heritage, Natural Resources Wales and the Joint Nature Conservation Committee) who act as advisors to the UK government. The aim of the workshop is to share knowledge on current and developing research and evidence gaps on the impacts of marine renewable energy development on marine mammals across Europe. Summary: The impacts of marine renewable energy (MRE) developments such as offshore wind and tidal energy are potentially of conservation concern for marine mammal populations. Research on impacts, monitoring and mitigation is being undertaken across various EU countries, but often information on current work is not easily shared and risks duplication of effort. This workshop seeks to gather together researchers, regulators, developers and nature conservation agencies from around Europe to discuss the research work that is ongoing and planned in each country. This will include long-term strategic programmes of work, sectoral studies and renewable development site specific research. The workshop agenda will include case studies on current and developing research, an item exploring how countries are aligning their strategic and industry funded research and monitoring, whether more cross sectoral projects would be useful and a discussion on current evidence gaps. These discussions will allow the workshop participants to share their current and planned work, explore whether work is being duplicated and identify potential cross-border and cross sector collaborations that could take place to gain as much data and knowledge as possible from the work being undertaken. The workshop will identify a list of current research and evidence gaps to be shared publicly via workshop proceedings, which will then be a useful resource to help identify where to target future work. It will also be a useful forum for the sharing of ideas and building a network of regulators, conservation advisors and researchers working on similar issues across the MRE sector. Please contact Rebecca Walker: rebecca.walker2(a)naturalengland.org.uk<mailto:rebecca.walker2@naturalengland.org.uk> to register your place at this workshop. We look forward to seeing you in La Spezia! Rebecca Walker (on behalf of the organising committee) Natural England UK www.gov.uk/natural-england<http://www.gov.uk/natural-england> This email and any attachments is intended for the named recipient only. If you have received it in error you have no authority to use, disclose, store or copy any of its contents and you should destroy it and inform the sender. Whilst this email and associated attachments will have been checked for known viruses whilst within the Natural England systems, we can accept no responsibility once it has left our systems. Communications on Natural England systems may be monitored and/or recorded to secure the effective operation of the system and for other lawful purposes.

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