June 2018 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New paper on North Pacific right whales (Dana Wright - NOAA Affiliate)
by Dana Wright 04 Jun '18

04 Jun '18

Dear colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the recent publication of the following Note in Marine Mammal Science: Acoustic detection of the North Pacific right whale in the northern Bering Sea Wright DL, Berchok CL, Crance JL, Clapham PJ (2018) Acoustic detection of the North Pacific right whale in the northern Bering Sea. Mar Mamm Sci http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/mms.12521 This Note describes the acoustic detection of the critically endangered (n~30) North Pacific right whale (NPRW; *Eubalaena japonica*) at one recording station in the northern Bering Sea (61.59°N, 171.33°W) from September 2009 to September 2016. A total of 139 upcalls and 15,575 gunshot calls were heard between 27 July and 24 September 2016, with the majority of calling in September. It is unclear at this time why NPRW only recently and briefly were detected in the passive acoustic recordings in the northern Bering Sea. Nevertheless, the degree to which the presence of NPRW in this region is linked to changing climatic conditions needs to be explored given the present paucity of individuals in this population and the relatively rapid rate of climate change in the Arctic. Please contact me for a copy of the publication at dana.wright(a)noaa.gov. Best wishes, Dana Research Scientist Joint Institute for the Study of the Atmosphere and Ocean and The Marine Mammal Laboratory AFSC | NMFS | NOAA 7600 Sand Point Way NE, Bldg 4 <https://maps.google.com/?q=7600+Sand+Point+Way+NE,+Bldg+4+Seattle,+WA+98115…> Seattle, WA 98115 <https://maps.google.com/?q=7600+Sand+Point+Way+NE+%0D%0A+Seattle,+WA+98115&…> 206-526-4023 | dana.wright(a)noaa.gov

1 0

New article - Abundance and demographic parameters of bottlenose dolphins in a highly affected coastal ecosystem
by Bruno Diaz Lopez 04 Jun '18

04 Jun '18

We are delighted to bring to your attention the publication of our last scientific article published in Marine and Freshwater Research. Methion, S. & Diaz Lopez, B. (2018) Abundance and demographic parameters of bottlenose dolphins in a highly affected coastal ecosystem. Marine and Freshwater Research. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1071/MF17346 Abstract: This study presents the first robust estimates of abundance and demographic parameters of common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in a highly affected coastal ecosystem along the north-eastern Atlantic. Seasonal abundance, apparent survival and temporary emigration rates were estimated using Pollock’s robust design models. Photographic identification data were collected from 2014 to 2016 along the north-western Iberian coast (Spain). Bottlenose dolphins were present year-round and with a high degree of occurrence in the study area, which is highly affected by human activity but is also a highly productive coastal ecosystem. Local abundance of bottlenose dolphins ranged from 56 in autumn 2014 to 144 in winter 2015. Apparent survival rate was high and constant, indicating no mortality and no permanent emigration. Temporal emigration rates varied seasonally and were lower from autumn to winter, suggesting that dolphins had a high probability of returning during the winter period. The observed changes inabundance and emigration rates most likely reflect seasonal fluctuations in abundance of prey species in this area. These results provide important baseline information in an area subject to significant anthropogenic pressures and for future comparisons with other populations of similar characteristics under the pressure of human activities, such as fisheries and aquaculture. If you cannot download the publication, you can request a pdf by emailing to: bruno(a)thebdri.com or severine(a)thebdri.com Please feel free to contact us for any question regarding the study, Best regards, Bruno Diaz Lopez Ph.D Chief biologist and Director The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI Avenida Beiramar 192, O Grove 36980, Pontevedra, Spain www.thebdri.com 0034 684248552 This email is confidential to the intended recipient(s) and the contents may be legally privileged or contain proprietary and private informations. It is intended solely for the person to whom it is addressed. If you are not an intended recipient, you may not review, copy or distribute this email. If received in error, please notify the sender and delete the message from your system immediately. Please note that neither the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI nor the sender accept any responsibility for any viruses and it is your responsibility to scan the email and the attachments (if any). Thank you for your cooperation.

1 0

LAST MINUTE CALL - CETUS Project in Madeira Island, Portugal
by Rita Ferreira 04 Jun '18

04 Jun '18

Oceanic Observatory of Madeira (OOM/ARDITI) is currently opening LAST-MINUTE INTERNSHIPS FOR SUMMER in Madeira Island (Portugal) The Oceanic Observatory of Madeira (OOM) is a research unit within the Regional Agency for the Development of Research, Technology and Innovation (ARDITI), located in Madeira Island, Portugal. OOM seeks to become a centre of excellence dedicated to research and permanent monitoring of the ocean. This initiative brings together a multidisciplinary scientific community, joining several institutions with the aim of promoting cooperation and resource optimization. http://oom.arditi.pt *OOM/ARDITI is looking for 2 interns to help with our marine mammals’ research project based in Madeira Island, Portugal.* We are currently filling positions for *1st July - 10th August 2018* *Internship Details:* The interns will be enrolled in data collection on board ferries with a fixed route between Madeira Island and Porto Santo Island. Food on board is provided. These positions are unpaid but we encourage candidates to seek grants where we can post as host institution. In order to cover for logistic expenses, there is a monthly fee of 75eur. Non-European candidates must cover their own insurance expenses. *Internship description:* - An intensive training on monitoring protocol, cetacean identification and data processing and analysis; - Sea surveys Madeira-Porto Santo; - Data processing and analysis; - Educational activities in local schools or to the general public (when possible); - Free time to visit Madeira and Porto Santo; - Accident insurance. Successful applicants should possess or be enrolled in a BS or MS course in biology or related, be reliable, dedicated, adaptable and patient, as this work is highly weather dependent and requires consecutive days of work at sea. If you are an undergraduate or graduate student interested in pursuing a career in marine mammal research, this is an excellent opportunity to learn and gain experience at sea. Application deadline is 14th June. If you are interested in interning with OOM/ARDITI, please send a CV and a letter of interest to rita.ferreira(a)oom.arditi.pt. Thank you, Rita Ferreira, MsC OOM-ARDITI Phone: +351291721246 <+351%20291%20721%20246>

1 0

Looking for a copy of F. Cuvier's 1836 monograph on cetaceans
by Thomas Jefferson 02 Jun '18

02 Jun '18

Dear MARMAM, I am looking for an original first edition copy of the following 2-volume book: Cuvier, F. 1836. De l'Histoire Naturelle des Cetaces, ou Recureil et Examen des Faits. Libraire Encyclpopedique de Roret, Paris. 416 pp. + 22 plates in two volumes (I: text, II: atlas) If you know of anyone who has a copy they would be willing to donate or sell, please let me know. Best wishes, ThomasA. Jefferson, Ph.D. ClymeneEnterprises / ¡VIVA Vaquita! Email: sclymene(a)aol.com

1 0

Conference on Marine Mammals and Acoustics
by Olivier ADAM 02 Jun '18

02 Jun '18

Dear MARMAM Community, The 2018 International Workshop on Detection, Classification, Localization and Density Estimation of Marine Mammals using passive acoustics (DCLDE) will take place at Sorbonne University (www.sorbonne-universite.fr) in Paris, France, 4-8 June 2018. The program is now on line: http://sabiod.univ-tln.fr/DCLDE/ Monday, 2 tutorial sessions (full day, starting at 8:30am) on tools to observe marine mammals and to automatically extract features about their population and their marine environment: - Machine learning - Deep learning - Density estimation. We are very happy to combine science and art by inviting the famous choregrapher Camille Hanson (http://www.camillehanson.com/) to perform the Sacrifice of Giants during the banquet evening the 7th of June. Thank you to our financial funders to make this scientific event possible: - French Ministry of Foreign Affairs: https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr - Office of Naval Research: https://www.onr.navy.mil - CeSigma: http://www.cesigma.eu/ - Navfac: https://www.navfac.navy.mil - CGG / Sercel : www.cgg.com - Acoustical Society of America: https://acousticalsociety.org Photos of the conference are provided by - Cetamada : https://www.cetamada.org/ - Baleines et Cie: http://www.baleinesetcompagnie.com/ See you soon in Paris! Olivier ---------------------------------------------------------------- This message was sent using IMP, the Internet Messaging Program.

1 0

American Cetacean Society conference call for abstracts
by posters＠acsonline.org 02 Jun '18

02 Jun '18

Dear MARMAM subscribers, We are pleased to announce the American Cetacean Society's 16th International Conference to be held November 2-4, 2018 in Newport Beach, CA. Whales & Us: The Next Generation ACS's International Conference is a highly respected gathering of scientists, educators, conservationists, students, hobbyists and anyone with an interest in cetaceans and their ocean environment.This conference will focus on the future of whale, dolphin and porpoise conservation. Activities will include speaker sessions with world-renowned experts, a poster session including a student research poster contest, a photography contest, a silent auction, book signings, an art show, vendor exhibits, and much more. We will also hold our traditional pre-conference all-day whale watching trip on Friday November 2nd, and will venture out into the rich southern California waters between Catalina Island and Orange County. CALL FOR ABSTRACTS: Abstracts for the Poster Session and Student Research Poster Contest will be accepted through August 5th, 2018. - Poster Session: This session will showcase a variety of programs and projects based out of educational institutions, agencies, and non-profit organizations. It isintended to encourage discussion and facilitate the exchange of current information pertaining to cetacean research, conservation, policy, and education. - Student Research Poster Contest: We invite graduate and undergraduate students to present their work in the ACS Conference Student Contest. The contest is for poster presenters, with a $250 First-Place prize for the top presenter, a $150 Second-Place prize, and a $100 Third-Place prize. First, second- and third-place winners will be recognized at the conference Sunday morning and will be featured in an upcoming issue of the ACS Spyhopper newsletter. The student contest provides an opportunity for students at universities and institutions to gain presentation experience in a professional environment and provides a forum in which existing professionals and scientists may meet their rising peers. Abstract submissions will be accepted from current undergraduate or graduate students, student interns, and recently graduated students (within the past year) who conducted their work prior to graduation. Student authors must be from accredited institutions of higher education. For submission guidelines and details, please visit : http://www.acsonline.org/assets/docs/ACS_2018_Conference/poster%20session%2… Poster session-related inquiries can be sent to [ posters(a)acsonline.org ]( mailto:posters@acsonline.org ) See you in November! Sincerely, The American Cetacean Society Conference Poster Committee AMERICAN CETACEAN SOCIETY P.O. Box 51691 Pacific Grove, CA 93950

1 0

New publication on bowhead and beluga whales in the western Beaufort Sea
by Clarke, Janet 01 Jun '18

01 Jun '18

My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the publication of our paper in Arctic: Clarke, JT, Ferguson, MC, Willoughby, AL, and Brower, AA. 2018. Bowhead and Beluga Whale Distributions, Sighting Rates, and Habitat Associations in the Western Beaufort Sea in Summer and Fall 2009 - 16, with Comparison to 1982 - 91. Arctic 71(2). ABSTRACT. We analyzed data from line-transect aerial surveys for marine mammals conducted in the western Beaufort Sea (shore to 72˚ N, 140˚ - 157˚ W) from July to October of 2009 - 16 to investigate the distribution, behaviors, sighting rates, and habitat use preferences of bowhead and beluga whales. The habitat use data allowed for direct comparison with data collected in the same area from 1982 to 1991. Both species are ice-adapted, migrating through leads in sea ice in spring, and are seasonal inhabitants of the western Beaufort Sea during summer and fall. From 2009 to 2016, bowhead whales were seen in all survey months, with the highest overall sighting rate (whales per km) in August. Bowhead sighting rates were highest in the whales’ preferred habitats: outer shelf habitat (51 - 200 m depth) in July and inner shelf-shallow habitat (≤ 20 m depth) in August, September, and October. Beluga whales were also seen in all survey months, with highest overall sighting rate in July. Beluga whales were overwhelmingly associated with continental slope habitat (201 - 2000 m depth) in all months. Bowhead whale distribution and depth preferences in summer months of 2009 - 16 differed from those observed in 1982 - 91, when bowheads were not seen during limited survey effort in July and preferred outer continental shelf habitat in August. These differences indicate that bowhead whale preference for shallow shelf habitat now occurs earlier in summer than it used to. Beluga whale distribution and depth preference remained similar between 1982 - 91 and 2009 - 16, with strong preference for continental slope during both periods. Differences in sea ice cover habitat association for both species are likely due more to the relative lack of sea ice in recent years compared to the earlier period than to shifts in habitat preference. Habitat partitioning between bowhead and beluga whales in the western Beaufort Sea remained evident except in July, when both species used continental slope habitat. In July - October 2009 - 16, the distribution, sighting rates, and behavior of both bowheads and belugas in the western Beaufort showed considerable interannual variation, which underscores the importance of annual sampling to accurate records of the complex western Beaufort Sea ecosystem. The full article is available to AINA online subscribers: https://arctic.journalhosting.ucalgary.ca/arctic/index.php/arctic/issue/vie… A pdf copy may be requested from janet.clarke(a)leidos.com<mailto:janet.clarke@leidos.com>. Regards - Janet Clarke Research Biologist, Leidos

1 0

Cascadia Research Collective internship announcement
by Sabre Mahaffy 01 Jun '18

01 Jun '18

Cascadia Research Collective in Olympia, Washington is now accepting interns for U.S. west coast and Hawaiʻi research for fall of 2018, and winter and spring of 2019! Cascadia Research Collective (CRC) is a 501(c)3 non-profit research and education organization founded in 1979. Most of our research is focused on whale and dolphin populations along the west coast of North America and in Hawaiʻi. For more information about Cascadia and our research please visit www.cascadiaresearch.org<http://www.cascadiaresearch.org/> [http://www.cascadiaresearch.org/sites/all/themes/nexus/images/slide-image-2…]<http://www.cascadiaresearch.org/> Cascadia Research<http://www.cascadiaresearch.org/> www.cascadiaresearch.org Cascadia Research, a non-profit Washington State corporation recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization, has conducted scientific research and education for the past 39 years. We are seeking interns to help with our U.S. west coast and Hawaiʻi research projects. Both internships are office-based positions in Olympia, Washington. We are currently filling positions for: Fall 2018 (September-December) Winter 2019 (January-March) Spring 2019 (April-June) Internships are unpaid, office-based positions in Olympia, WA and housing is not provided. International applicants will also be considered, but it is the responsibility of the applicant to acquire necessary visas and documentation. Internship Details: CRC gives priority to juniors or seniors with a science background who are seeking academic credit as well as those enrolled in (or planning to attend) graduate school in a marine science-related field. A full time commitment (40 hours per week) is preferred. Internships are generally three months in length, although exceptions can be made depending on the academic calendar of the college or university. Much of CRC’s work involves photo identification, using natural markings unique to each individual to catalog and track individuals over time. This allows us to study association patterns and movements over extended periods of time, revealing information on population structure and social organization. Interns will spend a large portion of their time comparing new photographs to those in our existing catalogs, and may additionally be involved in digital image processing and data entry. Additionally, interns may have opportunities to participate in Washington state stranding response, which may include beach surveys, data and specimen collection, data entry, and assisting in necropsies of pinnipeds & cetaceans. US West Coast Research: Interns will assist staff on our long-term photo-ID studies of baleen whales, including humpback, blue, and gray whales off the US West Coast and the inside waters of Washington state. For more information, see www.cascadiaresearch.org Hawaiʻi Research: Interns will assist staff on our long-term photo-ID studies of a variety of species of odontocetes (e.g., rough-toothed dolphins, false killer whales, beaked whales) found in Hawaiian waters. For more information, see www.cascadiaresearch.org/hawaii.htm For a full description of the internships available, please visit: www.cascadiaresearch.org/interns.htm Photo identification requires a high degree of focus and attention to detail, and interns can expect to spend the majority of their time comparing photographs. Successful applicants should have the following skills: - strong communication skills - focus and attention to detail - willingness to spend long hours in front of a computer - ability to work independently If you are interested in interning with Cascadia, please visit our website and send a CV (including references and their contact information), two professional letters of recommendation and a letter of interest that describes why you are applying for the position and how the experience will help you be successful in meeting long-term goals. For a US west coast project internship please send the information to: Kiirsten Flynn: kflynn(a)cascadiaresearch.org<mailto:kflynn@cascadiaresearch.org> For a Hawaiʻi project internship please send the information to: Sabre Mahaffy: mahaffys(a)cascadiaresearch.org<mailto:mahaffys@cascadiaresearch.org> If you would like to be considered for either, please indicate that in your letter and send to both. ----------------------------------------- Sabre Mahaffy, M.Sc. Research Biologist Cascadia Research Collective 218 1/2 W. 4th Ave. Olympia, WA 98501 Office 360-943-7325 www.cascadiaresearch.org

1 0

Marine Mammal Research and Conservation Internship with Archipelagos Institue of Marine Conservation
by archi admissions 01 Jun '18

01 Jun '18

*Internship position with Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation ( www.archipelago.gr <http://www.archipelago.gr/> ):* *Marine Mammal Research and Conservation * *Background: *The eastern Aegean is a region rich in marine biodiversity, including cetacean (dolphins and whales), monk seals and sea turtles. Numerous of these species are listed as at risk, vulnerable and/or endangered by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature), as their habitats have been significantly impacted by human presence and activities. *Description: *The goal of the Archipelagos marine mammal research team is to monitor the regional status of marine mammal populations and their habitats in the eastern Aegean, a region where data relating to these species is largely lacking. By gathering knowledge on species populations and their respective threats, the research team identifies critical habitats that are especially susceptible to human and environmental impacts. Projects have a wide range of focus, including: · Collecting and analysing data on cetacean presence, abundance, distribution and behavioural studies through boat, ferry and land surveys · Collecting and analysing data on species movement, residency pattern and social structure using mark recapture photo-ID techniques · Monitoring and recording cetacean bioacoustics · Collecting and analysing data on the presence, abundance, distribution and behavioural tendencies of Mediterranean monk seals and various sea turtle species · Analysing microplastic content in marine animal digestive system · Monitoring and assessing marine litter on shore and at sea · Aegean Marine Life Sanctuary: the creation of an in-sea rehabilitation facility for marine mammals and turtles, but also for dolphins rescued from captivity. · Cetacean and sea turtle basic first aid and stranding response *Applicant profile:* · At least one year of college or university studies in the fields of marine, ecological, environmental sciences and/or veterinary science · Capacity for accurate and consistent data collection and analysis · Comfortable working under low supervision as well as leading a project independently · Ability to write scientific reports and papers · Ability to work both individually and as part of a dynamic, multi-cultural, multidisciplinary team · Excellent organizational and time-management skills · High standard of work · Fluency in English · Sincere desire to work towards Archipelagos’ conservation efforts · Motivation to live in a small island community *Duration:* A minimum duration of 3 months is highly recommended for all participants, although shorter placements can be tailored to the needs of groups and individuals. Placements can last as long as 12 months. *Location:* Archipelagos’ research bases and stations in the eastern Aegean Sea, on the islands of Samos, Lipsi, Ikaria, Leros, Arki, Marathi and Oinousses. Placements may also include working on board of one of our research boats. *Placement fee:* Monthly fees of 650 euro include: Living expenses (shared accommodation, all meals, wi-fi) Use of equipment & research boats Transport for working purposes Greek language lessons Students and recent graduates are advised to explore possible funding through their universities, by getting in touch with the Finance / International Relations / Placement/ Erasmus+ Offices at their Universities or other relevant grant providing organizations in their region. *Travelling costs are NOT included and are covered by the participant. *Application details:* Please submit CV and covering letter to admissions(a)archipelago.gr Best regards, Archipelagos Team Marine Research Base: P.O. Box 42, Pythagorio, Samos 83102 @ admissions(a)archipelago.gr; www.archipelago.gr Tel. +30 2273061147, +30 2273061191

1 0

DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP IN PORTUGAL
by AIMM Internships 01 Jun '18

01 Jun '18

*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, 2018. 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 2018 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: www.aimmportugal.org/dolphin-research-internship AIMM will send a confirmation e-mail with all the details about the internship and asking for your Resume/CV, motivation letter (small statement on which are your expectations and why do you want to work with AIMM) and the period of time that you want do the program. OR Applicants should send an e-mail to: interns(a)aimm-portugal.org, with the subject “*DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP*”. You will receive and e-mail with the availability and all the others 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* Website: www.aimmportugal.org Youtube: https://Youtube/AIMMPortugal Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AIMM.org/ Instagram: http://instagram.com/aimmportugal_org Twitter: https://twitter.com/AIMMPortugal

1 0