November 2019 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New article on French Guiana cetaceans and seabirds
by Ludivine Martinez 15 Nov '19

15 Nov '19

Dear Marmam colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to share our paper on marine mammals and seabirds off French Guiana. Martinez, L., Geraldes, D., Suardi, A., Wyss, V., Dutrieux, E., & Chaineau, C. (2019). New sightings records of marine mammals and seabirds off French Guiana. /Latin American Journal of Aquatic Research/, 47(5), 753-763. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.3856/vol47-issue5-fulltext-4 French Guiana region is one of the most productive in the world and hosts a wide variety of marine vertebrates. In the same time, anthropogenic activities are a growing concern in French Guiana, both in coastal and offshore areas. However, few studies are published on marine marine mammals, seabirds and potential interactions. Twenty-three marine mammal species are known to occur in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and important seabird breeding sites are located in the area. Most of the existing literature relates to breeding birds and coastal cetaceans, but the continental slope appears to be an essential habitat for marine mammals and seabirds. Between October 22 and November 23, 2017, an oceanographic survey was conducted on the Guiana slope to study the quality of sediments and water. Three marine fauna observers (MFOs) were onboard to record sightings of marine mammals and seabirds opportunistically. During 462 h of visual effort in good sighting conditions, 313 sightings (824 individuals) were recorded: 61 marine mammals (501 individuals) and 252 seabirds (323 individuals). Seven seabird families were observed: Laridae (42%), Fregatidae (26%), Procellariidae (12%), Stercorariidae (10%), Hydrobatidae (4%), Sulidae (2%) and Phaethontidae (1%). 3% concerned wader species. The most frequently observed seabird species was the magnificent frigatebird (/Fregata magnificens/), as well as the common tern (/Sterna hirundo/), Cory’s shearwater (/Calonectris diomedea/) and the pomarine jaeger (/Stercorarius pomarinus/). Many Delphinidae species were observed (/Stenella longirostris/,/Stenella attenuata/,/Stenella frontalis/,/Delphinus delphis/,/Tursiops truncatus/) in addition to sperm whales (/Physeter macrocephalus/) and humpback whales (/Megaptera novaeangliae/). Only a few sightings of humpback whales have been previously recorded in this area. Sighted individuals were mainly mother-calf pairs suggesting that the area may be an extended part of a calving ground for humpback whales. The open access paper can be downloaded here: http://lajar.ucv.cl/index.php/rlajar/article/view/vol47-issue5-fulltext-4/1… Kind regards, -- Ludivine Martinez Responsable Cohabys ADERA 05 46 50 76 71 (LD) 06 32 84 65 74 (M) ludivine.martinez(a)univ-lr.fr http://cohabys.fr La Rochelle Université Institut du Littoral et de l'Environnement 2 rue Olympe de Gouges Bureau 145 - 17000 La Rochelle univ-larochelle.fr <http://www.univ-larochelle.fr> Facebook <https://www.facebook.com/LaRochelleUniversite/> | Twitter <https://twitter.com/UnivLaRochelle> | Instagram <https://www.instagram.com/univlarochelle/> | Linkedin <https://www.linkedin.com/school/university-of-la-rochelle/> | YouTube <https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Cf7Z00cbodH9qC8i7SHXA>

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Aquatic Mammals Special Issue (45.6) is published and available
by Kathleen Dudzinski 14 Nov '19

14 Nov '19

Dear MARMAM and ECS Talk subscribers, Apologies to those of you who will receive duplicate emails due to cross-posting. The following titles represent the contents of the most recent issue (Volume 45, issue 6, 2019) of Aquatic Mammals. This issue is a special issue related to the ESOMM-2018 symposium. For individuals with a print subscription, the double print copy of 45.5/45.6 will be mailed in late November. I encourage you to visit the website not only for the recent issue but also because we have a new “Meet the Editorial Team” page under the “About Us” menu option. With this new feature, our readers and authors can virtually meet our editorial team. Aquatic Mammals is the longest running peer-reviewed journal dedicated to research on aquatic mammals and is published quarterly with manuscripts available as published PDFs in real time. Further information about the journal can be found at: http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/ <http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/> To submit a manuscript for publication consideration, please visit: http://am.expressacademic.org/actions/author.php <http://am.expressacademic.org/actions/author.php> Thank you for your continued interest in the journal and abstract postings. With regards, Kathleen M. Dudzinski, Ph.D. Editor, Aquatic Mammals Journal business(a)aquaticmammalsjournal.org <mailto:business@aquaticmammalsjournal.org> Frans-Peter. A. Lam and Koen C. Bröker, Guest Editors. (2019). Effects of Sound in the Ocean on Marine Mammals: ESOMM-2018 International Meeting. Aquatic Mammals, 45(6), 573-575. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.45.6.2019.573 <https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.45.6.2019.573> Koen C. Bröker. (2019). An Overview of Potential Impacts of Hydrocarbon Exploration and Production on Marine Mammals and Associated Monitoring and Mitigation Measures. Aquatic Mammals, 45(6), 576-611. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.45.6.2019.576 <https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.45.6.2019.576> E. Elizabeth Henderson, Jessica Aschettino, Mark Deakos, Gabriela Alongi, and Tara Leota. (2019). Quantifying the Behavior of Humpback Whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) and Potential Responses to Sonar. Aquatic Mammals, 45(6), 612-631. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.45.6.2019.612 <https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.45.6.2019.612> Ronald A. Kastelein, Amy Verhoeven, and Lean Helder-Hoek. (2019). Behavioral Responses of a Harbor Porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) to a Series of Four Different Simulated Low-Frequency Sonar Sounds (1.33-1.43 kHz). Aquatic Mammals, 45(6), 632-645. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.45.6.2019.632 <https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.45.6.2019.632> Catriona M. Harris, M. Louise Burt, Ann N. Allen, Paul J. Wensveen, Patrick J. O. Miller, and Lise D. Sivle. (2019). Foraging Behavior and Disruption in Blue, Fin, and Humpback Whales in Relation to Sonar Exposure: The Challenges of Generalizing Responsiveness in Species with High Individual Variability. Aquatic Mammals, 45(6), 646-660. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.45.6.2019.646 <https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.45.6.2019.646> Catriona M. Harris, Stephen W. Martin, Cameron Martin, Tyler A. Helble, E. Elizabeth Henderson, Charles G. M. Paxton, and Len Thomas. (2019). Changes in the Spatial Distribution of Acoustically Derived Minke Whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) Tracks in Response to Navy Training. Aquatic Mammals, 45(6), 661-673. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.45.6.2019.661 <https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.45.6.2019.661> Robert S. Schick, Matthew Bowers, Stacy DeRuiter, Ari Friedlaender, John Joseph, Tetyana Margolina, Douglas P. Nowacek, and Brandon L. Southall. (2019). Accounting for Positional Uncertainty When Modeling Received Levels for Tagged Cetaceans Exposed to Sonar. Aquatic Mammals, 45(6), 675-690. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.45.6.2019.675 <https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.45.6.2019.675> Jennifer L. Miksis-Olds, Danielle V. Harris, and Colleen Mouw. (2019). Interpreting Fin Whale (Balaenoptera physalus) Call Behavior in the Context of Environmental Conditions. Aquatic Mammals, 45(6), 691-705. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.45.6.2019.691 <https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.45.6.2019.691> Ronald A. Kastelein, Alexander M. von Benda-Beckmann, Frans-Peter A. Lam, Erwin Jansen, and Christ A. F. de Jong. (2019). Effect of a Bubble Screen on the Behavioral Responses of Captive Harbor Porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) Exposed to Airgun Sounds. Aquatic Mammals, 45(6), 706-716. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.45.6.2019.706 <https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.45.6.2019.706> Andrew A. Tubelli and Darlene R. Ketten. (2019). The Role of Material Properties in Cetacean Hearing Models: Knowns and Unknowns. Aquatic Mammals, 45(6), 717-732. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.45.6.2019.717 <https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.45.6.2019.717> Graham E. Voysey, Aleks Zosuls, and Darlene R. Ketten. (2019). Aligning Basilar Membrane Spirals to Two-Dimensional Images of Point-Stiffness Experiments. Aquatic Mammals, 45(6), 733-738. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.45.6.2019.733 <https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.45.6.2019.733> In Memoriam Frans-Peter. A. Lam. (2019). Master of the Oceans: Personal Memories: Walter H. Munk. Aquatic Mammals, 45(6), 739-744. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.45.6.2019.739 <https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.45.6.2019.739>

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New publication providing an 'Overview of Potential Impacts of Hydrocarbon Exploration and Production on Marine Mammals and Associated Monitoring and Mitigation Measures'
by Koen.Broker＠shell.com 14 Nov '19

14 Nov '19

Dear MARMAM readers, I would like to share the following publication: ‘An Overview of Potential Impacts of Hydrocarbon Exploration and Production on Marine Mammals and Associated Monitoring and Mitigation Measures’ Abstract Offshore hydrocarbon exploration and production (E&P) activities can overlap in space and time with marine mammal populations. These activities, especially seismic surveys, can generate loud sound levels that propagate well in the marine environment. Exposure of marine mammals at varying distances from the source of these sounds can result in a range of different impacts, from auditory injury to behavioral responses and masking. The source-pathway-receiver (SPR) model is a framework often used in environmental impact assessments. In this overview, the SPR model is applied to summarize the current understanding of 1) E&P impulsive sound sources such as air gun arrays and continuous sounds originating from drilling (source), 2) the propagation of sound generated by these sources through the ocean’s water column (pathway) and, 3) the impacts of these sounds on marine mammals (receiver). Potential unmitigated impacts of E&P activities on marine mammals can be categorized according to their impact severity and spatial scale, ranging from severe impacts occurring at a small spatial scale to lower level impacts occurring at larger scales (typically, but not always, in the following order: Permanent Threshold Shift → Temporary Thresholds Shift → behavioral disturbance → masking). Available monitoring techniques, applied to enhance our understanding of marine mammals as related to the potential full range of E&P impacts from individual behavioral responses up to population level consequences are also described using the SPR model. Additionally, the range of mitigation measures applied in the E&P industry to prevent unacceptable impacts to marine mammals are provided and categorized according to a mitigation hierarchy (avoid > minimize > restore > offset). Finally, a case is made for application of the ALARP (As Low As Reasonably Practical) principle in seismic mitigation guidelines; that is, the applied mitigation measures in specific E&P activities should be proportional with the assessed risk on marine mammal populations, as well as reasonably practicable to achieve. Broker, K.. (2019). An Overview of Potential Impacts of Hydrocarbon Exploration and Production on Marine Mammals and Associated Monitoring and Mitigation Measures. Aquatic Mammals, 45(6): 573-575. The open access paper can be downloaded here<https://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=art…> or here<https://www.researchgate.net/publication/337261633_An_Overview_of_Potential…>. Best regards, Koen Broker

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WMMC Workshop: The Diving Brain – Adaptations for Extreme Environments
by Stefan Huggenberger 14 Nov '19

14 Nov '19

Dear MarMamers We would like to inform you about the updated program (see below) of the workshop “The Diving Brain – Adaptations for Extreme Environments” at the World Marine Mammal Conference on Saturday, December 7th 2019 in Barcelona (Spain). Further information on the conference and workshops can be found on the WMMC website. We are looking forward to seeing you in Barcelona, Stefan Huggenberger and Bruno Cozzi (workshop organizers) WMMC Workshop: The Diving Brain – Adaptations for Extreme Environments Organizers: Stefan Huggenberger (Witten/Herdecke University) & Bruno Cozzi (University of Padua) Preliminary workshop program, Saturday 7. December 2019: 08:30 Luciano Fadiga (University of Ferrara, Italy) – Of men and whales: diving physiology. 09:00 Sam H. Ridgway (San Diego, U.S.A.) – Cortex and Cerebellum - long and short divers. 09:30 Hannsjörg Schröder (University of Cologne, Germany) – Comparing big brains: a brainstem view. 10:00 Coffee break 10:30 Short presentations - Frederike Hanke (University of Rostock, Germany) – Pinniped neuroanatomy - past and future - Alexandra Wright (University of St. Andrews, U.K.) – Toward comprehensive anatomical and functional cortical maps in marine mammals - Peter Tyack (University of St. Andrews, U.K.) – What does lateralization of sound production in odontocetes imply for auditory processing? 11:20 Bruno Cozzi & Stefan Huggenberger – Uncharted territories in the brains of marine mammals 11:30 Round table: Future directions and discussion for summarizing main scientific problems (“hot topics”) to encourage joint future activities (Chair: Joy Reidenberg) 12:00 Conclusion and future venues 12:30 Lunch 14:00 - 16:00 Two to three parallel afternoon sessions with practical work using modern teaching equipment such as virtual microscopy and open source tools for tomography data (participants can move from one session to the other and back). Participants are invited to bring own data (brain scans, photos of histological slides and dissections, etc.) for discussions 1. Navigating through the brain: macro slide series and MRI scans 2. Neuro-histology and routine histological slides from other organs 3. Intended: Video of the Morgane cetacean brain collection -- Dr. Stefan Huggenberger (visiting scientist) Department II of Anatomy University of Cologne 50924 Cologne, Germany www.anatomie.uni-koeln.de

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New paper: Swim-with humpback whales off Ningaloo, Western Australia
by Kate Rose-Ann Sprogis 14 Nov '19

14 Nov '19

Dear Colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce our recent article published in JEMBE: Sprogis, K. R., L. Bejder, D. Hanf and F. Christiansen. 2020. Behavioural responses of migrating humpback whales to swim-with-whale activities in the Ningaloo Marine Park, Western Australia. Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology 522:151254. doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jembe.2019.151254 Summary: Swim-with-whale tourism is a lucrative and rapidly growing industry worldwide. Whale-watching can cause negative effects on the behaviour of targeted animals. Although this is believed to be particularly true for close-up interactions, such as swim-with operations, few empirical studies have investigated this. In 2016, the Western Australian State Government commenced a swim-with humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) trial in the Ningaloo Marine Park, where 11 commercial licences were granted. The swim-with trial was conducted during both the northern and southern whale migration (August to November), during which we assessed potential short-term behavioural effects on humpback whales to swim-with activities. From both an independent research vessel (n=300h) and on-board commercial swim-with vessels (n=357h), we collected group-follow data (n = 224) on whale behaviour before, during and after swim-with activities. Behavioural effects on whales were investigated, including movement patterns (deviation and directness index, heading, swim speed), surfacing patterns (dive duration and respiration rate) and occurrence of agonistic behaviours. Results showed that the most common type of vessel approach to place swimmers in the water was in the path of whales (89.8% of interactions). During in-path approaches, vessels travelled significantly faster (P = .002) compared to when approaching from the side (side/line abreast approaches). When vessels approached in the whales' path, whales exhibited horizontal and vertical avoidance strategies by adopting a less predictable path (deviating from 32° to 46°), increasing turning angles away from the vessel (heading from 73° to > 90°), increasing swim speeds (from 1.68 to 1.89 ms−1), and decreasing the duration of their dives (from 224 to 194 s). Whales displayed a higher frequency of agonistic behaviours when a swim-with vessel was < 100 m distance from them compared to > 100 m away (P = .011). Young-of-year calves were present during 19.6% (18 of 92) of group-follows that included swim attempts. To reduce potential impacts on whales and increase swimmer safety, we recommend to avoid in-path vessel approaches, not place swimmers in the water with groups of whales that perform agonistic behaviours, and avoid swimming with young-of-year calves. Please email for the full text and supplementary material, or request through Research Gate, otherwise the full text can be downloaded here: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022098119301194 Kind regards, Kate Sprogis, PhD Marie Skłodowska-Curie Post-doctoral Fellow Marine Bioacoustics Lab,<https://marinebioacoustics.wordpress.com/people/kate-sprogis/> Dept. of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Denmark kate.sprogis(a)bios.au.dk<mailto:kate.sprogis@bios.au.dk> | Kate Sprogis Photography<https://katesprogisphotography.wordpress.com/> Twitter, Instagram: @KateSprogis [id:image001.jpg@01D5919C.8DCE7060] Recent papers: - Senigaglia V, Christiansen F, Sprogis KR, Symons J, Bejder L (2019) Food-provisioning negatively affects calf survival and female reproductive success in bottlenose dolphins. Scientific Reports 9:8981. doi: 10.1038/s41598-019-45395-6. - Nielsen MLK, Sprogis KR, Bejder L, Madsen PT and Christiansen F. 2019. Behavioural development in southern right whale calves. Marine Ecology Progress Series 629:219–234. doi: https://doi.org/10.3354/meps13125

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Research assistant - Intern coordinator: dolphin behaviour project
by BDRI information 13 Nov '19

13 Nov '19

Dear all, The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI) <http://www.thebdri.com/>, a marine science centre dedicated to promote the conservation of marine mammal species and their habitat through research and education, is currently accepting applications for the following: RESEARCH ASSISTANT - INTERN COORDINATOR This position is responsible for assisting the BDRI biologists in the running of the research project focused on the study of the impact of marine vessels on bottlenose dolphin behaviour and coordinating the interns participating in the project. The intern coordinator will be responsible for the daily activities of the interns, and contributing to the daily functioning of the institute, participating both to field and lab work. In return the intern coordinator will receive accommodation, equipment and logistics support as well as constant supervision from Dr. Bruno Diaz Lopez, director, chief biologist; Ms. Severine Methion, MSc, PhD candidate, principal investigator, marine ecologist; and Mr. Oriol Giralt, MSc, PhD candidate, research staff, marine biologist. The project is based in O Grove, North-western coast of Spain and offers the chance to work during many steps of the field research and data analysis. The main purpose of this program is to contribute towards a more detailed understanding of the ecology and behaviour of bottlenose dolphins with a focus on the behavioural changes induced by the presence of vessels. Start Date: March 1st 2020 End Date: August 31st 2020 (start and end dates could be flexible) Responsibilities will include (but are not limited to): * Assisting the BDRI's biologists in all phases of the research and organization. * Coordinate between the BDRI's biologists and the interns - in charge of the intern shared house. * Assisting the BDRI's biologists in intern basic training of land-based surveys and lab work (photo-identification analysis, database entry, GIS, and more). * Responsible of land-based surveys of wild cetaceans. REQUIREMENTS: - An academic background in biology, veterinary or natural science, coupled with motivation, willingness to work hard and interest in marine mammals’ research make the most qualified individuals. The successful applicant is expected to have a BSc degree (or higher) and able to demonstrate previous experience in marine mammal research. - The preferred candidate should have a proven track record as a team player as the project will involve working closely with other participants but also must be able to supervise small groups of people as they will be coordinating up to 10 interns. They must also be self-motivated with the drive and determination to work independently and responsibly. - Must be of good physical fitness, be able to lift/carry 35lbs (16 kg), walk long distances in difficult terrain, be comfortable on boats in nearshore/offshore waters, able to swim, and work in harsh weather conditions at times. - The intern coordinator must be able to follow written and oral staff directions and protocols effectively. - The intern coordinator must be able to spend many hours on shore, and working in the lab. Laboratory work days typically last 6 hours and field days typically exceed 4 hours and occur approximately 2 or 3 times per week. There will be two days off per week. Please keep in mind that field work is weather dependent, unpredictable, and changes seasonally. - Fluent in English. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION This position brings the opportunity to be trained and to undertake a personal research project supervised by the BDRI' Chief Biologist (Dr. Bruno Diaz Lopez) and BDRI' Marine Biologist (Severine Methion) as part of the land-based study carried out during this period about the impact of vessels on dolphins’ behaviour. If the candidate intends to receive academic credit, she/he will be responsible for making all arrangements with her/his educational institution. This position is unpaid but accommodation in the intern shared house will be covered. Successful applicants will be responsible of their own expenses, including food and travelling to and from the research centre in O Grove (Galicia, Spain). TO APPLY: Interested candidates should submit an application with the following: - A cover letter including your availability, i.e. preferred time period (1 page only); - A resume describing training, experience and relevant skills (2 pages only); - Names and contact information of at least one reference (preferred). Please send these items as e-mail attachments (PDF preferred) to: info(a)thebdri.com Please specify BDRI INTERN COORDINATOR into your subject title. If they are not European citizens, applicants must be authorized to legally remain in Europe for more than 3 months. International applicants will be considered, but it is the responsibility of the applicant to acquire necessary visas and documentation. DEADLINE: November 30th 2019. Interviews (via Skype) will be arranged for selected candidates. Meetings can also be organised during the World Marine Mammal Conference in Barcelona in December. For more information about BDRI's research and conservation work, please visit http://www.thebdri.com and our Facebook page (BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN RESEARCH INSTITUTE - BDRI). Scientific articles published by the BDRI in 2019 (for a full list of publications please visit: <http://www.thebdri.com/research/papers.html>): - Methion S, Diaz Lopez B. 2019. Individual foraging variation drives social organization in bottlenose dolphins. Behavioral Ecology. DOI:10.1093/beheco/arz160 - Methion S, Diaz Lopez B. 2019. First record of atypical pigmentation pattern in fin whale Balaenoptera physalus in the Atlantic Ocean. Diseases of Aquatic Organisms 135:121-125. - Giralt Paradell O, Diaz Lopez B, Methion S. 2019. Modelling common dolphin (Delphinus delphis) coastal distribution and habitat use: insights for conservation. Ocean and Coastal Management 104836 - Methion S, Diaz Lopez B. 2019. Natural and anthropogenic drivers of foraging behaviour in bottlenose dolphins: influence of shellfish aquaculture. Aquatic Conservation Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems. DOI: 10.1002/aqc.3116. - Diaz Lopez B, Methion S. 2019. Habitat drivers of endangered rorqual whales in a highly impacted upwelling region. Ecological Indicators 103:610–616. - Diaz Lopez B, Methion S, Giralt Paradell O. 2019. Living on the edge: Overlap between a marine predator’s habitat use and fisheries in the Northeast Atlantic waters (NW Spain). Progress in Oceanography 175:115–223. - Diaz Lopez B. 2019. "Hot deals at sea": responses of a top predator (Bottlenose dolphin, Tursiops truncatus) to human-induced changes in the coastal ecosystem. Behavioural Ecology DOI: 10.1093/beheco/ary162 Best regards, and see you in Galicia, The BDRI team The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI Avenida Beiramar 192, O Grove 36980, Spain www.thebdri.com 0034 684 248552 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.

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New Publication - The influence of physiological status on the reproductive behaviour of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae)
by Mr Fletcher Mingramm 12 Nov '19

12 Nov '19

Dear MARMAM colleagues, We are pleased to announce that the following paper is now available online: F.M.J. Mingramm, T. Keeley, D.J. Whitworth, R.A. Dunlop (2020). The influence of physiological status on the reproductive behaviour of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae), 117, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yhbeh.2019.104606 Abstract: For most cetacean species, there is little known about how an individual's physiology influences its behaviour. Humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) are a good candidate to examine such links as they have a well-described distribution and behaviour, can be consistently sampled using remote biopsy systems, and have been the subject of several previous endocrine studies. The objective here was to examine whether a female humpback whale's social state (i.e. escorted by a male or not) is related to her endocrine condition, and whether male dominance ranking is related to testosterone levels. Skin and blubber biopsies were collected from the east and west Australian humpback whale populations in 2010–2016 (n=252) at multiple times throughout the winter-spring breeding season. Steroid hormones were extracted from blubber and concentrations of progesterone (a marker for pregnancy), testosterone (a marker of male testicular activity) and oestradiol (a potential marker of ovarian activity) measured using enzyme-immunoassays. Principal escorts—the dominant males in mixed sex groups—had significantly higher blubber testosterone levels (mean ± SE; 1.43 ± 0.20 ng/g wet weight) than subordinate, secondary escorts (0.69 ± 0.06 ng/g wet weight). Females that were escorted by males typically possessed elevated blubber oestradiol levels (1.96 ± 0.25 ng/g wet weight; p=0.014); few were considered to be pregnant (p=0.083). ‘Unescorted’ females displayed characteristically lower blubber oestradiol levels (0.56 ± 0.06 ng/g wet weight). Together, these results are consistent with ‘challenge hypothesis’ theory and suggest the existence of associated reproductive patterns in humpback whales. An open access copy can currently be downloaded from: https://authors.elsevier.com/a/1ZxEk_,2iMZFJw Kind regards, Fletcher

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Closing date extended to November 15 - Recruitment: Hawaiian Monk Seal Research Program 2020 Seasonal Field Camp Positions
by Lizabeth Kashinsky 12 Nov '19

12 Nov '19

The Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research (JIMAR) works with the NOAA Fisheries Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center through a cooperative agreement with the University of Hawaii to conduct research and recovery activities on Hawaiian monk seals. JIMAR hires program staff through the Research Corporation of the University of Hawaii (RCUH) and is currently seeking applicants for *two separate recruitments *for the 2020 field research season: *HMSRP Field Camp Research Technician-serves as field camp leader* *HMSRP Field Camp Research Assistant* Selected individuals will study the endangered Hawaiian monk seal in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands within the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. This work is part of a long-term annual Hawaiian monk seal population monitoring and conservation program by NOAA Fisheries and includes: conducting trend counts, tagging seals, identifying individual seals by tags, scars, natural markings, and applied bleach marks, monitoring reproduction, survival, injuries, entanglements, migration, vaccinating against morbillivirus, performing necropsies, collecting scat & spew samples for food habitat, parasite load, and hormonal analysis, collecting tissue samples for DNA analysis, and removing debris capable of entangling seals and other wildlife. Behavior data are also collected at some sites. Researchers at some sites may participate in shark mitigation activities. General information about the program can be found at: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/species/hawaiian-monk-seal#science The number of positions and/or continuation of the program are subject to funding. These positions will be for all or a subset of the 6 major monk seal sub-populations in the NWHI. Fieldwork is accomplished by 2-4 member teams in remote camps. Each team will include a paid leader and either paid assistants and volunteers or up to two volunteers assisting a paid leader. Volunteer positions will be recruited for in a separate announcement. Researchers live in either wall tents or buildings at the various sites. All sites are accessible by ship (2-8 day travel; 830-2,300 km from Honolulu), and one is also accessible by plane. Few (if any) resupply opportunities exist and communication with others outside of field sites is limited throughout deployment due to the remoteness and lack of infrastructure. The employment period will include approximately one month of training and packing in Honolulu. Once the field season is over, an additional ~1-2 weeks of employment will take place in Honolulu to clean up gear and summarize data. Dates are subject to change, but the positions are tentatively scheduled to begin in late February/early March with a field deployment date in early to mid-April. Field staff will be deployed for approximately 4.5-5 months with a tentative return date in early September. The position end date is tentatively scheduled for some time in mid-September. Applicants must be flexible in their availability as dates could change, including unforeseen delays due to inclement weather and ship delays. Travel to and from Honolulu and food, lodging, and transportation in Honolulu before deployment are not provided. Transportation between Honolulu and field sites and food and lodging in the field are provided. Due to unforeseen circumstances, departure delays could result in longer periods in Honolulu that may result in additional uncompensated living expenses. Applicants must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident Alien, and must be able to meet both the U.S. Department of Commerce and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) security requirements to access the work location, and also the health requirements to board a NOAA vessel. Instructions to apply for both positions are in the job postings below. *Please clearly address all qualifications in your cover letter. If you do not clearly address all qualifications in your cover letter, we may not be able to consider you as an applicant. *For example, to address the experience qualification, you must indicate in your cover letter how many years of field experience you have and be sure that is reflected in your resume. Interested individuals will need to apply directly to RCUH Human Resources via one of the methods stated in the job posting. Applications for both position must be submitted/received by the* closing date on 11/15/2019 (11:59 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time receipt time). * If you do not have access to the RCUH system and the closing date is imminent, you may send additional documents to rcuh_employment(a)rcuh.com. If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call (808)956-8344 or (808)956-0872. Follow the link below to access both recruitments. If applying for both positions, you must do so separately. JIMAR/PIFSC HMSRP Field Camp Research Technician (leader) – search job ID # 19550 JIMAR/PIFSC HMSRP Field Camp Research Assistant - search Job ID #19549 https://hcmweb.rcuh.com/psc/hcmprd_exapp/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM.HRS_APP_S… -- Lizabeth Kashinsky JIMAR/Program Supervisor Hawaiian Monk Seal Research Program NOAA IRC NMFS/PIFSC/PSD 1845 WASP Blvd., Building 176 Honolulu, HI 96818 Ph: (808) 725-5719 Fax: (808) 725-5567

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Guiana dolphin survey
by Yurasi Briceño 12 Nov '19

12 Nov '19

Survey: Guiana dolphin pre-assesment – IWC.SC In a coalition involving researchers, the Aquatic Mammals Center / ICMBIO and the International Whale Commission (CIB) sub-committee of small cetaceans, we are organizing an assessment of the current status of knowledge on population, ecological and conservation parameters of *Sotalia guianensis *and your contribution will be essential in order to get a first view into the existing information and efforts. We appreciate if you can contribute by answering the attached Google form and even disclosing it to colleagues, students and other researchers who work or have worked with the species. This information will be compiled and presented for a first joint evaluation to be held at a workshop in Brazil this year. As there is no budget for invitation to all experts, this questionnaire was the tool found for the greater and better knowledge to be included in this step. New steps will come and we are committed to sharing the results with those involved in this information gathering. The evaluation, both as a result of this stage and the ones that will follow, will compose a report to be presented to the CIB. We thank you in advance for your contribution and are available to answer any questions. *Please, use this link to access google form:* *https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScSLMSIjOaYwPH7rjRUoKk7cV5xt0JiwsTaRTGQbCdM5znnhA/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1 <https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScSLMSIjOaYwPH7rjRUoKk7cV5xt0JiwsT…> * Contact: Camila Domit / cadomit(a)gmail.com -- *PhD. (C) Yurasi Briceño* *@proyectosotalia*Universidad del Zulia. Centro de Ecología. Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas (IVIC), Carretera Panamericana, km 11 Altos de Pipe, Apartado postal 20632, Caracas1020-A, Estado Miranda - VENEZUELA Tlf: (58)(212)5041905 Mobile: (58)(412)5553962

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Atlantic Marine Conservation Society Internship Opportunity
by Jennifer Lopez 12 Nov '19

12 Nov '19

Good evening, MARMAM Community, My name is Jennifer Lopez and I am the Volunteer Coordinator with the Atlantic Marine Conservation Society (AMCS). AMCS is a 501 © 3 not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting conservation of our marine environment through action. Some of our action items include data research, surveys and health assessments, involvement in the Specially Trained Animal Response Team (START), response to entangled and out of habitat animals, necropsies, beach monitoring, public outreach, and education. I wanted to reach out to let you know that our organization is now accepting applications for our Winter 2019-2020 and Spring 2020 internships. We offer internships in three different areas: 1) Conservation Research Program Join our conservation efforts through a Conservation Research Internship. Conduct beach monitoring events including beach clean ups, cold stunned sea turtle monitoring, and seal surveys. Work with collected data to help bring a better understanding of Long Island’s marine habitat and the marine animals and marine debris and present within. Specific projects include: 1. Pinniped Population Documentation: Lead a seal watching cruise once per week throughout the length of the internship aboard the Peconic Star II. Educate the public on seals in our area, and photo document the population of grey seals that are observed during the cruise. Observations include weather recordings, animal numbers and behavior while at the site. Compare this data to other days of the week from fellow interns to determine if there is any predictability in residency or frequency of sightings. Interns will also review photographs taken during the winter seal cruises in Shinnecock Bay, identify any injured animals, and complete counts of the photographs taken. This will give a different perspective to seal observation work in comparison to the grey seals observed on the cruises they lead. 2. GIS/ Database Management: Develop database for storing stranding, survey and satellite tracking data. Map strandings real time for monthly stranding trend review, and keep the team up to date with real time stranding trends. Map satellite tagged animals and input data from tags into the database. 3. Wild Population Surveys: Work with biologists on data collected from aerial, land and boat based surveys. Maintain data entry for these trips, learn about conducting and leading each type of survey, and work with photographs collected from surveys to count animals and identify natural or human caused injuries. 4. Marine Debris Documentation: Lead two beach cleanup activities per week, one north shore beach one south shore beach. Educate the public on the harms of marine debris and data collection techniques. Record data from each site, compile at the end of internship to compare amount collected at each site and difference in items collected. Create marine debris content to be used on AMCS website and presented at educational opportunities. Skills important to the internship are attention to detail, the ability to work individually or as a part of a team, and the ability to train and lead small groups for beach monitoring efforts. Our objectives are to train students to successfully monitor the beaches of our local marine environment and collect data to help gain a better understanding of these individual landscapes and their properties. Students will also receive training in what to do in the case of marine mammal and sea turtle sightings and strandings. This internship will provide students with firsthand knowledge on the impacts of marine debris on our environment, will allow them to quantify and qualify the marine debris specific to individual beaches, and how to involve our communities in taking action to make a positive impact. Data collected will contribute to efforts in mitigation. 2) Education Program Work with our Education Team to promote an informed community that is aware of our marine environment and its inhabitants, our human impact, and how to impact the environment in a positive way. Help us with our outreach efforts by conducting community beach clean ups, and education programs geared to a variety of ages through an Education Internship. Skills required for this internship include the ability to communicate in writing and in public speaking, and a basic knowledge of environmental science. Our objectives are to provide students with hands on education experience in a variety of outlets and audiences. Students will train to communicate with and teach local communities about our marine environment, the marine mammals and sea turtles inhabiting our waters, the anthropogenic threats that they face, and how we can work together to help create a healthier environment. Students will not only have the opportunity to grow in their ability to educate the public, but will also learn more about our ocean's need for conservation, and how to promote conservation as a part of this marine mammal and sea turtle stranding response team. 3) Field Response Program Work with our Field Response Team to conduct stranding investigation efforts, including necropsies for the marine mammals and sea turtles that wash up on our shores through a Field Response Internship. Specific Projects include: 1. Response to a specific species or taxa (i.e. Sea turtles, or more specifically Loggerhead sea turtles) Complete all data collection required for those animals, and compile cause of mortality tables. Compare these results to the results from 2017 and 2018 to determine patterns or unusual findings. 2. Sea turtle stomach contents: Examine the stomach contents of sea turtles examined in 2017 and 2018 season, and categorize food items eaten, along with foreign items found. 3. Sample Inventory Maintenance: Maintain inventory of marine mammal and sea turtle samples collected during response. Research technology to assist with digitization of current inventory and implement procedures for real time entry into inventory system when samples are collected. Skills this internship requires include the ability to work as a member of a team, participation in lecture-based training and some flexibility regarding some of the hands-on experiences like necropsy events, which do not have much notice due to the nature of these events. Our Objectives for students include training as a part of the response team, growing in knowledge of marine mammal and sea turtle anatomy, and a variety of roles within stranding investigation process. ************************************************ Application steps are as follows: 1. Apply by filling out an application on our website: http://www.amseas.org/volunteer/ 2. Send a cover letter, resume, and have three letters of recommendation (two being academic) to either education(a)amseas.org, or to PO Box 932, Hampton Bays, NY 11946 If you have any questions, please email education(a)amseas.org. Warm regards, Jennifer Lopez Field Biologist & Volunteer Coordinator Atlantic Marine Conservation Society Email: volunteers(a)amseas.org Cell: (631)-461-7826 Hotline: (631)-369-9829 www.amseas.org<http://www.amseas.org>

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