May 2019 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

CETACEANS RESEARCH INTERNSHIP IN ITALY- JUNE- LAST SPOT AVAILABLE
by Elena Fontanesi - elena.fontanesi2＠studio.unibo.it 08 May '19

08 May '19

RESEARCH INTERNSHIP JUNE 2019 CETACEANS RESEARCH INTERNSHIP IN ITALY - last spot available, DISCOUNTED RATE! The dolphin research project “Delfini del Ponente” http://delfinidelponente.costabalenae.it/ is the first project focused on monitoring bottlenose dolphins in the Western Ligurian Sea. Due to the morphology of the seafloor, this area is not a usual habitat for this species and historically, sightings have a been more rare and sporadic than in the Levantine side of the region. The continental shelf is, in fact, very short and high depths (around 2000 m) are reached quite close to the shore making the area suitable for other cetacean species but not for bottlenose dolphins, which tend to remain in waters with a depth not exceeding 200 m. Despite this knowledge of the range of the species, an interesting change has been noted in recent years in the area. Reports of bottlenose dolphins by boats, fishermen and whale watching vessels are almost tripled compared to previous seasons. Therefore, the project aims to monitor bottlenose dolphins in the region to understand the extent of this change and what drove it. It is structured on an annual basis, in order to obtain data not only on the distribution during the summer, but also changes during the different seasons. WHERE: Imperia, Italy WHEN: we are looking for an intern joining from the beginning to the end of JUNE Minimum required: 30 days Number of interns per month: 2 Programme: Interns are invited to assist the biologists of Costa Balenae in different activities: • Boat-based surveys (10-12 per month) • Collect data on species, group size, interaction with boats • Take pictures for photo-identification • Photo-id matching/classwork • Data entry • Opportunistic surveys (ie surveys aboard whale watching boats) • Land-based surveys The internship is a great opportunity for anyone keen to start a career in cetacean research or simply willing to acquire fieldwork and data processing skills. This experience will give you the chance to work in the Pelagos Sanctuary and enjoy its unique marine biodiversity as well as traveling and exploring the beautiful Liguria region. Thanks to this internship you will support cetacean research and conservation in one of the most crowded and busy areas of the Mediterranean Sea. Fieldwork will be made in coastal waters (Western Ligurian Sea). Surveys will be conducted onboard dedicated vessels (5-6 m inflatable boat) 10-12 times per month. Training will focus on collecting photo for photo-ID purposes, environmental, geographical (GPS) and dolphins' behavioural data. During fieldwork, participants will gain first-hand experience in collecting data on cetaceans, seabirds and other marine fauna. Interns will improve their skills on cetaceans boat-based surveys as well as on the use of the photo-ID technique. Surveys are weather dependent and they can change during the period. Interns will be busy 5 days a week, 6-8 hours/day (depending on fieldwork or labwork). During their free time, interns will have the opportunity to experience all sorts of activities: swimming, diving, hiking, exploring historical sites, visit museums, sailing. Skills/qualification: • Minimum age of 18 • Prior experience in cetaceans or boat-based surveys is not required, but preferred • Degree or on-going studies in biology, natural science, veterinary or similar (preferred) • Strong motivation and interest in cetaceans and research • Speak, read and write in fluent English • Be adaptable as fieldwork is weather dependent • Be prepared to spend many hours on a small zodiac (5-6 m) and under the sun • Be sociable and willing as they are expected to live and work in an international team • Boat driving licence or experience in handling small boats (preferred) Internship fee Delfini del Ponente is a self-funded research project, so participation in this programme requires a tuition fee, that will be discounted due to the late notice. Fee includes the accommodation in an apartment in Imperia, tuition and all associated field costs during the internship period (use of research vessel, training, use of equipment, field trips). Transportation expenses to and from Imperia (Italy), own insurances, and food costs during the stay are not included in the fee. Information about Costa Balenae Costa Balenae is a cooperative organization founded by a group of biologists and naturalists with twenty years of experience in the fields of scientific research, environmental education, territorial development, and sustainable tourism. The passion for nature, its conservation and the development of commercial tourism activities that make knowledge, awareness and sustainability a point of strong entrepreneurial imprinting are the main characteristics of the cooperative. How to apply: Send your CV with a letter of interest (please indicate the preferred period, date of arriving and departure) to info(a)costabalenae.it addressed to Elena Fontanesi and Davide Ascheri no longer than the 15th MAY. Successful applicants could be contacted for a skype interview. For any further enquiry and detail, please send an email to info(a)costabalenae.it Davide Ascheri and Elena Fontanesi Biologist - Costa Balenae Whale and Nature Watching info(a)costabalenae.it

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World Whale Conference 2019: Abstract submission deadline reminder
by Dylan Walker 08 May '19

08 May '19

Dear Marmamers, This is a reminder that the abstract submission deadline for the 2019 World Whale Conference, Hervey Bay, Queensland, Australia, 8-11 October, is 31 May 2019. We welcome you to submit an abstract via our submissions link <https://www.worldwhaleconference.com/Conference/Speakers/Abstract-Submission>. There are different methods of submitting your material and submissions are open to all. There is even an option for those unable to attend! Please read further for specific details. This year WWC is focusing on the theme *‘Journeys that Inspire Change’ *and will cover four main topics: *1.* *Understanding whale migrations and their significance for marine conservation* *2.* *Promoting sustainable whale and dolphin tourism for tourists and local communities* *3.* *Exploring our cultural and artistic connections with migrating whales* *4.* *Maximising the power of cetaceans to inspire positive human behaviour change to protect our oceans* Participants wishing to submit an abstract have four methods to choose from: 1. Oral Presentation *(15mins)* 2. Speed Talk (4mins) 3. Electronic Poster Presentation 4. Remote Video Presentation *(This option allows those unable to attend the conference an opportunity to still contribute. Accepted presentations will also be eligible for the Whale Conservation and Heritage Awards)* We encourage you to head over to the website and complete the submissions form, which provides all the information you need to know: https://www.worldwhaleconference.com/Conference/Speakers/Abstract-Submission Following this a selection of awards will be presented relating to each theme. Your submission allows you the opportunity to be entered into the Whale Conservation and Heritage Awards, which seek to recognise and encourage excellence across the fields of conservation, animal welfare, community engagement and sustainable practices. *Submissions are open for entry from individuals or organisations, amateurs and professionals worldwide. * *Award Categories* *Inspiring Change Award* *Responsible Whale and Dolphin Tourism Award* *Whales & Dolphins in the Heart of the Community Award* *Innovation for Cetacean Conservation Award* *Please find out more details about our award categories here: * *https://www.worldwhaleconference.com/Whale-Conservation-and-Heritage-Awards* <https://www.worldwhaleconference.com/Whale-Conservation-and-Heritage-Awards> We are excited to receive an audience of representatives from tourist destinations, international institutions and the private sector, along with global experts in tourism, sustainability, the arts, marine conservation, scientific research and commercial whale watching – all coming together to share knowledge, inspiration and *Journeys that Inspire Change!* The 2019 World Whale Conference hosted by Fraser Coast Tourism and Events <https://www.fcte.com.au/> and the World Cetacean Alliance <http://worldcetaceanalliance.org/> will be in Hervey Bay, in Queensland, Australia, 8-11 October. The theme for this year's conference is* ‘Journeys that Inspire Change’.* Together, and using the latest knowledge on scientific research, conservation, tourism and cultural heritage, we will explore how our links with whales can drive positive change. We will examine how the incredible migrations of whales are fostering new local, national and international partnerships with the human communities with which these incredible animals will ultimately depend for their very future. Are you part of a project leading the way in marine mammal research, marine conservation, community engagement or sustainable development? We would like to hear from you! We are particularly keen to see and spread the word about successful, small-scale efforts and projects with the potential to be replicated nationally or internationally. *We hope you can be a part of it!* Regards, *Dylan Walker *Chief Executive Officer *World Cetacean Alliance* Studio 3, Lower Promenade Madeira Drive, Brighton, BN2 1ET, UK. t: +44 (0) 1273 355011 c: +44 (0) 7900 471490 e: dylan(a)worldcetaceanalliance.org <sophie.lewis(a)worldcetaceanalliance.org> The World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) is a Partnership of over 100 organisations and individuals in 40 countries worldwide working collaboratively to protect cetaceans and their habitats. World Cetacean Alliance, the Secretariat to the Partnership, is a UK registered Charity no. 1160484. The content of this e-mail is intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom it is addressed. If you have received this communication in error, be aware that forwarding it, copying it, or in any way disclosing its content to any other person, is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the author by replying to this e-mail immediately. Please consider the environment before printing this email or it's attachments.

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New article: Review on Risso's dolphins in Taiwanese waters
by Inge Chen 08 May '19

08 May '19

Dear colleagues, On behave of my colleagues, I am delighted to announce our review paper about Risso’s dolphins in Taiwanese waters was published earlier last month: Hsin-Yi Yu, Ing Chen, Wen-Ta Li, and Lien-Siang Chou. 2019. Ecological and Biological Characteristics for the Risso's Dolphins (Grampus griseus) Off Taiwan, with Conservation Evaluations on Potential Anthropogenic Threats. Mammal Study 44(2), 77-89. DOI: 10.3106/ms2018-0038 *Abstract* Risso's dolphin (Grampus griseus) is one of the cetacean species commonly encountered off the eastern coast of Taiwan. The species appears to occur in Taiwanese waters year-round. Many biological and ecological characteristics, including group size, habitat preference, and ages at weaning and sexual maturity, are by-and-large in accord with earlier reports for populations in other geographic regions. Morphological assessments, dietary analyses, and genetic data altogether suggest the dolphins found in Taiwanese and Japanese waters are from the same population, which exhibits high genetic diversity and a sign of recent demographic expansion. The dolphin species is endorsed a “Rare and Valuable Species (Class II)” status and is protected by the Wildlife Conservation Act in Taiwan. However, it is still vulnerable to human activities, in terms of whale-watching tourism and coastal gill-net fisheries, with a growing concern on the level of heavy metal residues found in dolphin tissues. Current knowledge for the species is mostly derived from relatively limited information. Assessments on key biological and ecological features, e.g., population size, residency, social structure, and group composition, shall be prioritised for conservation initiatives. Full-text access is available for BioOne Complete subscribers (https://bioone.org/journals/Mammal-Study/volume-44/issue-2/ms2018-0038/Ecol… <https://bioone.org/journals/Mammal-Study/volume-44/issue-2/ms2018-0038/Ecol…>); but please feel free to contact one of the authors or myself (chen.inge /at/ gmail.com) for a private pdf copy. Regards, Ing Chen **** Ing Chen, PhD Postdoctoral Research Fellow Division of Science, Yale-NUS College National University of Singapore 16 College Avenue West, 138527, Singapore chen.inge /at/ gmail.com

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Job Opening: Research Analyst
by PWF Research Department 08 May '19

08 May '19

Dear MARMAM community, We have a job opening at Pacific Whale Foundation <https://www.pacificwhale.org/research/>! Working at the direction of the Chief Scientist, the Research Analyst is responsible for contributing to ongoing research projects through data collection, data management, statistical analyses and writing reports and manuscripts for publication. In addition to quantitative work, the analyst is expected to participate in boat-based surveys with a team of biologists. Data collection takes place primarily in Hawaii but temporary assignments in other locations may arise. This is a full time, overtime exempt position based at our headquarters on the island of Maui. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.A. RESPONSIBILITIES - Fulfill the mission and vision of Pacific Whale Foundation by conducting appropriate and relevant research and conservation programs under the guidance of senior research staff; - Analyses: high proficiency in R with ability to analyze and manage long-term datasets; - Data collection: operate small vessels, locate cetaceans, take photographs for photo-identification, record data; - Data processing: upload data, enter data, match flukes and fins, map sightings, quality control data sets, archive historical data; - Literature: read and review pertinent literature to inform analyses and study design; - Writing: scientific writing in a manner suitable for peer-reviewed journal articles and writing for a general audience, including blog and social media posts; - General: maintain and clean the boat and research equipment; - Software: design and implement data management, organization, and analysis using the software R, ArcGIS, Discovery, Access, MARK, MatLab, and/or SOCPROG; - Maintain and set up research equipment, including DSLR cameras, UAVs, ROVs, and more; - Partake in community outreach to communicate research findings and/or give informative presentations to a general audience; - Assistance with development and fundraising efforts; - Supervision of volunteers and/or interns; - Training of staff and/or interns on equipment use, data processing and management; - Further duties may be assigned as necessary according to the needs and requirements of the Research Department. REQUIREMENTS - Thesis-based M.Sc. in a relevant field and at least 3 years of experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience; - Advanced analytical skills with proven abilities in managing, analyzing and interpreting scientific data; - Intermediate or advanced proficiency in R; - Data analysis and mapping using GIS software (e.g. ArcMAP); - Proven ability to conduct statistical analyses used in marine mammal science including but not limited to Distance sampling, Capture-Mark-Recapture, Markov chains, association indices; - Excellent knowledge of database management and statistical software, with required proficiency in: R, ArcGIS, and Microsoft Access; - Proven ability to write peer-reviewed journal articles; - Have the mental and physical stamina to endure long days on a boat under intense sunlight while collecting data in accordance with rigorous sampling protocols; - Excellent organizational and technological skills (eg. database management) and the ability to troubleshoot problems; - Experience piloting UAVs (preferred); - Experience in MatLab (preferred); - Experience navigating small vessels near cetaceans (preferred); - Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.A. *The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by an employee in this classification. It is not to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory, or all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications of employees assigned to this job. Management has the right to add to, revise, or delete information in this description at any time. * HOW TO APPLY Please email your CV and a cover letter to: applications(a)pacificwhale.org with the subject line 'Research Analyst Application'. No phone calls or drop-ins, please. Applications will be accepted until May 27, 2019. *Research Department* Pacific Whale Foundation Hawaii, Australia, Ecuador Email: research(a)pacificwhale.org Website: www.pacificwhale.org/research <http://www.pacificwhale.org/> -- *Research Department* Pacific Whale Foundation Hawaii, Australia, Ecuador Phone: +1 (808) 856-8305 Email: research(a)pacificwhale.org Website: www.pacificwhale.org/research <http://www.pacificwhale.org/> -- CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission and any accompanying attachments contain information belonging to the sender which may be confidential and legally privileged. This information is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to whom this electronic mail transmission was sent as indicated above. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution, or action taken in reliance on the contents of the information contained in this transmission is strictly prohibited. If you have received this transmission in error, please notify the sender immediately and destroy all copies of this transmission and all attachments. Thank you!

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Notification of upcoming supervisory position in cetacean research
by Nmfs Cetacean - NOAA Service Account 07 May '19

07 May '19

At some point in the next few weeks, the Marine Mammal Laboratory of the Alaska Fisheries Science Center (NOAA/NMFS) will announce a vacancy for the position of Program Leader for the Cetacean Assessment and Ecology Program. The vacancy, which will be announced on USA Jobs, will be a permanent, full-time Band IV supervisory position in the federal ZP series; a general description of the Program and the position are given below. The Cetacean Assessment and Ecology Program (CAEP) is responsible for conducting studies and reviewing research to assess the status of whales in Alaskan waters, although program scientists frequently work in the broader North Pacific, and have collaborations with other researchers worldwide. Our recent studies have focused on North Pacific right, bowhead, gray, humpback, beluga and killer whales, as well as and Dall’s and harbor porpoise. Past studies have looked at blue, fin, sei, minke, sperm, and beaked whales, and the Pacific white-sided dolphin. We gather species-specific information on abundance, trends, stock structure, habitat, and feeding habits using aerial or vessel counts, acoustic studies, satellite telemetry, genetic studies, and photo-identification. CAEP currently has a total of 25 staff, including permanent employees, contractors and post-docs. The program is known for its innovative work in some areas (e.g. satellite tagging), and has a very strong publication record. Some of the Program’s scientists participate in international meetings, including representing the U.S. at the International Whaling Commission. The Program Leader is responsible for the administration and scientific direction of CAEP, as well as direct or indirect supervision of staff. We will be looking for someone with demonstrated leadership skills, supervisory experience, and a broad scientific vision. A Ph.D. in biology (or a related field) and a strong publication record are considered essential. Since this is a federal permanent hire, the position will be open only to U.S. citizens. Qualified candidates are encouraged to send a message to nmfs.afsc.cetacean(a)noaa.gov to ensure that they are alerted to the job announcement, whenever that happens (the federal hiring process doesn’t happen overnight!) Please include in your message a brief description of your interest, experience and qualifications. Please note that this is NOT an announcement of the position itself - just a heads-up to potentially interested individuals that the vacancy announcement will be coming soon. Please also pass this on to individuals who you think may be interested. We look forward to hearing from anyone who would like to lead a great research team at the Marine Mammal Laboratory in Seattle! John L. Bengtson Director, Marine Mammal Laboratory Alaska Fisheries Science Center, Seattle Email: nmfs.afsc.cetacean(a)noaa.gov (No phone enquiries, please)

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A first case of stranded blue whale in Japan.
by TAJIMA, Yuko 07 May '19

07 May '19

Dear all I am Yuko TAJMA @ National Museum of Nature and Science, Japan. I would like to introduce the followings. We got a first case of stranded blue whale in Japan 6th,August,2018. (Dead whale washes ashore at crowded beach in Kamakura: Aug. 6, 2018 <http://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/AJ201808060021.html>) One of Japanese newspapers updated the information including several our studies in English mentioned below URL. http://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/AJ201905020038.html <http://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/AJ201905020038.html> On the same time, the museum had special exhibition for ‘ Mammals 2 -Struggle for Life-‘ at Ueno of NMNS, Japan. (http://www.kahaku.go.jp/english/exhibitions/ueno/special/2019/mammal2/ <http://www.kahaku.go.jp/english/exhibitions/ueno/special/2019/mammal2/>). Skull, Mandibule, baleen plates and several studies and topic of concerned blue whale were also showed in the exhibition. The period is 21st March to 16th June,2019. If you are interesting those informations, please go each website. Sincerely, Yuko ~~~~~~~~~~~~>>>~~~~~~~>>~~~~~~~>>>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ TAJIMA Yuko DVM. Ph.D (Vet). Senior Curator Div. of Vertebrates, Dept. of Zoology 　National Museum of Nature and Science 4－1－1, Amakubo, Tukuba-city, Ibaraki Prefecture. 305-0005, JAPAN 　+81-(0)29-853-8413(ext.) / -8998 (fax) / 090-9952-3545 (mobile) 　yuko-t(a)kahaku.go.jp <mailto:yuko-t@kahaku.go.jp> / yukotajitajitaji@ <mailto:yukotajitaji@mac.com>gmail.com NMNS MM HP: http://http://svrsh1.kahaku.go.jp/marmam/　田島木綿子　脊椎動物研究グループ研究主幹　　国立科学博物館動物研究部　〒305－0005 茨城県つくば市天久保4－1－1　　 ~~~~~~~~~~~~>>>~~~~~~~>>~~~~~~~>>>>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

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Re-emergence of nasal mite H. halichoeri in seals from German waters
by Lehnert-Sobotta, Kristina 07 May '19

07 May '19

Dear colleagues, on behalf of my co-authors I´m pleased to share the recent publication of our paper in IJP:PAW, which is now online: Reckendorf, A., Wohlsein, P., Lakemeyer, J., Stokholm, I., von Vietinghoff, V., & Lehnert, K. (2019). There and back again – The return of the nasal mite Halarachne halichoeri to seals in German waters. International Journal for Parasitology: Parasites and Wildlife. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2213224418301871?via%3Di… <https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2213224418301871?via%3Di…> Abstract: The nasal mite Halarachne halichoeri (Acari; Halarachnidae) is adapted to live in the marine environment with pinnipeds as its primary host and can cause different levels of upper respiratory disease in both harbour seals (Phoca vitulina) and grey seals (Halichoerus grypus). Historical reports of H. halichoeri occurring in seals from German waters date back to the end of the 19th century. However, with the disappearance of the grey seal from German waters as a consequence of human over-exploitation, the mite vanished from the records and the fauna found in Germany for more than a century. Although a stranding network has been monitoring marine mammal health along the German coasts since the mid 1980s with extensive post-mortem investigations, this study reports the first and subsequent findings of H. halichoeri in grey and harbour seals from the North and Baltic Sea from 2014 onwards. The re-emergence of this endoparasitic mite in North and Baltic Sea habitats seems to have occurred simultaneously with the recolonisation of its primary host, the grey seal. During the course of its recolonisation, it was probably transmitted to harbour seals sharing the same haul-out sites. Molecular analyses showed a high similarity of rDNA sequences with H. halichoeri collected from sea otters (Enhydra lutris) in the USA. However, more thorough analyses of additional gene loci are required to fully assess the exchange and diversity of this parasite between geographically isolated regions and species. Kind regards, Kristina Lehnert ******************************************** Dr. Kristina Lehnert Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation Werftstr. 6│25761 Buesum│Germany Phone +49 (0) 511 856 8171

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IMMS Animal Training Internship (Fall)
by Jeanette Gramm 06 May '19

06 May '19

The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies in Gulfport, MS is accepting applications for our fall term. *The deadline for applications is June 1st.* Please visit our website for details on how to apply or send questions to jgramm(a)imms.org<mailto:jgramm@imms.org>. https://imms.org/internship/ The IMMS Animal Training Internship Program is designed as a way for students/individuals interested in a career in animal care and training to gain valuable experience in a real-world setting. Interns will primarily be trained in aspects of animal care, but will also participate in other activities at IMMS. Our goal is to give interns a well-rounded experience in a variety of areas while providing expert training and experience. The IMMS animal care and training staff is in charge of caring for Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, California sea lions, and large parrots. Interns will work directly with animal care staff and be exposed to all aspects of the daily routine. Heavy emphasis is placed on basic tasks such as food preparation, and daily cleaning and facility maintenance. Interns will learn how to train animals with operant conditioning through observation and may assist during sessions. Interns will also complete a project during their internship, give educational presentations to guests before they interact with our animals, as well as help staff with daily water quality. Because we want interns to have a well-rounded experience, they will also be asked to assist in other departments. Interns may participate as 1) environmental educators and assist in giving presentations to the public, 2) research assistants that help with our many wild dolphin based research studies, or 3) emergency responders as IMMS is part of the Southeast Regional Marine Mammal Stranding Network and responds to stranded marine mammals and sea turtles. Interested applicants must follow the directions listed on the website to apply. Interns must be: • 18 years or older. • A recent graduate or actively pursuing a college degree in the sciences. • Willing to accept the internship as an unpaid position. • Able to commit to a minimum of at least 12 weeks, 40 hours a week. The internship can be extended depending on work performance. • Available to work weekdays, weekends, and holidays. • Able to lift 50 lbs, work long hours on your feet, and work outside in extreme conditions. • Able to maintain a positive attitude, good work ethic, sense of responsibility, and a strong willingness to learn. • Financially stable enough to obtain housing and transportation, though IMMS staff will do their best to assist you in making arrangements. • Able to comply with IMMS rules and regulations. Please send the following documents to: jgramm(a)imms.org with “Animal Training Internship” in the subject line. * IMMS Animal Training Internship Application * Resume with cover letter. * Two letters of recommendation – Provide at least one academic, and one work/volunteer- related reference if applicable. Letters may be emailed from the applicant or the person providing the recommendation letter. * A copy of your current official college transcript. Applicants may submit an unofficial copy. * Full photograph Documents must be in one of the following formats – PDF, .doc, .docx, and must be submitted together with your first and last name and the date in the file name. Ex) 2019Aug_Jane_Doe_Resume, 2019Aug_Jane_Doe_Application, 2019Aug_Jane_Doe_Transcript. Jeanette Gramm Marine Mammal Trainer Animal Care Internship Coordinator The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies Gulfport, Mississippi

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New publication: Evidence of Deep-Sea Interactions between Toothed Whales and Longlines (project OrcaDepred)
by gaetan-gs.richard＠laposte.net 06 May '19

06 May '19

On behalf of my co-author, I am please to announce our new publication: Gaëtan Richard , Julien Bonnel, Paul Tixier, John P. Y. Arnould, Anaïs Janc, et Christophe Guinet. ( 2019). Evidence of Deep-Sea Interactions between Toothed Whales and Longlines. Ambio https://doi.org/10.1007/s13280-019-01182-1 The publication is available from the authors or at the link below: https://rdcu.be/bAkAi Abstract: Toothed whales (odontocetes) feeding on fish caught on hooks in longline fisheries is a growing issue worldwide. The substantial impacts that this behaviour, called depredation, can have on the fishing economy, fish stocks and odontocetes populations, raise a critical need for mitigation solutions to be developed. However, information on when, where and how odontocete depredation occurs underwater is still limited, especially in demersal longline fisheries (fishing gear set on the seafloor). In the present study, we investigated depredation by killer whales ( Orcinus orca ) and sperm whales ( Physeter macrocephalus ) on demersal longlines in the French Patagonian toothfish fishery (Southern Ocean). Using a combination of animal-borne behavioural and longline-attached data loggers, we demonstrated that both species are able to depredate longlines on the seafloor. This study, therefore, suggests that odontocetes whales–longline interaction events at depth may be unrecorded when assessing depredation rates from surface observations during hauling phases only. This result has implications for the management of fisheries facing similar depredation issues as underestimated depredation rates may result in unaccounted fish mortality in fish-stock assessments. Therefore, while further research should be conducted to assess the extent of deep-sea whale–longline interaction events during soaking, the evidence that depredation can occur at any time during the whole fishing process as brought out by this study should be considered in future developments of mitigation solutions to the issue. Best regards, Gaëtan RICHARD https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Gaetan_Richard3

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Seal Rescue Ireland - Marketing and Media Internship
by Intern Coordinator 05 May '19

05 May '19

Seal Rescue Ireland: Marketing and Media Internship Seal Rescue Ireland (SRI) is a charity organisation which operates a busy marine animal rescue and rehabilitation centre located in Courtown, Co. Wexford. As the only facility that fully rehabilitates seals within the Republic of Ireland, SRI responds to strandings nationwide. Most reports are for young grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) and common seal (Phoca vitulina) pups found sick, injured or orphaned across the Irish coastline. In addition, SRI pursues understanding and public engagement of ocean conservation and sustainability through education, community outreach and research programmes. SRI has a growing social media presence, and is gaining international recognition for our work. SRI is currently accepting applications for their Marketing and Media Internship position, with one opening beginning in August and another in November. This high paced, full-time position is for a minimum of 12 weeks, but longer time commitments are encouraged. After completion of initial training, interns who excel may be invited to stay longer and offered higher levels of responsibility with the potential for compensation through living expenses. Reports to: Operations Manager Job Summary: This position will provide the intern with work experience in all aspects of a rescue and rehabilitation centre with the primary focus on producing quality media content, digital design, written content, photos and video for use on our website, social media, monthly newsletter, adoptions programme, marketing, educational and fundraising projects. The intern will assist with marketing and advertising projects, fundraising programs and events, and other administrative tasks. This position requires a skilled photographer who will be responsible for capturing consistent photographs and videos of the animals in care to tell their stories, daily activities at the centre, and events on and off-site (i.e. rescues, releases, educational talks, outreach events, etc.), as well as developing content consistent with SRI’s message of ocean conservation and sustainability. Partial involvement in assisting in husbandry care of rehabilitation animals is an option if interested. Requirements: Applicants must have a keen interest in marine conservation, biology and environmental stewardship, as well as skills in developing media content and photography with proven examples of your work to be submitted with your application. Applicants must have effective communication skills, the ability to represent SRI in professional manner and work well in a team setting. Applicants must possess the ability to adapt to an ever-changing work environment, and be available to work nights, weekends and holidays. Public speaking, graphic design and website maintenance skills are encouraged. A degree or pursuit of a degree in business management, event planning, marketing, public relations, fundraising, or a similar field is preferred. Duties Include: - Participate in educational talks and tours. - Assist in design, development and maintenance of the SRI website - Keep up to date photographs and video of the seals in care - Photograph events and daily tasks for use in media, marketing and promotional purposes - Develop educational and promotional written content - Provide assistance to the managers and rehabilitation staff as needed. - Assist with fundraisers and educational events - Assist with clerical duties and office work as needed - (Optional)-Assist in the care and maintenance of the Center’s rehabilitation animals (feeding, medical treatment, daily care, routine cleaning of enclosures and work areas.). - (Optional)-Assist with rescue and release of stranded animals. This is an unpaid position. Intern housing is available for 90 Euro/week (including food) on a first come first served basis. Interns are responsible for their own travel expenses. Please visit our website at (http://www.sealrescueireland.org/internships/) to download the application form. Then send completed with your resume, cover letter, and examples of your writing and photography to: intern(a)sealrescueireland.org Attention: Marketing and Media Internship Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/sealrescueireland Registered Charity: RCN 20108519

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