September 2019 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New Participatory Platform for Citizen Scientists: Citizen Science & AI to decipher marine mammal signals
by Cetalingua Research 07 Sep '19

07 Sep '19

Hello everyone, We are happy to announce our platform launch. We are Cetalingua Project, a membership-based participatory platform for citizen scientists. Our platform combines citizen science and artificial intelligence with the goal to crack the communication code of marine mammals. We are building a community of like-minded individuals bound by our love of oceans and their inhabitants, our curiosity, and our desire to solve the mysteries of this world. Our platform is designed to involve, to educate, and to practically train citizen scientists so they can tackle the more advanced data collection and analysis tasks that are needed if we are ever going to successfully crack the marine mammal communication code. With thousands of people participating in all kinds of water activities every week (paddle-boarding, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, fishing, boating, snorkeling, etc.), it becomes possible to collect a large body of behavioral, environmental, and acoustic data with our CetaKits and the CetaScript web app. These data sets can be used to train artificial intelligence models to first identify, classify, and categorize marine mammal vocalizations, then later, to attempt to crack the code. Machine learning has been used to decipher Linear B and could also be used to try and crack other undeciphered languages, like Linear A, rongorongo, even the Voynich manuscript. Deciphering complex non-human communication systems is important to better understand and to preserve marine life. Please check our platform out! Natalija Lace, PhD Founder/Principal Investigator Cetalingua Project cetalingua.com @cetalingua research(a)cetalingua.com

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PSO Training in Galveston TX Sept 28-29, 2019
by Angela Bostwick 07 Sep '19

07 Sep '19

MPSC is holding a training course in Galveston, TX which provides Protected Species Observer (also known as Marine Mammal Observer) certification on September 28-29. This class will include a tour of the Texas A&M University at Galveston's Sea Life Facility, a marine research and sea turtle rehabilitation laboratory, and also a private vessel trip. During the tour of the Sea Life Facility, we will discuss care of sea turtles and identifying traits of the different species of sea turtles found in the Gulf. The vessel trip will provide opportunity to practice the protected species monitoring identification techniques discussed in class; students will also be able to practice manual settings for wildlife photography using digital SLR cameras, and will learn to estimate distance using binoculars with reticles. This training is approved by the federal agencies Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) and Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) in coordination with National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) to provide Protected Species Observer certification for seismic surveys, and is a long-standing industry standard which is often accepted in various regions or industries (such as renewable energy, construction, dredging) where monitoring and mitigation for protected species is needed. The course examines the regulations for reducing seismic survey impacts to marine mammals and sea turtles, how to visually locate and identify the animals, and objective documentation of animal behavior for reporting to regulatory agencies. A discounted rate is available for students/recent graduates, members of non-profit organizations and government/veterans. Lunch is provided each day, along with various identification guides and regulatory documents (yours to keep), advice on applying to PSO positions, the tour of the sea turtle rehabilitation facility, the vessel trip, and the professional certification. MPSC is also holding a PSO Certification course in Newport, Oregon on October 5th-6th. Additional information may be found on the MPSC website at http://www.protectedspeciesobservers.com/, by contacting me at ABostwick(a)PSOCertifications.com, or by phone at 832-523-2402. Thank you, Angela Bostwick Founder / Marine Protected Species Consulting ProtectedSpeciesObservers.com https://Facebook.com/ProtectedSpeciesObservers/

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Into the Kill: A Deeper Look at Bigg's Orcas
by jmcinnes＠uvic.ca 07 Sep '19

07 Sep '19

I am pleased to announce the following article in Nature Aware Magazine: Into the Kill: A Deeper Look at Bigg's Orcas by Josh McInnes. Summer (2019). I first started investigating the ecology of transient (Biggs) killer whales in the early 2000s off Southern Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Having grown up watching these killer whales hunting off the neighborhood pier, I was primarily interested in the relationship between the Salish Seas top predator and the numerous species of marine mammal prey they specialize in hunting. Over the years I have spent countless hours, sitting and observing from a small five meter boat, as groups of killer whales foraged in kelp beds throughout secluded bays. Often the transients would circle small islands and reefs, eyeing the seals basking meters from the water. Over time I began to recognize particular foraging routes or trap lines that the whales would follow, linking multiple seal haulouts along southern Vancouver Island. Predation events on harbor seals were usually successful, and sometimes lasted only three to five minutes, with little evidence the hunt had even taken place. These short duration hunts were generally performed by solitary males. On other occasions, with larger groups, hunts would last longer with members actively circling, ramming, and slapping a seal with their flukes. These prolonged harbor seal hunts were presumably utilized as training exercises for juveniles and new calves. Once the seal was killed, members would quickly dispatch the prey by grasping onto it and pulling it apart into pieces, which would be then shared by all members of a group. The efficiency of how killer whales hunt harbor seals was historically noted by the Tlingit First Nations Peoples in Southeastern Alaska. They believed through legend that the killer whale was the teacher of all the uses of the harbor seal. According to one legend, hunters would call upon the help of killer whales when times were lean. By placing tobacco leaves in the mouths of killer whales, the whales would in return provide seals to a hungry community. You can find a PDF copy at or email me at jmcinnes(a)uvic.ca: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iwduBxrD1WZVWLUFkEiJE2Q5pZjFEXYJ/view?fbcl… Josh McInnes, BSc Biology Research Coordinator Marine Life Studies P. O. Box 163 Moss Landing, CA 95039 jmcinnes(a)uvic.ca

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IFAW Marine Mammal Stranding Internships - Winter 2020
by Kasper, Kira 06 Sep '19

06 Sep '19

The International Fund for Animal Welfare is accepting applications for Winter 2020 Marine Mammal Stranding Internships. Winter Session (Mid-January, 2020-Last week of May, 2020) Complete Applications due: October 1st, 2019 Program Background IFAW is an international non-profit organization. This internship is based out of our International Operations Center in Yarmouth Port, Massachusetts, USA. IFAW's Marine Mammal Rescue and Research program is a federally authorized program dedicated to marine mammal stranding response on Cape Cod and southeastern Massachusetts. Our program strives to promote the conservation of marine mammal species and their habitat by improving the rescue and humane care of stranded marine mammals, advancing stranding science, and increasing public awareness through education. Cape Cod is a marine mammal stranding "hot spot," with an average of over 251 strandings occurring each year. These strandings include live and dead seals, whales, porpoises, and dolphins. Only complete applications will be considered. Please click on the link below for more information and to submit an application. https://recruiting.ultipro.com/INT1059IFFA/JobBoard/17b588a3-808b-4bc9-aea8… Kira Kasper Stranding Technician Marine Mammal Rescue and Research 290 Summer Street Yarmouth Port, MA 02675 United States +1 508 744 2265 (office) +1 508 743 9548 (stranding hotline) www.ifaw.org<https://www.ifaw.org/> [ifaw]<https://www.ifaw.org/> The content of this email is intended only for the use of the above-named addressee and may contain information that is confidential, proprietary, and/or legally privileged. Please notify the sender if you received this email in error.

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MARINElife EXCITING OPPORTUNITY: RESEARCH CRUISE
by Tom Brereton 06 Sep '19

06 Sep '19

MARINElife EXCITING OPPORTUNITY: Volunteer cetacean and seabird survey opportunity - in the Western English Channel, Celtic and Irish Sea: In partnership with CEFAS, MARINElife will once again be joining the Peltic survey this autumn from Swansea, through the Celtic Sea and Irish Sea and English Channel, ending in Lowestoft. Two survey legs 14 days each. (1) 30th September or 3rd October to the 14th October (2) 14th October to the 28th October. A total of 28 days - part or both survey legs available. An excellent variety of cetacean and seabird species are likely to be encountered on this trip, with the opportunity to join and learn from a multidisciplinary team carrying out pelagic fish and plankton surveys and collecting oceanographic data. It is a great opportunity to contribute to analyses linking mammals and seabird sightings to prey availability. Please let us know if you are an experienced seabird and/or cetacean surveyor and have availability on these dates. Or are available for the first or second part of the survey, as there may be opportunity to split teams dependent on the level of response. All meals are provided on board the vessel; specific dietary requirements must be specified in your application. Bunks have a bed, en-suite bathroom, TV, desk and internet access. There is also access to the communal areas of the ship. Requirements: * Experienced in cetacean and/or seabird identification at sea. * A valid ENG1 medical certificate (see <http://www.dft.gov.uk/mca/mcga-mgn264.pdf> www.dft.gov.uk/mca/mcga-mgn264.pdf and <http://www.dft.gov.uk/mca/mcga07-home/workingatsea/mcga-medicalcertandadvic e/mcga-ml5-medicalinfo/mcga-approved-docs-list.htm> http://www.dft.gov.uk/mca/mcga07-home/workingatsea/mcga-medicalcertandadvice /mcga-ml5-medicalinfo/mcga-approved-docs-list.htm ) * Personal Sea Survival Certificate (MCA approved Personal Survival Techniques (according to STCW 95 convention). Along with being able to attend a Working on or near the water course in Lowestoft in July or September. It is really important that you have or obtain the correct PST certificate to be able to join this trip. OR A BOSIET Offshore survival certificate OR STCW10 Sea survival course (Neither of the latter two would require the additional training in Lowestoft). If you would like to join the research team as a Marine Mammal & Seabird Surveyor, please email tom.brereton(a)marine-life.org.uk <mailto:tom.brereton@marine-life.org.uk> including a CV or brief summary of experience. I look forward to hearing from you. Tom Brereton

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Aq Cons Special Issue to mark SMRU's 40th anniversary
by Monica Arso Civil 06 Sep '19

06 Sep '19

Dear all, The Sea Mammal Research Unit (SMRU) at the University of St Andrews celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2018. A Special Issue of Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems has been published to mark SMRU’s anniversary. This issue comprises a collection of papers that showcase some of the recent marine mammal conservation research undertaken by the Unit's staff and students. Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems Sea Mammal Research Unit 40th Anniversary: Advances in Marine Mammal Science informing policy Guest editors: Bennet, K., Hall, A., McConnell, B., Thompson, P., & Twiss. S. Volume 29, Issue S1 Pages: 1-304 September 2019 https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/toc/10990755/2019/29/S1 The body of work presented in this Special Issue represents a cross-section of the research carried out at SMRU, from long-term UK-based science to shorter-term studies on marine mammals from pole to pole. Topics reported in this collection of 19 papers range widely and include: * Thomas, L, Russell, DJF, Duck, CD, et al. Modelling the population size and dynamics of the British grey seal. Aquatic Conserv: Mar Freshw Ecosyst. 2019; 29( S1): 6– 23. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.3134 * Russell, DJF, Morris, CD, Duck, CD, Thompson, D, Hiby, L. Monitoring long‐term changes in UK grey seal pup production. Aquatic Conserv: Mar Freshw Ecosyst. 2019; 29( S1): 24– 39. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.3100 * Thompson, D, Duck, CD, Morris, CD, Russell, DJF. The status of harbour seals (Phoca vitulina) in the UK. Aquatic Conserv: Mar Freshw Ecosyst. 2019; 29( S1): 40– 60. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.3110 * Hall, AJ, Mackey, B, Kershaw, JL, Thompson, P. Age–length relationships in UK harbour seals during a period of population decline. Aquatic Conserv: Mar Freshw Ecosyst. 2019; 29( S1): 61– 70. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.3104 * Wilson, LJ, Hammond, PS. The diet of harbour and grey seals around Britain: Examining the role of prey as a potential cause of harbour seal declines. Aquatic Conserv: Mar Freshw Ecosyst. 2019; 29( S1): 71– 85. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.3131 * Robinson, KJ, Hall, AJ, Scholl, G, et al. Investigating decadal changes in persistent organic pollutants in Scottish grey seal pups. Aquatic Conserv: Mar Freshw Ecosyst. 2019; 29( S1): 86– 100. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.3137 * Caillat, M, Cordes, L, Thompson, P, Matthiopoulos, J, Smout, S. Use of state‐space modelling to identify ecological covariates associated with trends in pinniped demography. Aquatic Conserv: Mar Freshw Ecosyst. 2019; 29( S1): 101– 118. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.3130 * Hastie, GD, Wu, G‐M, Moss, S, et al. Automated detection and tracking of marine mammals: A novel sonar tool for monitoring effects of marine industry. Aquatic Conserv: Mar Freshw Ecosyst. 2019; 29( S1): 119– 130. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.3103 * Hanson, N, Smout, S, Moss, S, Pomeroy, P. Colony‐specific differences in decadal longitudinal body composition of a capital‐breeding marine top predator. Aquatic Conserv: Mar Freshw Ecosyst. 2019; 29( S1): 131– 143. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.3093 * Paterson, WD, Russell, DJF, Wu, G‐M, et al. Post‐disturbance haulout behaviour of harbour seals. Aquatic Conserv: Mar Freshw Ecosyst. 2019; 29( S1): 144– 156. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.3092 * Gordon, J, Blight, C, Bryant, E, Thompson, D. Measuring responses of harbour seals to potential aversive acoustic mitigation signals using controlled exposure behavioural response studies. Aquatic Conserv: Mar Freshw Ecosyst. 2019; 29( S1): 157– 177. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.3150 * Arso Civil, M, Quick, NJ, Cheney, B, Pirotta, E, Thompson, PM, Hammond, PS. Changing distribution of the east coast of Scotland bottlenose dolphin population and the challenges of area‐based management. Aquatic Conserv: Mar Freshw Ecosyst. 2019; 29( S1): 178– 196. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.3102 * Nykänen, M, Louis, M, Dillane, E, et al. Fine‐scale population structure and connectivity of bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops truncatus, in European waters and implications for conservation. Aquatic Conserv: Mar Freshw Ecosyst. 2019; 29( S1): 197– 211. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.3139 * Heinrich, S, Genov, T, Fuentes Riquelme, M, Hammond, PS. Fine‐scale habitat partitioning of Chilean and Peale's dolphins and their overlap with aquaculture. Aquatic Conserv: Mar Freshw Ecosyst. 2019; 29( S1): 212– 226. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.3153 * Servidio, A, Pérez‐Gil, E, Pérez‐Gil, M, Cañadas, A, Hammond, PS, Martín, V. Site fidelity and movement patterns of short‐finned pilot whales within the Canary Islands: Evidence for resident and transient populations. Aquatic Conserv: Mar Freshw Ecosyst. 2019; 29( S1): 227– 241. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.3135 * Tyack, PL, Thomas, L. Using dose–response functions to improve calculations of the impact of anthropogenic noise. Aquatic Conserv: Mar Freshw Ecosyst. 2019; 29( S1): 242– 253. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.3149 * Palmer, KJ, Brookes, KL, Davies, IM, Edwards, E, Rendell, L. Habitat use of a coastal delphinid population investigated using passive acoustic monitoring. Aquatic Conserv: Mar Freshw Ecosyst. 2019; 29( S1): 254– 270. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.3166 * Kershaw, JL, Brownlow, A, Ramp, CA, Miller, PJO, Hall, AJ. Assessing cetacean body condition: Is total lipid content in blubber biopsies a useful monitoring tool? Aquatic Conserv: Mar Freshw Ecosyst. 2019; 29( S1): 271– 282. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.3105 * Gordine, SA, Fedak, MA, Boehme, L. The importance of Southern Ocean frontal systems for the improvement of body condition in southern elephant seals. Aquatic Conserv: Mar Freshw Ecosyst. 2019; 29( S1): 283– 304 https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.3183 If you have questions regarding any of the individual papers, please get in touch with the correspondent author (details can be found through each DOI). Kind regards, Mònica Dr Mònica Arso Civil Research Fellow Sea Mammal Research Unit Scottish Oceans Institute University of St Andrews St Andrews, Fife KY16 8LB Harbour Seal Decline Project: https://synergy.st-andrews.ac.uk/harbourseals/ Twitter: @monicaarso

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Lectureship vacancy in Animal Biology, University of Plymouth, UK
by Simon Ingram 06 Sep '19

06 Sep '19

Lectureship vacancy in Animal Biology at the University of Plymouth, UK. Full-time permanent post - vertebrate biologists encouraged to apply! https://www.nature.com/naturecareers/job/lecturer-in-animal-biology-plymout… The University of Plymouth is a centre of excellence in Marine Science and the post will be within the School of Biological and Marine Sciences https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/schools/school-of-biological-and-marine-sciences A fantastic opportunity to join our exciting, interdisciplinary marine vertebrate research group https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/research/marine-biology-and-ecology-research-cen… Simon Ingram, Associate Professor of Marine Conservation, University of Plymouth, UK ________________________________ [http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/images/email_footer.gif]<http://www.plymouth.ac.uk/worldclass> This email and any files with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the recipient to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient then copying, distribution or other use of the information contained is strictly prohibited and you should not rely on it. If you have received this email in error please let the sender know immediately and delete it from your system(s). Internet emails are not necessarily secure. While we take every care, University of Plymouth accepts no responsibility for viruses and it is your responsibility to scan emails and their attachments. University of Plymouth does not accept responsibility for any changes made after it was sent. Nothing in this email or its attachments constitutes an order for goods or services unless accompanied by an official order form.

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Recent publications: beaked whales, Hawaii odontocetes, use of Navy ranges
by Robin Baird 05 Sep '19

05 Sep '19

Hello all, There are several recent publications from our Hawai’i research program that I thought folks would be interested in, listed below. PDFs are available on our Hawai’i publication page http://www.cascadiaresearch.org/hawaiian-cetacean-studies/publications or by request Robin Baird, R.W. 2019. Behavior and ecology of not-so-social odontocetes: Cuvier's and Blainville's beaked whales. In: Ethology and Behavioral Ecology of Toothed Whales and Dolphins, the Odontocetes. Edited by B. Würsig. Springer. Information on the book can be found at https://www.springer.com/gp/book/9783030166625 and the abstract of this chapter is below. While beaked whales are the poorest-known family of cetaceans overall, the behavior and ecology of two species of beaked whales, Cuvier’s (Ziphius cavirostris) and Blainville’s (Mesoplodon densirostris), have been studied extensively for more than 15 years in multiple areas around the world. This research was largely initiated as a result of the susceptibility of both species to react to high-intensity navy sonars, sometimes resulting in the death of individuals. In this chapter long-term studies of both species in Hawai‘i are reviewed, informed by research on these species elsewhere. Both species have small populations that are resident to the island slopes, evidenced by a combination of long-term photoidentification and shorter-term satellite tag deployments. The two species coexist by partitioning their habitat in three dimensions, with Cuvier’s beaked whales being found in deeper water, and diving deeper, than Blainville’s beaked whales. Diving and acoustic behavior of the two species appears to be driven in part by predator avoidance. Both species echolocate only at depth, foraging deep in the water column during the day and at night, with less time spent near the surface during the day in between the deep foraging dives. Ascent rates are also slower than descent rates. All of these factors are likely ways of minimizing detection from near-surface visually or acoustically oriented predators such as large sharks and killer whales. There appears to be no strong selective pressure for grouping in these species. Both are often found alone and on average are found in very small groups (medians: Cuvier’s = 2; Blainville’s = 3). Groups that do form appear to function in part to avoid predators (for females with small calves) and allow for mating opportunities (for adult males seeking mates). Individuals of both species tend to have ephemeral social relations, although one pair of subadult Cuvier’s have been documented together over an 11-year period. Blainville’s beaked whale males exhibit female defense polygyny, while sperm competition may play a role in the mating system of Cuvier’s beaked whales. Studies of these species in multiple areas spanning the tropics to temperate waters in two different oceans are beginning to earn them an important place in our overall understanding of cetacean ethology and behavioral ecology. Baird, R.W. 2019. How we learn about Hawai'i's dolphin and whale populations: do scientists really know what they are talking about? Hawaii Fishing News 44(9):31-32. A PDF copy is available at http://www.cascadiaresearch.org/files/publications/Baird_2019_HFN.pdf Baird, R.W., D.L. Webster, S.M. Jarvis, E.E. Henderson, S.L. Watwood, S.D. Mahaffy, B.D. Guenther, J.K. Lerma, C.J. Cornforth, A.W. Vanderzee, and D.B. Anderson. 2019. Odontocete studies on the Pacific Missile Range Facility in August 2018: satellite-tagging, photo-identification, and passive acoustic monitoring. Prepared for Commander, Pacific Fleet, under Contract No. N62470-15-D-8006 Task Order 6274218F0107 issued to HDR Inc., Honolulu, HI. A PDF copy is available at http://www.cascadiaresearch.org/files/publications/Bairdetal2019_Kauai.pdf and the executive summary is below. As part of a long-term U.S. Navy-funded marine mammal monitoring program, in August 2018 a combination of vessel-based field effort and passive acoustic m onitoring was carried out on and around the Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF) off Kaua‘i prior to a Submarine Command Course scheduled for mid-August 2018. The purpose of the monitoring effort was to assess the spatial movement patterns and habitat use of cetaceans that are exposed to mid-frequency active sonar and how those patterns influence exposure and potentially responses. The U.S. Navy funded 13 days of small-vessel effort and the National Marine Fisheries Service funded an additional 2 days of effort. Results from this effort were compared with previous Cascadia Research Collective (CRC) survey effort and photo-identification and tag data from Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau, based on surveys in 10 different years since 2003. During the survey, the Marine Mammal Monitoring on Navy Ranges (M3R) system was used both to direct the research vessel to potential high-priority species, and to inform the research vessel when only low-priority species were detected on the range, allowing it to survey off the range and thus increasing overall encounter rates with high-priority species. Over the course of the 15-day project, there were 1,597 kilometers (100.0 hours) of small-vessel survey effort, resulting in 57 sightings of seven species of odontocetes. Of the 57 sightings, 24 were on PMRF representing five of the seven species, and of those, five were directed by M3R acoustic detections. During the encounters, we took 33,452 photographs for individual identification, with photographs added to long-term CRC regional photo-identification catalogs for short-finned pilot whales (Globicephala macrorhyncus), bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), and rough-toothed dolphins (Steno bredanensis). As expected based on previous CRC efforts off Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau, rough-toothed dolphins were the most frequently encountered species, with 34 of 57 encounters (59.6 percent) being of this species. Nineteen of the 34 encounters were on PMRF, and three of those groups were found in response to acoustic detections from M3R (60 percent of all responses to acoustic detections). One sighting was of a mixed group of rough-toothed and bottlenose dolphins, only the third sighting of a mixed-species group involving those two species in a combined 780 sightings of the two species in CRC’s Hawai‘i dataset. One location-only tag was deployed on a rough-toothed dolphin. During the five days of location data from the functioning tag, the tagged individual remained off the west coast of Kaua‘i, moving off and on PMRF on four occasions. A social network analysis of photo-identification data of rough-toothed dolphins indicated that the tagged individual was part of the resident, island-associated population. Short-finned pilot whales were encountered on five occasions over a three-day period, and represented three different social groups. Depth-transmitting satellite tags that included Fastloc-GPS capability were deployed on individuals in two of the three groups, with tag deployments on 17 and 19 August 2018 (the latter group cued by an acoustic detection from M3R). The group tagged on 17 August was linked by association with the main cluster of short-finned pilot whales known to be resident off the island of Hawai‘i, but re-sighted individuals have only been seen on one occasion off that island, so the group does not appear to exhibit strong fidelity to that area. The group tagged 19 August was linked by association with the western community of short-finned pilot whales known to be resident to Kaua‘i, Ni‘ihau, and O‘ahu. The third, untagged group (seen both on 17 and 18 August) had been previously tagged off Ni‘ihau in September 2015 and was thought to be from the resident western community, based on movements from tag data. The Fastloc-GPS tags were programmed to maximize obtaining Fastloc-GPS locations and dive data for a 10-day window spanning the Submarine Command Course scheduled to start on 21 August 2018. These tags produced more than twice as many Fastloc-GPS locations than Argos locations during the 10-day window, and behavior (i.e., dive and surfacing) data coverage during that period ranged from 77.4 to 99.3 percent. This programming regime was successful at producing high resolution information over a shorter-period of time in order to allow a detailed assessment of exposure and response to mid-frequency active sonar. Over a 37-day period the group associated with the eastern community (tagged 17 August) spent most of its time in deep water far offshore (median depth=4,215 meters [m], median distance from shore=73.3 kilometers [km]), with the track ending in slope waters off Hawai‘i Island. By contrast, the group associated with the western community (tagged 19 August) remained in slope waters (median depth=906 m; median distance from shore=6.9 km) around Kaua‘i over the 23 days the tag transmitted. This group remained in the area during the surface component of the Submarine Command Course, and location and behavior data will be used to assess exposure and response of the tagged individual to mid-frequency active sonar. There were two encounters with melon-headed whales (Peponocephala electra) 10 days apart. Based on a photo-identification match between the two encounters, they appeared to be the same group seen on two different occasions. Two Fastloc-GPS dive satellite tags were deployed during the first encounter, although location data were only obtained from one individual for just over nine days. This is only the third time that melon-headed whales have been satellite-tagged off Kaua‘i or Ni‘ihau. Over the 9 days of tag data, the individual moved 830 km, with a median depth and distance from shore of 2,220 m and 14.8 km, respectively. Sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) were encountered on one occasion, with the vessel directed to the group based on acoustic detections from M3R, as the sperm whale group approached the range from the south. This was only Cascadia’s fourth encounter with sperm whales off Kaua‘i or Ni‘ihau. This group was widely dispersed (>4 km) and included at least one adult male, with long dives of approximately 1 hour in duration. Individuals were not approachable for tagging. There was one sighting of pantropical spotted dolphins (Stenella attenuata), south of PMRF. One individual was satellite-tagged, although only a single location was received from the tag. Four biopsy samples were obtained, and will be analyzed for genetics to further understand population structure of this species in the islands. Bottlenose dolphins were encountered on six occasions, and good quality identifications of 36 distinctive individuals were obtained. Of those, 32 had been previously documented, and all were linked by association with the resident community of bottlenose dolphins from Kauaʻi and Niʻihau. Spinner dolphins (Stenella longirostris) were seen on eight occasions but this was a low-priority species so limited efforts were expended to work with them. Probability-density analyses were undertaken using 12-hour locations from switching state-space models of tag-location data obtained for the three species for which tag data were available from this effort. Core areas (50 percent kernel densities) were identified for the resident populations of rough-toothed dolphins (1,642 square kilometers [km2]), the Hawaiian Islands stock of melon-headed whales (82,431 km2), and the western community of short-finned pilot whales (7,517 km2). While the core areas for all three populations overlap with at least part of PMRF, the differences in the proportion of the core area that overlaps with PMRF suggests that the likelihood of exposure to mid-frequency active sonar on PMRF varies substantially between populations. Continued collection of photo-identification, movement, and habitat-use data from these species allows for a better understanding of the use of the range and surrounding areas, as well as estimation of abundance and examination of trends in abundance for resident populations. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Robin W. Baird, Ph.D. Research Biologist, Cascadia Research Collective Affiliate Faculty, Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology Mailing address: Cascadia Research 218 ½ W. 4th Avenue Olympia, WA 98501 USA Hawaiʻi Cetacean Studies on the web<http://www.cascadiaresearch.org/projects/hawaii> Follow us on Facebook<https://www.facebook.com/CascadiaResearch/> Watch us on YouTube<https://www.youtube.com/user/CascadiaResearch>

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Research assistants needed - Cetacean Conservation of Nicaragua
by Joëlle De Weerdt 05 Sep '19

05 Sep '19

*About Association ELI-S* ELI-S is a small nonprofit organization based in France that has been created in 2013. Our organization aims at promoting, protecting and conserving cetaceans in Central America. We are running the Cetacean Conservation Project of Nicaragua since 2016. This pioneer project aims to generate knowledge on cetacean presence, population size, distribution and habitat use patterns. The expected output is to generate:1) scientific data on cetaceans in Nicaragua, 2) environmental awareness to the local communities in order to create a socio-economic relevance in conserving and protecting their natural environment and 3) responsible eco-tourism. ELI-Scientific is recruiting volunteer research assistants for field work, photo-identification and data entry from between January and April 2020 in Padre Ramos and San Juan del Sur. All team members will have a training beforehand on field methodologies and protocols as well as data entry and data management. Research assistants should expect to spend time on the computer for data analysis but also to spend some days on the field to gather data during the 16-week field study. The Research Assistant have a unique opportunity to participate to a pioneer research project under the supervision of experienced marine biologists, which gives the opportunity for the assistant to develop both professionally but also personally thanks to the unique experience to live within local communities. A commitment of minimum 1 month is expected. *Location: *San Juan del Sur South-West of Nicaragua and Padre Ramos North-West of Nicaragua *Period: *Between January and April with a start on the first of each month (1 month commitment) *Type of agreement: *Full time. *Duties:* - Assist in Boat based and land based surveys in collecting data on cetaceans - Photo-identification of whale and dolphin species - Update photo-ID catalogue - Data entry of collected data - Participate to public outreach and events *Desirable Skills and qualifications:* - *Bsc or Mc in biology / environmental sciences* - *Fluency in Spanish (!)* - *Enthusiastic, conscientious and hard working (!)* - Experience of working in developing countries - Proactive with ability to work unsupervised - Interest in wildlife and conservation - Being comfortable on a small boat and spend long hours on a boat in the sun - Excellent verbal and written communication skills - Being able to work in a small team - Being able to live in basic living conditions - An interest and knowledge of marine life - A background in science (chemistry, physics or biology) - Be able to swim *Successful candidate will:* - Gain valuable experience in cetacean survey techniques and behavioral studies - Work in a very dynamic environment - Get insight in running a research project in developing countries This position is an *unpaid position* and requires a participation fee of 900 euros per month *This fee includes:* - Accommodation in a shared room - All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and cook - Water and electricity - Fieldwork expenses - One week Training to marine mammal survey material and methodologies - Membership to the organization for a year - 2 t-shirts *Fee does not include:* - Flights to the country - Personal expenses: restaurants, bars, telephone, internet, cleaning clothes, etc. *To apply:* Please email a CV, 2 references and cover letter outlining your experience and motivations. Send this to victoria.pouey(a)eli-s.com <victoria.poueysantalou(a)eli-s.com> and eliscientific(a)gmail.com in copy with "Research assistant 2020" in the subject line. Interviews via Skype. Deadline: 15th of October 2019. *Contact:* For further information and any queries, please contact *Joelle De Weerdt, Project Director* Website: www.nicacetacea.org Find us on : Facebook <http://www.facebook.com/ELIScientific/>, Instagram <http://www.instagram.com/eli.scientific/>, Twitter <http://twitter.com/ELI_Scientific>

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Upcoming underwater sound source webinars
by Holly Morin 05 Sep '19

05 Sep '19

***apologies for cross-postings*** As part of the *2019 Underwater Sound Sources Webinar Series* <https://dosits.org/decision-makers/webinar-series/webinars-2019/>, the* Discovery of Sound in the Sea (DOSITS) <http://www.dosits.org/>* Team will host two additional webinars in *September and October 2019*. These *60-minute webinars* will focus on *commercial shipping, sonar, and echosounders *as underwater sound sources. Each webinar will provide an overview of the sound source, an update on current research efforts, and a review of noise mitigation measures. An extended period of facilitated discussion will also be included at the end of each webinar. Prior to each webinar, an outline of the presentation(s), with links to relevant background content on DOSITS, will be made available. *Participants are encouraged to review these outlines, as well as archived webinars on the potential effects of underwater sound on marine animals, before each sound source webinar.* All webinars will be recorded and archived on the DOSITS website (Decision Makers Webinars <https://dosits.org/decision-makers/webinar-series/>). The first webinar will be led by *Michelle Sanders (Transport Canada)* and will focus on *commercial vessel noise as an underwater sound source*. This webinar will take place at *12:00 pm EDT on Wednesday, September 18, 2019*. The second webinar will be led by *Frans-Peter Lam (TNO) and Kelly Benoit-Bird (Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute), *and will focus on *sonars and echosounders*, respectively. This webinar will take place at *12:00pm EDT on Thursday, October 10, 2019. * *Interested individuals must register in advance for each webinar.* To register please visit: https://dosits.org/decision-makers/webinar-series/webinars-2019/ To learn more about this webinar series or to view previous webinars, please visit the DOSITS webpage, Decision Makers Webinars <https://dosits.org/decision-makers/webinar-series/>. Associated webinars and their resources were conducted in 2018, and have been archived here <https://dosits.org/decision-makers/webinar-series/webinars-2018/>. Questions? Please contact Holly Morin at holly_morin(a)uri.edu.

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