January 2020 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Volunteer field assistant opportunity for tropical dolphin research, North West Cape, Australia, 2020
by Jonathan Syme 21 Jan '20

21 Jan '20

Dear all, I am looking for four full-time field assistants to conduct boat-based observations and photo-identification of Australian humpback dolphins and Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins around the North West Cape in Western Australia for 4 months beginning on the 1st May 2020. Overview: This research aims to investigate the behavioural ecology of mixed-species groups of Australian humpback, Sousa sahulensis, and Indo-Pacific bottlenose, Tursiops aduncus, dolphins around the North West Cape as part of a larger study of these dolphin populations. This is an opportunity to gain experience in field techniques for small cetacean research and contribute to a project with very high conservation and management value. Furthermore, it provides assistants the opportunity to conduct research in a truly unique natural setting along the World Heritage Listed Ningaloo Coast, home to one of the longest near-shore reefs in the world, Ningaloo Reef. The region is highly abundant with marine life, including seasonal visits from whale sharks, humpback whales, orcas, and manta rays. Location: Exmouth, Western Australia Dates: 1st May 2020 - 31st August 2020 Commitment to the full 4 month period is preferred. Application deadline: Wednesday 26th February 2020 Duties: The season will be split into "boat days" and "land days" which is purely dependent on weather. "Boat days": Boat work is conducted 7 days a week (often for extended hours) throughout the entire field season weather permitting. Boat days consist of preparing and cleaning the boat and field equipment, boat-based transect surveys searching for dolphin groups, taking images of dorsal fins, and recording information on group size, composition, behaviour, as well as recording environmental data. At times, there will be opportunities to drive the boat. At the conclusion of the day, photo-ID images will be loaded onto the computer and cameras will be charged and set up for the next morning. In order to keep on top of data entry, it is expected that some work will be done in the evenings on returning to the house. A structured schedule will be set up with rotations of field duties, time off and specific duties for each person. "Land days": when conditions are less than ideal, expect to spend time in the office doing data entry, scoring photographs, and fin matching. During these days, there will also be plenty of opportunity to explore the surrounding area, which is an ideal location for those who enjoy diving, surfing, hiking, and wildlife. Cooking and housekeeping duties will be shared equally among all team members. What to expect: Field assistants need to be available full-time, including weekends, and be prepared for early morning departures (6-7AM), long days (8-10 hours) on the water in warm weather for multiple consecutive days, and lengthy days working with the collected data. Fieldwork is weather dependent. If the weather is unsuitable, we will not conduct surveys and could spend several days in a row on land, however, if the weather is good, it could be several days before we get a day on land. Bring some books to read or movies to watch in the down time. Ningaloo is home to a large array of marine fauna so expect to see whales, sea turtles, whale sharks, dugongs, manta rays, sharks, and crystal clear waters over beautiful tropical reefs. Prerequisites: * Enrolled in or completed a degree in marine science, ecology, biology, animal behaviour, life sciences or a related field (highly desirable); * Experience in working on a small boat and no history of sea sickness (essential); * Experience driving a boat (highly desirable); * Experience in photo-ID survey techniques (highly desirable); * Experience in field research on small cetaceans (highly desirable); * Experience in working in remote areas (highly desirable); * Be team-oriented and have an enthusiastic and proactive attitude to hard work, long hours and collecting data on the natural environment (essential); * Be flexible as weather dependent fieldwork requires flexibility and involves plans changing, sometimes at the last minute (essential); * Proficient use of Microsoft Excel (highly desirable); * Experience in using DISCOVERY photo identification software (highly desirable); * Fluent in English (essential) Expenses: Unfortunately, we are unable to provide monetary compensation or living provisions and field assistants will be responsible for their own travel to Exmouth (direct flights available from Perth) and living expenses. We will be staying in a rented house in Exmouth for the duration of the field season and costs for accommodation and food will be split among the research leader and assistants ($100-$200 a week each). Applications: If you are interested in being part of the team, please send a CV (max. 3 pages), a 1-page cover letter outlining your relevant experience in regards to the above prerequisites, and contact details of two relevant referees to jonathan.syme(a)flinders.edu.au<mailto:jonathan.syme@flinders.edu.au> by Wednesday 26th February 2020. Short-listed candidates will be contacted to schedule an interview. Kind regards, Jonathan Syme PhD Candidate Cetacean Ecology, Behaviour and Evolution Lab (CEBEL), Flinders University, South Australia jonathan.syme(a)flinders.edu.au<mailto:jonathan.syme@flinders.edu.au> www.cebel.org.au<http://www.cebel.org.au>

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Manx Whale and Dolphin Watch Volunteer Opportunity
by jen adams 20 Jan '20

20 Jan '20

Marine Research and Outreach Assistant Volunteer role Manx Whale and Dolphin Watch is a charity based on the Isle of Man dedicated to the conservation of cetaceans in Manx waters. We are recruiting full-time volunteer Research and Outreach Assistants for the 2020 season. The placement runs for 6 months from 1st April until 1st October and you must be available for the entire duration. This is a unique opportunity to join our small but active team and become involved in all areas of our research and outreach work, alongside running our Visitor's Centre. We have 5 regular species of cetacean in Manx waters *Phocoena phocoena, Tursiops truncatus, Delphis delphis, Balaenoptera acutorostrata* and our key species *Grampus griseus.* We have one of the largest inshore populations of Grampus in Europe (and our waters are very shallow). The majority of your time here will be split between five core activities: land-based surveys, boat-based surveys, manning the visitor's centre, office work, and public outreach events. You will be working alongside MWDW's three operational staff and local volunteers on a rota of indoor tasks and outdoor fieldwork. The placement offers a 50:50 balance of research collection/analysis and public outreach. Land and vessel-based surveys will take place when the weather and other factors allow. Land-surveys can occur from first to last light for many consecutive days. Vessel-based surveying is more dependent on weather and we will not guarantee you a certain number of trips. You will, however, have regular opportunities to conduct guiding on local tourist boats and survey on board the government fisheries protection vessel. The principal office activities you will participate in are data entry and photo-identification analysis. QGIS is used to map sightings and you will be taught how to use the software, should you not have prior experience. Public outreach and awareness-raising is a key element of our work and we run frequent public watch events through the summer. Although our primary focus is on cetaceans, we will also see basking sharks and two species of seal at these events. We also attend numerous small events such as carnivals and fun-days with our travelling information stall. We operate from our headquarters, The Manx Whale and Dolphin Visitor's Centre, which is in the heart of Peel, attracting many locals and tourists. We offer information about local species, recent sightings, how and where to spot them, general cetacean facts and sell merchandise. The Young Scientist's Area features a collection of locally found bones and offers games and quizzes for the young enthusiast. Craft and educational workshops for children will be organised for the summer months. Another highlight of 2020 will be the running of the 2nd Manx Whale and Dolphin Watch Show, which takes place in August. Andy Peters from the Whale Workshop will be bringing several realistic and life-size models of marine species over to the Island for display in a large venue in our capital city. You will assist us with the organising, setting up and running of the event. The 1st show in 2018 saw over 2,000 visitors through the doors over one weekend. As a volunteer for Manx Whale and Dolphin Watch, you will be spending the summer in the tiny but beautiful ‘city’ of Peel, on the Isle of Man. Peel is a fantastic place to live with two beaches, an impressive castle, entertaining pubs and the chance of seeing basking sharks from the breakwater. We do not have a typical working week as we must take advantage of good weather when it is available. You will be expected to work 5 days a week, including most weekends. Experience is not essential but a strong desire to further a career in conservation, marine mammal science or environmental education is integral. You will be managed and trained by 3 full time staff, but you are expected to have a strong work ethic and be able to think proactively, learning from the role and using your own initiative to develop new projects over the course of the summer. If you can bring a car, this would open much more flexibility in terms of exploring the island and conducting surveys without a member of staff. Work related fuel costs will be reimbursed. You will be living in shared accommodation in the centre of Old Peel. Accommodation is currently being finalised and is reasonably priced and will not be more than £75 per week. Local pub work in the evenings has been a popular option for previous volunteers to help with living costs, and this work can almost be guaranteed. You can get to the Isle of Man easily from the UK or Ireland via the ferry ( Steam-Packet <https://www.steam-packet.com/>) or a flight to our airport (Ronaldsway). To apply, please email info(a)mwdw.net with a copy of your CV and a covering letter explaining why you would like to come and volunteer with us. Applications deadline is Sunday 16th February and telephone or video interviews will be held week beginning 17th Contact details: Jen Adams 07624 393496 info(a)mwdw.net www.mwdw.net

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Bottlenose Dolphin Project Research In Venezuela. Interns And Volunteer Program 2020.
by Sergio Cobarrubia 20 Jan '20

20 Jan '20

BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN PROJECT RESEARCH IN VENEZUELA. INTERNS AND VOLUNTEER PROGRAM 2020. Laboratory of Ecosystems and Global Change (LEGC-IVIC) and Provita. BACKGROUND: The Laboratory of Ecosystems and Global Change (LEGC) of the Venezuelan Institute of Scientific Research (IVIC, www.ivic.gob.ve) invites the second season of internships-volunteering (2020) in the study of coastal dolphins. LEGC is a scientific team that among its research lines on the fauna of coastal and riparian ecosystems, it has established the first one on aquatic mammals in Venezuela. On the other hand, Provita is an important NGO that contributes to the research and conservation in Venezuela. This research will begin with a project focused on sociobiology (social structure, social networks and bioacoustics) of resident groups of the coastal bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) in the central coast of Venezuela. This, after an experience of 5 years in that locality studying ecological aspects of T. truncatus ( https://doi.org/10.1007/s13364-018-0401-1) The coast of Aragua not only home this species, but also the Bryde's whale (Balaenoptera edeni), the common dolphin (Delphinus sp.) and the spinner dolphin (Stenella longirostris). Of which basic information is collected too. LEGC interns and volunteers are young, hard-working who are willing to contribute to research by learning as they experience fieldwork in teams, field techniques for collecting and processing data and methodologies. All team members and interns share academic space, housing in the Institute, housework in the study area, knowledge and experience in a friendly and multicultural environment. The internship consists of three weeks: The first week of theoretical-practical introduction (24 theoretical hours and 16 practicals hours) at the IVIC Ecology Center ( www.ivic.gob.ve/es/investigacion-3/centros-31/ecologia-316) The second week of seven field surveys for data collection (42 h) on the Cata Bay (Aragua state) and the third week for data processing and analysis at the IVIC Ecology Center (40 h). The volunteering consist of the second and third weeks. WHERE: Theory: LEGC, Center of Ecology (IVIC) Miranda State, Caracas (10 23 N - 66 58 W). Practice: Cata Bay, western coast of the (rain forest) National Park Henry Pittier, Aragua state (central coast of Venezuela) 150 km from Caracas (DC) (10 29 N - 67 44 W). PROGRAM: Interns (Three weeks), Volunteers (Two weeks). 1st WEEK (LEGC-Ecology Center, 40 hours. For Interns). - Monday: What is a cetacean? The cetaceans and the human in history. Origin, evolution and diversity. Adaptations for aquatic life: Anatomy and Physiology. Life histories. Biogeography Distribution. Ecology Behavior. Conservation. - Tuesday: Identification of species reported for Venezuela. Basic logistics for the study of cetaceans on the mainland, sea and air. Basic equipment to collect information. - Wednesday: How to detect cetaceans and record an effective sighting? Basic data to collect during a sighting, calibration and use of GPS. Configuration and use of the SLR cameras. Download of sightings (GIS). Download pictures and selection (software). - Thursday: Daily encounter ratio. Photo-identification as a tool for ecological and behavioral studies. Estimates of abundance. Local distribution and areas of action. - Friday: Residential patterns. Behavior (deployments, states, daily budget). Habitat use. Social structure and social networks. Bioacoustics. Saturday: Break. Sunday: Transfer to the Cata Bay. 2nd WEEK (Cata Bay-Provita, 42 hours. For Interns and Volunteers). The field surveys will be carried out in a fishing vessel of 9 m in length by 2 of beam, no roof. The field work will depend on the climatic conditions, however, the Aragua coast offers few climatic inconveniences throughout the year. There will be 7 mornings of field surveys in the week, after each survey is lunch, rest and then proceed to download the data of sightings and then interpret them preliminarily and discuss them. We recommend wearing a long-sleeved shirt, cool pants, hat and sunscreen (30-50 PF). In the field surveys, it will be implemented: - The identification and recognition of the elements of the marine landscape and the method of tracking and detection of cetaceans. - Ethical navigation mode to study cetaceans. - The basic data collection / sighting. - Use of GPS. - Use of SRL digital camera. - Counting of individuals and composition of a group. - Identification of the behavioral states that configure group behavior and its recording. - Use of hydrophone. - Identification and counting of birds. -Identification and counting of vessels and other antropic objects. In the afternoon the information of the sightings will be downloaded: - Sighting forms. - Latitude and longitude. - Photographs and their selection. - Voice recordings (behavior). - Recordings of vocalizations. - Birds sightings. - Vessels and anthropic objects sightings. 3rd WEEK (LEGC-Ecology Center, 40 hours. For Interns and volunteers). PRACTICAL FEES: Accomodation (IVIC students residence and apartment in Cata Bay), food and transport (airport-IVIC-Cata Bay-IVIC-airport) are paid. The cost of internships and volunteers is US $ 720 for the compensation of logistical expenses of the field surveys. For more information, please contact:sergio.cobarrubia@gmail.com. Ask all your questions, especially to mitigate your concerns regarding Venezuela. Since our nation is the object of an intense media campaign where opinion matrices project false dystopian scenarios. WHEN: During the year there will be 6 internships-volunteering sessions (February, April, June, August, October, November). For interns, second, third and fourth week of the months scheduled. For volunteers, third and fourth week of the scheduled months. VACANTS: 4 people / session. Not included in the rate: - Meals in restaurants - Free time activities - Personal insurance (all participants must have health and / or travel insurance) - Personal expenses. INTEREST IS EXPECTED: - Being over 18 years - Iterns: Preference will be given to undergraduate students and professional students (biology, marine biology, environmental, conservation and plus). - Volunteer: No preferences. - Have a mature attitude towards the investigation of marine mammals and environment. - Be autonomous and flexible. - To be able to live and work in an international team and mainly outdoors in the sea - Speak Spanish, English or Portuguese. ACADEMIC CREDITS: The LEGC will certify the work performed by intern or volunteer through a diploma with the recognition of the hours (academic-practical) worked. APPLICATION AND QUESTIONS: Applicants must write to sergio.cobarrubia(a)gmail.com with the subject "DOLPHINS PROJECT_Name". You will be sent a confirmation email with all the details about the study area and the species present, the practices and requesting your CV resume, motivation letter (small statement about what your expectations are and why you want to work with LEGC) and the internship month of your choice. Applications will be accepted throughout the year, however, early application is recommended due to limited vacancies. PLUS: The possibility of making one-day expedition to the pelagic habitat is opened, this other expedition will allow us to watch Atlantic spotted dolphins, spinner dolphins or pilot whales. -- *Sergio Enrique Cobarrubia Russo* Laboratorio de Ecosistemas y Cambio Global Centro de Ecología Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas Venezuela.

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LAST MINUTE OPENING - Internship in Marine Mammals in Madeira
by Anja Badenas 20 Jan '20

20 Jan '20

Oceanic Observatory of Madeira (OOM/ARDITI) is currently opening INTERNSHIPS FOR WINTER and SPRING in Madeira Island (Portugal) The Oceanic Observatory of Madeira (OOM) is a research unit within the Regional Agency for the Development of Research, Technology and Innovation (ARDITI), located in Madeira Island, Portugal. OOM seeks to become a centre of excellence dedicated to research and permanent monitoring of the ocean. This initiative brings together a multidisciplinary scientific community, joining several institutions with the aim of promoting cooperation and resource optimization. http://oom.arditi.pt *OOM/ARDITI is looking for interns to help with our marine mammals’ research project based in Madeira Island, Portugal.* We are currently filling 1* position* for *February-March *and* 2 positions *for *April-May 2020* Priority will be given to those interns who are available both periods. *Internship Details:* In the Madeira Archipelago, located in Macaronesia (NE Atlantic), 29 species of cetaceans have been recorded. There is a daily ferry boat that conducts trips between the 2 main islands of the archipelago, Madeira and Porto Santo. Interns will be onboard the ferry boat and will be enrolled in data collection through visual surveys 3 days per week. Interns must cover all their accommodation, travel and food expenses. These positions are unpaid but we encourage candidates to seek grants where we can post as host institution. To cover for logistic expenses, there is a monthly fee of 75eur, paid fully upon arrival. Non-European candidates must cover their own insurance expenses. *Internship description:* - Training on monitoring protocol and cetacean identification; - Sea surveys Madeira-Porto Santo; - Educational activities in local schools or to the general public (when possible); - Free time to visit Madeira and Porto Santo; - Accident insurance. Successful applicants should possess or be enrolled in a BS or MS course in biology or related, be reliable, dedicated, adaptable and patient, as this work is highly weather dependent and requires consecutive days of work at sea. Interns should be independent and proactive. If you are an undergraduate or graduate student interested in pursuing a career in marine mammal research, this is an excellent opportunity to learn and gain experience at sea. Positions will be open until filled. If you are interested in interning with OOM/ARDITI, please send a CV and a letter of interest to anja.badenas(a)mare-centre.pt . Thank you, Anja Badenas, MSc OOM-ARDITI-MARE Phone: +351291721246 <+351%20291%20721%20246>

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Louis Herman Research Scholarship: Call for Proposals
by Lindsay Porter 19 Jan '20

19 Jan '20

Hallo Maram Subscribers! We are pleased to announce that the Louis M. Herman Research Scholarship committee is now accepting submissions. Dr. Herman’s family, colleagues, and friends established the Louis M. Herman Research Scholarship in 2017 to honor his legacy by promoting the type of research that was the focus of his groundbreaking studies. The Scholarship is given every two years in the amount of $5,000. The Louis M. Herman Research Scholarship supports a research project that contributes to our understanding of either cetacean cognition and sensory perception (laboratory or field studies), or humpback whale behavioral ecology or communication. Work with other marine mammals that especially enhances our understanding of their cognitive abilities will also be considered. Eligible candidates include graduate students and those students who have completed their Masters or PhD within the past three years. To find out more about the Scholarship and submit your application, visit: https://www.marinemammalscience.org/jobs-grants/awards-and-scholarships/ Closing date 17th February 2020 Thank you, Lindsay Porter Chair Awards and Scholarships Committee Society for Marine Mammalogy

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Position Notice Cetacean Biologist
by Wilke, Mark W 17 Jan '20

17 Jan '20

Assistant Professor (Cetacean Biologist) Oregon State University's Marine Mammal Institute invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor in Cetacean Biology: The major focus of this position is to discover and disseminate new information through innovative research programs to better understand cetacean biology and related ecosystem, conservation, and management issues. Areas of expertise can include one or more of the following: population biology, life history, health assessment, ecology, conservation biology, physiology, and quantifying the impact of anthropogenic stressors and development of science-based solutions to mitigate these impacts. Taxonomic focus can include all species of cetaceans; geographic focus can be local, national, and international. Also desired is the development and application of novel equipment, field and laboratory techniques, experimental designs, and analytical methods. Special consideration will be given to candidates with a strong track record of collaboration across a wide range of institutions and with expertise that complements existing strengths within the Marine Mammal Institute. The successful candidate will demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. This position is part of a cluster hire in association with Oregon State University's Marine Studies Initiative. Applications will be accepted until 6 March, 2020. For additional information, contact Lisa.Ballance@oregonstate Detailed position and application information can be found at: https://jobs.oregonstate.edu/postings/87567 [Gray Whale Art DMV Final-sm]

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call for submissions for Oceans special issue on marine mammals
by Alex Werth 17 Jan '20

17 Jan '20

Colleagues, Oceans is a new, multidisciplinary, peer-reviewed open access journal (ISSN 2673-1924). As part of its inaugural year, Oceans will publish several special issues, including a special issue on "Marine Mammals in a Changing World." For more information, please see: https://www.mdpi.com/journal/oceans/special_issues/marine_mammals Submitted manuscripts will undergo rigorous peer review. The deadline for submissions is May 1, 2020. There is no publication fee; the normal article processing charge will be waived for all Oceans submissions in 2020. Contributions for this special issue are invited in all areas of marine mammal research, especially those that focus on one (or both) of two themes: changing technological advances and changes in ocean habitats affecting marine mammals (including but not limited to changes in climate/temperature; ocean acidification; noise, plastic, or chemical pollution; vessel traffic and ship strikes; pathogenic viruses and microbes; trophic changes; fisheries impacts; habitat destruction; and related topics). Submissions can focus on any area of marine mammal research and health, including but not limited to ecology, conservation, population biology and management, behavior, habitat and distribution, genetics, evolution, physiology, anatomy, acoustics, effects of noise and pollution, and new technologies. Please share this information with your colleagues and don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. Thanks and best regards, Alex Werth _______________________________ Alexander J. Werth, Ph.D. Trinkle Professor of Biology Hampden-Sydney College Box 162, Hampden-Sydney, VA 23943 USA 434-223-6326, fax 434-223-6374 http://www.hsc.edu/alex-werth

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Cetacean bycatch in Indian Ocean tuna gillnet fisheries
by Charles Anderson 17 Jan '20

17 Jan '20

Dear Colleagues, The following paper has just been published: Anderson R.C., M. Herrera, A.D. Ilangakoon, K.M. Koya, M. Moazzam, P.L. Mustika, D.N. Sutaria (2020) Cetacean bycatch in Indian Ocean tuna gillnet fisheries. Endangered Species Research, 41: 39-53 ABSTRACT: Pelagic gillnet (driftnet) fisheries account for some 34% of Indian Ocean tuna catches. We combined published results from 10 bycatch sampling programmes (1981-2016) in Australia, Sri Lanka, India and Pakistan to estimate bycatch rates for cetaceans across all Indian Ocean tuna gillnet fisheries. Estimated cetacean bycatch peaked at almost 100000 ind. yr-1 during 2004-2006, but has declined by over 15% since then, despite an increase in tuna gillnet fishing effort. These fisheries caught an estimated cumulative total of 4.1 million small cetaceans between 1950 and 2018. These bycatch estimates take little or no account of cetaceans caught by gillnet but not landed, of delayed mortality or sub-lethal impacts on cetaceans (especially whales) that escape from gillnets, of mortality associated with ghost nets, of harpoon catches made from gillnetters, or of mortality from other tuna fisheries. Total cetacean mortality from Indian Ocean tuna fisheries may therefore be substantially higher than estimated here. Declining cetacean bycatch rates suggest that such levels of mortality are not sustainable. Indeed, mean small cetacean abundance may currently be 13% of pre-fishery levels. None of these estimates are precise, but they do demonstrate the likely order of magnitude of the issue. Countries with the largest current gillnet catches of tuna, and thus the ones likely to have the largest cetacean bycatch are (in order): Iran, Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Oman, Yemen, UAE and Tanzania. These 9 countries together may account for roughly 96% of all cetacean bycatch from tuna gillnet fisheries across the Indian Ocean. The article is open access and is available at: https://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v41/p39-53/ It is normal for authors, when announcing a new paper, to say how pleased or delighted they are. Not in this case. Charles Anderson Maldives & UK

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IMMS Animal Training Internship (Summer 2020)
by Stephanie James 17 Jan '20

17 Jan '20

Program Description 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. This is an unpaid position and all interns are responsible for their own housing and transportation. Once accepted, IMMS staff will be able to assist interns in suggesting suitable housing and locations. Positions are limited. IMMS reserves the right to end an internship at any time. Eligibility Requirements 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. Dates: Term: Deadline to apply: Spring (Feb-April) December 1 Summer (May-Aug) March 1 Fall (Aug-Nov) June 1 Winter (Nov-Feb) September 1 Duties: 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. Enrichment is very important to the well-being of our animals and interns will be asked to design and implement an enrichment device for our dolphins and/or birds. Interns will also give educational presentation 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. Please check the FAQ<https://imms.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Frequently-Asked-Questions-Anim…> link, as it may answer other questions you may have. To Apply: Please send the following documents to: sjames(a)imms.org<mailto:sjames@imms.org> with “Animal Training Internship” in the subject line. * IMMS Animal Training Internship Application<https://imms.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Animal-Care-Internship.pdf> * 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. Stephanie James Marine Mammal Trainer Animal Care Internship Coordinator Institute for Marine Mammal Studies Gulfport, MS

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New publication on harbor porpoise reaction to a 3D seismic survey
by Joanna Sarnocinska 17 Jan '20

17 Jan '20

Dear MARMAR community, My co-authors and I are happy to announce our new publication: Sarnocińska J, Teilmann J, Balle JD, van Beest FM, Delefosse M and Tougaard J (2020) Harbor Porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) Reaction to a 3D Seismic Airgun Survey in the North Sea. Front. Mar. Sci. 6:824. doi: 10.3389/fmars.2019.00824 Abstract: The most common cetacean in the North Sea is the harbor porpoise (Phocoena phocoena). Underwater noise is increasingly recognized as a source of impact on the marine environment and seismic airguns were one of the first man-made high intensity sound source to receive attention with respect to potential impact on marine mammals. In this study, we investigate the effects of a 3D seismic survey on harbor porpoise echolocation activity in the Danish sector of the North Sea. This was achieved by deploying porpoise click detectors (C-PODs) and sound recorders (SM2M and SM3M) both inside and adjacent to the seismic survey area, before, during and after the survey over a total duration of 9 months. Three echolocation parameters were analyzed: number of clicks per minute, minutes with porpoise echolocation click trains and feeding buzz frequency in relation to all minutes with click trains. Decreases in echolocation signals were detected up to 8–12 km from the active airguns, which may indicate temporary displacement of porpoises or a change in porpoise echolocation behavior. However, no general displacement of harbor porpoises away from the seismic survey area could be detected when comparing to reference stations 15 km away from any seismic activity. Our results add to the understanding that underwater noise has the potential to affect temporarily foraging efficiency in porpoises. While the effect of seismic surveys on harbor porpoise behavior was smaller than what has been found for pile-driving, the cumulative effect of anthropogenic impacts could be assessed by evaluation of potential population level consequences. Open access to the article: http://journal.frontiersin.org/article/10.3389/fmars.2019.00824/full?&utm_s… Best regards, Joanna Sarnocińska Marine Environmental Consulting sarnocinskaj(a)gmail.com

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