February 2021 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New publication: The potential of satellite imagery for surveying whales
by Caro 24 Feb '21

24 Feb '21

Dear All, my co-authors and I are pleased to announce the publication of our brief communication in the journal Sensors: The potential of satellite imagery for surveying whales by Höschle, C.; Cubaynes, H.C.; Clarke, P.J.; Humphries, G.; Borowicz, A. The Potential of Satellite Imagery for Surveying Whales. /Sensors/ 2021, /21/, 963. https://doi.org/10.3390/s21030963 <https://doi.org/10.3390/s21030963> Abstract: The emergence of very high-resolution (VHR) satellite imagery (less than 1 m spatial resolution) is creating new opportunities within the fields of ecology and conservation biology. The advancement of sub-meter resolution imagery has provided greater confidence in the detection and identification of features on the ground, broadening the realm of possible research questions. To date, VHR imagery studies have largely focused on terrestrial environments; however, there has been incremental progress in the last two decades for using this technology to detect cetaceans. With advances in computational power and sensor resolution, the feasibility of broad-scale VHR ocean surveys using VHR satellite imagery with automated detection and classification processes has increased. Initial attempts at automated surveys are showing promising results, but further development is necessary to ensure reliability. Here we discuss the future directions in which VHR satellite imagery might be used to address urgent questions in whale conservation. We highlight the current challenges to automated detection and to extending the use of this technology to all oceans and various whale species. To achieve basin-scale marine surveys, currently not feasible with any traditional surveying methods (including boat-based and aerial surveys), future research requires a collaborative effort between biology, computation science, and engineering to overcome the present challenges to this platform’s use. A pdf copy can be downloaded from: https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/21/3/963/pdf <https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/21/3/963/pdf> Please do not hesitate to contact me (c.hoeschle(a)bioconsult-sh.de) for any question. Best regards, Caroline Höschle

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Introductory distance sampling training workshop 12-23 April 2021--a few places remaining
by Eric Rexstad 23 Feb '21

23 Feb '21

*Interactive introductory distance sampling training (Second call)* The University of St Andrews has been training ecologists and statisticians in design and analysis of distance sampling studies for decades. Distance sampling methodology is widely used for population assessment of a variety of cetacean and pinniped species. 🐬 Registration is open for our next offering of the introductory distance sampling training; butthere are only a handful of places remaining for the April workshop. We are offering the training workshop in 10 2.5-hour blocks in mid-April. You will be invited to interact in short lectures on distance sampling principles. 👩‍🎓 Exercises analysing data sets in R will reinforce those principles and the lecturer will be available to assist during the practical session via screen sharing. The block will conclude with a summary of the exercise and question/answer session for both lecture and exercise. 💻 You can participate in polls during the workshop to assess your comprehension of topics discussed. 🤔 In addition to questions at any time during the lectures and practicals, an optional additional half hour will be set aside each session for discussion. 🗣 The workshop will be delivered using Zoom web conferencing software along with R-Studio "in the cloud".☁️ You will need (free) accounts for both pieces of software. I encourage you to experiment with Zoom (at https://zoom.us) and https://rstudio.cloud before the course begins. 👩‍💻 There will be an internet connection testing session prior to the first meeting on 12 April. * **Companion online training workshops* We are planning an additional advanced distance sampling workshops in August 2021 (imperfect detection on the transect workshop and spatial modelling workshop). These workshops will require knowledge of basic distance sampling principles derived from this introductory training workshop. *Important details* Workshop dates and time: 12-23 April 2021; 1500-1730 Greenwich Mean Time. For the time of day in your zone, consult https://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/fixedtime.html?msg=Introductory+Dist… 🕰️ Registration deadline: 23 March 2021📅 Enrolment limit: 15 Cost: 215 British pounds 💵 What is included: Lectures, exercises, code, data all available online📃 *What they are saying* I would like to say I really liked RStudio Cloud and it is working just fine and I am really enjoying using it as a student. I'm looking forward to using it as an instructor too. I really liked the first half of the course. I love distance sampling and I am enjoying every second of the course! The only thing I can say about this particular workshop is it deserves more time. -- Kaan Özgencil, PhD student, Department of Biological Sciences, Middle East Technical University, Ankara *Further details are available:* http://workshops.distancesampling.org/intro-apr-2021.html At this page you will find a link to the St Andrews online shop where payment is made. After registration, I will contact you with additional details regarding workshop electronic materials, etc. Feel free to contact me with questions. Please share this notice with interested colleagues. Information regarding all distance sampling workshops can be found at https://workshops.distancesampling.org -- Eric Rexstad Centre for Ecological and Environmental Modelling University of St Andrews St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland SC013532

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New publication: Trends in cetacean research in the Eastern North Atlantic
by Bárbara Cartagena da Silva Matos 22 Feb '21

22 Feb '21

We are pleased to announce the publication of our paper titled: Trends in cetacean research in the Eastern North Atlantic. Cartagena-Matos B, Lugue K, Fonseca P, Marques TA, Prieto R, Alves F (2021): Trends in cetacean research in the Eastern North Atlantic. Mammal Review, doi.org/10.1111/mam.12238 Here is the link: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/mam.12238 Abstract: 1. Cetaceans are considered ecosystem engineers and useful bioindicators of the health of marine environments. The Eastern North Atlantic is an area of great geographical and oceanographic complexity that favours ecosystem richness and, consequently, cetacean occurrence. Although this occurrence has led to relevant scientific research on this taxon, information on the composition of this research has not been assessed. 2. We aimed to describe and quantify the evolution of research on cetaceans in the Eastern North Atlantic, highlighting the main focal areas and trends. 3. We considered 380 peer‐reviewed publications between 1900 and 2018. For each paper, we collected publication year, research topics and regions, and species studied. We assessed differences among regions with distinct socio‐economic landscapes, and between coastal and oceanic habitats. To evaluate the changes in scientific production over time, we fitted a General Additive Model to the time series of numbers of papers. 4. Although research in this region has been increasing, the results show relatively little research output in North African and coastal regions within the study area. Moreover, except for four studies, research was restricted to a few miles around the coast of the main islands, leaving offshore regions less well surveyed. There was little research on genetics, acoustics, and behaviour. Most papers were focused on the Azores and Canary Islands, and mostly involved Tursiops truncatus, Delphinus delphis, and Physeter macrocephalus. Species considered Endangered or Near Threatened were the subjects of only 10% of the studies. 5. We suggest a greater research focus on beaked whales (Ziphiidae) in Macaronesia, as well as collaborative efforts between research teams in the region, by sharing data sets, and aiming to produce long‐term research. Moreover, a Delphi method approach, based on questionnaires answered by experts, could be attempted to identify priority research for cetaceans in these areas. Best wishes, Bárbara -- *Bárbara Cartagena da Silva Matos* PhD candidate at Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes ( cE3c) Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, Portugal Email: barbara.cartagena.matos(a)gmail.com Tel.: +351 939432505

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European Association for Aquatic Mammals - Conference 2021
by Guillermo Sánchez Contreras 22 Feb '21

22 Feb '21

Dear friends and colleagues, The pandemic did not allow the EAAM to meet face to face in 2020. As you may know, the 2020 Annual Conference was meant to be in Valencia (Spain) but in order to avoid any unnecessary health risk for everyone, the meeting was initially postponed and cancelled later on. However, the EAAM Board, and especially our President Elect, were committed to organize an event in 2021. Despite the global situation and travel restrictions, the EAAM considered the option of celebrating the Conference virtually. Thus, we are pleased to announce the upcoming 2021 Conference: *EAAM 2021 - A Conference to the Future* The Conference is taking place between 11th and 13th March. The programme includes international key speakers, round tables and scientific sessions of a variety of topics (welfare, research, veterinary medicine, training, conservation). This year we are including Video-Presentations. You can find more details on our website <https://eaam.org/eaam-2021-a-conference-for-the-future/>. Do not miss it! Registrations are open <https://www.credoffice.net/EAAMVirtualCongress/?eid=1&lg=en>! We are looking forward to seeing you in March! The EAAM Board. -- *Guillermo J. Sánchez Contreras* Veterinario - Veterinarian - Dierenarts EAAM President Elect Mobile phone: +356 9999 2227 or +34 679 656 073 Email: gjsctn(a)gmail.com

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New publication: Prediction of marine mammal auditory-impact risk from Acoustic Deterrent Devices used in Scottish aquaculture
by Dr. Laura Williamson 22 Feb '21

22 Feb '21

We are pleased to announce publication of our paper titled: Prediction of marine mammal auditory-impact risk from Acoustic Deterrent Devices used in Scottish aquaculture Todd, V.L.G., Williamson, L.D., Jiang, J., Cox, S.E., Todd, I.B., and Ruffert, M. (2021): Prediction of marine mammal auditory-impact risk from Acoustic Deterrent Devices used in Scottish aquaculture. Marine Pollution Bulletin 165, 112171. Abstract: Acoustic Deterrent Devices (ADDs) are used worldwide to deter pinnipeds from predating fish-aquaculture facilities. Desk-based noise-propagation modelling of six commercial ADD models, and a 'fictional' ADD was performed, the latter involving alternating source level, frequency, duty cycle, noise-exposure duration, and number of ADDs active simultaneously. Potential auditory impacts on marine mammals were explored using the Southall et al. (2019) criteria. Depending on operational characteristics, real ADDs were predicted to cause Temporary Threshold Shift (TTS) to Very High Frequency (VHF) cetaceans at ranges of 4-31 km, and a single fictional device operating at the highest outputs tested was predicted to cause TTS to VHF cetaceans at up to 32 km. Cumulative effects of 23 real fish-farm ADDs produced noise across large swathes of the Inner-Hebrides. The single variable causing greatest reduction in potential impact to marine mammals from fictional ADDs was SL. Best wishes, Laura -- Dr. Laura Williamson Senior Analyst Ocean Science Consulting Limited (OSC) Spott Road, Dunbar, East Lothian, EH42 1RR, Scotland, UK M: +44 (0)7528 545 167 T: +44 (0)1368 865 722 W: www.osc.co.uk . MMO or PAM requirement? We wrote the book. Now available on Amazon: www.marinemammalobserverhandbook.com

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New publication, Using gliders to explore fin whale habitat in coastal and offshore waters
by burnhamr 21 Feb '21

21 Feb '21

My co-authors and I are pleased to share our latest publication from our use of gliders to explore whale habitat: _Remote sensing and mapping habitat features pertinent to fin whale life histories in coastal and offshore waters of Vancouver Island, British Columbia_ Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology 537, 151511 Abstract: Current knowledge of the population size and movement of fin whales in the northeast Pacific is lacking, but is critical in implementing effective management actions. Here we used ocean gliders to survey the deep-coastal and offshore waters of Vancouver Island to add to what is known about fin whale habitat use in the Canadian Pacific. Passive acoustic recordings were made continuously, from which fin whale vocalizations were used as a proxy to presence. Oceanographic and preyscape variables were also taken to better delineate habitat units in horizontal and vertical space. Comparisons were made between on-shelf and shelf-break zones, and measures taken in- and out-side submarine canyons. Temporal comparisons between winter and spring were also possible. An on-shelf and shelf-break divide was seen, with cooler, fresher waters present closer to the coast for both deployments. The spring deployment showed fin whale acoustic presence focused around topographical features, including the shelf-break and canyons. The most prevalent cue was their 40-Hz call, which suggests foraging. Echosounder readings suggested denser aggregations of larger bodied zooplankton prey were present at canyon heads and along the shelf break. During the winter, calls in the acoustic record were more numerous than in the spring, and dominated by the 20-Hz call. A proportion of the recordings also showed 'song' patterning, which suggests breeding activity. Interpolated surfaces were used to examine the spatiotemporal relationships between the high-resolution habitat point data and presence of far-propagating fin whale calls. The predicted use of habitat by fin whales, as represented by their calls, was examined through Random Forest machine learning models using oceanographic and preyscape measures as input variables from these interpolations. Distance from the shelf break and preyscape variables were determined important in predicting whale habitat use in the spring, with model accuracy exceeding 80%. Call presence showed a much weaker relationship to environmental var-iables for the winter recordings with reduced accuracy of model predictions (13%). An understanding of habitat selection by fin whales may also aid in determining the importance of habitat units and areas that may critical to life history functions. The paper is free to read/download from JEMBE online at https://authors.elsevier.com/a/1cThA51aUfmHA [1] until March 16, 2021 Please feel free to contact me if you have questions, or for a PDF after that time Best, Rianna Burnham, PhD Links: ------ [1] https://authors.elsevier.com/a/1cThA51aUfmHA

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Variation in cranial asymmetry among the Delphinoidea
by Maíra Laeta 21 Feb '21

21 Feb '21

Dear MARMAMers, We are pleased to share our publication on cranial asymmetry and aspects of sound production in odontocetes of the superfamily Delphinoidea. Our models revealed associations of the magnitude of cranial asymmetry with source level of echolocation clicks, and dive depth of the species. Laeta, M.; Ruenes, G.F.; Siciliano, S.; Oliveira, J.A.; Galatius, A. 2021. Variation in cranial asymmetry among the Delphinoidea. Biological Journal of the Linnean Society 132 (2): 414-430. Abstract: The remarkable directional cranial asymmetry of odontocete skulls has been proposed to be related to sound production. We investigated the variation in quality and quantity of cranial asymmetry in the superfamily Delphinoidea using geometric morphometrics and then investigated the relationship between asymmetry and aspects of sound production. In the average asymmetric shape, the dorsal aspect of the skull outline and interparietal suture crest were displaced to the right, while the nasal septum, nasal bones and right premaxilla were displaced to the left. The nasal bone, premaxilla and maxilla were all larger on the right side. Three delphinoid families presented similar expressions of asymmetry; however, the magnitude of the asymmetry varied. The Monodontidae showed the greatest magnitude of asymmetry, whereas the Phocoenidae were much less asymmetric. The most speciose family, the Delphinidae, presented a wide spectrum of asymmetry, with globicephalines and lissodelphinines among the most and least asymmetric species, respectively. Generalized linear models explaining the magnitude of asymmetry with characteristics of echolocation clicks, habitat use and size revealed associations with source level, dive depth and centroid size. This supports a relationship between asymmetry and sound production, with more asymmetric species emitting louder sounds. For example, louder clicks would be beneficial for prey detection at longer ranges in deeper waters. Please let us know of any questions! The paper can be accessed at https://doi.org/10.1093/biolinnean/blaa161, or you send me an email to mairalaeta(a)gmail.com requesting the pdf. Best regards, Maíra.

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Physio-logging, a new journal for those studying physiology using bio-logging tools
by Andreas Fahlman 21 Feb '21

21 Feb '21

<>Dear MarMamers Human impact, such as climate change, pollution and over fishing, is having a number of effects on marine mammal populations. The physiological capacity of a species will limit their ability to respond and survive. However, physiological function has been difficult to study in wild animals, but physiological biotelemetry and sensing technology has evolved and permits measurement of physiological function in free ranging marine mammals. Sensing technology is developing rapidly and has the potential to revolutionize physiological research. Nano sensors, and wearable medical technologies allow continuous assessment of physiological function over months and years. Such longitudinal data, providing information about physiological function and health, provide a mechanistic basis for adaptation to environmental change and exposure to extreme environments. We therefore announce a new journal called “Physio-logging” dedicated to physiological studies using bio-logging tools. We encourage submission of manuscripts in these and other areas where sensing technology is used to investigate physiological function in animals and man. If you are interested in contributing to this journal, more information can be found at this link: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/physiology/sections/physio-logging <https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/physiology/sections/physio-logging> Sincerely, Andreas Fahlman, Kagari Aoki, Jeroen Brijs, Ki Chon, Colin Drummond, Martin Føre, Xavier Manteca, Gitte McDonald, Chris McKnight, Jordana Rivero, Yan Roupert-Coudert, Kentaro Sakamoto, Ippei Suziki, Danuta Wisniewska

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Looking for software Vadar or similar for theodolite tracking
by Iyari Espinoza 20 Feb '21

20 Feb '21

Hello, everyone! My name is Iyari Espinoza, I am a biologist and currently I am working on my PhD project on humpback whale ecology in Banderas Bay, Mexico. The methods include land-based observations and theodolite tracking. I read some papers about this method and the use of a software called VADAR to process the data from the total station. Unfortunately, I could not find where to download the software. I kindly ask if anyone who has worked with this software could tell me where I can get it. Any other solution would be most welcome. Thank you in advance. Best regards, -- M. en C. Iyari J. Espinoza Rguez. *Miembro del Grupo de Investigación de Mamíferos Marinos * *GRIMMA, AC*

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Executive Director - Provincetown, MA USA
by Stephanie Richardson 20 Feb '21

20 Feb '21

[image: image.png] *EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR* *CENTER FOR COASTAL STUDIES* *PROVINCETOWN, MA USA* The Center for Coastal Studies (CCS) seeks an Executive Director to lead its research, education and public policy initiatives. CCS is a non-profit organization that was founded in 1976 and dedicated to understanding and preserving marine ecosystems and the coastal environment. CCS is internationally-known for whale research and rescue programs and has growing research programs in the fields of coastal ecology, geology and fisheries. The dedicated staff strives to advance science, support resource management and educate people of all ages through the wide ranging suite of CCS programs. CCS is based in Provincetown, where it is part of a diverse local community surrounded by nature, within driving distance to Boston. CCS seeks a strategic leader to empower a talented staff, manage a well-established and multi-faceted organization, and expand its external partnerships. The Executive Director will promote excellence, diversity and collaboration and will act as a strong ambassador to individual, corporate, governmental, public and private partners. The successful candidate will be responsible to a Board of Directors for the strategic, programmatic, financial and operational health of the organization. *Requirements:* The ideal candidate will have expert knowledge of and strong appreciation for CCS research, education, and policy priorities; be well-versed in nonprofit management; and have the ability to diplomatically engage a range of audiences on important issues. The following are minimum requirements: ● A proven track record as a professional in a relevant field of research, education or conservation. ● At least five (5) years of experience as the director of a comparable organization or equivalent supervisory and administrative experience. This position is based in Provincetown, Massachusetts. It requires occasional travel as well as evening and weekend hours. CCS is committed to supporting a diverse and inclusive environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. This position is open to citizens of the United States of America and those authorized to work in the United States. Please email applications to edsearch(a)coastalstudies.org with a cover letter, resume, and three references, all in PDF format.*.* *For further details on this position please visit our website at * *www.coastalstudies.org* <http://www.coastalstudies.org> *CCS is an equal opportunity employer* -- Stephanie Richardson Human Resource Manager Center for Coastal Studies 5 Holway Avenue Provincetown, MA 02657 t. (508) 487-3622 Ext. 113

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