August 2021 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Abstract: Dwarf sperm whale site fidelity, spatial use, and behavior
by Robin Baird 24 Aug '21

24 Aug '21

Baird, R.W., S.D. Mahaffy, and J.K. Lerma. 2021. Site fidelity, spatial use, and behavior of dwarf sperm whales in Hawaiian waters: using small-boat surveys, photo-identification, and unmanned aerial systems to study a difficult-to-study species. Marine Mammal Science doi 10.1111/mms.12861. Abstract Dwarf sperm whales (Kogia sima) have been studied rarely at sea. We used photo-identification, boat- and drone-based behavioral observations, and citizen science photo contributions to examine site fidelity, spatial use, and behavior in Hawaiʻi. Sighting rates were highest in island slope (500-1,000 m) waters. Over 40% of photo-identified individuals were linked by association in the same social network. More than half of the very distinctive individuals were seen more than once, and 28.5% were seen in multiple years, with one individual seen 14 times over a 15-year span. Re-sighted individuals and those in the main cluster of the social network were found in significantly shallower water than individuals that were not re-sighted or that were in isolated clusters. Distances between re-sighting locations suggest small home ranges. This suggests an insular slope-dwelling population that overlaps with an offshore population. Evidence of unsuccessful predatory attempts by large sharks was recorded on four individuals, and linear wounds consistent with interactions with line fisheries were documented on three individuals. Surface and subsurface behavior recorded by drone revealed vigilance behavior likely to minimize predation risk. Lessons learned from this study can be applied elsewhere to increase knowledge of this poorly-known and difficult-to-study species. The paper can be viewed at https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/share/author/SJEICJSDQH2CS5W2GNTJ?target=10… The supporting information file can be downloaded from https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/mms.12861 There are two drone videos provided as supporting information, available at https://youtu.be/HborwUZicXY and https://youtu.be/3U0lLjIqaO4 Please contact me for a pdf. Robin ================================================================= Robin W. Baird, Ph.D. Research Biologist, Cascadia Research Collective Affiliate Faculty, Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology Mailing address: Cascadia Research Collective 218 1/2 W. 4th Avenue Olympia, WA 98501 USA Follow us on Facebook<https://www.facebook.com/CascadiaResearch/> Updates from our July/August 2021 Kaua‘i field project<https://www.cascadiaresearch.org/hawaiian-cetacean-studies/JulAug2021>

1 0

New publication: behavioural responses of humpback whales to swim-with-whale and whale-watch tours
by Stephanie Stack 23 Aug '21

23 Aug '21

Dear MARMAM subscribers, My colleagues and I are pleased to announce the publication of a new article that is part of a Frontiers in Marine Science’s research topic called Before-After Control-Impact (BACI) Studies in the Ocean<https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/15888/before-after-control-impa…>.<https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/15888/before-after-control-impa…> Stack, S.H., Sprogis, K.R., Olson, G.L., Sullivan, F.A., Machernis, A.F. and Currie, J.J. 2021. The behavioural impacts of commercial swimming with whale tours on humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in Hervey Bay, Australia. Frontiers in Marine Science DOI: 10.3389/fmars.2021.696136. Abstract: Swim-with-whale tourism has expanded across several countries globally, with humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) being the most commonly targeted species of baleen whale. Behavioural responses from humpback whales to swim-with-whale tours have been reported, however, responses are likely context-dependent. In 2014, swimming with humpback whales began in Hervey Bay, Queensland, Australia, an important resting ground and migratory stopover for humpback whales. The behavioural responses of humpback whales to this swim-with-whale industry have not been examined in Queensland, preventing informed management of this industry. The aims of this study were to: (1) examine short-term behavioural responses in whales before, during, and after swim-with-whale tours, and (2) investigate behavioural responses of whales throughout swim-with-whale tours compared to whale watch tours. Data were collected on board a commercial vessel, where before, during and after data were collected during swim-with-whale tours (250 h) and whale watch tours (150 h). Within the swim-with-whale tours, behavioural changes were detected before, during, and after the vessel approached and placed swimmers in the water on a mermaid line, with the majority of significant changes occurring in the during and after phases. The number of direction changes made by the whales was highest when swimmers were in the water and the whales did not resume undisturbed behaviour after the swimmers exited the water. There was a 50% reduction in the proportion of time that whales spent resting during swim-tours compared to during whale watch tours. In both tour types, the time spent engaging in various behaviours was impacted by the distance between the vessel and the whale(s). These results support the conclusion that the behaviour of humpback whales in Hervey Bay was altered in response to swim-with-whale tourism. As humpback whales are capital breeders with limited energy reserves, reducing disturbance to them is of high importance for their continued population recovery and for the sustainability of the marine tourism industry. In Australia, where swim-with-whale tourism is becoming more established, robust education and enforcement programs, combined with continued monitoring of population dynamics through scientific research, are needed to minimise impacts to the population and guide adaptive management strategies. The full article is open-access and available at https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmars.2021.696136/full or from our website: pacificwhale.org/research/publications <http://pacificwhale.org/research/publications> Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions. Kind regards, Stephanie Stephanie Stack Chief Biologist - International Research Program Pacific Whale Foundation 300 Ma'alaea Rd., Suite 211 Wailuku, HI 96793 USA Cell: +1 808-740-5540 Fax: +1 808-856-8363 Email: stephaniestack(a)pacificwhale.org Website: pacificwhale.org/research [cid:05d667fd-aba9-4f17-a0e1-7be0b8fec94c]

1 0

Job Posting - MMPA / Foreign Affairs Specialist
by Kevin Jeffery 23 Aug '21

23 Aug '21

Kevin Jeffery, Program Manager - IBSS Corp *Body of Message: * Foreign Affairs Specialist - MMPA IBSS is seeking a full-time Foreign Affairs Specialist to support NOAA’s Office of International Affairs and Seafood Inspection (OIASI) in Silver Spring, MD. A well-qualified candidate will have experience in policy or resource management, specifically related to the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), and knowledge of bycatch issues and global fisheries. If you are looking to be an instrumental part of a growing, employee and customer-focused company working on exciting issues in environmental science and other marine/coastal resources, we want to hear from you! Find more details and apply at: https://www.ibsscorp.com/jobs?p=job%2Fo8GVffwI -- *Kevin Jeffery* Program Manager 1110 Bonifant St. Suite 501 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Cell: 240-405-4463 Office: 301-942-9014, ext. 23 Email: kevin.jeffery(a)ibsscorp.com www.ibsscorp.com

1 0

SEICHE TRAINING PAM/MMO AND PSO TRAINING
by Sherry Baruwa 23 Aug '21

23 Aug '21

Good afternoon, Seiche Training is pleased to inform you of its upcoming MMO, PSO and PAM courses JNCC Marine Mammal Observer (MMO) Training Course (GBP 250 +VAT per person) Date - 23rd to 24th September 2021 Delivery - Virtual Passive Acoustic Monitoring and PAMGuard Software (PAM) Training Course (GBP 550 +VAT per person) Date - 29th September to 1st October 2021 Delivery - In person - Okehampton, Devon, UK Our Marine Mammal Observer (MMO) course is accredited by Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) and run over two days to provide comprehensive coverage of the MMO role. Insight into life offshore and the practicalities of the MMO role ensure a very thorough preparation for prospective MMOs. However, those from an industry background (working alongside MMOs) will benefit from the full exploration of the complexities of mitigation requirements. A scientific background will be an advantage to delegates and a keen interest in marine mammals is key. Our well established Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) course is a three-day course that provides comprehensive PAM training for personnel new to the offshore industry. This course provides the skills needed to use all equipment currently in the marketplace and is aimed at delegates with a scientific background, preferably in biology and marine sciences. The course includes modules on sound in water, marine mammal evolutionary biology and sound production, anthropogenic noise sources and their effect on marine mammals, PAM principles and the role of the PAM operator, Seiche PAM hardware with deployment and operations, PAM software and an introduction to PAMGuard. Our PAM course also includes a practical boat trip on day three. To register on any of our courses, please send an email to training(a)seiche.com<mailto:training@seiche.com> Seiche Training Limited https://www.seiche.com/training/ Kind regards, Sherry Sherry Baruwa Training Administrator Seiche Ltd T: +44(0)1409 404050 E: s.baruwa(a)seiche.com W: https://www.seiche.com Bradworthy Industrial Estate, Langdon Road, Bradworthy, Holsworthy, Devon, EX22 7SF, United Kingdom Registered in England & Wales No. 03475558, Registered Office: C/O Seiche Group, Bradworthy Industrial Estate, Langdon Road, Bradworthy, Holsworthy, Devon, EX22 7SF, United Kingdom The information contained in this e-mail transmission, and any documents, files or previous e-mail messages attached to it, is privileged and confidential, and solely intended for the use of the individual(s) to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient or a person responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient you should not read, copy, distribute or otherwise use the information, and you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution or use of any of the information contained in or attached to this message is strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please notify sender immediately and delete this e-mail and attached documents.

1 0

Manatee internship-Tequesta, FL
by Faucett, Blake 21 Aug '21

21 Aug '21

Manatee Internships-Blake Faucett The southeast manatee field station is currently seeking candidates for one Fall 2021 internships! Interns will assist with manatee rescue, carcass salvage, and research in South Florida. The Southeast Field lab is offering one internship: one 6-month term from October 2021-April 2022. The expected start date for the internship is flexible. Working hours are typically 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 40 hours a week, with some nights and weekends required. The position is in Tequesta (east coast of Florida, just north of Palm Beach). The intern's duties include assisting with manatee rescue, carcass salvage, and research in South Florida. Interns will assist with manatee field necropsies, temperature monitoring research, and conduct manatee photo ID. Interns will also complete mortality/rescue reports, assist with other computer work, and participate in public outreach as needed. To perform the duties of the position, interns will operate trucks, trailers, and boats up to 22' in length. The intern is required to complete a project and present a 10-15 minute presentation at the end of their internship. Qualifications: Junior or senior college students and recent graduates are eligible. Applicants should have some research field experience; be able to drive large trucks; be computer literate; be comfortable speaking to the public; and be proficient in the use of digital cameras, telephoto lenses, and filters. Previous animal-handling experience is preferred. Ability to trailer flatbeds and boats, as well as operate watercraft up to 22' in length is desirable. Interns must possess a valid driver's license, be able to lift 50 pounds, and be able to swim. Applicants should understand that this internship will require them to be wet, dirty, and outdoors in all weather conditions. This internship is unpaid. Housing is not provided. Interns must provide their own transportation to and from the field station. If you are interested in applying for an internship with the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, the following information is required: § A cover letter describing area(s) of interest and the dates, days, and hours of availability § A résumé describing training and experience § A list of three references § An unofficial copy of your academic transcript Please send these items as e-mail attachments to: Interns(a)MyFWC.com<mailto:Interns@MyFWC.com> Or mail hard copies to: Internship Coordinator Fish and Wildlife Research Institute 100 Eighth Avenue SE St. Petersburg, FL 33701-5020 https://myfwc.com/research/manatee/research/internships/se-fl-intern/

1 0

New paper in JEB on biosonar behaviour
by Chloe Elizabeth Malinka 21 Aug '21

21 Aug '21

Dear MARMAM community, We would like to share our new publication on the spatial filtering provided by directional toothed whale biosonar beams in JEB: Malinka, CE, Rojano-Doñate, L., Madsen, PT. (2021). Directional biosonar beams allow echolocating harbour porpoises to actively discriminate and intercept closely spaced targets. Journal of Experimental Biology, 224 (16): jeb242779. doi: https://doi.org/10.1242/jeb.242779 Abstract: Echolocating toothed whales face the problem that high sound speeds in water mean that echoes from closely spaced targets will arrive at time delays within their reported auditory integration time of some 264 µs. Here, we test the hypothesis that echolocating harbour porpoises cannot resolve and discriminate targets within a clutter interference zone given by their integration time. To do this, we trained two harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) to actively approach and choose between two spherical targets at four varying inter-target distances (13.5, 27, 56 and 108 cm) in a two-alternative forced-choice task. The free-swimming, blindfolded porpoises were tagged with a sound and movement tag (DTAG4) to record their echoic scene and acoustic outputs. The known ranges between targets and the porpoise, combined with the sound levels received on target-mounted hydrophones revealed how the porpoises controlled their acoustic gaze. When targets were close together, the discrimination task was more difficult because of smaller echo time delays and lower echo level ratios between the targets. Under these conditions, buzzes were longer and started from farther away, source levels were reduced at short ranges, and the porpoises clicked faster, scanned across the targets more, and delayed making their discrimination decision until closer to the target. We conclude that harbour porpoises can resolve and discriminate closely spaced targets, suggesting a clutter rejection zone much shorter than their auditory integration time, and that such clutter rejection is greatly aided by spatial filtering with their directional biosonar beam. It's not open access (sorry), but a PDF is freely available on the Aarhus Bioacoustics lab website: https://marinebioacoustics.wordpress.com/publications/ Kindest regards, Chloe Chloe Malinka, PhD Marine Bioacoustics Lab<http://www.marinebioacoustics.com/> Zoophysiology, Dept. Biology Aarhus University C.F. Møllers Allé 3, Building 1131 DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark Email: chloe.e.malinka(a)bios.au.dk<mailto:chloe.e.malinka@bios.au.dk> Twitter: @c_malinka<https://twitter.com/c_malinka> [AU_Logo]

1 0

Research Projects Coordinator job opening at Shaw Institute, Blue Hill, ME
by Michelle Berger 20 Aug '21

20 Aug '21

The Shaw Institute is recruiting to fill the position of Research Projects Coordinator to implement research and monitoring initiatives from its Blue Hill Research Center on the mid-Maine coast. This is a challenging opportunity for a highly motivated individual with a background in environmental toxicology/chemistry, marine sciences, or a related field, and excellent organizational, analytical, and communications skills. The Coordinator will help design and carry out collaborative research and monitoring projects, supervise interns, interact with partner organizations, and assist with obtaining funding to expand the research. This is a full-time position on location in Blue Hill, Maine available immediately. The position will remain open until filled. Shaw Institute is a 501(c)3 nonprofit scientific research organization based in Maine and New York with a mission to protect human and ecological health through innovative science and strategic partnerships. Founded in 1990 by leading environmental scientist Dr. Susan Shaw, the Institute is globally recognized for pioneering high-impact research on plastic/microplastic pollution, POPs (flame retardants, PFAS), marine mammal sentinels, climate change, and oil spills that has fueled public policy and societal change nationally and internationally. *Job Description* Working closely with the Director and senior research staff, the Research Projects Coordinator is responsible for the design, execution, and successful completion/publication of the Institute’s diverse research and monitoring initiatives. The Coordinator will provide communication and outreach to the community through multiple outlets, develop and maintain collaborative partnerships, and seek funding, grant, and growth opportunities. The Coordinator manages the internship program, including recruitment, hiring, and supervising up to four seasonal interns. *Primary Role and Responsibilities* - Plan, document, and implement research and monitoring projects – from budgeting to design and fieldwork (including sample collection by land and boat), lab work and statistical analysis of data, and writing reports and publications in peer-reviewed journals - Manage the research laboratories; develop inventories, manuals, budgets; oversee maintenance and repair of lab and field equipment - Hire, train, and supervise up to four seasonal interns, which involves developing projects, overseeing field/lab work and data analysis, and facilitating professional growth for interns by providing opportunities for academic and community presentations - Perform data entry and analyses, literature reviews, background searches for publications - Drive and operate the Institute’s marine research vessels; train interns in small boat handling - Obtain and update permits and licenses for projects as needed - Participate in marine mammal stranding response; assist with necropsies and processing/archiving of tissue samples in the Environmental Specimen Bank - Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with research partners, relevant agencies, environmental groups, and the local community - Articulate and promote the Shaw Institute’s mission and research projects to the public - Write reports and project summaries for the lay public, funders, and digital platforms - Publish research findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals - Help identify funding opportunities and prepare grant applications - Assist with Shaw Institute events, lectures, and fundraising activities as needed Please see the listing on our website for required qualifications and details about how to apply. https://www.shawinstitute.org/about/employment-opportunities -- *Michelle Berger* Senior Research Associate *Shaw Institute* Blue Hill Research Center 55 Main St, P.O. Box 1652 Blue Hill, Maine 207 374 2135

1 0

Fw: BOEM Office of Renewable Energy Programs Vacancy Notice:: Marine Biologist GS-401-11-12-13
by Cody, Mary B 20 Aug '21

20 Aug '21

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) Office of Renewable Energy Programs has a vacancy for a marine biologist, with a focus on marine mammals. This is a wonderful chance to be part of the offshore wind energy regulatory and research community on the Atlantic coast. Vacancy Notice:: Marine Biologist GS-401-11-12-13 Marine Biologist GS-0401-11/12/13 BOEM Office of Renewable Energy Programs Environment Branch for Renewable Energy Duty Location: Sterling, Virginia BOEM-MMEE-21-DB-099 (DH) Hyperlink to USAJOBS: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/611179400 Closing Date: Monday August 30, 2021 APPLICATION INFORMATION: Applications must be submitted online using the "Apply Online" link from the job announcement in USAJOBS; please follow the "How to Apply" instructions in the announcement. Remember to thoroughly review the vacancy announcement and carefully read and follow all instructions. IMPORTANT: It is strongly recommended that you use the USAJobs Resume Builder because it was designed to ensure that your resume includes the standard information needed. The Resume Builder is available at https://help.usajobs.gov/index.php/Resume_Builder<https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fhelp.usaj…>.

1 0

New publication on Epigenetics in common bottlenose dolphins
by Carol Tatsch 19 Aug '21

19 Aug '21

On behalf of my co-authors, I am pleased to announce the publication of our new research article on the current issue of Marine Ecology Progress Series: Tatsch, A., Proietti, M., Zanini, R., Fruet, P., & Secchi, E. (2021). Beyond genetic differences: Epigenetic variation in common bottlenose dolphins *Tursiops truncatus* from contrasting marine ecosystems. Marine Ecology Progress Series, 671, 219–233. *Abstract: *Recent genetic and morphological studies have indicated an incipient ecological divergence between 2 ecotypes of common bottlenose dolphin *Tursiops truncatus* in the Southwestern Atlantic. However, genetic variation is not the only molecular mechanism that alters the phenotype of these animals: epigenetics can also influence phenotypic plasticity, as well as the ecological adaptation and divergence of natural populations. Nevertheless, very little is known about the role that epigenetics plays in the population ecology of marine mammals. In this work, we tested whether there are differences in DNA methylation patterns between a coastal and an offshore ecotype of common bottlenose dolphin. Methylation patterns were analyzed using the methylation-sensitive amplified polymorphism technique on biopsy samples collected from animals of both ecotypes. We found consistent differences in DNA methylation patterns between coastal and offshore individuals. We also confirmed the genetic differences described in previous studies, indicating that the divergence between ecotypes has both genetic and epigenetic components. Our data show that it is possible to differentiate animals from the coastal and offshore ecotypes using DNA methylation markers, supporting the hypothesis that contrasting environments — which are decisive for the ecological divergence of these populations — lead to epigenetic modifications in common bottlenose dolphins. The article is available at https://doi.org/10.3354/meps13761 Please feel free to contact us via email (ana.tatsch(a)furg.br) for any questions or a pdf copy of the paper. Best regards, Ana Carolina Tatsch MSc. Ana Carolina Correa Tatsch Doutoranda do Programa de Pós-graduação em Oceanografia Biológica - PPGOB Laboratório de Ecologia e Conservação da Megafauna Marinha- EcoMega Instituto de Oceanografia - IO Laboratório de Ecologia Molecular Marinha - LEMM Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG Rio Grande/RS - Brasil

1 0

Job Posting: Research Manager for Pacific Whale Foundation (Maui, USA)
by Jens Currie 19 Aug '21

19 Aug '21

Job Posting: Research Manager for Pacific Whale Foundation (Maui, USA) The research department at Pacific Whale Foundation is recruiting for the newly created position of Research Manager, to report directly to our Chief Scientist, Jens Currie. Pacific Whale Foundation is a 501c(3) non-profit dedicated to protecting the ocean through science and advocacy and inspiring environmental stewardship. Our researchers have studied whales and dolphins throughout the Pacific for over 40 years and currently conduct projects in Hawaii, Australia, and Ecuador. The long-term goal of our research program is to identify and assess major threats to whales and dolphins around the world and develop science-based solutions to mitigate these problems. The Research Manager is responsible for coordinating multiple research projects in support of the Foundation's strategic plan, providing administrative support to the research program, and acting as staff supervisor for the Hawaii research team. This position is based at the PWF headquarters in Maui, Hawai’i. The Research Manager is expected to manage research projects with different stakeholders that contain varied timelines and deliverables. A list of responsibilities and information about how to apply can be found on our website here<https://nam02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2F1.adp.com…>. Applications will only be accepted through the above link; no phone calls or drop-ins please. Applicants must be citizens of the United States of America or have a current authorization to work in the USA. To read more about Pacific Whale Foundation's research, visit our website https://www.pacificwhale.org/research/<https://nam02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pacif…> Closing Date: September 20, 2021. The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by an employee in this classification. It is not to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory, or all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications of employees assigned to this job. Management has the right to add to, revise, or delete information in this description at any time. Pacific Whale Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer in support of efforts to increase diversity, inclusion, and the participation and advancement of women and underrepresented individuals in STEM. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position. Jens Currie Chief Scientist - Domestic Research Program Pacific Whale Foundation 300 Ma'alaea Rd., Suite 211 Wailuku, HI 96793 Cell: 808-990-5544 Fax: 808-856-8363 Email: jenscurrie(a)pacificwhale.org [cid:effb5b6e-7793-4d71-9c9f-25863d43dc42]

1 0