January 2022 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New paper on Local movements and site-tenacity of minke whale in Iceland in relation to feeding and a northward distribution shift
by sofia0albrecht＠gmail.com 11 Jan '22

11 Jan '22

Dear MARMAM Community, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce publication of our paper, ‘Local movements and site-tenacity of minke whale in Iceland in relation to feeding and a northward distribution shift’. Sofia Albrecht, Jean-Luc Jung, Laura Lazar, Marguerite Bathie, Delphine Lémery-Peissik & Marianne Helene Rasmussen (2022): Local movements and site-tenacity of minke whale in Iceland in relation to feeding and a northward distribution shift, Marine Biology Research, DOI: 10.1080/17451000.2021.2016839 You can find the article here: https://doi.org/10.1080/17451000.2021.2016839 Population dynamics, movement patterns and migratory routes of common minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) in the North Atlantic are not yet fully understood. Small-scale movements of minke whales within Skjálfandi Bay, Iceland, were analysed and discussed in relation to population dynamics in the North Atlantic. Local distribution and abundance of minke whales were investigated on both individual and population basis. Data were obtained through continuous sighting surveys from 2005 to 2018, conducted by trained volunteers using whale watching vessels as opportunistic research platforms. Variations in abundance might reflect a species distribution shift to higher latitudes. Competition for prey and the general movement of several species from different taxonomic groups support a potential range shift. For the first time, habitat use of minke whales in Skjálfandi Bay was revealed through spatial analysis, as well as small-scale site-tenacity, proven through modelling of distances between individual and random relocations. To improve the status of the declining minke whale population around Iceland we suggest recognition of separate minke whale management units using different areas. Additionally, we encourage the protection of different feeding grounds which will reduce local anthropogenic stressors and likely improve minke whales’ coping with climate change and shifts in prey. Please feel free to contact us at sofia0albrecht(a)gmail.com <mailto:sofia0albrecht@gmail.com> Best, Sofia Albrecht PhD Student on common dolphin diet and nutritional health, supervised by Sinéad Murphy Marine and Freshwater Research Centre Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology Dublin Road, Galway, Ireland Funded through the Irish Research Council

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New publication - HydroMoth: testing a prototype recorder for low-cost passive acoustic monitoring in aquatic ecosystems.
by sasha dines 11 Jan '22

11 Jan '22

Dear Colleagues, On behalf of our collaborators, we are pleased to announce publication of our latest open-access paper in Remote Sensing in Ecology and Conservation. HydroMoth: testing a prototype recorder for low-cost passive acoustic monitoring in aquatic ecosystems. Lamont, T., Chapuis, L., William, B., Dines, S., Gridley, T., Frainer, G., Fearey, J., Maulana, P. B., Prasetya, M. E.,Jompa, J.,Smith, D, Simpson, S., You can find the article at https://doi.org/10.1002/rse2.249 Passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) involves recording the sounds of animals and environments for research and conservation. PAM is used in a range of contexts across terrestrial, marine and freshwater environments. However, financial constraints limit applications within aquatic environments; these costs include the high cost of submersible acoustic recorders. We quantify this financial constraint using a systematic literature review of all ecoacoustic studies published in 2020, demonstrating that commercially available autonomous underwater recording units are, on average, five times more expensive than their terrestrial equivalents. This pattern is more extreme at the low end of the price range; the cheapest available aquatic autonomous units are over 40 times more expensive than their terrestrial counterparts. Following this, we test a prototype low-cost, low-specification aquatic recorder called the 'HydroMoth': this device is a modified version of a widely used terrestrial recorder (AudioMoth), altered to include a waterproof case and customisable gain settings suitable for a range of aquatic applications. We test the performance of the HydroMoth in both aquaria and field conditions, recording artificial and natural sounds, and comparing outputs with identical recordings taken with commercially available hydrophones. Although the signal-to-noise ratio and the recording quality of HydroMoths are lower than commercially available hydrophones, the recordings with HydroMoths still allow for the identification of different fish and marine mammal species, as well as the calculation of ecoacoustic indices for ecosystem monitoring. Finally, we outline the potential applications of low-cost, low-specification underwater sound recorders for bioacoustic studies, discuss their likely limitations, and present important considerations of which users should be aware. Several performance limitations and a lack of professional technical support mean that low-cost devices cannot meet the requirements of all PAM applications. Despite these limitations, however, HydroMoth facilitates underwater recording at a fraction of the price of existing hydrophones, creating exciting potential for diverse involvement in aquatic bioacoustics worldwide. ____________________________________________________________________ Sasha Dines PhD Candidate Stellenbosch University, Cape Town // Sea Search Research and Conservation NPO // Core member of The SouSA Consortium

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New publication: Snubfin dolphins in Yawuru Nagulagun/Roebuck Bay, Western Australia (Alexandra D'Cruz)
by Alex D'Cruz 10 Jan '22

10 Jan '22

Dear MARMAM community, My co-authors and I are pleased to share our recent publication in Frontiers in Marine Science: Ranging patterns and site fidelity of snubfin dolphins in Yawuru Nagulagun/Roebuck Bay, Western Australia. You can find the article here: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmars.2021.758435/full Citation: D’Cruz, A., Kent, C.S., Waples, K., Brown, A.M., Marley, S.A., Thiele, D., Yawuru, P.B.C. and Raudino, H.C., 2022. Ranging Patterns and Site Fidelity of Snubfin Dolphins in Yawuru Nagulagun/Roebuck Bay, Western Australia. *Frontiers in Marine Science*. Abstract: For long-lived species such as marine mammals, having sufficient data on ranging patterns and space use in a timescale suitable for population management and conservation can be difficult. Yawuru Nagulagun/Roebuck Bay in the northwest of Western Australia supports one of the largest known populations of Australian snubfin dolphins (*Orcaella heinsohni*)—a species with a limited distribution, vulnerable conservation status, and high cultural value. Understanding the species’ use of this area will inform management for the long-term conservation of this species. We combined 11 years of data collected from a variety of sources between 2007 and 2020 to assess the ranging patterns and site fidelity of this population. Ranging patterns were estimated using minimum convex polygons (MCPs) and fixed kernel densities (weighted to account for survey effort) to estimate core and representative areas of use for both the population and for individuals. We estimated the population to range over a small area within the bay (103.05 km2). The Mean individual representative area of use (95% Kernel density contour) was estimated as 39.88 km2 (± 32.65 SD) and the Mean individual core area of use (50% Kernel density contour) was estimated as 21.66 km2 (±18.85 SD) with the majority of sightings located in the northern part of the bay less than 10 km from the coastline. Most individuals (56%) showed moderate to high levels of site fidelity (i.e., part-time or long-term residency) when individual re-sight rates were classified using agglomerative hierarchical clustering (AHC). These results emphasize the importance of the area to this vulnerable species, particularly the area within the Port of Broome that has been identified within the population’s core range. The pressures associated with coastal development and exposure to vessel traffic, noise, and humans will need to be considered in ongoing management efforts. Analyzing datasets from multiple studies and across time could be beneficial for threatened species where little is known on their ranging patterns and site fidelity. Combined datasets can provide larger sample sizes over an extended period of time, fill knowledge gaps, highlight data limitations, and identify future research needs to be considered with dedicated studies. Best wishes, Alexandra D'Cruz BSc (Hons) Centre for Marine Ecosystems Research Edith Cowan University Western Australia

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New publication: functional dolphin clitoris
by Dara Orbach 10 Jan '22

10 Jan '22

Colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to present our new open access article published in Current Biology entitled "Evidence of a functional clitoris in dolphins". Citation: Brennan, P.L.R., Cowart, J., and Orbach, D.N. 2022. Evidence of a functional clitoris in dolphins. *Current Biology 32*(1): R24-R26. doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2021.11.020 https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(21)01544-X?_return… Abstract: In species that copulate during non-conceptive periods, such as humans and bonobos, sexual intercourse is known to be pleasurable for females. Dolphins also copulate throughout the year, largely to establish and maintain social bonds. In dolphins, the clitoris is positioned in the anterior aspect of the vaginal entrance, where physical contact and stimulation during copulation is likely. Clitoral stimulation seems to be important during female–female sexual interactions in common bottlenose dolphins (*Tursiops truncatus*), which rub each other’s clitorises using snouts, flippers, or flukes. Determining a sexual pleasure response in animals not amenable to neurobehavioral examination is difficult, but investigation of the clitoris may elucidate evidence of functionality. In this study, we assessed macro- and micromorphological features of the clitoris in common bottlenose dolphins to examine functional features, including erectile bodies with lacunae, extensible collagen and/or elastin fibers, and the presence and location of sensory nerves. Our observations suggest the clitoris of dolphins has well-developed erectile spaces, is highly sensitive to tactile stimulation, and is likely functional. Cheers, Dara Orbach, PhD Department of Life Sciences, Texas A&M University- Corpus Christi >

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New paper - Small recreational boats: a ubiquitous source of sound pollution in shallow coastal habitats
by Louise Wilson 10 Jan '22

10 Jan '22

Dear colleagues, Our article investigating the prevalence and acoustic impact of sound from small recreational boats has recently been published in Marine Pollution Bulletin. Abstract Sound from small recreational boats spans a wide range of frequencies and source levels, but the degree to which this impacts the soundscapes of shallow coastal habitats is poorly understood. Here, long-term passive acoustic recordings at five shallow coastal sites, including two MPAs, were used to quantify spatio-temporal variation in small boat sound and its effect on the soundscape. Boats were detected almost every day at each site, irrespective of protection status, significantly elevating the low-frequency (100–800 Hz) component of the soundscape. This frequency band is used by many species for communication, orientation, and predator avoidance. Therefore, highlighting the potential for small boat sound to alter soundscapes and mask cues. Existing tools for monitoring sound pollution are targeted at sound from shipping. These data highlight that the broadband and highly variable sound emitted by small boats must be considered when evaluating anthropogenic impacts on coastal marine ecosystems worldwide. The research article can be accessed here: https://authors.elsevier .com/a/1eN6m,ash%7ET4h <https://authors.elsevier.com/a/1eN6m,ash~T4h> Please get in touch with any questions: lwil634(a)aucklanduni.ac.nz Ngā mihi, Louise Louise Wilson PhD Candidate Leigh Marine Lab 160 Goat Island Road, Leigh, 0985 +64 (0) 27 258 6639

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Assistant Animal Care Manager
by Internship Coordinator 10 Jan '22

10 Jan '22

Seal Rescue Ireland (SRI) is a charity organisation which operates a busy marine animal rescue and rehabilitation centre located in Courtown, Co. Wexford. As the only facility that fully rehabilitates seals within the Republic of Ireland, SRI responds to strandings nationwide. Most reports are for young Grey Seal (Halichoerus grypus) and Harbour Seal (Phoca vitulina) pups found sick, injured or orphaned across the Irish coastline. In addition, SRI pursues understanding and public engagement of ocean conservation and sustainability through education, habitat restoration, community outreach and research programmes. SRI is currently accepting applications for an Assistant Animal Care Manager. This high paced, full-time position is for a minimum of 6 months, but longer time commitments are encouraged. Seal Rescue Ireland is looking to fill this position in January 2022. Due to visa restrictions, this position is only open to EU/UK citizens, or individuals with permission to reside in Ireland. *Reports to:* Animal Care Manager *Job Summary:* This position will be a responsible individual who will assist in supervising programs, interns/volunteers, daily husbandry of animals in care, and take on necessary office duties to keep the centre running when the Animal Care Manager is off duty. He or she will also work closely with the Animal Care Manager and Operations Manager in all aspects involved in running a wildlife hospital. This position is split between working with the animals and working on administrative tasks in the office. *Requirements:* Applicants must have a degree or experience in an area of study such as Pre-Veterinary, Biology, Zoology, or a related field. Previous work in marine mammal rehabilitation is preferred, though other wildlife rehabilitation experience may be accepted. Applicants must be comfortable with public speaking, giving direction/teaching, and using GSuite and/or Microsoft Office programs. Being organized and self-motivated is essential. Applicants should be agile with a good sense of balance in order to maneuver around the exhibits and holding areas, and must be able to lift 25 kilograms. Applicants must possess the ability to adapt to an ever-changing work environment, and be available to work long hours, nights, weekends and holidays. Applicants must be fluent in English, since clear communication is essential when working around wild animals. For non-native English speakers coming from European countries, we require a C1 level of English. *Duties Include:* ● Supervise and train interns and volunteers ● Assist in coordination of releases and other conservation events ● Management of seal records database ● Responsible for hospital inventory and stock checks ● Supervising and participating in daily animal diet preparations, routine cleaning of enclosures, giving medical treatments, tube feeding, and maintenance of the grounds ● Overseeing daily operation of hospital and visitor center, medical treatment plans and upgrading animals and diets with other managers ● Assist and coordinate rescue of stranded animals including assisting with the rescue hotline. ● Provide assistance to the Animal Care Manager, Operations Manager and other management as needed. ● Assisting with fundraisers, educational events, clerical duties and office work as needed ● Representing Seal Rescue Ireland at the centre and networking events *Compensation/Benefits:* This role starts as an unpaid position, but includes free food and accommodation (Covid vaccinations are required to avail of the housing). After one month’s probation, a stipend is considered based on experience and performance. SRI likes to promote from within, and this role can lead to employment opportunities within the organisation based on demonstrated performance. The successful applicant will be responsible for their own travel expenses. *Deadline:* January 21st 2022 Please send your CV and cover letter to: operations(a)sealrescueireland.org *Attention:* Assistant Animal Care Manager Registered Charity: RCN 20108519 *Gabriella Kohler* Intern Coordinator On Behalf of Seal Rescue Ireland Phone: 053 942 4980 Rescue hotline: 087 195 5393 Site: www.sealrescueireland.org Email: intern(a)sealrescueireland.org Registered Charity Number (RCN): 20108519 Address: Courtown Harbour, Co. Wexford, Ireland Visit North Wexford this Summer! <https://lovegorey.ie/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Wake-up-in-North-Wexford-Su…> <https://www.facebook.com/sealrescueireland> <https://twitter.com/seal_rescue> <https://www.instagram.com/sealrescueireland/?hl=en> <https://sealrescueireland.tumblr.com/>

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Job Opening: 1 Marine Mammal Team Assistant Supervisors opportunities at Archipelagos
by Beatriz Tintore 10 Jan '22

10 Jan '22

MARINE MAMMAL RESEARCH ASSISTANT OPPORTUNITIES AT ARCHIPELAGOS INSTITUTE OF MARINE CONSERVATION http://archipelago.gr/en/ Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation is looking for 1 *Marine Mammal Team Assistant Supervisors* to join us ASAP, to assist with our expanding team and conservation efforts. We are recruiting for both term positions for the winter/spring months, as well as for long term cooperation. WE OFFER For the trial period the travel expenses and full board accommodation are covered. If the trial period is successful, a remuneration package is possible, as we aim to develop long-term partnerships. With the use of 3 research boats, Archipelagos' Marine Mammal Team carries out research and conservation work, collecting data and monitoring the populations of dolphins, whales, monk seals and sea turtles of the region. A key aspect of this work is the assessment of habitats and population status, as well as the impact of the different factors threatening their survival. Knowledge acquired in this way enables us to fill in important knowledge gaps, as well as develop successful, targeted management and conservation plans. For over 20 years, Archipelagos has been carrying out research and conservation work collecting data and monitoring the populations of dolphins, whales, monk seals and sea turtles of the region, assessing habitats and population status as well as the impact of the different factors impacting them. Knowledge acquired in this way enables us to develop successful, targeted management and conservation plans. More information can be found at http://archipelago.gr/en/our-work/marine-mammals/ ESSENTIAL REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: MSc Degree in marine sciences, with experience in marine mammal research Good comprehension of data collection methods and research and analysis principles and techniques Previous experience in marine mammal field research Experience managing and training students and/or volunteers Demonstrated leadership, supervision and team building skills Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships Ability to conduct fieldwork in all weather conditions Ability to write scientific reports and papers Fluency in English Fluency in Greek (optional) Excellent computer skills Sincere interest in issues related to the protection of the environment Willingness to occasionally work during weekends and holidays Valid international driver’s license or driver’s license for the EU LOCATION: Lipsi, Samos and other northeastern Aegean islands APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: Please submit a current resume, a list of three references, and a cover letter expressing your interest to info(a)archipelago.gr *Beatriz Tintoré* *Head of the Marine Mammal Research Department* *MSc in Marine Biology*

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Postdoctoral position - aerial surveys in Irish offshore waters
by Mark Jessopp 10 Jan '22

10 Jan '22

Dear colleagues, We are recruiting a postdoctoral researcher under the ObSERVE project which aims to provide updated information on the distribution and abundance of marine megafauna in the Irish EEZ through aerial surveys. The post-holder will help deliver an ambitious aerial survey programme, and contribute to project reporting and publications. The Post-Doctoral Researcher will be required to participate in aerial surveys in summer, autumn and winter of 2022/23, identifying and recording the presence of marine species. They will play an integral role in organising survey logistics and liaising with aircraft operators as well as quality-checking data and undertaking analysis of sightings data for modelling species distributions. Post Duration: 2 Years 3 Months Salary: €39,130 - €46,442 p.a. (IUA Salary Scale) The successful candidate will need to be based in Ireland and be expected to have: • A PhD qualification in Marine ecology. • Experience in undertaking aerial surveys for marine megafauna particularly in northeast Atlantic/Irish waters. • Experience in spatial analysis/species distribution modelling in ArcGIS/R • Good publication record. • Strong teamworking skills. • Excellent communication, organisation and interpersonal skills. • A commitment to gaining practical experience working on a research project. Deadline: 12 noon (Irish Local Time) on Friday, 21 January 2022. No late applications will be accepted. Applications must be submitted online via the University College Cork vacancy portal (https://ore.ucc.ie/) Further details are available at the following link: https://my.corehr.com/pls/uccrecruit/erq_jobspec_version_4.display_form and informal enquiries can be made in confidence to Dr Mark Jessopp, Email: m.jessopp(a)ucc.ie or Prof. Emer Rogan, Email: e.rogan(a)ucc.ie, School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences. ><(((º> · ` · . . . ><(((º> Dr Mark Jessopp | Lecturer in Zoology School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences | University College Cork Enterprise Centre, Distillery Field North Mall, Cork MaREI Centre, Environmental Research Institute | University College Cork T +353 (0)21 490 4653 M +353 (0)87 971 6451 www.ucc.ie/en/bees/<http://www.ucc.ie/en/bees/> www.marei.ie

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Limited Abstract opening - SMM2021 biennial conference (one week remaining)
by Amy Hirons 10 Jan '22

10 Jan '22

To accommodate those who now have data ready to share and/or are able to attend, we are announcing a limited Abstract Submission for 15 days, starting Monday, January 3 at 12pm (noon) EST until Monday, January 17 12pm (noon) EST for the SMM2021 conference in Palm Beach, Florida on August 1-5, 2022. These new abstracts will undergo the same review process as all previously submitted abstracts. We anticipate all new abstracts submitted by in-person attendees will be presented in the poster format, as the oral presentation program is relatively locked in. However, some abstracts may be chosen as or changed to oral presentations subject to slot availability and quality of abstracts. For those unlikely to attend in-person, we encourage using this abstract submission period to submit for virtual presentation. This format allows for great flexibility and creativity of presentation for long and short formats. We look forward to seeing YOU in person or virtually. Regards, Amy C. Hirons and Jeremy Kiska, SMM2021 Co-Conference Chairs Stephen Trumble and Sascha Usenko, SMM2021 Co-Scientific Program Chairs

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VACANCY: Part time Strandings Coordinator at IWC
by Iain Staniland 10 Jan '22

10 Jan '22

Dear MarMam The closing date for the part time (18.75 hours per week) Strandings Coordinator position at the International Whaling Commission is rapidly approaching. If you are interested please see https://iwc.int/vacancies for further details. Applications should be sent by email to secretariat(a)iwc.int<mailto:secretariat@iwc.int> before Monday 17th January 2022. Regards Iain Dr. Iain Staniland Head of Science, Conservation and Management INTERNATIONAL WHALING COMMISSION The Red House, 135 Station Road, Impington, Cambridge, CB24 9NP, UK t. +44 (0) 1223 233971 d. +44 (0) 1223 606128 m. +44 (0) 7910658003 www.iwc.int<http://www.iwc.int/> Working hours: 9 am - 5 pm, Monday-Friday [A picture containing table Description automatically generated] This e-mail and any files transmitted with it may contain confidential or legally privileged information and is intended only for the use of the intended recipient(s). If you are not the named addressee you should delete the email and notify the sender immediately. E-mails are not secure and cannot be guaranteed to be error free as they can be intercepted, amended, or contain viruses. Any opinion and other statement contained in this message and any attachment are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the International Whaling Commission.

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