March 2022 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Correction to PAMGuide
by Nathan Merchant (Cefas) 14 Mar '22

14 Mar '22

Dear colleagues, Many of you involved in passive acoustic monitoring will be familiar with PAMGuide, an open-source acoustic analysis tool published as part of our 2015 publication which has been widely used in the community. We have recently become aware of a bug in the MATLAB version of this code which can lead to errors of up to several decibels at low frequencies when carrying out calibrated 1/3-octave frequency band analysis. This has now been corrected, and the updated version can now be downloaded from the article webpage under Supporting Information: Merchant, N.D., Fristrup, K.M., Johnson, M.P., Tyack, P.L., Witt, M.J., Blondel, P. and Parks, S.E. (2015), Measuring acoustic habitats. Methods Ecol Evol, 6, 257-265. https://doi.org/10.1111/2041-210X.12330 Many thanks to Chloe Malinka and Kaitlin Palmer of SMRU Consulting who brought this error to our attention. All the best, Nathan Dr Nathan Merchant Principal Scientist, Noise & Bioacoustics Pakefield Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk, NR33 0HT, UK Tel: +44(0) 1502 527780 | Mob: +44 (0) 7789 651086 Email: nathan.merchant(a)cefas.co.uk<mailto:nathan.merchant@cefas.co.uk> [cid:image001.png@01D837C5.AAEB4520] https://scholar.google.co.uk/citations?user=XPctSoUAAAAJ&hl=en https://www.cefas.co.uk/services/research-advice-and-consultancy/underwater… Follow us on: [cid:image002.gif@01D837C5.AAEB4520]<https://twitter.com/CefasGovUK>[cid:image003.gif@01D837C5.AAEB4520]<http://www.linkedin.com/company/cefas> Dr Nathan Merchant Honorary Lecturer School of Environmental Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ [UEA-logo] ________________________________ This email and any attachments are intended for the named recipient only. Its unauthorised use, distribution, disclosure, storage or copying is not permitted. If you have received it in error, please destroy all copies and notify the sender. In messages of a non-business nature, the views and opinions expressed are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of Cefas. Communications on Cefas' computer systems may be monitored and/or recorded to secure the effective operation of the system and for other lawful purposes. All messages sent and received by the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science may be monitored in line with relevant UK legislation . <https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/centre-for-environment-fisherie…>

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Registration is now open for The Whale Museum's virtual Gear Up Workshop for Marine Naturalists
by tracie merrill 14 Mar '22

14 Mar '22

The Whale Museum (TWM) is holding an exciting virtual Gear Up Workshop for Marine Naturalists this spring on Friday, April 8. This workshop will be held from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Pacific Time and registrants will join sessions through the videoconferencing platform, Zoom. The theme of this “Gear Up” Workshop will be Bottoms Up: The Power of Whale Poo! Invited presenters include: * Dr. Kathleen Hunt, George Mason University, on studying conservation physiology in whales using non-invasive methods * Kaitlin Yehle, Ocean Wise, on Northern Resident and Southern Resident killer whale research * Dr. Matthew Savoca, Hopkins Marine Station of Stanford University, on the importance of baleen whales to the ecosystem * Dr. Deborah Giles, Wild Orca; Dr. Brad Hanson, NOAA; and Dr. Sheila Thornton, Oceans and Fisheries Canada in a panel discussion on Southern Resident and Transient killer whale research * Dr. Kim Parsons, NOAA, on how genetic clues untangle predator diets And * Dr. Heidi Pearson, University of Alaska Southeast, on The Whale Pump The registration fee is $35 for non-members; $25 for TWM/SSAMN members. For more information and/or to register, please visit https://whalemuseum.org/products/virtualgearupworkshop2022. Zoom link and workshop agenda will be sent to registrants at email provided at registration closer to start of workshop. Questions can be directed to Tracie Merrill at tracie(a)whalemuseum.org. Sent from Outlook<http://aka.ms/weboutlook>

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New publication and request for grant proposals announcement
by Brady O'Donnell 14 Mar '22

14 Mar '22

Dear MARMAM Community, Scientists at the U.S. Marine Mammal Commission have published a review<https://www.mmc.gov/effects-of-climate-change-on-marine-mammals/> of the evidence for effects of climate change on marine mammals that occur in U.S. waters. Climate change impacts on Arctic marine mammal are best known, but have also been documented throughout US waters, including temperate and sub-tropical regions. While many of the observed effects had been predicted, some unforeseen effects have also been documented, such as the dramatic loss of pupping/nursing habitat for endangered Hawaiian monk seals due to sea level rise and severe storms. Many suspected effects of climate change remain unconfirmed; modifications to research and monitoring efforts could reveal the full scope and significance of current and future impacts on marine mammals. Commission scientists concluded that detecting and mitigating the threats to marine mammals from climate change will require some realignment of research and monitoring priorities, coupled with rapid and flexible management that includes both conventional and novel conservation interventions. The Commission’s current request for grant proposals focusing on climate change effects on marine mammals remains open until April 13. Details at https://www.mmc.gov/grants-and-research-survey/current-funding-opportunitie… <https://www.mmc.gov/grants-and-research-survey/current-funding-opportunitie…> Gulland, F. M. D., J. D. Baker, M. Howe, E. LaBrecque, L. Leach, S. E. Moore, R. R. Reeves, and P. O. Thomas. 2022. A review of climate change effects on marine mammals in United States waters: Past predictions, observed impacts, current research and conservation imperatives. Climate Change Ecology 3:100054. Abstract: We consider the current evidence of climate change effects on marine mammals that occur in U.S. waters relative to past predictions. Compelling cases of such effects have been documented, though few studies have confirmed population-level impacts on abundance or vital rates. While many of the observed effects had been predicted, some unforeseen and relatively acute consequences have also been documented. Effects often occur when climate- induced alterations are superimposed upon marine mammals’ ecological (e.g., predator-prey) relationships or coincident human activities. As they were unanticipated, some of the unpredicted effects of climate change have strained the ability of existing conservation and management systems to respond effectively. The literature is replete with cases suggestive of climate change impacts on marine mammals, but which remain unconfirmed. This uncertainty is partially explained by insufficient research and monitoring designed to reveal the connections. Detecting and mitigating the impacts of climate change will require some realignment of research and monitoring priorities, coupled with rapid and flexible management that includes both conventional and novel conservation interventions. Thanks, Brady [cid:20616b68-963e-4f18-8440-49cad7473488] Brady O'Donnell (he/him/his), MSc Communications & Legislative Affairs Marine Mammal Commission bodonnell(a)mmc.gov<mailto:bodonnell@mmc.gov> | 301.504.00<tel:(301)%20504-0094>87 (work) 303.549.7813 (cell) Twitter: @MarineMammalCom<https://twitter.com/MarineMammalCom?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%…> <https://twitter.com/MarineMammalCom?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%…>Website: www.mmc.gov<http://www.mmc.gov/> Youtube: About Us<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdI-qyaw3es> Newsletter: Register<https://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/manage/optin?v=001z7sliqmIZeC5pxPfB…>

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Aquatic Mammals issue 48.2 available online
by Kathleen Dudzinski 14 Mar '22

14 Mar '22

Dear MARMAM subscribers, The second issue of volume 48 (48.2) of Aquatic Mammals journal is published online. Aquatic Mammals is the longest running peer-reviewed journal dedicated to research on aquatic mammals and is published every two months with manuscripts available as published PDFs in real time. Further information about the journal can be found at: http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/ <http://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/> To submit a manuscript for publication consideration, please visit: http://am.expressacademic.org/actions/author.php <http://am.expressacademic.org/actions/author.php> Happy Reading! With regards, Kathleen M. Dudzinski, Ph.D. Editor, Aquatic Mammals Journal business(a)aquaticmammalsjournal.org <mailto:business@aquaticmammalsjournal.org> Volume 48, Issue 2 (Items preceded by an ** are open access) **Ronald A. Kastelein, Christ A. F. de Jong, Jakob Tougaard, Lean Helder-Hoek, and Linde N. Defillet. (2022). Behavioral Responses of a Harbor Porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) Depend on the Frequency Content of Pile-Driving Sounds. Aquatic Mammals, 48(2), 97-109. https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.48.2.2022.97 <https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.48.2.2022.97> **Minjee Choe, Soojin Jang, Miyeon Kim, Byung-Yeob Kim, and Jae Chun Choe. (2022). Indo-Pacific Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops aduncus) Repeatedly Self-Confining in a Traditionally Built Basin Off Jeju Island, Republic of Korea. Aquatic Mammals, 48(2), 110-116. https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.48.2.2022.110 <https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.48.2.2022.110> Chiara Guidino, Elizabeth Campbell, Alessandra Bielli, Andrea Pasara-Polack, Joanna Alfaro-Shigueto, and Jeffrey C. Mangel. (2022). Pingers Reduce Small Cetacean Bycatch in a Peruvian Small-Scale Driftnet Fishery, but Humpback Whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) Interactions Abound. Aquatic Mammals, 48(2), 117-125. https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.48.2.2022.117 <https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.48.2.2022.117> Marina Griselda Riera, Daniel Lucchetti, and Mariano A. Coscarella. (2022). Natural Barrier Feeding Technique in Megaptera novaeangliae in Central Coastal Area of Golfo San Jorge, Patagonia, Argentina. Aquatic Mammals, 48(2), 126-131. https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.48.2.2022.126 <https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.48.2.2022.126> Eric A. Ramos, Isidore D. Szczepaniak, J. Daisy Kaplan, and Diana Reiss. (2022). Potential Infanticide Attempt of Common Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) on a Young Calf in a Tropical Caribbean Atoll. Aquatic Mammals, 48(2), 132-141. https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.48.2.2022.132 <https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.48.2.2022.132> Kate S. Lomac-MacNair, Ann M. Zoidis, Darren S. Ireland, Meghan E. Rickard, and Kim A. McKown. (2022). Fin, Humpback, and Minke Whale Foraging Events in the New York Bight as Observed from Aerial Surveys, 2017-2020. Aquatic Mammals, 48(2), 142-158. https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.48.2.2022.142 <https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.48.2.2022.142> **Brian M. Quigley, Todd R. Speakman, Brian C. Balmer, Hollis M. Europe, Antoinette M. Gorgone, Teri K. Rowles, Carrie Sinclair, Eric S. Zolman, and Lori H. Schwacke. (2022). Observations of a Benthic Foraging Behavior Used by Common Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in Barataria Basin, Louisiana, USA. Aquatic Mammals, 48(2), 159-166. https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.48.2.2022.159 <https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.48.2.2022.159> **Grace L. Olson, Stephanie H. Stack, Abigail F. Machernis, Florence A. Sullivan, and Jens J. Currie. (2022). Mapping the Exposure of Pantropical Spotted Dolphins and Common Bottlenose Dolphins to Different Categories of Vessel Traffic in Maui Nui, Hawai‘i. Aquatic Mammals, 48(2), 167-181. https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.48.2.2022.167 <https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.48.2.2022.167> Valerio Manfrini, Roberto Poscia, Elisabetta Messaggio, Sara Proietti, Sara Palumbo, Letizia Fiorucci, Francesco Grande, Barbara Biancani, Nicola Pussini, Francesca Mastorci, Mirko Passera, Antonio Profico, Veronica Mariotti, Alberto Fanfani, Angelo Gemignani, Silvia Pellegrini, Paolo Manunta, and Claudia Gili. (2022). Endogenous Ouabain in Human and Animal Models of Hypoxia. Aquatic Mammals, 48(2), 182-194. https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.48.2.2022.182 <https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.48.2.2022.182> Memoriam **Marc Webber, William Keener, and Tim Markowitz. (2022). In Memoriam: Isidore “Izzy” D. Szczepaniak (1950-2021). Aquatic Mammals, 48(2), 195-196. https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.48.2.2022.195 <https://doi.org/10.1578/AM.48.2.2022.195>

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Free workshop on Science Communication for early-career marine mammalogists
by Anaïs Remili 14 Mar '22

14 Mar '22

Hey MARMAM friends, I am organizing a workshop for the European Cetacean Society conference (virtual). It will happen on April 4th 2022 from 3 pm to 6 pm (Israel time, GMT+2) and will be held on Zoom. Would you like to learn how to write a good scientific communication article? The workshop is 100% *free*! Please share it with your labmates/colleagues :) *Everybody* can register as long as they are students/recent graduates in Marine Mammal Science. https://www.europeancetaceansociety.eu/conference/communicate-your-findings… *Please note*: The pre-workshop draft deadline was moved to March 26th. I encourage everybody to draft a short recap of their findings. The draft is not mandatory but strongly encouraged to gain some hands-on experience! Cheers!! Anaïs ___ *Description of the workshop: * Throughout this workshop, I wish to help you turn your research into articles aimed at the general public. As the founder and chief editor of Whale Scientists, I have edited and published over 100 articles on marine mammal science. The workshop's goal is to share what I have learned with you and help you start in scientific communication by offering guidance, tips, and a platform to publish your work. During the activity, we will practice focusing on the main idea of a paper and how to turn an academic study into a piece that will interest the public. The goal is to help you get started in scientific communication. This skill has become increasingly important in the last few years, not only for the public but also for scientists and their future opportunities. Before the workshop, I will encourage you to practice writing a ~700-word recap of one of your recent findings. If you do not have results for a study and wish to focus on something different related to marine mammal science, it is okay too (examples: "why are dolphins born tail first?", "why do whales sing?", etc.). I will create small groups to give your peers some feedback on their piece. On the day of the workshop, I will give a presentation and share some tips on how to captivate your audience and make your article attractive to the public. I will also provide you with advice on publishing your pieces. Then, I will share tips on how to write good articles with insider knowledge from Whale Scientists. The outcome of this workshop will be a post ready to be pitched to a publisher. Whale Scientists can also publish some of the pieces produced during the workshop to help participants get started in science communication. The maximum capacity is 25 people. You can register using this link: https://forms.gle/c5A5HeXzvr5puoje8

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New publication on a potential infanticide attempt by bottlenose dolphins in Belize
by Eric Angel Ramos 14 Mar '22

14 Mar '22

Greetings MARMAM, I am pleased to announce the publication of a new short note in the journal *Aquatic Mammals*: *Potential Infanticide Attempt of Common Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) on a Young Calf in a Tropical Caribbean Atoll* *Summary* Infanticidal behavior (i.e., the intentional killing of young) is common in the animal kingdom. Common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) engage extensively in intraspecific agonistic behaviors, and infanticidal behavior has been documented in many dolphin populations. However, these behaviors remain poorly understood in dolphins as descriptions of these events remain rare. Here, we report on an event involving agonistic intraspecific behavior of multiple bottlenose dolphins directed towards of a young calf at Turneffe Atoll, Belize. Boat-based surface observations, brief surface video, and photo analysis were used to identify individual dolphins. All dolphins were confirmed as part-time and long-term residents by matching dorsal fins to the long-term photo-ID catalog of local dolphins. Multiple dolphins displayed agonistic and likely injurious behavior towards the calf, including ramming and flipping it into the air and forcefully submerging it. Vocalizations recorded in surface video (whistles and burst-pulses) coincided with calf surface times. The repetition of a downsweeping contour was possibly associated with its distress. DOI: 10.1578/AM.48.2.2022.132 If you would like a copy of the article, feel free to email me at eric.angel.ramos(a)gmail.com. Best regards, *Eric Angel Ramos, Ph.D.* Postdoctoral Research Associate at The Rockefeller University Scientist at FINS (Fundación Internacional para la Naturaleza y la Sustentabilidad) Student Member-At-Large for the Society for Marine Mammalogy Member of the IUCN SSC Sirenian Specialist Group for Mesoamerica www.finsconservation.org <https://finsconservation.org/> E-mail: eric.angel.ramos(a)gmail.com/ eramos(a)rockefeller.edu Cell/WhatsApp <https://wa.me/13473365567>: +1-347-336-5567 (USA) Skype: ericangelramos Facebook <https://www.facebook.com/ericangelramos> | Twitter <https://twitter.com/EricAngelRamos> | Instagram <https://www.instagram.com/eric.angel.ramos/> ResearchGate <https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Eric_Ramos> | ORCiD <https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4803-3170> | LinkedIn <https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-angel-ramos-aa9b4915/>

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DMAD - Marine Mammals Research Association - Montenegro Dolphin Research
by M. Ali Oter 14 Mar '22

14 Mar '22

THE PROJECT The Montenegro Dolphin Research is a scientific project run by Marine Mammals Research Association (DMAD). Our study is the only long term research study of marine mammals in Montenegrin and Albanian coastal waters. We aim to address questions about marine mammal abundance, distribution and behavior, define critical habitats and investigate the impact of major threats, ranging from tourism to seismic practices. Our wider attention focuses on the promotion and implementation of awareness initiatives targeted at the local community, particularly youth and women. WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR We offer several volunteering and internship positions: this is a valuable opportunity for graduates, that wish to gain experience in the marine mammal research field, and undergraduates, that would like to obtain internship academic credits. It could be used to develop a scientific project for BSc and MSc thesis. However, we are also open to accept applications from anyone whose love for dolphins is strong and sincere. Opportunities are available starting from February 2019 onwards. The minimum duration of the placements is 2 MONTHS, with possible exceptions for skilled candidates. FIELD WORK AND RESPONSIBILITIES -Performing land-based surveys at least three times a week, including sunrise and sunset hours; -Performing boat-based surveys once a week, weather allowing -Collecting dolphins sighting and behavior data, as well as environmental and anthropogenic data; -Operating theodolite and managing its software Pythagoras; -Data entry and analysis; -Cataloging and matching individuals of target species for photo-ID studies via Discovery software; -Raising stakeholder awareness through conservation actions. -Promoting citizen-science activities TRAINING The Montenegro Dolphin Research team provides intensive lectures and field work training as well as constant mentoring every week. You will be given the chance to learn the most popular methodologies used in marine mammals research such as: -ArcGIS mapping -Theodolite operation and Pythagoras software; -Photo-identification; -Discovery and Logger 2010 software; -Systematic data collection and data analysis; -Visual and acoustic behaviour of marine mammals -Scientific manuscript and technical report writing skills PROJECT PARTICIPATION FEE The positions require a contribution fee of 700 Euros/ month which fully goes to support the project and the participation fee includes: -Accommodation and expenses -Transportation between the project sites within and between Montenegro and Albania -Training and lectures -Scientific support -Field work -Use of the equipment Applicants are responsible for their transportation to/from Montenegro, meals, insurance (all participants should have health and/or travel insurance) and personal expenses. HOW TO APPLY Email your CV and cover letter to akkayaaylinn(a)gmail.com (Aylin Akkaya) and info(a)dmad.org.tr, explaining why you are the perfect asset for our team and which goals you hope to achieve with us! Please mention the PERIOD OF INTEREST AND DURATION OF AVAILABILITY! If you wish to have more info about our work and get to know us better follow our websites: DMAD - Marine Mammals Research Association https://www.instagram.com/marinemammalsresearch/ https://www.facebook.com/DMADforNature/ All the best,

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New publication: Beaked whales in the Bay of Biscay may be present year-round
by james.robbins＠port.ac.uk 14 Mar '22

14 Mar '22

Dear MARMAM-ers, My co-authors and I are pleased to share our new paper with you, published Open Access in Hydrobiologia. Please find the abstract and access link below. If there are any questions about this work, please reach out to james.robbins(a)port.ac.uk <mailto:james.robbins@port.ac.uk> All the best, James Robbins & Co-authors. Robbins, J.R., Bell, E., Potts, J. et al. Likely year-round presence of beaked whales in the Bay of Biscay. Hydrobiologia (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10750-022-04822-y Access: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10750-022-04822-y?fbclid=IwAR3IK… Abstract: Beaked whales are cryptic and difficult to study species, often distributed in deep offshore waters and only briefly visible at the surface. A diverse range of cetacean species has been documented in the Bay of Biscay, including several species of beaked whales. However, little is known about how persistent their presence is. Citizen science data collected during ferry-based surveys between 2006 and 2018 were analysed to investigate how encounter rates varied across space and time, and their drivers for beaked whale species. Approximately 244,400 km were surveyed, and there were 419 encounters with beaked whales recorded including Cuvier’s beaked whales, (n = 260), Northern bottlenose whales (n = 19), Sowerby’s beaked whales (n = 13), and True’s beaked whales (n = 1). Generalized Additive Models revealed that encounters were generally more frequent in the southern bay, on northern facing slopes, with all species except Sowerby’s showing a preference for both deep waters and shallow shelf waters. Animals were recorded in each of the eight surveyed months, suggesting that beaked whales may be present year-round, with increased encounter rates in summer months. This study is the first to indicate that beaked whales may persist in this area throughout the year, which is key information for appropriate management.

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Postdoc examining copepods and drivers of North Atlantic right whale habitat at Stony Brook University
by Lesley Thorne 13 Mar '22

13 Mar '22

We’re recruiting a Postdoctoral Associate to work on a study examining changes to drivers of North Atlantic right whale habitat use in Southern New England Brief Description of Duties: The Postdoctoral Associate will conduct research in the School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences (SoMAS) under the supervision of Principal Investigator Dr. Lesley Thorne. The Postdoctoral Associate will assess environmental and biological drivers of habitat use for right whales and will examine historical data from waters of Southern New England and New York to assess how variability in copepods influences right whale habitat. The selected candidate will conduct modeling studies in collaboration with oceanographers and ecologists and will prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals and will present at scientific conferences. Further information can be found here: https://stonybrooku.taleo.net/careersection/2/jobdetail.ftl?job=2200709&tz=… Contact lesley.thorne(a)stonybrook.edu with any questions. ____________________________________________________ Lesley Thorne, Associate Professor School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794-5000 631.632.5117 www.thornelab.com

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ECS Conference 2022
by Ori 12 Mar '22

12 Mar '22

Dear MARMAM subscribers, Now that the upcoming ECS (European Cetacean Society) conference, (on April 5-7,2022) has changed the format from hybrid to fully virtual – we have also reduced the pricefor virtual exhibitor booths by 50% - a virtual booth is now 150 euros. The virtual booths will be displayed on the web-platformwith which we will hold the conference. In the virtual booth you can alsoschedule on-line meetings with conference participants. Attached below is asample page, demonstrating the virtual platform features: https://expo-demo.b2b-wizard.com/expo If anyone would be interested in hosting a virtual booth, please get in touch: ori_g_inal(a)yahoo.com BestRegards, Ori Galili and the ECS Conference team

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