June 2022 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

FWC Manatee Photo-identification Internship
by Johnson, Jennifer 08 Jun '22

08 Jun '22

Manatee Photo-identification Internships The manatee photo-identification program is based in St. Petersburg, Florida at the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI). FWRI is the research arm of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), a state agency. For more information about FWRI, please visit: https://myfwc.com/research/. FWRI's manatee photo-identification research focuses on long-term monitoring of Florida manatees in southwest Florida. The program's primary goal is to document individual manatees, which allows us to estimate annual adult survival and reproductive rates and to model population dynamics for state and federal assessments of Florida manatee status and recovery. Photo-identification data also provide insight regarding manatee movements, site fidelity, habitat use and behavior. Interns will primarily assist staff members with photographing manatees and collecting behavioral and environmental data at sites around Tampa Bay. Interns will also be responsible for a number of lab-based photo-identification tasks, such as downloading images, entering information into databases, scanning data sheets and matching images to known animals. Interns often collect data independently in the field, thus responsible, detail oriented applicants are encouraged to apply. Most field work is land-based; however, during the winter session opportunities are available to assist with boat-based manatee photo-identification. Other responsibilities may include but are not limited to data entry, assisting with manatee genetics research, special projects and outreach activities. This internship provides a great opportunity to gain valuable field and lab experience at a government agency. Two positions are available each year: one in winter (November to March) and one in summer (May to September). Start and end dates are flexible; however, a minimum commitment of four weekdays per week for four months is required. Work hours are typically 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. There is no compensation for these internship positions and successful applicants will be responsible for their own housing and transportation to and from the institute. Positions are open until filled, and priority will be given to candidates who can commit for longer periods. Qualifications: * Computer proficiency; Microsoft Access literacy preferred. * Working knowledge of SLR digital cameras, filters and lenses preferred but not required. * The ability to lift approximately 50 pounds of equipment. * A valid U.S. Driver's License. * Enthusiasm and willingness to learn field and lab based research methods. 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 the internship you are applying for; area(s) of academic/research interest; and the dates, days, and hours of availability. * A resume (or curriculum vitae) describing your relevant training and experience. * Current academic transcripts. (unofficial are sufficient) * Names and contact information for three references. Please submit application items as an e-mail attachment to: Interns(a)MyFWC.com<mailto:Interns@MyFWC.com> If electronic submission is not possible, hard copies can be mailed to: Internship Coordinator FWC Fish and Wildlife Research Institute 100 Eighth Avenue SE St. Petersburg, FL 33701-5020 Applicants may contact FWRI's Manatee Photo-identification Project Intern Manager, Jennifer Johnson, (Jennifer.Johnson(a)MyFWC.com<mailto:Jennifer.Johnson@MyFWC.com>, 727-502-4735) with questions regarding the internship.

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New publication on phenological changes for North Atlantic right, humpback and fin whales
by Daniel Pendleton 08 Jun '22

08 Jun '22

Greetings: My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the publication of our open access paper in Global Change Biology: Pendleton DE, Tingley MW, Ganley LC, Friedland KD, Mayo C, Brown MW, McKenna BE, Jordaan A, Staudinger MD (2022) Decadal‐scale phenology and seasonal climate drivers of migratory baleen whales in a rapidly warming marine ecosystem. Global Change Biology. https://doi.org/10.1111/gcb.16225 Abstract: Species' response to rapid climate change can be measured through shifts in timing of recurring biological events, known as phenology. The Gulf of Maine is one of the most rapidly warming regions of the ocean, and thus an ideal system to study phenological and biological responses to climate change. A better understanding of climate-induced changes in phenology is needed to effectively and adaptively manage human-wildlife conflicts. Using data from a 20+ year marine mammal observation program, we tested the hypothesis that the phenology of large whale habitat use in Cape Cod Bay has changed and is related to regional-scale shifts in the thermal onset of spring. We used a multi-season occupancy model to measure phenological shifts and evaluate trends in the date of peak habitat use for North Atlantic right (Eubalaena glacialis), humpback (Megaptera novaeangliae), and fin (Balaenoptera physalus) whales. The date of peak habitat use shifted by +18.1 days (0.90 days/year) for right whales and +19.1 days (0.96 days/year) for humpback whales. We then evaluated interannual variability in peak habitat use relative to thermal spring transition dates (STD), and hypothesized that right whales, as planktivorous specialist feeders, would exhibit a stronger response to thermal phenology than fin and humpback whales, which are more generalist piscivorous feeders. There was a significant negative effect of western region STD on right whale habitat use, and a significant positive effect of eastern region STD on fin whale habitat use indicating differential responses to spatial seasonal conditions. Protections for threatened and endangered whales have been designed to align with expected phenology of habitat use. Our results show that whales are becoming mismatched with static seasonal management measures through shifts in their timing of habitat use, and they suggest that effective management strategies may need to alter protections as species adapt to climate change. Regards, Dan ________________________________________________________ Dan Pendleton, Ph.D. Research Scientist, Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life New England Aquarium Central Wharf Boston, MA 02110 dpendleton(a)neaq.org<mailto:dpendleton@neaq.org> he/him/his This electronic message contains information from the New England Aquarium which may be privileged and confidential. The information is intended to be for the use of the addressee only. If you have received this communication in error, do not read or circulate it. Please delete it from your system without copying it or saving any attachments and notify the sender by reply e-mail. Thank you.

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Training program in Nicaragua July - September2022
by Association ELI-S 08 Jun '22

08 Jun '22

Association ELI-S is a small nonprofit organization based in France that was created in 2013. Our organization aims at promoting, protecting and conserving cetaceans in Central America. We are running the Cetacean Conservation Project of Nicaragua since 2016. This pioneer project aims to generate knowledge on cetacean presence, population size, distribution and habitat use patterns. The expected output is to generate:1) scientific data on cetaceans in Nicaragua, 2) environmental awareness to the local communities in order to create a socio-economic relevance in conserving and protecting their natural environment and 3) responsible eco-tourism. Association ELI-S is recruiting volunteer research assistants for field work, photo-identification and data entry from between July and September 2022 in San Juan del Sur. All team members will have training beforehand on field methodologies and protocols as well as data entry and data management. Research assistants should expect to spend time on the computer for data analysis but also to spend some days on the field to gather data during the 12-week field study. The Research Assistant has a unique opportunity to participate in a pioneer research project under the supervision of experienced marine biologists, which gives the opportunity for the assistant to develop both professionally but also personally thanks to the unique experience to live within local communities. A commitment of minimum 1 month is expected. *Location: *San Juan del Sur South-West of Nicaragua *Period: *Between July and September with a start on the first of each month (min. 1 month commitment) *Type of agreement: *Full time. *Duties:* - Assist in Boat based and land based surveys in collecting data on cetaceans - Photo-identification of whale and dolphin species - Update photo-ID catalogue - Data entry of collected data - Participate to public outreach and events *Desirable Knowledge* - Enthusiastic, conscientious and hard working (!)* - Experience of working in developing countries - Proactive with ability to work unsupervised - Interest in wildlife and conservation - Being comfortable on a small boat and spend long hours on a boat in the sun - Being able to work in a small team - Being able to live in basic living conditions - An interest and knowledge of marine life - Be able to swim *Successful candidate will:* - Gain valuable experience in cetacean survey techniques including behavioral studies, biopsy sampling procedures and acoustic data collection - Work in a very dynamic environment - Get insight in running a research project in developing countries A participation of 250 euros per week covers accomodation in a shared room, meals, water and electricity, filtered water, training, research materials, boat based surveys, membership to Association ELI-S for a year. Fee does not include: Travel to the study site (international flight and national transportation) and Personal expenses: restaurants, bars, telephone, internet, cleaning clothes, etc. *To apply:* Please email your CV and cover letter outlining your experience and motivations. Send this to eliscientific(a)gmail.com in copy with"Research assistant 2022" in the subject line. Interviews via Skype. *Joëlle De Weerdt* *Become a donor of our project o <https://www.helloasso.com/associations/association%20eli%20s/collectes/cons…>n our Patreon Page <https://www.patreon.com/AssociationELIS>* PhD Candidate Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) Project director of Cetacean conservation of Nicaragua --------------------- www.eli-s.com Find us on : Facebook <https://www.facebook.com/AssociationELIS>, Instagram <http://www.instagram.com/association.elis>, Twitter <http://twitter.com/ELI_Scientific>, Youtube <https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjeseHPDvE6pq-MmoZXWNkg> Use lilo as research engine and support our project here <https://www.lilo.org/fr/eli-scientific/>

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New publication: Improving detectability of dolphin signature whistles for capture-recapture analysis: an examination of array configuration using real-world data
by Fearey, Jack 08 Jun '22

08 Jun '22

Dear MARMAM, On behalf of my co-authors, I am pleased to announce the following publication: Jack Fearey, Simon H. Elwen, Greg Distiller, Tess Gridley. (2022). Improving detectability of dolphin signature whistles for capture-recapture analysis: an examination of array configuration using real-world data. Marine Mammal Science. 2022;1-19. DOI:10.1111/mms.12941. *Abstract*: Abundance estimates of cetaceans are often acquired through capture-recapture analysis of photographically identified individuals. An alternative method, using capture-recapture of individually distinct signature whistles detected from acoustic underwater recording units, has recently been demonstrated. Here we investigate the effect of array configuration (1–3 hydrophones within 0.45 km2) and recording duty cycles (six variations of 33%, 50%, or 66% sampling periods) on the detection rate of dolphin signature whistles. Twenty-one signature whistle types were identified and used to create capture histories for each hydrophone and all potential array configurations. Open population models were used to estimate capture probabilities and precision for all data sets. The effect of different duty cycles on detectability were investigated by artificially applying six duty cycles to the continuously recorded data. Results demonstrate that location is more important than redundancy in small-scale arrays, even with detection distances as small as 750 m, and that duty cycling can increase survey durations without decreasing detectability. To acoustically sample intermittent signals of dispersed populations, it is more effective to space hydrophones further apart, in known high-use areas. This study provides insight into the application of capture-recapture to signature whistles, improving methods for long-term, noninvasive monitoring of elusive delphinids. The paper is open-access and available at the following link: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/mms.12941 Best regards, Jack Fearey -- Jack Fearey PhD Candidate, Research Assistant Sea Search Research and Conservation / Namibian Dolphin Project www.seasearch.co.za www.namibiandolphinproject.org https://africanbioacoustic.wixsite.com/abcommunity WhatsApp: +1 (203) 524 3719 Cell: +27 (66) 460 4493 Office: +27 (0)21 788 1206

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Field Internship on Humpback whale in Sainte Marie, Madagascar
by Maevatiana Ratsimbazafindranahaka 08 Jun '22

08 Jun '22

The Cetamada Ngo, based in Sainte Marie, Madagascar, is accepting applications for an intern to start in mid-July 2022 in Sainte Marie, Madagascar. The Cetamada Ngo is offering internships to motivated individuals for the 2022 humpback whale breeding season in Sainte Marie, Madagascar. The internship is expected to begin in mid-July, for a period of up to 8 weeks, however, start dates will be flexible. The position is located in Sainte Marie, an island in the east of Madagascar's Mainland. The intern's duties would include assisting data collection on humpback whales from a boat (Photo ID, Biopsy, Tagging, Sound recording, etc.), public outreach, databases update, and other related office work. At the end of the internship, interns are required to complete a short final report. Internships are not paid and this training experience requires a tuition fee of 250 € per week (2022) which is used to offset the cost of training, use of research equipment, research vessels, shared accommodation, access to Wi-Fi, electricity, local transport, etc. Successful applicants will be responsible for their own transportation expenses to and from Saint Marie, Madagascar. Qualifications: * Recent graduates and graduate students in marine science, zoology, or related field are eligible * Some research field experience is desirable, but not mandatory * Interns must be comfortable working at sea * Interns must be able to swim * Basic French is an asset but not necessary Application Process: If you are interested in applying for this internship, please provide the following documents: * A cover letter describing the area(s) of interest and the dates of availability * A resume describing training and experience Please send these documents as e-mail attachments to the Scientific and Community Project Officer: scientifique(a)cetamada.org Maevatiana RATSIMBAZAFINDRANAHAKA Institut des Neurosciences Paris-Saclay (NeuroPSI), UMR 9197 CNRS Campus CEA Saclay, 151 route de la Rotonde, 91400 Saclay Bâtiment 151 +33(0)1 69 82 63 56, bureau 3054

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New publication: Song complexity is maintained during inter-population cultural transmission of humpback whale songs
by Jenny Allen 07 Jun '22

07 Jun '22

Dear MARMAM, On behalf of my co-authors, I am pleased to announce the following publication: Jenny A. Allen, Ellen C. Garland, Claire Garrigue, Rebecca A. Dunlop, & Michael J. Noad. (2022). Song complexity is maintained during inter-population cultural transmission of humpback whale songs. Scientific Reports. Volume 12. Number 8999. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-12784-3 Abstract: Among animal species, the songs of male humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) are a rare example of social learning between entire populations. Understanding fine-scale similarity in song patterns and structural features will better clarify how accurately songs are learned during inter-population transmission. Here, six distinct song types (2009-2015) transmitted from the east Australian to New Caledonian populations were quantitatively analysed using fine-scale song features. Results found that New Caledonian whales learned each song type with high accuracy regardless of the pattern's complexity. However, there were rare instances of themes (stereotyped patterns of sound units) only sung by a single population. These occurred more often in progressively changing 'evolutionary' songs compared to rapidly changing 'revolutionary' songs. Our results suggest that populations do not need to reduce complexity to accurately learn song patterns. Populations may also incorporate changes and embellishments into songs in the form of themes which are suggested to be learnt as distinct segments. Maintaining complex song patterns with such accuracy suggests significant acoustic contact, supporting the hypothesis that song learning may occur on shared feeding grounds or migration routes. This study improves the understanding of inter-population mechanisms for large-scale cultural transmission in animals. The paper is available via the following link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-12784-34<https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2019.2014> Alternatively, please email me on jenny.allen(a)griffith.edu.au<mailto:jenny.allen@griffith.edu.au> for a pdf copy. Best regards, Jenny Allen Dr Jenny Allen (she/her) Research Associate Southern Ocean Persistent Organic Pollutants Program (SOPOPP) Centre for Planetary Health and Food Security Griffith School of Environment and Science Griffith University, Nathan Campus E: jenny.allen(a)griffith.edu.au<mailto:jenny.allen@griffith.edu.au> M: +61 (0)424 773 994 [cid:image001.png@01D87B42.B6C6CED0] [cid:image002.jpg@01D87B42.B6C6CED0]

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Job Post
by Laura Bogaard 07 Jun '22

07 Jun '22

JOB POST: Seattle-based Biological Field Technician / Marine Mammal Observer We are seeking an additional field technician for a project that takes place in Seattle, WA this summer. This is an ideal opportunity for a local current/recent student looking for field experience in marine mammal research. This is a temporary, seasonal position for July and August (2 months). Technicians can expect to work 4 or 5 days a week for 6-7 hour shifts. The successful applicant must be flexible to the project scheduling needs and available to work on weekends. Project Objective: Oceans Initiative <https://oceansinitiative.org/> (OI) is a non-profit research organization based out of Seattle that focuses on the conservation of marine wildlife in the Pacific Northwest and around the world. OI is entering our third year of research <https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/environment/researchers-test-unde…> into the application of the GenusWave Targeted Acoustic Startle Technology (TAST) as a non-lethal deterrent for pinnipeds preying on endangered salmon at human-built bottlenecks, such as Ballard Locks. The goal of the TAST is to reduce pinniped predation pressure on endangered salmon populations. Observer duties: Conduct platform-based observations of harbor seals/sea lions Record data using Google forms Photograph seals opportunistically for individual ID Perform outreach to general public about the TAST project and Oceans Initiative’s mission Communicate with the project lead at the beginning/end of every shift Keep detailed record of surveys and other information in field notes Backup and upload data promptly at the office. Keep track of and maintain gear including DSLR camera, GoPro, SD cards, binoculars, range-finder. Preferences: Prior experience conducting field work, specifically experience with harbor seal or marine mammal behavioral observations Prior experience with photo ID/photography welcome Requirements: Excellent communication skills, comfortable interacting with members of the public and representing Oceans Initiative Willing to work weekends/holidays, outside rain or shine. Project takes place entirely at Ballard Locks. The successful applicant should be local to Seattle, and able to transport themselves to and from the study location daily. Housing and transport will not be provided To apply: Please send your CV, cover letter, and list of two references to: Laura Bogaard, field(a)oceansinitiative.org <mailto:field@oceansinitiative.org> Applications due by: Friday, June 17, 2022 at 12:00pm PST, with interviews the following week and decision made by Friday June 24. Positions available: 1 Wage: $20/hr

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Announcing a new way to store, share and access cetacean data in the NE Atlantic!
by Nikki Taylor 07 Jun '22

07 Jun '22

Dear MARMAM community, We are excited to announce that the new Joint Cetacean Data Programme (JCDP) portal is now live! There is a huge amount of effort in collecting cetacean data across the NE Atlantic (and globally, but we had to start somewhere...), but there remain large gaps in data availability for e.g. robust assessments of population status. The JCDP aims to be a mechanism to standardise, store and access the existing and future data collected via ship and aerial methods (effort-related). The JCDP vision is to Promote and facilitate cetacean data standardisation and maximise value through collation and enabling of universal access. For more information: https://jncc.gov.uk/our-work/joint-cetacean-data-programme/ We are proud to announce that the JCDP, in collaboration with a representative stakeholder group, has developed a Data Standard based on existing data collection methods, which identifies core fields and applies standardised vocabularies to result in high-quality data that can be easily used as a collated dataset. The aim is for this standard to be applied as widely as possible to coordinate the format of these data so please take a look and share widely! The data standard is accessible here: JCDP Data Standard<https://jncc.gov.uk/our-work/jcdp-resources/> There are further resources available in support of the JCDP aims such as data collection guidance and distance sampling tutorial videos, which can be found here: https://jncc.gov.uk/our-work/jcdp-resources/ The database is hosted in the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) data centre, where you can upload, view, filter and access JCDP-compliant data, which helps to mobilise data that have otherwise been inaccessible, in the hopes we can begin to fill some of the data gaps in space and time for analyses. Here you can also download a template of the format to assist with transforming existing data, or support collection of data in the JCDP format. JCDP platform: https://cetaceans.ices.dk/ >From this point on, the JCDP will be governed by an ICES Working Group (WGJCDP), which will be responsible for promoting the resource; developing the platform further to fulfil identified needs; and consider development of open access data products. This group is currently building membership and will work closely with WGBYC<https://www.ices.dk/community/groups/Pages/WGBYC.aspx> and WGMME<https://www.ices.dk/community/groups/Pages/WGMME.aspx> with the aim of complimenting evidence requirements, so if you feel you may have something to bring to the group and want to get involved, get in touch with your country ICES SCICOM rep: https://www.ices.dk/community/groups/Pages/Members.aspx?Acronym=SCICOM or directly with nikki.taylor(a)jncc.gov.uk<mailto:nikki.taylor@jncc.gov.uk>. For more information on the JCDP, contact marinemammals(a)jncc.gov.uk<mailto:marinemammals@jncc.gov.uk> We are looking forward to growing the data holdings of this resource and adding value to the tremendous effort in data collection in the NE Atlantic! The JCDP project 2019 - 2022 was funded by the UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, and managed by JNCC. Nikki Taylor | Senior Marine Species Adviser | JCDP Project Manager Monkstone House, City Road, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, PE1 1JY | nikki.taylor(a)jncc.gov.uk<mailto:nikki.taylor@jncc.gov.uk> | Direct dial: +44 (0)1733 866902 | Switchboard: +44 (0) 1733 562626 | Twitter: @NikkiLouTaylor<https://twitter.com/TheWetaTheBeta> https://jncc.gov.uk/our-work/joint-cetacean-data-programme/ Working pattern: Monday to Friday, flexible working [cid:image001.jpg@01D87A50.73A27A70]

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Job Opening: Conservation Manager (Maui)
by Stephanie Stack 06 Jun '22

06 Jun '22

For over 40 years, Pacific Whale Foundation<https://www.pacificwhale.org/conservation/> has been a leader in science, education, and advocacy to protect whales and dolphins. Our Conservation program develops and advocates for science-based solutions to major threats on whales and dolphins that align with environmental, economic, and community values. Using cutting edge data from our Research program, our team creates public policy agendas and mobilizes community members to support ocean protection efforts. Our priority work focuses on major threats to whales and dolphins: addressing the challenge of single-use plastic pollution, promoting best practices for whale watching tourism, raising awareness about rising ocean temperatures due to climate change and reducing the accidental catch of whales and dolphins by commercial fishing operations. We have an immediate opening for an experienced, strategic-minded Conservation Manager to lead our conservation work - both in Hawai’i and at our international sites. The Conservation Manager reports to the Deputy Executive Director and is responsible for maintaining and expanding engaging community opportunities which support the protection of whales and dolphins. This position will build and manage a small team, work collaboratively with program and department managers across the organization, and represent PWF in the community with our donors, supporters, and partners. If you’re a leader with a passion for marine life and an entrepreneurial spirit, we want to hear from you! Our ideal person has at least 3 years of experience leading, developing and managing conservation programs or large-scale conservation projects, proven ability to build effective relationships within communities, experience in the non-profit sector (environmental NGOs are a plus), is a strong, effective, public speaker, and is an experienced people manager who leads with transparency, respect, and integrity. Salary range: $60,000 - $75,000 (based on skills and experience). This is a full time, salaried exempt position based on Maui, Hawai’i. Preference will be given to applicants who currently live in Hawai’i. We offer a comprehensive benefits package and some amazing perks. Come join us! TO APPLY: https://1.adp.com/5ppc87J6khG<https://nam02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2F1.adp.com…> All offers contingent upon successful completion of a background check. [cid:microsoftteams-image(1)_bd2c6ef7-b3d7-48f1-95dc-ac6b3873031c.png]<https://pacificwhale.rallybound.org/filmfest/Donate/Tickets?_ga=2.255470344…> <https://www.pacificwhale.org/filmfest/> <https://www.pacificwhale.org/filmfest/>

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Job: Specialist - Net cameras and Seal Exclusion Devices
by Al Baylis 06 Jun '22

06 Jun '22

What: Pinniped bycatch Where: Falkland Islands Duration: 6 month, fixed term Salary: £34,412 per annum Further info: https://www.south-atlantic-research.org/jobs/ Specialist - net cameras for SEDs. The South Atlantic Environmental Research Institute (SAERI) is looking for a specialist who will work in partnership with the Falkland Islands Government Directorate of Natural Resources (DNR) - Fisheries and the fishing industry to facilitate the successful deployment of trawl net cameras to monitor Seal Exclusion Devices (SEDs) and pinniped interactions. This 6-month fixed term position is based in the Falkland Islands at SAERI’s head off office. Travel to and from the Falkland Islands will be covered, and SAERI will offer a seagoing allowance for time spent at-sea. The specialist will: • Work with project partners to facilitate the successful deployment of trawl net cameras • Prepare an easy-to-follow net camera deployment guide for industry and government • Initiate the analysis of net camera footage, and prepare a protocol for data analysis • Contribute to project reporting as required • Some time away at-sea will be required The start date is negotiable, but ideally January 2023. SAERI offers a dynamic working environment with opportunities to develop exciting research and collaborations locally and internationally, in what is considered to be a scientific ‘frontier’ region. Full details available on our website: https://www.south-atlantic-research.org/jobs/ This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual(s) or entity named above. If you have received this email in error you must not use, copy, distribute, disseminate or disclose the information contained in it. Please notify us immediately, delete the email from your computer system, and destroy any hard copies you may have created.

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