October 2023 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Publication on signature whistles and changes in vocal emissions in a rough-toothed dolphin
by Eric Angel Ramos 30 Oct '23

30 Oct '23

Greetings MARMAM, On behalf of my coauthors, I am pleased to share our new article out today in *Frontiers in Marine Science* titled: *Signature whistle use and changes in whistle emission rate in a rehabilitated rough-toothed dolphin* Ramos EA, Jones BL, Austin M, Eierman L, Collom KA, Melo-Santos G, Castelblanco-Martınez N, Arreola MR, Sanchez-Okrucky R and Rieucau G (2023) Signature whistle use and changes in whistle emission rate in a rehabilitated rough-toothed dolphin. Front. Mar. Sci. 10:1278299. doi: 10.3389/fmars.2023.1278299 The article is available Open Access here: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmars.2023.1278299/full Abstract Acoustic signals play a crucial role in communication among animals, particularly in dolphins. Signature whistles, one of their most extensively studied vocalizations, enable dolphins to convey their identity to conspecifics through individually distinct whistle contours. However, it remains unclear whether rough-toothed dolphins (Steno bredanensis) also produce signature whistles with individually identifying contours and, if so, whether they are associated with stress and poor health, such as in bottlenose dolphins. To bridge this knowledge gap, we recorded sounds emitted by a live-stranded rough-toothed dolphin during its rehabilitation in May 2017 at Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo, Mexico. We assessed if the dolphin produced a signature whistle and whether whistle rate, inter-whistle interval, mean low and high frequencies, and blood chemistry measures, changed significantly over time. While isolated from conspecifics during rehabilitation, the dolphin generated a single, repeated, and stereotyped whistle contour that met the previously established SIGnature IDentification criteria for signature whistle emissions for bottlenose dolphins. Whistle characteristics varied over the 11 recording days: whistle rate and inter-whistle interval significantly decreased over time; the number of whistles with preceding echolocation click trains decreased over time; and mean low and high frequencies changed over recording days. We conclude that this rough-toothed dolphin possessed what resembles a signature whistle contour, and the emission of this contour underwent significant changes throughout the rehabilitation process. While our study presents evidence of a single rough- toothed dolphin producing a signature whistle, further research is necessary to determine whether this vocal behavior is prevalent across the species. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me at eric.angel.ramos(a)gmail.com Best regards, *Eric Angel Ramos, Ph.D.* Postdoctoral Research Associate at The University of Vermont Scientist at FINS (Fundación Internacional para la Naturaleza y la Sustentabilidad) Member of the IUCN SSC Sirenian Specialist Group for Mesoamerica www.finsconservation.org <https://finsconservation.org/> E-mail: eric.angel.ramos(a)gmail.com 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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Towards the Effective Management of Marine Mammals - upcoming webinars
by Ocean Governance 30 Oct '23

30 Oct '23

-UPCOMING MARINE MAMMAL WEBINARS- This week, the Marine Mammal Twinning will be hosting two webinars showcasing the #MarineMammals Management Toolkit as a valuable tool for the effective management of marine mammals. 1st November - 13:00 (UTC +3) - Towards effective management of marine mammals in the Red Sea & Gulf of Aden – hosted in collaboration with The Regional Organisation for the Conservation of the Red Sea & Gulf of Aden (PERSGA), including the importance of marine mammals in the region by Dr Giuseppe Notarbartolo di Sciara, IUCN Marine Mammal Protected Areas: https://marine-mammals.info/webinar-persga/ 2nd November - 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm (UTC) - Towards effective management of marine mammals in West Africa – hosted in collaboration with the Abidjan Convention and PRCM-Regional Partnership for Coastal and Marine Conservation in West Africa – available in English, French and Portuguese: https://marine-mammals.info/webinar-west-africa/ Mark your calendars and register through the above links, and join a host of marine mammal experts and MPA managers for a discussion on the importance of marine mammals in both regions, including Important Marine Mammal Areas (IMMA), their threats, and how MPA managers can use the Toolkit as a possible management solution, with with case studies on the use of the Self-Assessment Tool in Tanzania. We hope you will be able to join us! - *Marine Mammal Twinning: *www.marine-mammals.info *Ocean Governance - Protecting and restoring marine ecosystems, catalysts for building peace and security and fostering sustainable economies, South Asia and Atlantic Ocean basin* www.oceangovernance4mpas.eu Join our *Community of Practice* here. <https://marine-mammals.info/community-of-practice/>

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New publication: Song Notes and Patterns of the Mediterranean Fin Whale (Balaenoptera physalus) in the Ionian Sea
by Virginia Sciacca 30 Oct '23

30 Oct '23

Dear colleagues, On behalf of my co-authors, I am pleased to announce our recent publication in /Journal of Marine Science and Engineering/: Sciacca V, Morello G, Beranzoli L, Embriaco D, Filiciotto F, Marinaro G, Riccobene GM, Simeone F, Viola S. Song Notes and Patterns of the Mediterranean Fin Whale (/Balaenoptera physalus/) in the Ionian Sea. /Journal of Marine Science and Engineering/. 2023; 11(11):2057. https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse11112057 <https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse11112057> Abstract: The Mediterranean fin whale emits two types of 20-Hz calls, known as “classic” and “backbeat”, that can be produced in irregular series or in patterned sequences called songs. The analysis of songs is recognized as a meaningful approach to study baleen whales and can be used to investigate populations’ identities. Mediterranean fin whale songs have been studied previously, but only in the western Mediterranean Sea. This work describes the structure of the songs recorded in the Ionian Sea. The inter-note intervals and the alternation of 20-Hz note types were considered to assess the occurrence of recurring patterns. Differences between patterned songs and irregular sequences were also investigated. Acoustic data were sampled continuously for about 10 months by the cabled observatory NEMO-SN1, deployed at 2100 m depth, 25 km offshore Catania; 28 call sequences were isolated and 10 of these were classified as either patterned songs or irregular sequences. Significant differences were observed in the spectral features of classic notes between songs and irregulars; four-note patterns were found repeatedly over different months, indicating a regular structure in detected songs. This work establishes a reference to interpret Mediterranean fin whale songs, and to assess the acoustic behavior of the population. Best regards, Virginia Sciacca -- Virginia Sciacca, PhD Researcher - Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche Istituto di Scienze Polari (ISP-CNR) Spianata S. Raineri, 86, 98122 Messina, Italy

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DMAD is looking for a volunteer supervisor in Montenegro
by DMAD Marine Mammals Research Association 29 Oct '23

29 Oct '23

DMAD-Marine Mammals Research Association is Looking for a Volunteer Supervisor in Montenegro (South Adriatic) Dear all, DMAD - Marine Mammals Research Association is a nonprofit organization that directs its scientific effort on the most data deficient regions of the Mediterranean Sea and conducts dedicated cetacean surveys through visual and acoustic data collection protocols. While the main goal of the NGO is to collect the missing scientific knowledge, its wider attention focuses on the promotion and implementation of awareness initiatives targeted at the local community. We are currently seeking a Volunteer Supervisor for our base in Montenegro. This is a valuable opportunity for anyone who is hard-working and dedicated to marine conservation and enjoys taking challenges. We are open to accept applications from anyone whose passion for marine mammals is strong and sincere. This is an opportunity to develop your research and public awareness skills, to gain experience on hand-on science and to contribute science where the work is most needed! This opportunity is available from December 2023. The minimum duration of the placement is 6 MONTHS. REQUIREMENTS -Self-motivation, maturity and ability to work responsibly is the key for the position. -Multitasking and willingness to take the extra step to make a change for the good -Ability to cohabit in a dynamic and multicultural environment. -Respect for the organization's rules and willingness to follow standards and procedures. -Proven experience of working effectively as part of a small team where there is a need for work constantly. -True interest for marine conservation -Fluent English (both spoken and written) and good communication skills. -Background in marine biology and previous fieldwork experience are an advantage. -Valid Driving license RESPONSIBILITIES -Supervising a team of volunteers during the surveys (The surveys take place a minimum of 3 days in a week). -Making sure the research crew follows DMAD survey protocols during the land and boat-based surveys. -Ensuring the survey equipment is functioning properly before/after the surveys -Data proofing after the data entry of the volunteer. -Conducting monthly backup of the scientific data -Making sure the volunteer house and office is up to its standards -Promoting citizen-science activities and educational activities for the public with the volunteers -Searching platforms for volunteer calls -Scientific proposal writing for grants (optional) -Data analysis, report writing, scientific article production (optional). TRAINING The selected volunteer supervisor will be trained within the first month about the data collection protocols and the structure of DMAD. S/he can also join the provided workshops on GIS mapping, photo-identification, statistical analysis etc. This is a great opportunity for someone who is hard working, who can do multitask and who has the passion to conduct research and conservation for the cetaceans of the globe. CONTRIBUTION The accommodation of the selected volunteer supervisor will be covered. After the trial period of two months, the researcher will receive 300 euro per month to cover her/his expenses. Further, in the case of the supervisor writing a grant, s/he can place her/himself as the project leader for the extra income. 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 aakkaya(a)dmad.org.tr, explaining why you are a suitable asset for our team and which goals you hope to achieve with us! If you wish to have more info, please take a look at some of our web pages and social media: Our research: http://www.dmad.org.tr/our-projects Our publications: http://www.dmad.org.tr/our-publications Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marinemammalsresearch/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DMADforNature/ All the best, DMAD team

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MARMAM: New publication on the tidal lung volume of gray whales
by Albertson, R 28 Oct '23

28 Oct '23

On behalf of my coauthors, I am pleased to announce the recent publication: Sumich JL, Albertson GR, Torres LG, Bird CN, Bierlich KC, Harris C. Using audio and UAS-based video for estimating tidal lung volumes of resting and active adult gray whales (Eschrichtius robustus) Mar Mam Sci. Notes 2023; 1-8. https://doi.org/10.1111/mms.13081 Highlights include: 1. A novel approach to estimate tidal lung volume of actively foraging adult gray whales. 2. Tidal lung volume (relative to body mass) estimates for foraging whales are somewhat higher than those found earlier for gray whale calves. 3. Foraging gray whales express tidal lung volume values 35-40% higher than resting lagoon female gray whales. PDFs are available upon request to james.sumich(a)oregonstate.edu<mailto:james.sumich@oregonstate.edu> G. Renee Albertson, Ph.D. Department of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Sciences Marine Mammal Institute – Hatfield Marine Science Center Newport, Oregon

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Postdoctoral position in North Atlantic right whale modeling
by Daniel Pendleton - NOAA Affiliate 27 Oct '23

27 Oct '23

POSITION OVERVIEW Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences is seeking a Postdoctoral Scientist to work on modeling of the North Atlantic right whale response to climate change as part of a project funded by the National Science Foundation. North Atlantic right whales are in decline, and a rapid climate shift in 2010 abruptly redistributed the whale’s primary prey, leading to changing foraging patterns, and higher mortality rates. The case of the right whale illustrates the consequences of a lack of understanding how an organism responds to climate change. We seek a postdoctoral scientist to develop species distribution models to test hypotheses related to climate adaptation for this species. The successful candidate will work closely with other team members who are developing movement models, studying remotely sensed data layers, and acquiring and obtaining in situ oceanographic datasets. Projects will be led by the postdoctoral scientist, but will involve working with a team of PIs (Dan Pendleton, Nick Record at Bigelow Laboratory, and Erin Meyer-Gutbrod at the University of South Carolina) and other collaborators. The preferred start date for this position is January 2024, and it is funded for a three-year term, contingent on satisfactory annual performance reviews. The salary range for this position is $54,000-68,000, based on experience, with a generous benefits package including health care, retirement contribution, and paid time off. Some supervision of research undergraduates and/or technicians assisting with lab experiments may be required. REQUIREMENTS PhD in marine ecology, ecological modeling, or other relevant field Experience using and integrating diverse data and running models using R or similar Experience or strong interest in developing mathematical models Track record demonstrating a commitment to publishing research findings Strong written and oral communication skills with significant motivation to publish in the peer-reviewed literature Strong interest in team-based interdisciplinary science, with the willingness and ability to work independently when required APPLY Please submit a cover letter, CV, and three professional references using our online application portal. Screening of candidates will begin November 27, 2023, and the search will continue until the position is filled. Individuals seeking more information about this position or needing to request an accommodation, please contact careers(a)bigelow.org or (207) 315-2567, ext. 107.

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LAJAM Vol. 18 No. 2 October 2023 Out Now
by Daniel Gonzalez 26 Oct '23

26 Oct '23

LAJAM Vol. 18 No. 2 October 2023 Out Now Dear readers, on behalf of Dr. Miriam Marmontel, editor-in-chief, Dr. Daniel Gonzalez-Socoloske, managing editor, and the associate editors, we are pleased to announce the publication of the latest issue of the Latin American Journal of Aquatic Mammals 18(2) October 2023. Please share it widely. In this issue we have 3 articles and 8 notes. Thank you to all the authors and peer reviewers. LAJAM 18(2) October 2023 Editorial Gonzalez-Socoloske (2023). An unexpected event related to the aquatic mammals of Latin America<https://lajamjournal.org/index.php/lajam/article/view/1655>. Latin American Journal of Aquatic Mammals, 18(2), 167-168. Articles Weysfield et al. (2023). Incidence of a solitary bottlenose dolphin, Tursiops truncatus, and interactions with spinner dolphins, Stenella longirostris, in the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, Brazil<https://lajamjournal.org/index.php/lajam/article/view/1589>. Latin American Journal of Aquatic Mammals, 18(2), 169-174. Félix & Castro (2023). Occurrence, abundance and some ecological aspects of the offshore bottlenose dolphin off Ecuador’s central coast<https://lajamjournal.org/index.php/lajam/article/view/1531>. Latin American Journal of Aquatic Mammals, 18(2), 175-185. Milmann et al. (2023). Overview of Balaenoptera whales strandings in Southern Brazil from 1993 to 2018<https://lajamjournal.org/index.php/lajam/article/view/1579>. Latin American Journal of Aquatic Mammals, 18(2), 186-195. Notes Bolaños-Jiménez et al. (2023). First record of gillnet entanglement of a common minke whale calf (Balaenoptera acutorostrata, Lacépède, 1804) in Haiti, Greater Antilles, with a note on the local and regional fishing techniques<https://lajamjournal.org/index.php/lajam/article/view/1571>. Latin American Journal of Aquatic Mammals, 18(2), 196-199. Urbán R. et al. (2023). Molecular confirmation of Mesoplodon sp. A as M. peruvianus<https://lajamjournal.org/index.php/lajam/article/view/1575>. Latin American Journal of Aquatic Mammals, 18(2), 200-202. Ribeiro et al. (2023). Ingestion of yellow tube sponge (Aplysina fistularis Pallas, 1766) (Porifera, Demospongiae) by short-finned pilot whale (Globicephala macrorhynchus Gray, 1846)<https://lajamjournal.org/index.php/lajam/article/view/1561>. Latin American Journal of Aquatic Mammals, 18(2), 203-206. Romero-Tenorio et al. (2023). Records of Southern elephant seals (Mirounga leonina) in the southern Mexican Pacific<https://lajamjournal.org/index.php/lajam/article/view/1567>. Latin American Journal of Aquatic Mammals, 18(2), 207-211. Niebaum (2023). Note on the first modern record of a southern elephant seal (Mirounga leonina Linnaeus, 1758) in Los Ríos Region, southern Chile<https://lajamjournal.org/index.php/lajam/article/view/1555>. Latin American Journal of Aquatic Mammals, 18(2), 212-216. Bolaños-Jiménez et al. (2023). First record of the Clymene dolphin (Stenella clymene Gray, 1850) in Costa Rican waters<https://lajamjournal.org/index.php/lajam/article/view/1597>. Latin American Journal of Aquatic Mammals, 18(2), 217-219. Rodrigues (2023). Collision of a kitesurfer with a humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) on the coast of Arraial do Cabo, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil<https://lajamjournal.org/index.php/lajam/article/view/1577>. Latin American Journal of Aquatic Mammals, 18(2), 220-223. de Oliveira et al. (2023). Drone survey provides preliminary insights into the biological aspects of Bryde’s whales in southeastern Brazil<https://lajamjournal.org/index.php/lajam/article/view/1565>. Latin American Journal of Aquatic Mammals, 18(2), 224-230.

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New publication on persistent organic pollutant (POP) transfer from female bottlenose dolphins to their calves during lactation
by Dawn Noren - NOAA Federal 26 Oct '23

26 Oct '23

On behalf of my co-authors, I am pleased to announce the recent publication: Noren DP, Johnson S, Boyd D, Ylitalo GM, Lundin J, McCormley M, Jensen ED. The dynamics of persistent organic pollutant (POP) transfer from female bottlenose dolphins (*Tursiops truncatus*) to their calves during lactation. Sci Total Environ. Volume 907, 10 January 2024, 167888, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167888 Highlights •Studies on contaminant transfer from female delphinids to calves are limited. •This is the first longitudinal study of contaminant transfer in live dolphins. •Female milk and blood toxicant levels decline while calf blood levels increase. •Female reproductive history and chemical structure influence contaminant transfer. •Data are useful for predictive models and evaluating exposure risk to calves. Free PDF downloads of the article are available at this link through Dec. 13th: https://authors.elsevier.com/a/1h%7EIeB8ccyhD2 PDFs are also available upon request to Dawn.Noren(a)noaa.gov Dawn Noren, PhD Research Fishery Biologist, Conservation Biology Division NOAA Northwest Fisheries Science Center

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Job Opening: Protected Species Division Director - Honolulu - NOAA Fisheries
by Charles Littnan - NOAA Federal 26 Oct '23

26 Oct '23

Aloha! We are recruiting for a Supervisory Marine Biologist to oversee the NMFS PIFSC Protected Species Division . This division conducts research and conservation activities on cetaceans, turtles, and monk seals in the Central and West Pacific Ocean. Duties As a Supervisory Marine Biologist, you will perform the following duties: - Exercise decision-making authority over a comprehensive scientific research program, which is the foundation for conservation of Hawaiian monk seals, cetaceans, and sea turtles in the Pacific islands. - Develop information and plans related to strategic planning of the future operations of the organization, ensuring that adequate plans are in place for the future operations of the recovery and maintenance of healthy marine mammal and sea turtle populations, their habitats, and marine ecosystem conservation. - As a supervisor, exercise delegated authority to oversee the overall planning, direction, and timely execution of the Protected Species Division (PSD)/Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center (PIFSC) program. - Utilize full supervisory authority including evaluating work performance of subordinates, developing performance standards, and giving advice, counsel, or instruction to employees on both work and administrative matters. Key Requirements: - Applicants must be U.S. Citizens. - Suitable for Federal employment, as determined by background investigation. - More requirements are listed under Qualifications and Other Information. - Must be registered for Selective Service, if applicable (www.sss.gov) - Because this position requires travel for official business, the selectee will be required to apply for a charge card within 30 calendar days of appointment. Individuals who have delinquent account balances from a previous Government charge card will be required to satisfy their existing obligation before a new card can be issued. - A background investigation will be required for this position. Continued employment will be subject to the applicant's successful completion of a background security investigation and favorable adjudication. Failure to successfully meet these requirements will be grounds for termination. - Throughout the recruitment and hiring process we will be communicating with you via email; therefore, it is imperative that the email address you provide when applying for this vacancy remains active. Should your email address change, please notify the point of contact identified in the vacancy announcement as soon as possible so that we can update our system. For more information on the position and application process: https://www.usajobs.gov/job/757281300 For more information about the PIFSC: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/about/pacific-islands-fisheries-science-cent… Direct all questions about the hiring process to: victor.cruz(a)noaa.gov *Charles Littnan, PhD.* Science and Research Director Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center NOAA IRC NMFS/PIFSC/DO/Charles Littnan 1845 WASP Blvd., Building 176 Honolulu, HI 96818 PH: (808) 725-5711 C: (808) 220-3601 Fax: (808) 725-5567

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Job Posting - Associate Research Scientist, Florida FWC-FWRI, manatee ecology
by Gowan, Tim 26 Oct '23

26 Oct '23

Title: Associate Research Scientist Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Fish and Wildlife Research Institute Location: St. Petersburg, Florida or Gainesville, Florida Application Deadline: 11/24/2023 To apply: https://jobs.myflorida.com/job/SAINT-PETERSBURG-ASSOCIATE-RESEARCH-SCIENTIS… Job Description: This position designs and conducts research on the ecology, habitat, and population biology of the Florida manatee. Primary responsibilities include developing and parameterizing quantitative ecological models to provide decision-support for wildlife managers. The successful candidate will act as a project manager for characterizing manatee habitat networks, conducting risk assessments, and forecasting threats to manatee populations and their habitat. The employee will oversee data collection, management, and analysis; consult with resource managers, research partners, and other stakeholders to identify information needs, assess available data, and develop decision-support tools; actively collaborate on research teams and working groups; and present research findings through peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, and meeting presentations. Additional duties may include field work, supervision of staff, and public outreach. Qualifications: Applicants must possess a Bachelor's degree in the physical or natural sciences or mathematics and 4 years of professional experience in a related field; or a Master's degree in the physical or natural sciences or mathematics and 3 years of professional experience in a related field; or a Doctorate degree in the physical or natural sciences or mathematics and 1 year of professional experience in a related field. 4 years of professional experience in a directly related biological field or laboratory program can substitute for the required Bachelor's degree; additional years of experience as described above are also required. Preference may be given to applicants with the following qualifications: knowledge of the principles of experimental design, data collection and management, and ecological modeling; demonstrated experience designing and conducting field research in aquatic/marine ecology, conducting statistical analyses, and developing agent-based models; experience with scientific programming, geographic information systems (GIS), and relational database management; and demonstrated experience in technical writing and consulting with natural resource stakeholders. Knowledge, skills, and abilities required to conduct this work include: Knowledge of terminology, principles, and techniques used in wildlife research; quantitative and statistical data analysis including simulation methods, ecological models, and risk assessments; GIS concepts, technology, and databases; designing studies to estimate ecological parameters and elicit stakeholder input. Ability to collect, organize, and maintain scientific data related to population ecology research and monitoring; perform quantitative analysis and modeling of scientific data; plan, organize, and coordinate work assignments; publish manuscripts in refereed scientific journals; work independently; communicate effectively verbally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships with others; establish and meet work-related goals; effectively supervise others. Skill in use of software for statistical analysis, word processing, relational database management, scientific programming, and geographic information systems.

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