February 2023 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Review on deleterious behaviors and risks related to close interactions between humans and free-ranging dolphins
by Pamela Carzon 16 Feb '23

16 Feb '23

Dear Marmam subscribers, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the publication of our review: Carzon P., Clua É., Dudzinski K.M. & Delfour F. (2023). Deleterious behaviors and risks related to close interactions between humans and free-ranging dolphins: A review. Biological Conservation, 279, 109948 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0006320723000484 Abstract Nature-based tourism has surged in recent years with the desire for up-close interactions and “connections” with wild animals. The conservation value, animal welfare considerations, visitor satisfaction, and profitability of wildlife tourism are often in direct conflict with trade-offs commonly accepted. In this paper, we reviewed more than four decades of literature on the deleterious behaviors and risks documented during close tourist and other recreational interactions between humans and free-ranging dolphins and encounters between humans and lone, sociable dolphins. Our compilation provides a geographical, chronological, and qualitative overview of these encounters, reviews both humans' and dolphins' deleterious behaviors during interspecific interactions and summarizes the main risks to both humans and dolphins during close encounters. Based on this review, we outline and discuss how both animal welfare and human safety should be managed such that these activities are sustainable; the demand for personal wildlife experiences continues to grow at an alarming rate and the economic pressures placed on wild animal populations run the risk of damaging the very environmental assets that support this industry if they cannot be managed effectively. Please contact Pamela Carzon (carzonpamela(a)gmail.com) if you wish a PDF copy of the article. Sincerely, Pamela —— Pamela Carzon | PhD student CRIOBE EPHE-PSL Dauphins de Rangiroa B.P. 12 Tiputa - 98776 Rangiroa - French Polynesia  +689 87.31.20.53  dauphinsderangiroa(a)gmail.com  www.dauphinsderangiroa.org https://www.facebook.com/groups/dauphinsderangiroa/

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New publication on Mediterranean monk seal conservation in the Adriatic and Ionian Seas
by Luigi Elio Alessandro BUNDONE 16 Feb '23

16 Feb '23

Dear MARMAM colleagues My co-author and I are very pleased to announce our recent publication “Towards a strategy for the recovering of the Mediterranean monk seal in the Adriatic-Ionian Basin” published in the special issue “A Plea for the Mediterranean Sea: Understanding Impacts of multiple anthropogenic stressors on coastal and marine biodiversity, ecosystems and their services” research topic for the Frontiers of Marine Science journal. The article is available online at: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmars.2023.1034124/full Authors: Panou A., Giannoulaki M., Varda D., Lazaj L., Pojana G., and Bundone L. Abstract: Occasional but recurrent sightings indicate that the endangered Mediterranean monk seal is still present in most of its historical range within the Adriatic-Ionian region in the central Mediterranean Sea. However, in most of the adjacent countries, the species’ abundance and distribution are practically unknown. An actively reproducing sub-population with a minimum of 25 adult/sub-adult seals lives in the Greek central Ionian Sea. The latter can form a nucleus from which the entire Adriatic-Ionian Basin could be re-colonized if adequate conservation measures are implemented throughout the area and in a coordinated manner. We examine the historical presence in the region as a baseline for providing a benchmark for conservation. We further look into the species’ habitat availability, possibilities for a rapid population assessment and various parameters that are considered crucial for its conservation, such as the existence of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), corridors for connectivity purposes as well as needs for raising public awareness. We recommend a series of interlinked actions within the framework of a conservation strategy the implementation of which will ensure the conditions for maintaining ecologically, demographically, and genetically viable sub-populations of this species emblematic for the entire Mediterranean Sea. To achieve this goal, a coalition of partners from this area is required in order to adopt the strategy and jointly implement the measures required. Regards, Luigi Bundone Archipelagos - ambiente e sviluppo, Italia Ca' Foscari University of Venice

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IFAW Marine Mammal Rescue & Research VET STUDENT Internship - Summer 2023
by Kasper, Kira 16 Feb '23

16 Feb '23

The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) is currently accepting applications for the summer 2023 Marine Mammal Vet Student Internship. IFAW Marine Mammal Stranding Internship Summer Session 2023 (First Week of June, 2023 - Last Week of August, 2023) Complete Applications due: February 20th, 2023 Program Background IFAW is an international non-profit organization. This internship is based out of our International Operations Center in Yarmouth Port, Massachusetts, USA. IFAW's Marine Mammal Rescue and Research program is a federally authorized program dedicated to marine mammal stranding response on Cape Cod and southeastern Massachusetts. Our program strives to promote the conservation of marine mammal species and their habitat by improving the rescue and humane care of stranded marine mammals, advancing stranding science, and increasing public awareness through education. Cape Cod is a marine mammal stranding "hot spot," with an average of over 264 strandings occurring each year. These strandings include live and dead seals, whales, porpoises, and dolphins. Veterinary Student Intern Duties The Veterinary Student Intern will work under the direct supervision of the veterinarian, and will assist the stranding staff, other interns, and volunteers with marine mammal stranding response. This intern will also assist in providing short-term rehabilitative care in the new Cetacean ICU, as cases arise. The position will be focused both on gaining clinical skills with stranded marine mammals as well as assisting the veterinarian with ongoing clinical research projects. * Clinical: Shadow the veterinarian during live cetacean and pinniped strandings. Assist with triage, physical examinations, phlebotomy, radiography, ultrasound, and treatments, depending on the stranding caseload. Participate in live and dead marine mammal stranding response in the field, short-term rehabilitation at the Cetacean ICU, and necropsies in the post-mortem lab. This position will also include some equipment cleaning and organizing, as needed prior to and following stranding responses. Please note that all work will primarily be in a supportive capacity and all clinical experience will be opportunistic, as strandings occur. We do not have a long-term rehabilitation program or animals on-site regularly. * Research: Assist the veterinarian with ongoing clinical research projects. Tasks can include reviewing case files, compiling previously collected data, synthesizing and analyzing findings in a comprehensive manner. Projects span a range of topics, but are always aimed at advancing stranding medicine and improving response protocols. Please see the following link for the full posting and to apply: https://recruiting.ultipro.com/INT1059IFFA/JobBoard/17b588a3-808b-4bc9-aea8… Kira Kasper Stranding Biologist Marine Mammal Rescue and Research 290 Summer Street Yarmouth Port, MA 02675 United States Please note: my schedule varies regularly and I often work outside of the M-F 9-5 timeframe. +1 774 721 1080 (work cell) +1 508 743 9548 (stranding hotline) www.ifaw.org<https://www.ifaw.org/> [ifaw]<https://www.ifaw.org/> The content of this email is intended only for the use of the above-named addressee and may contain information that is confidential, proprietary, and/or legally privileged. Please notify the sender if you received this email in error.

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New publication on whistle characteristics of bottlenose dolphins in the Mediterranea (Aylin Akkaya)
by DMAD Marine Mammals Research Association 16 Feb '23

16 Feb '23

Dear Colleagues, We are happy to announce the publication of our new paper "Initial results on the variation of whistle characteristics of bottlenose dolphins from two neighbouring regions of the Mediterranean Sea: Northern Ionian and Southern Adriatic Sea." by Aylin Akkaya, Tim Awbery, Kirsty Medcalf, Patrick Lyne, Giulia Cipriano, Morgana Alvarenga, Leyla Ísrapilova, Yağmur Atalan, Olivier Eikelenboom, Pasquale Ricci, Roberto Crugliano, Elena Papale, Carmelo Fanizza and Roberto Carlucci. An open access copy can be found here: frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmars.2023.1099576/full <https://internal-journal.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmars.2022.903964…> Abstract Bottlenose dolphins have a complex vocal repertoire that varies depending on behavioral context, social structure, group composition, and anthropogenic pressures. This current study describes the whistle characteristics of bottlenose dolphins for the first time in the South Adriatic Sea while assessing the potential differences between whistle characteristics of geographically separated dolphins within neighbouring waters of the North Ionian Sea. The results show that whistle characteristics were similar between Taranto Gulf (Italy) and Boka Bay (Montenegro), despite their spatial differences. The mean peak frequency was 10kHz for each study location while the mean minimum and maximum frequency ranged from 7 to 14kHz. The average duration of whistles was 500 milliseconds. These results share similarities with previous literature, although several studies reported slightly different mean peak frequencies, ranging up to 15kHz in the neighbouring waters of Croatia and Italy. Further, harmonics were produced and formed in 40% of the whistles in Taranto Gulf and 30% of the whistles in Boka Bay. A high incidence of harmonics has previously been associated with behavioral states (i.e., travelling) and with certain types of marine traffic (i.e., fishing vessels). Therefore, it is important to collect simultaneous data on the visual behavior of the focal group as well as document the type and density of marine traffic within the proximity of the dolphins to have an in-depth understanding of vocal behavior. Despite the similarities of whistle characteristics of Taranto and Boka Bay, the whistle contours showed notable variations. Upsweep whistles were the most regularly produced whistle type in each location, which coincides with previous studies in the Mediterranean Sea. However, the least produced whistle had a concave contour in Taranto and was flat in Boka Bay. Previous studies have confirmed that flat whistles account for the least produced whistle contour in the Mediterranean Basin. Examining the whistle characteristics and the variation in whistle contours provides an in-depth understanding of the behavioral complexity as well as its plasticity in the presence of pressure. Therefore, future studies need to include behavior, group composition, noise levels, and human presence to enable an effective understanding of variation in whistle characteristics of bottlenose dolphins. Kind regards, Thalia de Haas *Student Coordinator & Researcher at Montenegro Dolphin Research* *Researcher at DMAD-Marine Mammals Research Association * <https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2180-1432>*Thalia.deHaas(a)dmad.org.tr <thalia.dehaas(a)dmad.org.tr>* *https://www.instagram.com/marinevagabond <https://www.instagram.com/marinevagabond>* -- *Dr. Aylin Akkaya* *Founder and Scientific Director of **Marine Mammals Research Association (DMAD) * *Cetacean Consultant of **WWF-Turkey * *Research Director of **Montenegro Dolphin Research (MDR) * *+38267947956* *skype: aylin.akkaya3* *info(a)dmad.org.tr <info(a)dmad.org.tr>* *www.dmad.org.tr <http://www.dmad.org.tr/>* *www.cetazoom.org* <http://www.cetazoom.org/> *https://sancet.wixsite.com/sancet <https://sancet.wixsite.com/sancet>* *https://www.instagram.com/marinemammalsresearch/ <https://www.instagram.com/marinemammalsresearch/>* *https://www.facebook.com/DMADforNature/ <https://www.facebook.com/DMADforNature/>*

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Research Associate Position at Stony Brook University
by Lesley Thorne 16 Feb '23

16 Feb '23

Dear colleagues, We are hiring a Research Associate to lead marine mammal and seabird field studies and contribute to related studies as part of a long-term monitoring program in the New York Bight: Brief Description of Duties: The Research Associate will be directly engaged in sponsored research under the auspices of Principal Investigator, Dr. Lesley Thorne. The incumbent will lead and coordinate line transect surveys of seabirds and unoccupied aerial system (UAS) surveys of large whales in the New York Bight. Candidates will be working collaboratively with a transdisciplinary, dynamic, and diverse research team consisting of ecologists and oceanographers. Strong written and verbal communication skills and demonstrated ability to work collaboratively as part of a research team are essential in order to be successful in this role. Required Qualifications: - Master’s degree (foreign equivalent or higher) in Biology, Ecology, Oceanography, Fisheries Science, or related field. - Working knowledge of seabird identification. - Experience conducting field studies on boats. - Experience conducting quantitative analyses. - Must have, keep and maintain the appropriate valid NYS Driver’s License; have a motor vehicle record which is free from major violations or a pattern of repeat violations. (***Out-of-State Applicants, see "Special Notes”). Preferred Qualifications: - Experience operating a small research vessel. - Experience working with, and maintaining large datasets. - Experience conducting line transect surveys. - Experience flying unoccupied aerial systems (UAS, or drones). For further information or to apply for this position online, please visit Stony Brook Jobs: https://stonybrooku.taleo.net/careersection/2/jobdetail.ftl?job=2300223&tz=… or contact Lesley Thorne (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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Job Announcement - NOAA SWFSC Biological Science Technician
by Eric Archer - NOAA Federal 15 Feb '23

15 Feb '23

The Marine Mammal and Turtle Division of the NOAA/NMFS Southwest Fisheries Science Center is seeking applicants for a Biological Science Technician, ZT-0404-2 position; duty station of this position is San Diego, CA. This is a TERM appointment. The announcement has been posted under agency Merit Promotion procedures (open to Federal status candidates) and Delegated Examining procedures (open to all US citizens). More details can be found below and if you want to be considered under both hiring authorities, you must apply to both announcements. *Status Candidates:* NMFS SWFSC-23-11803690-ST - https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/706904700 *All US Citizens:* NMFS SWFSC-23-11803688-DE - https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/706904900 -- *Eric Archer, Ph.D. *(he/him/his <https://www.glsen.org/activity/pronouns-guide-glsen>) Leader, Marine Mammal Genetics Program <https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/west-coast/science-data/marine-mammal-geneti…> Southwest Fisheries Science Center (NMFS/NOAA) 8901 La Jolla Shores Drive La Jolla, CA 92037 USA 619-837-3170 Adjunct Professor, Marine Biology <http://profiles.ucsd.edu/frederick.archer> Scripps Institution of Oceanography University of California, San Diego GitHub: github.com/ericarcher ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3179-4769 ---- " *The universe doesn't care what you believe. The wonderful thing about science is that it doesn't ask for your faith, it just asks for your eyes.*" - Randall Munroe "*Lighthouses are more helpful than churches.*" - Benjamin Franklin "*...but I'll take a GPS over either one.*" - John C. "Craig" George

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New paper on Galápagos cetaceans
by Palacios, Daniel M 15 Feb '23

15 Feb '23

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce the publication of our paper: Palacios, D.M. & Cantor, M. (2023). Priorities for ecological research on cetaceans in the Galápagos Islands. Front. Mar. Sci., 10, 1084057. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2023.1084057 Abstract: Located in the eastern tropical Pacific, the Galápagos Islands are an oceanic insular ecosystem subject to strong environmental variability driven by local and regional processes. Past research has shown that such conditions can attract and sustain at least 23 cetacean species, out of which 14 are common, including nine Delphinids, one Ziphiid, one Physeterid, and three Balaenopterids. These species occupy both coastal and oceanic habitats, most are present year-round, and a few are migratory. However, research on cetaceans in Galápagos has been sporadic and chronically underfunded and is not currently considered a priority in the research agenda for Galápagos. Based on a review of existing information and an assessment of knowledge gaps, here we identify priorities for ecological research on cetaceans in Galápagos along five topical areas: 1) spatiotemporal occurrence, 2) population assessment, 3) health assessment, 4) social ecology, and 5) trophic ecology. Addressing these knowledge gaps will also help inform actions to preserve cetacean biodiversity and to manage human activities involving or affecting cetaceans in Galápagos. Given the logistical and funding challenges of conducting cetacean research in Galápagos, we recommend optimizing data sampling and accessibility via integrated research protocols and open data repositories. We also recommend capitalizing on local citizen science activities, such as those conducted from cruise ships and whale-watching tours, which can serve as platforms of opportunity for obtaining basic data, thereby contributing to long-term data acquisition. Our proposed priorities should be assessed by Ecuadorian and Galápagos governmental institutions in broad and inclusive consultation with stakeholders and the scientific community prior to development and implementation of a research agenda. Collectively, these efforts will advance our understanding of the ecological role that marine megafauna, such as cetaceans, play in Galápagos and other oceanic islands, including maintaining large-scale connectivity and mitigating climate change. The study is Open Access at the above link and is part of a collection of papers on the topic of “Ecological and Behavioral Traits of Apex Predators in Oceanic Insular Ecosystems: Advances and Challenges in Research and Conservation” https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/21074. Sincerely, Daniel & Mauricio -- Daniel M. Palacios, Ph.D. (he/him/his — Why is this important?<https://www.mypronouns.org/what-and-why>) Endowed Associate Professor in Whale Habitats Whale Habitat, Ecology & Telemetry (WHET) Lab<https://mmi.oregonstate.edu/whet> Marine Mammal Institute and Department of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Sciences Oregon State University Newport, OR 97365, USA MMI Profile<https://mmi.oregonstate.edu/people/daniel-m-palacios> | Google Scholar<https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=6Derh7cAAAAJ&hl=en> | ResearchGate<https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Daniel_Palacios3> | GitHub<https://github.com/danielequs> [signature_3776141563] "Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon, is located within the traditional homelands of the Mary’s River or Ampinefu Band of Kalapuya. Following the Willamette Valley Treaty of 1855, Kalapuya people were forcibly removed to reservations in Western Oregon. Today, living descendants of these people are a part of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde Community of Oregon<https://www.grandronde.org/> and the Confederated Tribes of the Siletz Indians<https://ctsi.nsn.us/>."

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Reminder: CKDP summer 2023 field assistant applications
by Rebecca Hamilton 15 Feb '23

15 Feb '23

Dear Marmam subscribers, This is a reminder that the deadline for 2023 summer field assistant applications for CKDP is next *Friday, February 24th*. The Cedar Key Dolphin Project (CKDP) has been conducting surveys of resident bottlenose dolphins around the Cedar Keys, Florida, for more than 20 years. The project goals include investigating the ecology, social structure, and communication of the local population, with a focus on documenting a unique foraging behavior, Driver-Barrier foraging, which is the only known example of a role-specialized behavior in a delphinid species. Research takes place in Cedar Key, Florida and the surrounding coastline, 3 hours north of Tampa and 60 miles west of Gainesville. For more information regarding the project, please visit our website: www.cedarkeydolphinproject.org The CKDP is now taking applications for full-time field assistants for the 2023 field season this upcoming summer, between May 30th and August 11th. Applicants available for the full period will be given priority. Please note that we receive far more applications than the number of positions that we can offer, therefore the selection process is highly competitive. Assistants will be expected to work on a boat on all good weather days (up to 7 days per week), for up to 12 hours at a time. Typical weather conditions in summer include 95 degree heat, high humidity, and no breezes. When the weather does not permit fieldwork, work will consist of photo-identification, data entry, and equipment maintenance. Assistants can expect to spend 40% of their time in the field and 60% in the lab. Goals of the upcoming field season include collecting audio and drone-based video data. Assistants may also be asked to assist in local marine mammal stranding response via partner organizations. This is a volunteer position. Shared housing and food will be provided, but assistants will be responsible for arranging their own transportation to Florida. Applicants must meet the following requirements: -At least 18 years old -Physically fit and able to swim -Flexible, mature, and hard-working -Able to work well in small groups with a positive attitude (the team work and live together for the duration of the season) -Willing to learn a variety of field and lab skills Applicants of the following qualifications will be given priority: -Available for the full field season (May 30th to August 11th) -Currently enrolled in a related undergraduate or graduate program, or recent graduate -Prior field experience with photo-ID and boat handling How to apply: 1. Complete an application form via the project website: https://www.cedarkeydolphinproject.org/field-assistant-application.html <https://www.cedarkeydolphinproject.org/field-assistant-application.html> 2. Submit all required application materials (CV, cover letter, and contact for 3 references) as a single PDF file via email with the subject line “2023 Field Assistant Application” to ckdolphinproject(a)gmail.com, CC’ing Field Managers Becca Hamilton (rebeccahamilton64(a)gmail.com) and Jolinde Vlaeyen (jolinde.vlaeyen(a)gmail.com) Completed applications are due by *Friday, February 24th*. Only complete applications received by the deadline will be considered. A short-list of applicants will be asked to conduct a short, informal skype interview in early March. For more information or to ask any questions, please email ckdolphinproject(a)gmail.com. Best Wishes, The Cedar Key Dolphin Project ___________________________________________ www.cedarkeydolphinproject.org Follow us on social media: [image: facebook icon] <https://www.facebook.com/CedarKeyDolphinProject/> [image: twitter icon] <https://twitter.com/CKDolphinProj> [image: instagram icon] <https://www.instagram.com/cedar_key_dolphin_project/> Cedar Key Dolphin Project Inc is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Thus, your donation should be tax deductible. Please consider the environment before printing this email.

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Stranding Biologist Position - Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network
by hwhitehead＠tmmsn.org 14 Feb '23

14 Feb '23

Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network Employment Opportunity Announcement – Stranding Biologist The Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network (TMMSN) is a non-profit 501C3 organization, established in 1980, dedicated to marine mammal conservation through rescue, rehabilitation, research, and education. Our program investigates an average of 135 cetacean strandings along the Texas coast each year, with a goal of collecting consistent and high quality data for the advancement of knowledge, investigation of marine mammal health, and to inform conservation management. Position Title: Stranding Biologist Hours: Full-time, partially grant-funded, salaried position. You must be willing to work on-call and flexible hours including frequent weekends and holidays. Due to the unpredictable nature of stranding response, weekly schedules are highly variable and may require adjusted days off, long hours, and real-time travel. Location: TMMSN Rehabilitation & Research Center, Galveston, TX Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network is seeking an experienced biologist for marine mammal stranding response and research within our stranding program. The Stranding Biologist position will include response to stranded live and dead marine mammals ranging from rescue and rehabilitation to recovery, data collection, necropsy, and carcass disposal. They will also assist in stranding related research, along with our dolphin photo-identification program. Another important component of this position is education and outreach, in both formal and informal settings. The position encompasses a variety of tasks in the field, at our rehabilitation and research center, and in an office setting. This is a physically demanding position that often requires field response on unscheduled lengthy days in a variety of extreme weather conditions. Essential Functions and Responsibilities: * Staffing a 24hr. stranding hotline and coordinating the appropriate response with the public or local agencies as requested * First response to live marine mammal strandings, providing assessment, supportive care, and transport * Recovery of dead marine mammal strandings including examination, data collection, necropsy and tissue sampling, sample intake, and carcass disposal * Assist with rehabilitative patient care, observation, and life support * Assist with photo-identification research and monitoring including boat-based surveys and associated data and photograph collection and analysis * Proper maintenance and sterilization of equipment and TMMSN Rehab/Research Center * Maintain stranding records, sample database, and photo archives * Public outreach including both formal and informal education events, social media, and trainings * Coordinate and supervise interns and/or volunteers * Assist with other duties as requested Applicant Qualifications: * Strong background or degree in biology, marine science, zoology, or related field and 2+ years experience responding to stranded marine mammals, with a focus on cetaceans * Knowledge of marine mammal stranding protocols and conservation issues in the U.S. * Proficient in operating large 4WD vehicles safely (including towing 25-30ft. trailers); valid state of Texas driver’s license * Experience with launching, retrieving, and operating small vessels * Strong written and public speaking skills * Able to: lift a minimum of 50lbs., drag 100 lbs., swim, walk long distances in difficult terrain, work in extreme hot/cold field conditions, regularly squat, bend, lift, carry, and climb * Able to be on-call, work overnights, weekends, and holidays with a highly variable and unpredictable schedule * Dependable personal transportation for rapid response * Tolerates strong odors * Strong attention to detail and excellent organizational skills * Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (i.e., Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Access) * Works professionally and positively with staff, volunteers, and public * Effective time management and self-accountability * Great focus and able to effectively work on multiple concurrent tasks * Applies problem solving techniques, has sound judgment and good decision-making skills How to Apply: Qualified applicants should submit the following information in one electronic document (PDF or Word) via email, or mail documents in a single package to the mailing address below. Attention: Heidi Whitehead, TMMSN Executive Director Mailing Address: Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network, Attn: Heidi Whitehead, 4700 Avenue U., Galveston, TX 77551-6015. E-mail: hwhitehead(a)tmmsn.org<mailto:hwhitehead@tmmsn.org> 1. Include your full name and “Stranding Biologist” in the Subject Line 2. Statement of Interest (brief, 250 word maximum) that describes: a) your professional interests and career goals, b) your reasons for applying for this position, c) why you feel you are qualified for the position, and d) your available start date. 3. At least three professional references- list individuals capable of commenting on your relevant professional qualifications and experience. 4. Resume or curriculum vitae (no more than two pages) describing relevant jobs, internships, volunteer work, other activities/skills or accomplishments that you wish to identify. TMMSN is an equal opportunity employer. We are seeking to fill this position as soon as a qualified candidate is selected. Applications will be reviewed as they are submitted. Criminal background checks and verification of references will be completed. Copies of all relevant certificates or diplomas may be requested. -------------------- Heidi Whitehead Executive Director Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network 4700 Avenue U. Galveston, TX 77551 832-385-7811 Email: hwhitehead(a)tmmsn.org<mailto:hwhitehead@tmmsn.org> www.DolphinRescue.org<http://www.dolphinrescue.org/>

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New publication on response of acoustic indices to marine mammal sounds and anthropogenic noise
by Elizabeth Ferguson 14 Feb '23

14 Feb '23

Dear MARMAM Colleagues, My co-authors and I are thrilled to announce the publication of our article “Acoustic indices respond to specific marine mammal vocalizations and sources of anthropogenic noise” in Frontiers in Marine Science, Marine Megafauna. The article is open-access and can be found here: https://doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2023.1025464 *Authors*: Elizabeth L. Ferguson, Hannah M. Clayton and Taiki Sakai *Abstract: * Using passive acoustic methods for biodiversity conservation and effective ecosystem monitoring is hindered by laborious, human-mediated processes of accurately identifying biologic and anthropogenic sounds within large datasets. Soundscape ecology provides a potential means of addressing this need through the use of automated acoustic-based biodiversity indices, which show promise in representing biodiversity in terrestrial environments. However, the direct relationship between specific underwater sounds and acoustic index measurements are largely unexplored. Using passive acoustic data collected from three broadband hydrophones within the Ocean Observatories Initiative’s cabled arrays in the Pacific northwest, we identified periods of vocalizing marine mammals and sources of anthropogenic noise. Automated calculations of seven acoustic indices were compared across biologic and anthropogenic sound type and call parameters. Although several index measurements did not vary significantly, the Acoustic Complexity Index (ACI) measurements increased in response to echolocation clicks from sperm whales (*Physeter macrocephalus*) and burst pulses originating from unidentified delphinid species. Measurements of the Bioacoustic Index (BI) decreased dramatically in response to sperm whale echolocation clicks, a more obvious trend when loud clicks were parsed from moderate and quiet clicks. Correlations coefficient and confidence interval values between ACI and BI measurements and call characteristics from sperm whales indicate a moderate to strong relationship, which was not found in correlations with delphinid calls. A generalized linear mixed-effect model indicated multiple species and sound types contribute significantly to the variation of several index measurements. Noise generated by passing ships consistently resulted in decreased values for the Normalized Difference Soundscape Index (NDSI) and Total Entropy (H) as compared to quiet periods and periods with vocalizing marine mammals. These findings provide information on the relationship between several acoustic indices and specific underwater sounds produced by marine mammals and anthropogenic sources. This ground-truthing endeavor expands the understanding of acoustic indices and their potential use as a tool for conservation and ecosystem health management purposes. Please contact Liz Ferguson (eferguson(a)oceanscienceanalytics.com) with any questions regarding this work. Regards, Liz Ferguson *CEO and Founder* *Ocean Science Analytics* *www.oceanscienceanalytics.com <http://www.oceanscienceanalytics.com/>*

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