May 2023 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Necropsy Workshop: 1st announcement
by Jauniaux Thierry 20 May '23

20 May '23

The 16th annual marine mammal necropsy workshop will be organized in July at Liege Veterinary Faculty (Belgium) Details in attachment Regards T. Jauniaux

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New publication
by Torres Ortiz, Sara 19 May '23

19 May '23

Dear MARMAM community, My co-authors and I are excited to announce the recent publication of our paper: Moss, C. F., Ortiz, S. T., & Wahlberg, M. (2023). Adaptive echolocation behavior of bats and toothed whales in dynamic soundscapes. Journal of Experimental Biology, 226(9), jeb245450. https://doi.org/10.1242/jeb.245450 *Abstract*: Journal of Experimental Biology has a long history of reporting research discoveries on animal echolocation, the subject of this Centenary Review. Echolocating animals emit intense sound pulses and process echoes to localize objects in dynamic soundscapes. More than 1100 species of bats and 70 species of toothed whales rely on echolocation to operate in aerial and aquatic environments, respectively. The need to mitigate acoustic clutter and ambient noise is common to both aerial and aquatic echolocating animals, resulting in convergence of many echolocation features, such as directional sound emission and hearing, and decreased pulse intervals and sound intensity during target approach. The physics of sound transmission in air and underwater constrains the production, detection and localization of sonar signals, resulting in differences in response times to initiate prey interception by aerial and aquatic echolocating animals. Anti-predator behavioral responses of prey pursued by echolocating animals affect behavioral foraging strategies in air and underwater. For example, many insect prey can detect and react to bat echolocation sounds, whereas most fish and squid are unresponsive to toothed whale signals, but can instead sense water movements generated by an approaching predator. These differences have implications for how bats and toothed whales hunt using echolocation. Here, we consider the behaviors used by echolocating mammals to (1) track and intercept moving prey equipped with predator detectors, (2) interrogate dynamic sonar scenes and (3) exploit visual and passive acoustic stimuli. Similarities and differences in animal sonar behaviors underwater and in air point to open research questions that are ripe for exploration. https://journals.biologists.com/jeb/article-abstract/226/9/jeb245450/308933… You can contact us with questions at cynthia.moss(a)jhu.edu and saraortiz(a)biology.sdu.dk

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OSU Fall 2023 Courses at Hatfield Marine Science Center
by Stiles, Minda 18 May '23

18 May '23

This fall, an expanded array of courses is available to undergraduate and graduate students at Oregon State University Hatfield Marine Science Center. Studying on the coast provides an opportunity for students to gain valuable lab and field experience in a small class environment. Priority registration opens May 21. FALL COURSES AT HMSC TAUGHT BY MARINE MAMMAL INSTITUTE FACULTY: * Biology and Conservation of Marine Mammals - Dr. Scott Baker/Dr. Kate Stafford * Endangered Species and Society, Marine Edition - Dr. Joshua Stewart * The Natural History of Whales and Whaling - Dr. Scott Baker * Methods in Physiology and Behavior of Marine Megafauna - Dr. Renee Albertson * Behavioral Ecology of Marine Animals - Dr. Mauricio Cantor SOME EXCITING FEATURES OF OSU FALL 2023 AT THE COAST: * Students have an opportunity to live on the Hatfield campus in the heart of the Oregon coast. * Courses for undergraduates and graduates -- Create a full term of study, featuring courses by OSU's Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Sciences and additional courses from College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences and College Liberal Arts-Marine Studies. * Expanded and new course offerings -- Marine animals, oceanographic data analysis, coastal ecology and resource management, human dimensions, and much more. See https://hmsc.oregonstate.edu/fall-courses.

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Clearwater Marine Aquarium Senior Biologist Job Announcement
by Abby Stone 18 May '23

18 May '23

Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) seeks a Senior Biologist for cetacean stranding response activities and necropsies. A National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) grant funds the position. For more information and to apply: https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/jobs/ViewJobDetails?job=71865&c… Please direct any questions to Abby Stone at astone(a)cmaquarium.org<mailto:astone@cmaquarium.org> Abby Stone Rescue Programs Manager & Stranding Coordinator Office 727-441-1790 x2301 Mobile 727-278-0476 Email astone(a)cmaquarium.org Website www.CMAquarium.org<http://www.cmaquarium.org/> ______________________________ [cid:image029.png@01D7D798.11ED8AA0] 249 Windward Passage | Clearwater, FL 33767 [cid:image030.png@01D7D798.11ED8AA0] [cid:image031.png@01D7D798.11ED8AA0] [cid:image032.png@01D7D798.11ED8AA0] [cid:image033.png@01D7D798.11ED8AA0]

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Collaborators for the “Dolphin watching and Conservation in the Gulf of Catania” Programme
by MareCamp 18 May '23

18 May '23

The Marecamp Association, based in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea ( Catania, South Italy), is seeking candidates for the Summer-Fall monitoring season 2023! Volunteers, Interns, and Expert collaborators will assist with research and outreach activities on cetaceans in Eastern Sicily. Marecamp is offering 3 different positions from June to December 2023. The employment should cover the 5-months period; however, flexible dates could be taken into account. Working hours are typically 9 a.m.-1 p.m and 3 p.m.-7 p.m., based on working shifts with the other collaborators of the Association, and including weekends. Boarding on inflatable boat or sailboat last about 2.5 or 4 hours, departing from the ports of Catania or Aci Castello. The collaborator's duties include assisting with data collection during surveys to observe dolphins and their interaction with the environment and anthropogenic activities, and conduct also photo-ID and bioacoustics sessions. During the participation in dolphin watching ecotours, the role of guide could be assumed (only for small groups, respecting the High Quality Whale Watching standards). The main sighted species in the area are striped dolphins, bottlenose dolphin, and common dolphin, followed by the less frequent sperm whale and fin whale. Collaborators will also assist in data loading, and reporting, and participate in outreach activities about cetacean conservation at sea and at the main ports of the Gulf of Catania. Students who intend to write an experimental thesis based on the work carried out in the field with Marecamp are also accepted. Qualifications: Junior or senior college students and recent graduates are eligible. Applicants should have some research field experience; be computer literate; be comfortable English-speaking to the public (Italian and French are also preferable as a second language); and be proficient in the use of digital cameras. Previous experience in cetacean monitoring is preferred. Candidates must have excellent physical conditions and a predisposition to teamwork, be able to swim, be able to adapt to life on board, and to welcome guests sociably. Off-site candidates could benefit of free accommodation on a sailing boat at the port of Catania. Food, transport, and other expenses not mentioned here are not included. Volunteers and interns could receive a reimbursement for expenses. For experts, a seasonal contract of a value appropriate to the degree of experience is foreseen. Interested applicants should write to the Marecamp Secretariat ( info(a)marecamp.com) writing in the object “Collaborator DWC 2023 [*your name and surname*]” and attaching: - Cover letter including the dates of availability - Complete CV This call is published in the framework of the “Dolphin watching and Conservation in the Gulf of Catania” Programme. https://www.marecamp.com/it/allcategories-it-it/stage/collaborators-for-the… *Associazione Marecamp* *Via Lungomare Scardamiano 1, 95021 Acicastello (CT) <https://www.google.it/maps/place/Marecamp/@37.5543687,15.1526497,311a,35y,2…> * *www.marecamp.it <http://www.marecamp.it/>* *info(a)marecamp.com <info(a)marecamp.com>* *(0039) 331 437 6987* *How to support us?* Click here and donate <https://www.marecamp.com/en/donors> *FOLLOW US* *Facebook* www.facebook.com/Marecamp *Twitter* twitter.com/Marecamp_CT *Instagram* www.instagram.com/mare.camp

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Volunteer Position - Nuquí Colombia
by Carole V 16 May '23

16 May '23

Volunteer Work in Nuquí, Colombia: We are seeking volunteers to join our team at R&E Ocean Community Conservation to help with a variety of activities related to marine mammal conservation. This is an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience working with these amazing animals and contributing to important conservation efforts. Period: 1-3 months (min 1 month) July - September Activities: • Marine mammal observation and photo-ID.• School and cultural group workshops.• Tourism awareness and whale watching guide.• Marine mammals’ researcher.• Data collection and organization.• Writing reports and analyzing photos and data. Preferred Experience: While prior experience in marine mammal conservation is preferred, it is not required. However, we do ask that volunteers have a strong interest in marine conservation and a willingness to learn. Experience with data collection, analysis, and report writing is also helpful. This is a great opportunity to gain valuable experience in the field of marine mammal conservation while working with a passionate and dedicated team. If you are interested in volunteering with us and want to learn more about this exciting opportunity please contact us at info(a)oceancommunityconservation.org, send your CV and a letter of interest. We are looking forward to you being part of the ocean community! Ann Carole VallejoExecutive Director and Lead ResearcherMSc. Nordic Marine Ecosystems and ClimateR&E Ocean Community Conservation Foundation Oakville, ON, Canada, L6M 5H5t: +57 (300) 281-0324Wapp: +1 (289) 885-3930Email: carole.vallejo@oceancommunityconservation.orgwww.oceancommunityconservation.org The content of this e-mail isintended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom it isaddressed. If you have received this communication in error, be aware thatforwarding it, copying it, or in any way disclosing its content to any other person,is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error,please notify the author by replying to this e-mail immediately. Please consider the environmentbefore printing this email or it's attachments.

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JNCC-recognised MMO course
by Carolyn Barton 16 May '23

16 May '23

There are still a few places left on the JNCC-recognised MMO course for UK waters, 25 & 26 May 2023, remote delivery by Zoom. This course will cover all the information needed for work as a Marine Mammal Observer (MMO) in UK waters. Taught by an instructor with over 25 years experience, the course content includes: 1) Impacts of noise on marine mammals 2) Introduction to activities that require mitigation 3) Legislation protecting marine mammals and marine licensing 4) Detailed examination of the JNCC guidelines for geophysical surveys, pile driving and explosives 5) Data recording and reporting requirements 6) Visual monitoring and distance estimation 7) Overview of passive acoustic monitoring 8) Working as an MMO/ PAM operator 9) Identification of marine mammals Zoom sessions will be a mixture of lectures and exercises, over 1.5 days. Any exercises not completed during the sessions can be completed in your own time. There is also an online multiple choice exam to be done at your convenience after the Zoom sessions (re-sits are possible if you don't pass first time). Each delegate gets individual feedback on their exercises and the exam. The cost of the course is £200 (200GBP) payable after the course (10% discount available for students or recent graduates). On successful completion of the course (including the exercises and exam) you will receive JNCC-recognised certification, which is required for work as an MMO in UK waters. For further details and for a registration form see www.carolynbarton.co.uk or e-mail info(a)carolynbarton.co.uk .

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New Publication: Environmental Enrichment Devices Are Safe and Effective at Reducing Undesirable Behaviors in California Sea Lions and Northern Elephant Seals during Rehabilitation
by Kirsten Donald 16 May '23

16 May '23

Dear MARMAM Colleagues, On behalf of my co-authors, we are pleased to share our recently published paper on the benefits of environmental enrichment devices (EEDs) in the rehabilitation of stranded California sea lions and Northern elephant seals in the journal Animals as part of a special issue on the Advances in Marine Mammal Cognition and Cognitive Welfare. We had expected the sea lions to enjoy the EEDs, but were surprised and very impressed with how much enjoyment the elephant seal patients got out of them too! Kirsten Donald 1,*, Amanda Benedetti 1 , Vinícius Donisete Lima Rodrigues Goulart 2 , Alissa Deming 1 , Hendrik Nollens 1,3 , Grey Stafford 4 and Sabrina Brando 5. 2023. Environmental Enrichment Devices Are Safe and Effective at Reducing Undesirable Behaviors in California Sea Lions and Northern Elephant Seals during Rehabilitation. Animals 2023, 13(7), 1222; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13071222 This is available via open access online: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/13/7/1222 Abstract: Environmental enrichment devices (EEDs) have been proven to promote positive wellbeing in zoos and aquariums, and support animals' reintroduction success; however, their use in rehabilitation centers is still limited. This pilot study investigated the safety and efficacy of three EEDs, Artificial Kelp, Horse KONG(tm) and Wubba Kong(tm), and their ability to decrease and/or eliminate undesired stereotypic behaviors or looking at staff/staff areas in seven wild California sea lions (CSLs) and eight northern elephant seals (NESs) undergoing rehabilitation in Southern California. Observers conducted instantaneous sampling once a minute during a 30-min baseline, followed by a 30-min EED implementation on one focal animal at a time. The data were analyzed with generalized linear mixed models (GLMM). All three EEDs were found to be durable and safe throughout the study. Our results show a significant reduction in stereotypical behaviors compared to no EED treatments in CSLs, with the most significant effect being with the Horse KONG(tm). The Wubba KONG(tm) and Artificial Kelp provisions also reduced the undesired behavior in both species of being focused on human caretakers. Individual preferences for specific EEDs were found within species and between species, with the NESs using EEDs more than the CSLs. This study highlights the beneficial aspect of EEDs for pinnipeds in rehabilitation centers for improving their quality of life. Should you have any questions or comments, please don't hesitate to contact to contact me at kdonald(a)pacificmmc.org<mailto:kdonald@pacificmmc.org> Kind regards, [cid:image001.jpg@01D97E9E.45925210]<http://www.pacificmmc.org/> www.pacificmmc.org<http://www.pacificmmc.org/> Kirsten Donald Vice President of Education & Ocean Advocacy Marine Mammal Biologist MSc Marine Mammal Science She/her/hers (949) 494-3050 20612 Laguna Canyon Road Laguna Beach, CA 92651

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2 JOB OPENINGS: 2 Marina Mammal Research Assistant Positions at Archipelagos
by Beatriz Tintore 16 May '23

16 May '23

MARINE MAMMAL RESEARCH ASSISTANT POSITION Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation is recruiting for the following position *2 Marine Mammal Research Assistant Project Manager* LOCATION - EASTERN AEGEAN SEA, GREECE http://archipelago.gr/en/ Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation has an open job position for a “Marine Mammal Acoustician - Assistant Project Manager” to assist with our expanding team and conservation efforts. We are recruiting for both short - term and long term cooperation. DUTIES - Lead and supervise projects related to the monitoring of cetaceans, including survey design and data analysis. - Analyze photo-ID, behaviour and passive acoustic data and write up of relevant reports - Supervise group of students/ interns - Supervise field research including collection of data as needed - Assist with outreach activities - Assist in everyday running of our research bases/ boats, including providing assistance to interns and contributing to general base management tasks ESSENTIAL REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: MSc Degree in marine sciences, with experience in marine mammal research Good comprehension of data collection methods and research and analysis principles and techniques Previous experience in analyzing marine mammal monitoring data Experience with Raven Pro and PAMGuard is a bonus Experience managing and training students and/or volunteers Demonstrated leadership, supervision and team building skills Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships Ability to conduct fieldwork in all weather conditions Ability to write scientific reports and papers Fluency in English Fluency in Greek (optional) Excellent computer skills Sincere interest in issues related to marine conservation Willingness to occasionally work during weekends and holidays Valid international driver’s license or driver’s license for the EU (optional) WE OFFER For the trial period the travel expenses and full board accommodation are covered. For successful candidates the remuneration package offered depends on the level of experience of the applicant. OVERVIEW - LOCATION & OUR TEAM The Aegean Sea is a key Mediterranean biodiversity hotspot supporting some of the most important remaining populations of marine mammals and turtles in the Mediterranean. This includes bottlenose, short-beaked common, striped and Risso’s dolphins, sperm whales and Cuvier’s beaked whales, the highly endangered Mediterranean Monk seal, as well as loggerhead and green turtles. The research and conservation of marine mammals has been one of the key areas of focus the Archipelagos Institute since its establishment in 1998. Our goal is to fill the important knowledge gaps regarding the distribution of marine mammal populations in the Greek Seas and the northeast Mediterranean, while also quantifying the factors that threaten their survival. Our research focuses on assessing populations and the interactions of cetaceans with fisheries and maritime traffic. Also monitored are the effects caused by overfishing and the various forms of pollution (plastic, chemical and noise pollution). Close cooperation with local communities is at the core of Archipelagos’ actions and an essential prerequisite for the implementation of any conservation action. Through the use of our three research vessels, the team records behavioral data, sound recordings, and photo-ID images, as well as documents vessel traffic data, water chemistry data, macroplastic and microplastic data, and seabird abundance. Our main goal is to use our data to develop successful, targeted management and conservation plans. APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS Please submit a current resume, a list of three references, and a cover letter expressing your interest to b.tintore(a)archipelago.gr *Beatriz Tintoré* *Project Manager of the Marine Mammal and Terrestrial Research Department* *Doctoral Researcher - Brunel University London*

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Marine mammal reseach summer courses (MeRiS - Mediterraneo Ricerca e Sviluppo)
by Alessandra Vanacore 16 May '23

16 May '23

MeRiS – Mediterraneo Ricerca e Sviluppo is an NGO with the mission to increase scientific knowledge on cetacean species in the Strait of Sicily, as well as to spread awareness on marine mammals and their habitat. Since 2016 MeRiS has been organising weekly training camps to teach students and ocean lovers about cetacean biology and monitoring techniques, allowing them to actively participate in their research. The training camp is part of “Dolphins of the Akragas Sea”, a long-term monitoring project that aims at studying and protecting the bottlenose dolphins inhabiting the waters off the Agrigento province. Since this summer, we will offer 2 different experiences: 1) Weekly training courses (Monday-Friday) 2) Foundation course on Cetacean biology (2 days) DESCRIPTION *1) Weekly training courses*: this is a 5-day scientific training course that will help you gain both theoretical and practical knowledge about the cetaceans inhabiting Mediterranean waters, with a focus on common bottlenose dolphins. You will assist with data collection during the field surveys, including - Photographical data collected using one of our DSLR cameras - Behavioural and acoustic data during cetacean encounters - Data on the presence of other marine macrofauna (sea turtles, seabirds, pelagic fishes), as well as floating macro-litter and fishing gear. Back on land you will analyse the data you collected, using photo-id protocols to match the encountered dolphins against our catalogue, and mapping the survey effort using QGis. Data analysis may also include scar analysis and the processing of ethological data on bottlenose dolphins. On top of learning how to collect and analyse data, you will also attend lectures taught by our PI Jessica Alessi, including, but not limited to: - Ecological role of cetaceans and anthropic impacts - Sampling design and monitoring techniques - The photo-identification technique on cetaceans - Geographic information systems and sampling design applied to cetaceans: How to study them? DATES The 2023 field season will be comprised of 17 shifts (Monday-Friday) starting on the 5th of June and ending on the 6th of October. Each shift can accommodate up to 5 participants. PARTICIPATION FEES MeRiS is a non-profit organization and at the moment we are unfortunately not able to offer scholarships to the participants. Therefore, there is a minimum participation fee of €525/week that includes all field activities, the scientific training and a membership fee (which covers insurance). The fee does not include housing, food and travel expenses. Your contribution will be a charitable donation that will be employed to conduct MeRiS’s activities and statutory purposes. A discount of €25 is offered from the second week, when booking more than one week, or from the first week for groups of 4 people. If you wish to write your thesis with MeRiS, you are entitled to a discounted price of €425/week. The minimum stay for writing your thesis is 3 weeks for bachelor’s and 5 weeks for master’s students. *2) Foundation course on cetacean biology*: this 2-day course is a crash course on cetaceans aimed at sea lovers of any background (minimum 16yo). It will comprise of 1 day dedicated to theoretical lectures (including: Cetacean evolution, systematics and biology; Impacts and conservation; Monitoring techniques and photo-identification) and 1 day of field activities where you will assist in collecting scientific data such as photo-identification data, behavioural data and acoustic recordings. DATES The first available date is 5-6 July, contact us to have more info on the availability of this experience! PARTICIPATIONS FEES MeRiS is a non-profit organization and your contribution will be a charitable donation that will be employed to conduct MeRiS’s activities and statutory purposes. The minimum participation fee for the 2-day course is €150 and it includes all field activities, the scientific training and a membership fee (which covers insurance). To book your spot of to ask for more information, don’t hesitate to contact us on our social media or sending an e-mail to info.meris(a)gmail.com All the best, Alessandra

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