June 2023 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Publication on manatee anticipatory behavior
by Eric Angel Ramos 07 Jun '23

07 Jun '23

Greetings MARMAM, I am pleased to share our newest open access publication in Zoo Biology titled: "Antillean manatee calves in captive rehabilitation change vocal behavior in anticipation of feeding," The article can be downloaded free from the link below: *Ramos, E. A., Brady, B., Lasala, J. A., Liebschner, A., Obbink, S., Walker, Z., Rebello, M., & Magnasco, M. O. (2023). Antillean manatee calves in captive rehabilitation change vocal behavior in anticipation of feeding. Zoo Biology, 1–7. https://doi.org/10.1002/zoo.21785 <https://doi.org/10.1002/zoo.21785> * https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/zoo.21785 *Abstract * Captive animals typically develop anticipatory behaviors, actions of increased frequency done in anticipation of an event such as feeding. Anticipatory behaviors can be an indicator of an animal's welfare. However, for rehabilitating animals that are expected to be reintroduced into the wild, these behaviors need to be extinguished to ensure successful release. Scheduled activities such as feeding occur daily and vocalizations could potentially be used to identify anticipatory behavior. Here, we tested the hypothesis that manatee calves modify their vocal production rate as a form of anticipatory behavior. Vocalizations of two Antillean manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus) calves were recorded for 10 min before, during, and after feeding sessions at Wildtracks, a manatee rehabilitation center in Belize. The number of calls were counted across recording sessions and three acoustic parameters were measured from calls including duration, frequency modulation, and center frequency. A repeated measures ANOVA comparing the number of calls across sessions indicated manatees produced significantly more calls before feeding sessions than during and after sessions. In addition, manatees increased the duration and lowered the frequency of calls before feeding sessions. This information can give further insight on ways to improve rehabilitation protocols and manage human interactions to increase the overall survival rate of rehabilitated manatees when released back into the wild. If you have any questions 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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Field assistant position for Behavioural Research in Galapagos Sea Lions
by Stöhr, Svenja 07 Jun '23

07 Jun '23

Dear MARMAM community, We are looking for 2 field assistants to participate in the upcoming field season of the Sea Lion Project Galapagos to assist with our research on animal behaviour and personality, population dynamics and foraging strategies in Galápagos sea lions (Zalophus wollebaeki) in the research group of Oliver Krüger at the Department of Animal Behaviour at Bielefeld University, Germany. (https://www.uni-bielefeld.de/fakultaeten/biologie/forschung/arbeitsgruppen/…) Field work will take place from mid/end of September until mid December on Caamaño, a small, beautiful island near Puerto Ayora in the centre of the Galápagos archipelago. We have studied Galápagos sea lions there since 2003 with most animals being individually marked. Work on Caamaño includes daily census rounds, a variety of behavioural response tests, behavioural observations, and captures of animals for tagging, growth assessment, biologging deployment, and sample collection (for genetic, stable isotope, and hormone analysis). Previous work experience with these is an advantage. The field site is a small islet (300m diameter), isolated from civilisation, and has no facilities, so an ability to work under truly primitive conditions is essential. Participants have to live in a tent the entire time and share in all camp duties (cooking, cleaning, daily data entry). No sanitary facilities are available and we have fresh water only for drinking and cooking. Field work will be physically and mentally demanding. All gear has to be transported onto the island via a difficult landing and camp conditions are primitive, including a basic diet based primarily on dried and tinned foods. Due to the long duration of the field season and the tough conditions field assistants need to be physically capable. Previous experience with working in an outdoor environment and with handling wild animals is highly preferable. The duration of the field season is 3 months. The positions are unpaid, however travel expenses to the Galapagos Islands as well as all food while on Caamaño and accommodation while in town (before and after the field season) will be covered by the project. Ecuadorian nationals are especially encouraged to apply. Positions open until filled. For questions or to send the application (letter of motivation and curriculum vitae) please contact following address: alexandra.childs(a)uni-bielefeld.de<mailto:alexandra.childs@uni-bielefeld.de> <mailto:alexandra.childs@uni-bielefeld.de> svenja.stoehr(a)uni-bielefeld.de<mailto:svenja.stoehr@uni-bielefeld.de> Best wishes, Svenja & Alex

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Marine Mammals Management Toolkit
by Ocean Governance 07 Jun '23

07 Jun '23

Dear MARMAM Community, The Marine Mammal Twining, part of the EU-funded Ocean Governance, has designed and created a toolkit for the inclusion of marine mammals into MPAs. The aim of the Toolkit is to help build the technical capacities of MPA managers by sharing knowledge, expertise, and good practices. To guide effective management of marine mammals, and support MPA managers, the Marine Mammals Management Toolkit contains four key components: Factsheets; Self-Assessment Tool (SAT); Good Practices, and a Community of Practice. In April 2023 the twinning launched its 4th core component, the Community of Practice. This builds up, and supports, the other three components: the Factsheets that provide critical resources and information to MPA practitioners, G <https://marine-mammals.info/good-practices/>ood Practices, and the Self-Assessment Tool which enables MPA managers to understand and adapt the level of protection given to marine mammals. Our Factsheets are designed to support those involved in the integration of marine mammals to their MPA management plans. The Factsheets cover 5 main themes: Management Frameworks, Addressing the Activities and Threats, Research and Monitoring, Outreach and Engagement and Management Effectiveness. Each Factsheet contains an introduction to the issue, provides information and guidance on how to manage the problem, including conservation guidelines, as well as additional resources and relevant news articles. Our Community of Practice brings together MPA practitioners from around the world with the common goal of ensuring that marine mammals are effectively managed within marine policy frameworks. The Community of Practice is open to all, from local and small MPAs, to managers of large international transboundary MPAs, as well as those in the planning and pre-establishment phase. By joining, members can identify and network with fellow MPA and marine mammal experts, share good practices, lessons learnt and exchange knowledge whilst sharing technical resources and obtaining support and guidance from mentors, ultimately supporting the effective management and conservation of marine mammals, mitigating threats, and protecting biodiversity. In 2022, a need was recognised to develop a reduced version of the already established Self-Assessment Tool, which is how the SAT-LITE was developed. The SAT-LITE bridges the gap between continuous monitoring and needing to quickly understand the strengths and weaknesses of an MPA’s management plan. The SAT-LITE is available as an Excel document, and downloadable in English. To learn more about the Marine Mammal Twinning or to access the Marine Mammal Management Toolkit and SAT-LITE version, please visit www.marine-mammals.info <https://marine-mammals.info/>. Self-Assessment Tool: https://marine-mammals.info/self-assessment-tool/ Factsheets: https://marine-mammals.info/factsheets/ Good practices: https://marine-mammals.info/good-practices/ Community of Practice: https://marine-mammals.info/community-of-practice/ Ocean Governance: https://oceangovernance4mpas.eu If you have any questions, or would like to know more about the Toolkit please get in touch with Fiona Dyrhauge, Project Officer for the Marine Mammal Twinning – ocean-governance(a)biodiv-conseil.fr Fiona Dyrhauge *Project Officer * *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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Hiring: Underwater Acoustician
by Dr. Laura Williamson 07 Jun '23

07 Jun '23

Position title: (Senior) Underwater Acoustician Type: Full-time, permanent position Salary: Underwater Acoustician (£30-35k), Senior Underwater Acoustician (£37-50k+) depending on qualifications and experience Holiday: 32 days + birthday, incl. public holidays, increasing with service Benefits: Health insurance & sick pay Training: Multiple opportunities for CPD Location: Dunbar, East Lothian, Scotland, UK (potential for remote/flexible working) Application deadline: 15 July 2023 Start date: ASAP About OSC Ocean Science Consulting Limited (OSC) is a technology-focused marine science company involved principally in providing environmental services worldwide. OSC specialises in marine mammal mitigation, passive acoustic monitoring, underwater noise measurement and modelling, among other services OSC has a track record for providing environmental monitoring (mitigation for regulatory compliance) and research (field studies and experiments). Further details available on OSC's website: www.osc.co.uk Role OSC is looking for an experienced Underwater Acoustician to undertake underwater noise measurement and modelling, including: sound-transmission-loss modelling, propagation modelling (2D and 3D), real-time noise monitoring (noise-level limits/thresholds), report writing, and other noise-related requirements. The successful candidate will work across OSC's scientific and commercial wings. Additional responsibilities may include: quality control, data collection, peer-reviewed publications, and supervision and management of other staff and contractors. Key duties: -Characterization of different acoustic sources, from anthropogenic to biological; -Desk-based modelling of acoustic impacts and effects of mitigation measures; -Acoustic propagation modelling; -Assessing acoustic exposure risk to marine fauna; -Real-time collection of noise data; -Soundscape analysis; -Data analysis and reporting to international standards; and, -Contributing to tenders, commercial reports, and scientific publications. Required: -MSc/MEng (essential) or PhD (preferable) in a relevant discipline (e.g. acoustics, vibration, signal processing, ideally in acoustic engineering) or equivalent experience; -Experience with acoustic-propagation modelling in underwater environments; -Experience with soundscape analysis techniques and ability to deal with large acoustic datasets; -Signal Processing in MATLAB, Python, or similar; -Familiar with noise exposure metrics; -Ability to work independently, and also as a member of a small dynamic team; -Excellent written and verbal communication skills; -Familiarity with Microsoft Office programmes (e.g. Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams); -Able to work on own initiative and prioritise effectively, achieving results against deadlines; -Genuine interest about the business and industry; and, -Numerate and strong computer skills. Desirable: -Experience of assessment of sub-sea acoustic noise and vibration from offshore wind turbines/pile driving/conductor driving and impact on marine wildlife; -Familiar with noise measurement and modelling standards; -Familiar with soundscape theory and analysis; -Familiar with bioacoustics of marine animals; -Experience developing automated detection algorithms; -Experience with hydrophones and noise measurement systems; -Familiar with modelling particle acceleration and/or vibration; -Peer-reviewed publications; -Excellent report-writing, presentation, and technical review skills; and, -Full, clean UK drivers licence. This position is open to international candidates. For interested candidates, there may be opportunities to go offshore to collect field data or support other noise-monitoring campaigns. OSC is an Equal Opportunities Employer. Please submit your CV and cover letter through OSC's careers portal: https://ocean-science-consulting-limited.jobs.personio.com/. There will be an analytical task as part of the interview process. Best wishes, Laura Dr. Laura Williamson Senior Analyst Ocean Science Consulting Limited (OSC) Spott Road, Dunbar, East Lothian, EH42 1RR, Scotland, UK M: +44 (0)7528 545 167 T: +44 (0)1368 865 722 W: www.osc.co.uk . MMO or PAM requirement? We wrote the Book. Now available on Amazon: www.marinemammalobserverhandbook.com Check out my latest papers on: Distribution modelling:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2022.110011 Cetaceans & oceanography: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00300-021-02977-3 Harbour porpoise distribution: https://doi.org/10.1111/mms.12839 Animal movement around tidal turbines: https://doi.org/10.1093/icesjms/fsab017

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New publication: Temporal dynamics of mother–offspring relationships in Bigg's killer whales: opportunities for kin-directed help by post-reproductive females
by Mia Lybkær Kronborg Nielsen 07 Jun '23

07 Jun '23

Dear all, We are pleased to announce the publication of the following paper in Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences: Nielsen, M.L.K., Ellis, S., Weiss, M.N., Towers, J.R., Doniol‐Valcroze, T., Franks, D.W., Cant, M.A., Ellis, G.M., Ford, J.K.B., Malleson, M., Sutton, G.J., Shaw, T.J.H., Balcomb III, K.C., Ellifrit, D.K. and Croft, D.P., 2021. Temporal dynamics of mother–offspring relationships in Bigg's killer whales: opportunities for kin-directed help by post-reproductive females. Proc. R. Soc. B. 290: 20230139. Abstract: Age-related changes in the patterns of local relatedness (kinship dynamics) can be a significant selective force shaping the evolution of life history and social behaviour. In humans and some species of toothed whales, average female relatedness increases with age, which can select for a prolonged post-reproductive lifespan in older females due to both costs of reproductive conflict and benefits of late-life helping of kin. Killer whales (Orcinus orca) provide a valuable system for exploring social dynamics related to such costs and benefits in a mammal with an extended post-reproductive female lifespan. We use more than 40 years of demographic and association data on the mammal-eating Bigg's killer whale to quantify how mother–offspring social relationships change with offspring age and identify opportunities for latelife helping and the potential for an intergenerational reproductive conflict. Our results suggest a high degree of male philopatry and female-biased budding dispersal in Bigg's killer whales, with some variability in the dispersal rate for both sexes. These patterns of dispersal provide opportunities for late-life helping particularly between mothers and their adult sons, while partly mitigating the costs of mother–daughter reproductive conflict. Our results provide an important step towards understanding why and how menopause has evolved in Bigg's killer whales. This article is available in the Proceedings B issue 2000, 2023 and is open access. Link to article: https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2023.0139 Sincerely, Mia L. K. Nielsen University of Exeter, UK

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The Elakha Alliance is hiring!
by Jane Bacchieri 06 Jun '23

06 Jun '23

The Elakha Alliance <https://www.elakhaalliance.org> is currently recruiting for a *Science & Policy Director <https://www.elakhaalliance.org/jobdirector/>*. This new staff position will initiate, coordinate, and manage a range of science and policy related activities to support sea otter reintroduction in Oregon. More information about the position and how to apply can be found here on our website <https://www.elakhaalliance.org/jobdirector/>and social media sites. The deadline for applications is June 23, 2023. The Elakha Alliance, an Oregon non-profit organization, is leading an effort to return sea otters to the coastal ecosystems of Oregon and restore their connection to the culture of coastal Indian people. The Elakha Alliance was formed by individuals with a shared belief in a powerful vision: an Oregon coast 50 years from now where our children and grandchildren co-exist along with a thriving sea otter population and a robust marine ecosystem. You can learn more about the Elakha Alliance at: www.elakhaalliance.org Please share this exciting opportunity with your networks and anyone you think might be interested in working with the Elakha Alliance to bring sea otters back to Oregon! Thank you. -- *Jane Bacchieri *(she/her) Executive Director Elakha Alliance www.elakhaalliance.org Email: jane(a)elakhaalliance.org Cell: 503.753.9022

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Proposed Rule for the Taking of Marine Mammals Incidental to the New England Wind Project
by Jaclyn Daly - NOAA Federal 06 Jun '23

06 Jun '23

NOAA Fisheries is proposing incidental take regulations, pursuant to the Marine Mammal Protection Act, to govern the incidental harassment of marine mammals related to the New England Wind Project (formerly Vineyard Wind South) within the Massachusetts Wind Energy Area and adjacent to the Rhode Island/Massachusetts Wind Energy Area. The public comment period will be open June 8-July 10, 2023. Information on this proposed action, including how to submit a public comment, is available on our website at https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/action/incidental-take-authorization-park-ci… .

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Open Call for Papers - NAMMCO Scientific Publications Volume 13: Marine Mammals in the North Atlantic (II)
by Albert Chacón 06 Jun '23

06 Jun '23

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce that the call for papers for Volume 13 of the NAMMCO Scientific Publications series is now open. For this volume, we are interested in work from any discipline with relevance for the conservation and management of marine mammals in the North Atlantic, following the line of previous Volume 12<https://septentrio.uit.no/index.php/NAMMCOSP/issue/view/529>. Submissions can be in the form of original Research Articles, Literature Reviews, Technical or Policy Notes, or Workshop Reports. Submission, Review & Publication Process Manuscripts can be submitted online, for which at least one author will need to register as a user on the NAMMCO Scientific Publications site<https://septentrio.uit.no/index.php/NAMMCOSP/authors>. The Guidelines for Authors are available here<https://septentrio.uit.no/index.php/NAMMCOSP/authors>. Note that although authors may submit their article in any format they prefer, if the manuscript is accepted for publication, they will need to ensure that it is transferred into the NAMMCO Scientific Publications Template<https://nammco.no/scientific-publication-series/#authors>. Authors are therefore also welcome to use this template to structure their initial submission. Manuscripts submitted as original Research Articles or Literature Reviews will be sent for blind peer review by at least two reviewers. Manuscripts submitted as Notes are not necessarily sent for peer review but will be reviewed by at least the one of the Editors. If accepted for publication, the manuscript will be published online as soon as it is finalised and authors will therefore not have to wait for the entire volume to be complete before their work is made publicly available. NAMMCO Scientific Publications also expects that data supporting the results in published articles is made publicly available and accessible through being archived in a public repository. Deadlines The submission deadline for this open call is December 31st 2023. Contact Should you have any questions about the journal, the open call, or the suitability of your work for the volume, you can contact me at albert(a)nammco.org<mailto:albert@nammco.org>. With best wishes, Albert Albert Fernández Chacón, PhD Scientific Secretary NAMMCO – North Atlantic Marine Mammal Commission POB 6453, Sykehusveien 21-23 N-9294 Tromsø, Norway Mob: +47 90887954 E-mail: albert(a)nammco.org<mailto:albert@nammco.org>, Website: www.nammco.org<http://www.nammco.org/>, Facebook: www.facebook.com/nammco.org<http://www.facebook.com/nammco.org> [cid:image001.png@01D9985B.6466B9C0]

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Humpback whales research in southern Tanzania – Mnazi Bay Ruvuma Estuary Marine Park
by DMAD Marine Mammals Research Association 06 Jun '23

06 Jun '23

*Humpback whales research in southern Tanzania – Mnazi Bay Ruvuma Estuary Marine Park* The project focuses on the monitoring of the migrating humpback whales in Tanzania waters, using variety of methods, including systematic small boat surveys with data collection on distribution, behaviour, group cohesion, photo identification and acoustics, in strategically selected areas. The Humpback whale (*Megaptera novaeangliae*) - is a cosmopolitan species which undertake extensive annual migrations, and yearly arriving to Tanzania waters for breeding activities, and are observed around the Archipelago of Zanzibar from July to October. Tanzania is witnessing a remarkable recovery of this charismatic baleen whale after the severe depletion of the population by industrial whaling. Despite being the most studied species globally, there has been very limited research conducted in Tanzania, leaving a considerable data gap, which prevents a conservation status assessment. The current project aims to enhance information on species ecology, population structure, connectivity, abundance estimates, distribution, migration patterns, habitat use and breeding ecology by conducting pertinent research that began in 2018. By participating in the research, you’ll help to bridge a crucial data gap for better understanding of the conservation status of the subpopulation which will assist conservation strategy development in the region. WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR We offer a limited number of volunteering placements for the 2023 season, that will take place in southern Tanzania with the research base in the heart of the Mnazi Bay Ruvuma Estuary Marine Park (MBREMP) – the most biodiverse seascape of the region and a cetacean hotspot. Selected volunteers will participate in the small boat surveys off MBREMP, where migration is taking place, and will assist collecting visual and acoustic data on humpback whales, gaining practical experience and theoretical knowledge from reputable cetacean experts. Placements are opened for the fixed period of 3 weeks starting mid-July 2023. REQUIREMENTS -Genuine interest in marine conservation, integrity, self-motivation, maturity and ability to work responsibly; -Physical fitness and mental endurance enabling sustaining long hours out at sea in sometimes challenging conditions; -Ability to cohabit in a dynamic and multicultural environment in a remote location; -Respect for the project's rules and work ethics, willingness to adhere to the standards and protocols; -Fluency in English (both spoken and written) and good communications skills; -Willingness to learn new software applications and filed techniques; -Ability to handle equipment responsibly and with due care; -Background in marine biology and previous fieldwork experience are an advantage; FIELD WORK AND RESPONSIBILITIES -Participating in small boat-based surveys daily (total number of surveys is contingent on weather, but +- 10 surveys should be expected). -Collecting whales sighting, behavioural, acoustic and photo identification data, alongside environmental and anthropogenic data; -Operating various equipment including cameras, drone, hydrophone (commensurate with skills and experience) and managing respective software programs (Discovery, Pamguard, QGIS etc.); -Data entry and basic analysis; -Cataloguing and matching individuals of target species for photo-ID studies via Discovery software; TRAINING The Nyangumi Tanzania team provides lectures and field work training as well as constant mentoring. You will be given the chance to learn the most popular methodologies used in marine mammal research including: -GIS mapping -Photo-identification; -Discovery, Darwin and Logger 2010 software; -Systematic data collection and data analysis; PROJECT CONTRIBUTION The project contribution for the 3-week placement is $2,500. The contribution covers the cost of participation in the project and includes: -Accommodation in a tented camp in the heart of the Mnazi Bay Ruvuma Estuary Marine Park; -Basic meals; -Training and lectures with a copy of the lecture on PDF; -Fieldwork (daily boat surveys, up to 10 surveys); -Use of the equipment (subject to respective skills). Applicants are responsible for their international flights to/from Tanzania and internal flights to Mtwara, extra meals nit included in the field work period, insurance (all participants must have health and/or travel insurance), visa and personal expenses. In the beautiful and remote location of the Mnazi Bay, you’ll have opportunity to: ● Encounter cetaceans including Risso’s and Spinner dolphins. There are chances to encounter the rarely seen in this region pelagic melon headed whales. ● Visit sand dunes. ● Snorkel/dive coral reefs (diving at extra cost). ● Visit historical sites in the area (at extra cost). HOW TO APPLY Email your CV and cover letter to nyangumiznz(a)gmail.com, copying info(a)dmad.org.tr, explaining why you are a suitable asset for our team and which goals you hope to achieve with us.

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Quiet Vessel Initiative -Learning Session June 22 & 23, 2023
by Jonathan Vallarta 05 Jun '23

05 Jun '23

Dear MARMAMers, We are excited to announce that SLR is presenting a two-day workshop, regarding underwater noise from commercial vessels and associated environmental impacts, in cooperation with Transport Canada's Quiet Vessel Initiative or QVI. This is the second of several workshops around Canada that will be held at a reduced price, and the first one taking place in Truro, Nova Scotia. Attendees can range from undergrad students to professionals in industry & research (or anyone with an interest in underwater sound, the ocean, and the conservation of marine mammals). No previous knowledge is required. Click on the link below for more information. Quiet Vessel Initiative Learning Session Tickets, Thu, Jun 22, 2023 at 8:30 AM | Eventbrite<https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/quiet-vessel-initiative-learning-session-ticket…> Kind regards Jonathan & Justin Jonathan VallartaPhD Underwater Acoustics Business Lead - Acoustics & Vibration O +1 604 738 2500 M +1 604 240 1715 E jvallarta(a)slrconsulting.com SLR Consulting (Canada) Ltd. Suite 200 - 1620 West 8th Avenue, Vancouver BC Canada V6J 1V4 Confidentiality Notice and Disclaimer This communication and any attachment(s) contain information which is confidential and may also be legally privileged. It is intended for the exclusive use of the recipient(s) to whom it is addressed. If you have received this communication in error, please e-mail us by return e-mail and then delete the e-mail from your system together with any copies of it. Any views or opinions are solely those of the author and do not represent those of SLR Management Ltd, or any of its subsidiaries, unless specifically stated.

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