December 2024 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Manatee Behavioral Ecology Research Job Opportunity
by Barlas, Margie 10 Dec '24

10 Dec '24

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's (FWC) Marine Mammal Research Group is looking for one biological scientist to work in the Manatee Behavioral Ecology Program in St. Petersburg, FL. FWC Fish and Wildlife Research Institute Marine Mammal Research Program 100 Eighth Ave SE Saint Petersburg, FL 33701 Biological Scientist II - OPS Position 77907196 $20 per hour Closing Date: 12/27/2024 Our organization: The FWC envisions a Florida where fish and wildlife are abundant and thriving in healthy and connected natural landscapes with vital working lands and waterways; where natural resources are valued and safely enjoyed by all; and wherein natural systems support vibrant human communities and a strong economy. Our Mission: Managing fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people. Every organization has an identity that is forged not only by what it does, but by how it conducts itself. The values embedded in our mission and expressed in the vision of the FWC are to make quality decisions by being dynamic, science-informed, efficient, ethical, collaborative and committed to the vitality of the state and its environment. Minimum Qualifications: A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in one of the biological sciences and one year of professional biological experience in a field or laboratory program; or a master's degree from an accredited college or university in one of the biological sciences can substitute for the required experience. Preferred Qualifications: Preference may be given to candidates with the following qualifications: experience with operating and trailering watercraft , experience with wildlife tracking using radio-telemetry. Requirements: Employment in this position is contingent upon a satisfactory Level 1 background check at no cost to the candidate. Applicants are required to submit a complete, up-to-date, State of Florida Application Form electronically in People First, by midnight on the closing date listed. Go to: https://jobs.myflorida.com (enter 77907196 in the keyword search field). Applicants must also upload a cover letter, resume, and contact information (including email and phone) for three references with their People First application by the closing date, but these do not replace the requirement for a completed State of Florida application form. Applicants are required to complete the additional application questions (answers of 'see resume' are not sufficient). If you experience technical difficulties during the application process, please call People First at 1-877-562-7287. Position Overview and Responsibilities: The person in this position will collaborate with FWRI scientists to conduct field research and collect data on manatee behavior, ecology, habitat, distribution, and threats. The successful candidate will be responsible for assisting with tagging manatees through capture and in-water replacement of tags, independently tracking tagged manatees with radio-telemetry and sonic equipment by boat and from shore, and recording behavioral observations and environmental data. Additional field responsibilities include conducting aerial surveys, photo-identification, genetic biopsy sampling, temperature monitoring, habitat assessments, and other field work as assigned. Office and lab responsibilities include entering, editing, and verifying data; monitoring manatee movement behavior using satellite-linked telemetry; maintaining project databases, equipment inventories, and records; creating and updating written procedures; providing summary information and data to managers as needed; purchasing and constructing tagging and other project-related gear; and assisting with maintenance of field and lab equipment, vehicle, and vessel. Travel may be state-wide. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Knowledge of wildlife ecology, biology, and natural systems Knowledge of principles and techniques of scientific research Knowledge of methods of biological data collection Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, and Outlook) and Adobe Acrobat Skilled in wildlife tracking using radio-telemetry Skilled in the safe operation and trailering of small watercraft (up to 24ft.), able to complete a small boat safety course within the probationary period Skilled in the aerial survey of wildlife Skilled in the use and maintenance of scientific field equipment, including digital SLR cameras Skilled in problem-solving, especially in field situations Ability to record data independently and accurately in a sometimes-harsh field environment Ability to perform detail-oriented work in an organized manner Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing Ability to work independently and as part of a team; establish and maintain effective working relationships Ability to swim with sufficient skill to perform in-water research Ability to maintain a U.S. driver's license Why should I apply? The Benefits of Working for the State of Florida: *Eligible OPS positions and qualifying applicants may enjoy top-tier benefits offerings including comprehensive health coverage to meet the needs of you and your family while maintaining low deductibles and low monthly out-of-pocket contributions. . Health Premiums $25.00- Single / $90.00- Family Biweekly Low Cost $25,000 Life Insurance OPS FICA Alternative Retirement Plan On the Job Trainings Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) For a more complete list of benefits, visit https://www.mybenefits.myflorida.com/<javascript:void(0);>. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Margie Barlas Assistant Research Scientist Marine Mammals Subsection Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission Fish & Wildlife Research Institute 100 Eighth Avenue Southeast, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701-5020 Email: Margie.Barlas(a)MyFWC.com<mailto:Margie.Barlas@MyFWC.com> or Margaret.Barlas(a)MyFWC.com<mailto:Margaret.Barlas@MyFWC.com> To report a tagged, injured, or dead manatee, please call our toll free Wildlife Hotline: 1-888-404-FWCC. Visit us on the web at https://myfwc.com/research

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New publication: krill distribution models in the Northern california current
by Solene DERVILLE 09 Dec '24

09 Dec '24

Dear MARMAM community, We are pleased to announce the publication of a new study that focuses on a key prey item for cetaceans in the California Current System... krill! Derville, S., Fisher, J. L., Kaplan, R. L., Bernard, K. S., Phillips, E. M., & Torres, L. G. (2024). A predictive krill distribution model for /Euphausia pacifica/ and /Thysanoessa spinifera/ using scaled acoustic backscatter in the Northern California Current. /Progress in Oceanography/, 103388, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pocean.2024.103388 <https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pocean.2024.103388> *Abstract: *Euphausiids (krill) are globally significant zooplankton prey for many commercially important or endangered predator species. In the productive upwelling system of the Northern California Current (NCC), two krill species, /Euphausia pacifica/ and /Thysanoessa spinifera,/ dominate the preyscape and constitute an important food resource for many seabirds, cetaceans, and fish. In this study, we use five years of hydroacoustic and net tow data collected in the NCC to develop integrative models predicting acoustic backscatter scaled for /E. pacifica/ or /T. spinifera/ separately. Boosted Regression Trees and Generalized Additive Models are applied in an original ensemble hurdle framework to predict krill presence and abundance from a diverse set of topographic and oceanographic predictors. Krill metrics had significant relationships with seabed depth, distance to submarine canyons, and variables indicative of dynamic ocean conditions (e.g., total deviance explained in acoustic data: 25 % in the presence-absence model & 49 % in the abundance model). Predictions of krill abundance at 5 km resolution averaged by month indicate differential habitat preferences between the two species: /T. spinifera/ was constrained to the continental shelf, around and inshore of the 200 m isobath, whereas /E. pacifica/ was found in greater abundances just offshore of the 200 m isobath and into offshore water in lower abundances. /E. pacifica/ was generally more abundant than /T. spinifera/ (10:1.3 ratio). Both species increased in abundance in the spring and summer, followed by a rapid decline in the fall, and lowest abundances in the winter. These models can produce fine-scale spatial and year-round weekly predictions of /E. pacifica/ and /T. spinifera/ abundance in the NCC, which will provide essential knowledge and new spatial layers about critical ecosystem components to support research and management. Note that predicted weekly krill layers are freely available at https://figshare.com/projects/OPAL_Overlap_Predictions_About_Large_whales/1… The article is available online in open access but please feel free to get in touch for any further information (solene.derville(a)ird.fr <mailto:solene.derville@oregonstate.edu>). Best, -- *Dr Solène Derville * *Chargée de recherche - Ecologie marine * *Research scientist - Marine ecology * UMR ENTROPIE - Institut de Recherche pour le Développement ENTROPIE Lab - French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development 101 promenade Roger Laroque, BPA5 98848 Nouméa, Nouvelle-Calédonie Tel +687 50.12.45 >> Researchgate <https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Solene-Derville-2> ****

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New publication: Micro-scale spatio-temporal patterns in porpoise activity
by Johanna Stedt 09 Dec '24

09 Dec '24

Dear all, We are pleased to share our new publication: Micro-scale spatial preference and temporal cyclicity linked to foraging in harbour porpoises. Stedt J, Wahlberg M, Carlström J, Nilsson PA, Amundin M, Oskolkov N & Carlsson P. (2023) Mar Ecol Prog Ser, 708:143-161. doi: 10.3354/meps14268 Abstract: Habitat heterogeneity is a crucial driver for species distribution across scales. Harbour porpoise Phocoena phocoena basin-wide distribution is linked to prey availability, and small-scale (kilometres to tens of kilometres) differences in distribution are prevalent. However, information on porpoise distribution and foraging-behaviour variations on a micro-scale (~100 m to kilometres) is limited. To monitor harbour porpoise distribution and foraging activity on a micro-scale, we deployed passive acoustic dataloggers, logging porpoise acoustic activity at 6 sites in a small, high porpoise-density area in southern Sweden. Data were collected for almost a year, giving detailed time series on porpoise activity. The time series were analysed using dynamic time warping to compare activity patterns between sites. Large differences were found between sites separated by only a few hundred meters, indicating micro-scale spatial preference. Spectral analysis for temporal cyclicity in activity revealed a dominant peak for 24 h cycles with higher activity at night for all sites. All sites also had a second peak for 29.5 d, linked to the lunar cycle with higher activity during full moon. Activity was overall highest during autumn and winter (September-December). Spatial and temporal patterns were linked to foraging, showing a positive correlation between porpoise presence and the percent of time present with detected foraging. The study demonstrates that harbour porpoise spatial distribution on a micro-scale should be considered in e.g. behavioural, management and conservation studies and actions. In addition, we show that time series statistical methodology is informative and appropriate for analysis of acoustic temporal data. The paper is open access and can be freely downloaded at: https://www.int-res.com/articles/meps_oa/m708p143.pdf Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Best regards, Johanna Stedt Johanna Stedt PhD student Aquatic Ecology Department of Biology Lund University Sölvegatan 37, 223 62 Lund, Sweden Phone + 46 (0)73 738 30 36 E-mail: johanna.stedt(a)biol.lu.se<mailto:johanna.stedt@biol.lu.se> Personal webpage: Johanna Stedt<https://portal.research.lu.se/portal/en/persons/johanna-stedt(d8f35e4a-cb7e…>

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Hydrophones Available
by Mithriel MacKay 09 Dec '24

09 Dec '24

Acoustic Data Loggers Available We purchased several SNAP recorders from Loggerhead Instruments to use as part of a specific humpback whale research project. Most were used one day to record vocalizations of humpback whale song offshore. Moving forward, we don't need this many hydrophones for our research so we're selling some so that other marine mammal projects can put them to good use. They're not helping anyone on our shelves. The units are self contained in pvc canisters, battery operated, and store data on SD cards. We had some placed on ledges attached to weights and others suspended in the water column from floats. For more information about the number of hydrophones available, specs, and price, email mcerc.mail(a)gmail.com. We're doing our best to make it worth it to pass along before the end of the year and our field work begins again.

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New publication - Using accelerometry tags to quantify gray whale foraging behavior
by Clara Bird 09 Dec '24

09 Dec '24

Hi MARMAM community, On behalf of all co-authors, we are excited to share with you our new publication in Marine Mammal Science. Colson, K. M., Pirotta, E., New, L., Cade, D. E., Calambokidis, J., Bierlich, K. C., Bird, C. N., Ajó, A. F., Hildebrand, L., Trites, A. W., & Torres, L. G. (2024). Using accelerometry tags to quantify gray whale foraging behavior. Marine Mammal Science, e13210. https://doi.org/10.1111/mms.13210 Abstract: High-resolution tri-axial accelerometry biologging tags have quantitatively described behaviors in baleen whale species that forage using lunges and continuous ram filtration. However, detailed quantitative descriptions of foraging behaviors do not exist for gray whales, a unique baleen whale species that primarily uses benthic suction feeding with a rolling component. We deployed suction cup biologging tags on Pacific Coast Feeding Group (PCFG) gray whales to quantify foraging behavior at the broad state (dive) and foraging tactic (roll event) scales. Hidden Markov models were used to describe three distinct states using turn angle, dive duration, pseudotrack tortuosity, and presence of roll events that can be interpreted as forage, search, and transit behavior. Classification and Regression Tree models best described foraging tactics (headstands, benthic digs, and side swims) using median pitch, depth to total length ratio, and absolute value of the median roll. On average, PCFG gray whales spent more time searching and performed more left-rolled foraging tactics at shallower depths at night compared to during the day, potentially to track prey above them in the water column. Describing foraging behavior in PCFG gray whales enables examination of links between behavioral budgets, energetics, and the physiological impact of threats facing this group. The article is open access and available here: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/mms.13210 Cheers, Clara (clara.bird(a)oregonstate.edu) ---- Clara Bird, Ph.D. (she/her) GEMM Lab | LABARINTO Marine Mammal Institute Dept. of Fisheries, Wildlife, & Conservation Sciences Oregon State University, Hatfield Marine Science Center

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Registration open for introductory distance sampling workshop 17-28 February 2025
by Eric Rexstad 09 Dec '24

09 Dec '24

MARMAM list: Before the events of the end of the calendar year overtake you, consider registering for the February introductory distance sampling workshop. As you know, distance sampling is a widely-used method of population assessment for marine mammal populations. Registration will continue into January, however as these workshops often fill before registration closes. I encourage you to add this to your "to do" list before the old year passes. Details of the workshop can be found on our new distance sampling web portal: https://distancesampling.org/training/announcements/intro-feb-2025.html Join the >200 people who have improved their distance sampling competence by participating in these video-conference workshops. If you have been one of those participants, please pass along this announcement to colleagues who might also wish to strengthen their competence. If you have any questions about the workshop, feel free to send those questions to me. Eric Rexstad Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling University of St Andrews Registered Charity in Scotland SC013532

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ALMMSN Spring 2025 Internship
by Maureen Goretti 06 Dec '24

06 Dec '24

The Alabama Marine Mammal Stranding Network (ALMMSN) located at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab (DISL) in Dauphin Island, AL, is recruiting a highly motivated intern to assist with marine mammal stranding response in coastal Alabama waters. ALMMSN is a cooperative regional stranding network partner and works in conjunction with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Marine Fisheries Service and the US Fish and Wildlife Service to respond to dolphin, whale, and manatee strandings. Our primary goal is to enhance reporting and response efforts for marine mammal strandings to ensure collection of consistent, high-quality data that are used to evaluate causes of strandings and/or death. The DISL’s mission is to become a center for transformative U.S. oceanic and coastal research and education. This intern will gain useful knowledge, skills, and experience in the fields of marine biology, marine mammalogy, and marine mammal stranding response. *Internship Dates:* 3 months (option to extend depending on funds and performance); flexible start early 2025 *Daily Duties Include:* Field stranding response, data collection, data management, participation in necropsy events, sample handling, report writing, and equipment/lab maintenance/cleaning. Intern will also have the opportunity to complete an independent research project based on relevant interests, culminating in a presentation. *Qualifications*: · Student or recent graduate (0-2 years) of a biology/marine biology, marine science, oceanography, zoology or related program; · Interest in marine mammal biology, physiology and anatomy; · Interest in research; · Valid driver’s license and clean driving record; · 18 years or older; · Physically fit, able to lift at least 50 lbs, drag at least 100 lbs, and a strong swimmer; · Ability to endure unpleasant field conditions including temperatures between 30°F-100°F, rain, humidity and biting insects; · Ability to work 35 hours per week, including weekends, nights and holidays as needed; · Experience with scientific writing is a plus; · Knowledge of digital SLR cameras and lenses is a plus. This internship is a paid position ($12-$15/hour) expected to work 35 hrs/week (including nights and holidays as necessary for fieldwork). This is a physically demanding position that may involve long days in a variety of weather conditions. Intern is responsible for providing their own housing and transport to DISL. Assistance finding housing can be provided. Applicant must be eligible to legally reside in the U.S. for the duration of the internship period. International applicants are welcome to apply, however, we are unable to sponsor or take over the sponsorship of an employment VISA. All applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. Interested applicants must send a *cover letter, CV, and dates of availability* to almmsn(a)disl.org by *31 December 2024* to be considered. Resources for the construction of such documents are available online and at most institutions’ Career Services departments, such as https://www.southalabama.edu/departments/careerservices/job.html and https://pathwaystoscience.org/Grad.aspx. Preference will be given to applicants who can stay through the entire internship period. Application review will begin immediately. DISL is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from a diverse pool of prospective interns without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic or any other identity information. DISL and ALMMSN recognize that a diversity of perspectives, lived experiences, ideas, and passions allows us to better meet our goal of ocean-literate communities in Alabama and that equity, diversity, and inclusion are fundamental to achieving our mission. It is the intent of the ALMMSN to be fair and impartial in all of its relations and to recognize and respect the individual. More information about ALMMSN and the DISL Marine Mammal Research Program can be found at https://www.disl.edu/research/marine-mammal-research-program or by contacting ALMMSN at almmsn(a)disl.org.

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UWinnipeg MSc position in Quantitative Polar Bear Ecology
by Jean-Pierre Desforges 06 Dec '24

06 Dec '24

*MSc Project Opportunity* The Desforges Lab in Ecotoxicology and Wildlife Stress <https://desforgeslab.weebly.com/> at the University of Winnipeg is excited to advertise for a MSc opportunity in the area of Quantitative Polar Bear Ecology, Global Change Biology, and Ecosystem Dynamics. We are looking for a motivated MSc student to work on a project focused on polar bear and ringed seal teeth analysis *starting May or September 2025*. The successful candidate will use digital image analysis to measure annual growth layer groups in polar bear and ringed seal teeth and apply statistical models to explore relationships with biological data collected from each animal as well as relevant environmental data on habitat change over time. *Qualifications and Support* Suitable candidates will have a 4-year bachelor’s degree (honours preferred) in a relevant field, such as biology, environmental science, wildlife management, or similar. The main project tasks involve analyzing digital photos of tooth cross-sections and use of statistical modeling approaches. The candidate will also get hands-on training on how to prepare teeth samples for staining and imaging. When possible, the candidate may get opportunities for field-work associated with marine mammal research in the Arctic. The successful candidate will have experience and/or interest in research and data/statistical analysis using R, proven academic excellence, and strong English writing skills. The successful candidate with receive a competitive 2-year funding package with direct support for professional development (e.g., conferences, publications, etc.). Students will also be encouraged to apply to internal and external funding opportunities to support their research projects and career advancement. The candidate will benefit from co-supervision and collaboration with world leading experts in Arctic marine mammal ecology, including at Environment and Climate Change Canada (Dr. Evan Richardson) and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (Dr. Steve Ferguson, Dr. David Yurkowski). *How to Apply* Serious applicants that clearly meet the above qualifications should email Dr. Jean-Pierre Desforges (j.desforges(a)uwinnipeg.ca) with the subject line “MSc polar bear teeth” and include: 1. An updated CV 2. Transcripts (unofficial acceptable) 3. Statement of interest in the research project and description of qualifications

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Job Posting: IFAW Rescue Operations Manager
by Sharp, Brian 06 Dec '24

06 Dec '24

Please see below for an opportunity to join the IFAW stranding team on Cape Cod, MA, USA. Due to our recent unprecedented levels of cetacean strandings we are looking to fill this position as soon as possible. Thank you and have a great weekend. -Brian Rescue Operations Manager<https://recruiting.ultipro.com/INT1059IFFA/JobBoard/17b588a3-808b-4bc9-aea8…> The MMR Operations Manager role leads several aspects of the Marine Mammal Rescue (MMR) team. The primary responsibility of this role is to ensure the MMR team maintains operational readiness through the oversight of facilities, vehicles, and response support personnel (volunteers and interns). The position supervises a Facilities and Equipment Technician and works in coordination with other response staff. As with all MMR roles, the MMR Operations Manager will be a primary responder for the team, serving on the hotline and responding to all types of marine mammal strandings, associated follow up, data collection and entry, and recovery and preparedness. This role reports directly to the Senior Director of Rescue and will serve as one of the leaders of the MMR team, aiding in driving the team forward through operational efficiency, greater engagement and use of interns and volunteers, and support of all operational aspects of the program. Role and Responsibilities Intern and Volunteer Coordination * Oversee the development, implementation and management of the MMR volunteer program (~200 volunteer responders), including recruitment, training, and review of volunteers, general communications and engagement, and adherence to agreed policies and procedures. Maintain volunteer management software. * Serve as liaison to Americorps Cape Cod (ACC) program; submit annual proposals to maintain an ACC placement. Supervise the ACC member working with the MMR team each annual assignment. * Coordinate outreach efforts including organizing outreach events (up to 12/year), maintain and develop outreach materials and resources, and document outreach request and efforts. * Oversee the recruitment, training and management of MMR interns. * Work to progress diversity in the intern program through partnerships, and other innovative means. * Develop and maintain intern and volunteer protocols and training materials (training in coordination with IFAW's Academy of rescue & Conservation). Facilities, equipment and operations * Oversee facilities and equipment maintenance and readiness through supervision of the Facilities and Equipment Technician. * Ensure vehicles and vessels receive scheduled maintenance, needed repairs are made and they remain response- ready. Stranding Response * Participate in 24 hour/365 hotline coverage within the team; provide 24-hr stranding hotline coverage on assigned days of the week and weekend/holiday coverage as necessary. * Lead and participate in all types of stranding response: live cetacean rescue, mass stranding response, health assessments, treatment, release and post-release monitoring; pinniped rescue, large whale response, necropsy of all taxa, etc. * Support data collection, entry, management and reporting. Other Activities * Manage assigned budgets, ensuring timely recording of expenses, quarterly review and reporting of budget status. * Oversee maintenance of vehicle and vessel insurance and assigned contracts. * Serve as lead for Safety program, ensuring protocols are up to date and personnel are adequately trained. Serve as liaison for reporting of safety issues/injuries. Ensure that all safety equipment is in working order. * Lead grant proposal development and grant reporting as relates to intern and volunteer management, and facilities and equipment. * Coordinate planning, monitoring, evaluation and learning related to intern and volunteer programs and facilities/equipment maintenance. Develop key performance indicators. Capture data for indicators as related to MMR program and ARC PMEL measures. * Train with Disaster Response team and respond when needed both within the US and internationally. * Other duties as assigned. Qualifications and Education Requirements * Bachelor's degree in biology, animal science, or marine science preferred; relevant higher degree ideal. * At least 5 years of experience in marine mammal stranding response, stranding management, species identification, and clinical care. Hands-on experience with stranded cetaceans and pinnipeds is required. * Experience working with volunteers, volunteer management, intern management, training and public engagement. * Understanding of veterinary technology, photography, necropsy, small boat handling, database management, and telemetry preferred. * Strong written and verbal communication skills. * Working knowledge of Microsoft WORD, EXCEL, PowerPoint and ACCESS software. * A valid Massachusetts driver's license, or ability to acquire one, required. * DOT medical clearance, or ability to acquire clearance once hired, is required. * Ability to walk on rough terrain during inclement weather, swim, and lift 50 pounds. * Familiarity with the Cape Cod region is a plus. At IFAW, we aim to create and foster a workforce that reflects and contributes to the diverse, global community in which we work to improve the lives of both animals and people. We are dedicated to fostering justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion so we actively encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds. Hiring range is $68,000 - $83,000 TO APPLY<https://recruiting.ultipro.com/INT1059IFFA/JobBoard/17b588a3-808b-4bc9-aea8…> Brian Sharp Marine Mammal Rescue 290 Summer Street Yarmouth Port, MA 02675 United States www.ifaw.org<https://www.ifaw.org/> Stranding Hotline: +1 508 743 9548 [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 physical measures of welfare in fin and humpback whales
by Anik Boileau 06 Dec '24

06 Dec '24

Dear MARMAM community, On behalf of my co-authors, I am pleased to announce our recent open access publication in the Journal Animals: Boileau, A.; Blais, J.; Van Bressem, M.-F.; Hunt, K.E.; Ahloy-Dallaire, J. Physical Measures of Welfare in Fin (Balaenoptera Physalus) and Humpback Whales (Megaptera Novangliae) Found in an Anthropized Environment: Validation of a First Animal-Based Indicator inMysticetes. *Animals* *2024* , *14*, 3519, doi:10.3390/ani14233519. https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/14/23/3519 *Abstract* Anthropogenic activities impacting marine environments are internationally recognized as welfare issues for wild cetaceans. This study validates a first evidence-based physical indicator for the welfare assessment protocol of humpback (n = 50) and fin whales (n = 50) living in a highly anthropized environment. Visual assessments of body condition, skin health, prevalence of injuries and parasite/epibiont loads were performed using a species-specific multi-scale measuring tool. A total of 6403 images were analyzed (fin, n = 3152; humpback, n = 3251) and results were validated through reliability and positive discrimination statistical tests. Based on physical measures, welfare assessment results showed that 60% of humpback whales were considered in a good welfare state compared to only 46% of fin whales. Significant relationships were observed in both species, between environmental parameters like dissolved oxygen levels, and prevalence of cutaneous lesions like pale skin patch syndrome. Furthermore, animals with injuries due to anthropogenic activities were more likely to be in poorer body condition, suggesting chronic stress affecting welfare. Best wishes, Anik Boileau, M.A, MSc, Ph.D.(c) anikboileau(a)cersi.org

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