January 2025 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New publication: Saimaa ringed seal vocal behaviour
by Mairi Young 23 Jan '25

23 Jan '25

Dear all, We are pleased to share our new publication: 'Aquatic vocalization activity indicates the timing of the mating season of Saimaa ringed seals' in Marine Mammal Science Available at: https://doi.org/10.1111/mms.13225 Abstract: Underwater vocalization is widely documented in phocids. In aquatic mating species, vocalization is typically associated with breeding, including intraspecific agonistic behavior and mate attraction. Ringed seal (Pusa hispida) produce a diverse range of aquatic vocalizations. However, the connection between these vocalizations and reproductive behavior is unclear. The Saimaa ringed seal (P.h.saimensis) also produces a variety of underwater vocalizations, with knocking calls especially suggested to be connected to the breeding season. In this study, we used four passive hydrophones during two successive winters, deployed in the breeding habitat of ringed seals in Lake Saimaa, to further explore vocalization behavior. A total of 13,197 vocalization events were identified in the recordings. Only a single vocalization type was recorded and classified as quick knocks. We identified a strong temporal pattern, with vocal activity peaking in April. This peak coincides with the end of the nursing period when mating is assumed to occur. Based on this and earlier studies, we propose that this specific call type is emitted for mate attraction or defense of underwater mating territory. This study pinpoints the timing of the mating season of the Saimaa ringed seal and provides further insight into the behavior of this endangered subspecies. Best, Mairi Mairi Young Doctoral Researcher University of Eastern Finland

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IMMS Animal Training Internship (Summer 2025)
by Carrigen Manns 22 Jan '25

22 Jan '25

Hello, My name is Carrigen Manns and I am the internship coordinator for the Animal Care department at the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies, located in Gulfport Mississippi. The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies (“IMMS”) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in 1984 for the purposes of public education, conservation, and research on marine mammals in the wild and under human care. IMMS has been an active participant of the National Stranding Network since its inception. IMMS is the premier stranding organization in the Mississippi-Louisiana-Alabama region of the Gulf Coast with the capability and expertise to care for sick and injured marine mammals and sea turtles. IMMS serves as an important educational outlet for the Mississippi Gulf Coast, incorporating programs for conservation, education and research of marine mammals and their environment. We offer year round internships that provide hands on experience in the animal care field. The IMMS Animal Training Internship Program is designed as a way for students/individuals interested in a career in animal care and training to gain valuable experience in a real-world setting. Interns will primarily be trained in aspects of animal care, but will also participate in other activities at IMMS. Our goal is to give interns a well-rounded experience in a variety of areas while providing expert training and experience. Below I will attach the appropriate forms necessary for interested applicants to apply. We are currently accepting internship applications for our summer 2025 term (May-August). The application deadline is March 1st. Please feel free to distribute this information as you see fit and don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions. Sincerely, Carrigen Manns Internship Coordinator-Animal Care IMMS-Gulfport, MS

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New paper on the impact of chemical pollution on polar bears and their prey in the Arctic
by Anaïs Remili 22 Jan '25

22 Jan '25

Dear members of the MARMAM community, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce our recent open-access publication in *Environmental Research*: *Persistent pollutant exposure impacts metabolomic profiles in polar bears and ringed seals from the High Arctic and Hudson Bay, Canada*. You can access it for free here: https://authors.elsevier.com/a/1kUBE3Ao6BFEm <https://kwnsfk27.r.eu-west-1.awstrack.me/L0/https:%2F%2Fauthors.elsevier.co…> Here is the abstract of the paper: Metabolomics measures low molecular weight endogenous metabolites and changes linked to contaminant exposure in biota. However, few studies have explored the relationship between metabolomics and contaminants in Arctic wildlife. We analyzed 239 endogenous metabolites and ∼150 persistent organic pollutants (POPs), including total mercury (THg), in the liver of polar bears and their ringed seal prey harvested from low Canadian Arctic (western Hudson Bay; WHB) and high Arctic (HA) locations during 2015–2016. Polar bears from the HA had different metabolomic profiles compared to those from WHB, particularly in several phosphatidylcholines (PCs), with the HA bears having higher concentrations of longer chain PCs. Similarly, HA and WHB ringed seals also had metabolomic profile differences in five PCs related to fat catabolism and transport. The metabolites with the highest impact on discriminating metabolomic profiles between the two species, based on VIP scores, were: tauroursodeoxycholic Acid (TUDCA), histamine, serotonin, lithocholic acid (LCA), and taurolithocholic acid (TLCA). Higher TUDCA levels in polar bears likely reflect their blubber-rich diet, while higher histamine in seal liver may indicate inflammatory responses. Significant correlations were found between liver metabolites and several per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in both species, including PFOA, PFNA, PFDA, PFEtCHxS, PFOS, and/or PFDS that moderately correlated to PCs. THg in seals and bears was negatively correlated with sarcosine. This study revealed significant correlations and differences in metabolite profiles of polar bears and ringed seals, suggesting that PFAS impacted several pathways related to lipid metabolism, bile acid synthesis, antioxidant defenses, arginine biosynthesis, histidine metabolism, and sphingolipid metabolism, with ringed seals showing greater sensitivity to PFAS. These results indicate that PFAS may influence metabolic processes in Arctic wildlife, although further research is needed to understand the full impact on Arctic wildlife health. Here is an educational visual recap of this paper, that can be shared anywhere: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1clD-w7Y0Sgr5iKyVGPHU2q8jO_HFncAF/view?usp=… Please reach out to me if you have questions/comments: anais_remili(a)sfu.ca Cheers, Anais ____________ Anais Remili, PhD Postdoctoral fellow Marine Mammal Ecotoxicology Lab Department of Biological Sciences Simon Fraser University https://anaisremili.com/

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MMO & PAM Training 10-18th February - Remotely
by Zoe Wright 22 Jan '25

22 Jan '25

Seiche Training has 2 spaces left on our next training online MT (first come first serve basis) * 10-11 February Microsoft Teams, MMO with (optional) PSO * 12,13 & 18 February Microsoft Teams, PAM Level 1. JNCC MMO training course will give you a thorough insight into all aspects of life as a marine mammal observer. Exploring: how noise impacts marine mammals; the legislative landscape; record-keeping; reporting requirements; and mitigation measures. PAM Level 1 course combines classroom study with practical experience at sea to equip you with the all the skills required to become a professionally qualified Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) Operator. you will look at the role of a PAM Operator and an in-depth introduction to PAM software, including an interactive PAMGuard workshop. The practical Boat trip will be from Aberystwyth Wales UK To book on the courses or to find out further information email training(a)seiche.com<mailto:training@seiche.com> Zoe Wright Business Support Seiche Ltd E: z.wright(a)seiche.com W: https://www.seiche.com Bradworthy Industrial Estate, Langdon Road, Bradworthy, Holsworthy, Devon, EX22 7SF, United Kingdom Seiche Ltd is registered in England & Wales. Registered number: 03475558. Registered Office: Bradworthy Industrial Estate, Langdon Road, Bradworthy, Holsworthy, Devon, EX22 7SF, United Kingdom The information contained in this e-mail transmission, and any documents, files or previous e-mail messages attached to it, is privileged and confidential, and solely intended for the use of the individual(s) to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient or a person responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient you should not read, copy, distribute or otherwise use the information, and you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution or use of any of the information contained in or attached to this message is strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please notify sender immediately and delete this e-mail and attached documents.

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Upcoming webinars about MMPA Section 104 Permit/Letter of Confirmation duration rule
by Sara Young - NOAA Federal 22 Jan '25

22 Jan '25

We invite you to join NOAA Fisheries for a webinar to explain the recent Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) final rule and its impact on permitting. Two webinars are currently scheduled on: · January 28, 2025 at 1:30-2:30 pm ET · January 30, 2025 at 4:00-5:00 pm ET Both webinars will cover the same information and will be focused on answering your questions about implementation. Advanced registration is required. You may register for a webinar here <https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSehtDjSfvoNQHl389t19qyE4xOHTLvzteM…>, where you will have the opportunity to submit questions. If you cannot attend the above dates but are still interested in attending a webinar, we encourage you to still fill out the registration form so we can gauge interest in an additional webinar. On January 13, 2025, the final rule <https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/12/12/2024-28931/modificatio….> to remove the restriction that limits the maximum duration for MMPA Section 104 permits and Letters of Confirmation (LOCs) became effective. Section 104 covers scientific research, enhancement, photography, and public display permits and LOCs under the General Authorization. Individual permits and LOCs will still be limited in duration in accordance with the MMPA’s requirement that all permits specify the period during which the permit is valid. Individual permit terms will be established on a case-by-case basis, depending on the proposed activity and the facts of each particular application. NOAA Fisheries has updated the relevant Section 104 permit/LOC web pages with additional guidance <https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/action/final-rule-modify-duration-certain-pe…> . For questions, please contact Sara Young (sara.young(a)noaa.gov) or Carrie Hubard (carrie.w.hubard(a)noaa.gov) *Sara Young* *Fishery Biologist* *Office of Protected Resources* *NOAA Fisheries* *U.S. Department of Commerce* (301) 427-8484 Sara.Young(a)noaa.gov

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Marine Mammal eDNA: Workshop Materials from SMM2024 and Potential Special Issue
by Julia Clem 21 Jan '25

21 Jan '25

Dear MARMAM Community, In November 2024, we convened the 3rd Biennial Marine Mammal eDNA Workshop ahead of SMM2024 in Perth, Australia. At the workshop we hosted presentations on recent and ongoing eDNA work, as well as discussed recent developments, lessons learned, and emerging areas in the field. For anyone interested in seeing materials generated from the workshop, recorded presentations and discussion notes can be accessed here: https://www.amyvancise.com/mmednaworkshop2024. In addition, we wanted to share the opportunity to participate in a potential Special Issue in Methods in Ecology and Evolution on eDNA Approaches for Rare Marine Vertebrates. We would like to gauge interest from the community in participating in this process, either as guest editors, reviewers, or by submitting manuscripts. If you are interested in participating or learning more about this process, we would love to hear from you! Please fill out this (short, non-binding) form (https://forms.gle/Y5ZV5pNf5h65gFCP7) by Friday, January 24th, and please feel free to reach out to any of the workshop organizers if you have questions. Best, Julia Clem, Kim Parsons, and Amy Van Cise -- Julia Clem PhD Candidate, Marine Biology University of Maine julia.sunnarborg(a)maine.edu | 952-657-6284

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Fully Funded 3-Year PhD Position in Blowomics Project in Norway – miRNA Biomarkers in Marine Mammals
by Courtney Alice Waugh 21 Jan '25

21 Jan '25

Dear MARMAM community, I am excited to announce a fully funded 3-year PhD position as part of the Blowomics Project, an innovative research initiative focused on the molecular study of marine mammal health. Specifically, this PhD project, based in Norway, will investigate the role of microRNA (miRNA) biomarkers in cetacean blow to better understand health in marine mammals. The position is based in Steinkjer, Norway, at Nord University, and includes exciting opportunities for fieldwork in Skjervøy, Norway, and potential international collaboration, including fieldwork in Australia. Position Highlights: * Engage in cutting-edge research on miRNA biomarkers in marine mammals. * Work from Steinkjer, Norway, a picturesque university town surrounded by nature and a hub for scientific research. * Conduct fieldwork in Skjervøy, Norway (70°N) renowned for its thriving populations of orcas and humpback whales. * Potential for international travel, including opportunities to conduct fieldwork in Australia, studying marine mammals in diverse ecosystems. Key Responsibilities: * Analyze and interpret miRNA profiles from cetacean blow samples. * Develop and refine molecular methods to optimize sample processing and analysis. * Participate in field expeditions and collaborate with international research teams. * Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at scientific conferences. Preferred Qualifications: * Background in molecular biology, RNA biology, or related fields. * Experience in laboratory techniques such as RNA extraction, qPCR, or next-generation sequencing. * Strong analytical skills and familiarity with bioinformatics tools for RNA analysis. * Interest or experience in fieldwork, particularly in marine mammal research. * Boat and drone licenses and experience highly regarded This position offers a unique opportunity to combine molecular biology with conservation science, contributing to groundbreaking discoveries in marine mammal health. APPLY HERE BY 28th February: https://www.jobbnorge.no/en/available-jobs/job/271232/phd-in-project-blowom… [https://www.jobbnorge.no/logos/1652/b4106a35-a605-4fc8-b406-0db72051bba1.jpg]<https://www.jobbnorge.no/en/available-jobs/job/271232/phd-in-project-blowom…> PhD in project "BlowOmics"  (271232) | Nord University<https://www.jobbnorge.no/en/available-jobs/job/271232/phd-in-project-blowom…> Job title: PhD in project "BlowOmics" (271232), Employer: Nord University, Deadline: Friday, February 28, 2025 www.jobbnorge.no For further details or to express interest, please contact me: Courtney Waugh 📧 Email: courtney.waugh(a)nord.no You can also connect with us and stay updated on our work via social media: * Instagram: @blowomics<https://www.instagram.com/blowomics?igsh=MWh5emdhc254cXA0Ng==&utm_source=ig…> * Facebook: Blowomics Project<https://www.facebook.com/share/18VoQjEk1u/?mibextid=wwXIfr> Please feel free to share this opportunity with others who may be interested! Best regards, Courtney Waugh Nord University Please feel free to share this opportunity with others who may be interested! Best regards, Courtney Waugh Nord University

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Call for Participation: Keep on Gramping 3.0 Workshop
by Arianna Fornaroli 21 Jan '25

21 Jan '25

Call for Participation: Keep on Gramping 3.0 Workshop 2025 European Cetacean Society Conference, Ponta Delgada, Azores Join us for the Keep on Gramping 3.0 Workshop at the 2025 European Cetacean Society Conference! Building on the success of past events in Galway (2012) and Barcelona (2019), this workshop will unite researchers to advance Risso’s dolphin conservation through data sharing and collaborative networks. Following the theme, "Navigating Waters of Change," this session will focus on leveraging modern research tools and innovative methodologies to address environmental challenges and improve the species' protection. Participants will have the opportunity to share findings, exchange data, and strengthen partnerships to drive impactful conservation actions. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or new to the field, this is an exceptional platform to collaborate and contribute to safeguarding Risso’s dolphins. Interested? Contact oceanwatch(a)gmail.com or arianna.fornaroli(a)outlook.com for more information. Together, let’s shape the future of Risso’s dolphin conservation! Karin Hartman and Arianna Fornaroli

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New publication: Sound production during feeding in Icelandic herring-eating killer whales (Orcinus orca)
by Giorgia Giovannini 21 Jan '25

21 Jan '25

Dear colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to share the following publication: Giorgia Giovannini, Patrick J.O. Miller, Paul J. Wensveen & Filipa I.P. Samarra (15 Jan 2025): Sound production during feeding in Icelandic herring-eating killer whales (Orcinus orca), Ethology Ecology & Evolution The article can be accessed here: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/03949370.2024.2437373 Abstract: Killer whale vocal behaviour is intricately connected to dietary preferences. In Iceland, killer whales feeding on herring are vocally active, use tail slaps to debilitate fish and produce herding calls, thought to function to affect prey. However, there is still limited understanding of how sounds are used by the whales or produced during feeding activities. We used acoustic data collected using archival tags deployed in 2009 (n = 4), 2021 (n = 9), 2022 (n = 5) and 2023 (n = 8) to investigate killer whale sound production during feeding on herring. The acoustic record was divided into 5-min bins, and the presence of clicks and tail slaps was marked for each bin. Then, sound production in the 5-min prior and 1-min following each tail slap was examined in detail, marking echolocation clicks, buzzes, herding calls and prey consumption sounds. Most bins including echolocation clicks (81.8%) were found to either contain a tail slap or to immediately precede a tail slap, indicating that echolocation is primarily used during feeding and likely less so for navigation and orientation. Buzzes, which likely function to locate debilitated prey in the immediate vicinity of the whale, followed 73.5% of the tail slaps. Prey consumption sounds might be useful as markers of feeding success and were present in 63% of feeding events, always following buzzes. Herding calls were found in 26% of feeding events in 2021–2023 and absent in 2009, which may suggest that it is a group-specific call or that it is not used in all feeding events. Variations in sound production of herring-eating killer whales during feeding may be driven by environmental characteristics, individual identity or prey characteristics; future studies combining sound with other tag sensor data such as video, and prey sampling will be crucial to explore these possible drivers. For any queries or to request a copy of the PDF please feel free to contact me at gg.giovanninigiorgia(a)gmail.com <mailto:gg.giovanninigiorgia@gmail.com>. Best wishes, Giorgia

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New publication - Kalashnikova, E., Orio, D. G., & Akkaya, A. (2025). First documented observation of feeding behaviour of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in its breeding range off the southern coast of Tanzania. Ethology Ecology & Evolution
by Ekaterina Kalashnikova 21 Jan '25

21 Jan '25

Dear Marmam community, On behalf of the authors, I am delighted to share our new publication Kalashnikova, E., Orio, D. G., & Akkaya, A. (2025). First documented observation of feeding behaviour of humpback whales (*Megaptera novaeangliae*) in its breeding range off the southern coast of Tanzania. *Ethology Ecology & Evolution*, 1–7. https://doi.org/10.1080/03949370.2024.2437353 *Abstract* Feeding and breeding activities of humpback whales (*Megaptera novaeangliae*) are generally understood to be geographically and temporally separated, with feeding activities taking places in the higher latitudes and breeding in lower latitudes. However, humpback whales may supplement their energy budgets by feeding outside of their polar foraging grounds, with opportunistic feeding behaviour being observed in mid-to-low latitudes globally. The records of supplementary feeding during migration in the southern hemisphere have been documented for various breeding stocks, with no records for the East African stock. We present the first to our knowledge record of the humpback whales feeding events in the coastal waters of Tanzania, that have been recorded on the dedicated boat surveys conducted during the humpback whales breeding seasons in 2023 and 2024 off Mnazi Bay in Mtwara region. Demonstrated behavioural plasticity may play an important role in adaptation strategies to global environmental changes and prey availability fluctuations, all of which affect recovering populations. Mnazi Bay seascape and its vicinity is an important habitat for at least 11 species of cetaceans documented, all of which depend on its productive waters for foraging, socializing and as a nursery for migrating humpback whales. This record underpins the importance of the protection of this habitat. However, future studies are needed to confirm and understand the details of the observed supplementary feeding behaviour of the humpback whales and the potential reasons behind its occurrence in Tanzania. We are grateful to all who contributed to our research efforts in Tanzania, but especially to DMAD and all its volunteers and employees, COSTECH, WIOMSA, MBREMP. On behalf of DMAD and TCP, Best wishes, Ekaterina Kalashnikova, +255 777 104 626 nyangumiznz(a)gmail.com

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