February 2025 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Proceedings of the 2024 ECS Conference bycatch and entanglement welfare workshop are now online
by Ellie MacLennan (PGR) 26 Feb '25

26 Feb '25

Last year at the 2024 ECS conference a workshop was held discussing the welfare of cetacean bycatch and entanglement, and how pathology can help to resolve some of the issues and provide greater understanding. The proceedings from the workshop are now available on the ECS website at the link below; https://www.europeancetaceansociety.eu/63 The following adapted workshop abstract could be used to inform MARMAN subscribers of the content of the proceedings; Research into the welfare impact of bycatch on marine mammals has until only relatively recently come to the fore driven by concerns raised by animal welfare organisations, the public and the scientific community. An issue commonly cited in recent publications is a relatively poor understanding of bycatch pathophysiology, which is needed to help provide an accurate assessment of welfare impacts on individuals. The lack of observation of the vast majority of bycatch events means pathology has an important role in helping answer some of the questions welfare experts have. The diagnosis of some bycatch events continues to be problematic and little has been done to collate the information to provide better understanding of the pathophysiological processes involved. The workshop aimed to bring together interested parties to discuss the pathology and pathophysiology of bycatch leading to a greater understanding of welfare impacts, highlight new areas for research and assist in building links between pathologists and welfare experts. A suggested injury impact evaluation scoring system was presented and a Delphi style approach was employed during the workshop, to assess the value of this scoring system and garner expert opinion on its applicability to chronic entanglement cases. If you need any further information, please contact Mark Wessels at MMPath2023(a)outlook.com<mailto:MMPath2023@outlook.com> Thank you. Ellie MacLennan PhD student College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences | University of Glasgow | Glasgow | G12 8QQ E: e.maclennan.1(a)research.gla.ac.uk<mailto:e.maclennan.1@research.gla.ac.uk> T: 07929 762765 The University of Glasgow, charity number SC004401 Please note that I am a part-time PhD student and I do not check emails every day, but will endeavour to respond as soon as possible. Thank you for your patience.

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New publication "What’s on the menu? Diet of common minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) stranded on the Atlantic Iberian coast"
by Silvia Monteiro 26 Feb '25

26 Feb '25

Dear Marmam Readers, I am very pleased to announce the following publication: Monteiro, S. S., Torres-Pereira, A., Ferreira, M., Vingada, J. V., Nicolau, L., Sequeira, M., López, A., Covelo, P., Azevedo, M. I., Hernandez-Milian, G., Pierce, G. J., Eira, C. (2025). What’s on the menu? Diet of common minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) stranded on the Atlantic Iberian coast. *Marine Environmental Research*, 107024. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marenvres.2025.107024 Abstract There is little information regarding the ecology of common minke whales (*Balaenoptera acutorostrata*) in southern waters of the Northeast Atlantic. As such, stomach contents from common minke whales stranded in the west Iberian Peninsula were analyzed (n=27, 2005-2024) to improve the knowledge about the foraging ecology of this species. Overall, small pelagic fish species (*Sardina pilchardus*, *Trachurus* sp., *Scomber* sp.), that are also targeted by fisheries in this region, were predominant in the diet of common minke whales. In particular, *Sardina pilchardus* and *Trachurus* sp. were predominant in Portugal (n= 20; %N: 39.4 and 18.2; %W: 32.9 and 27.9; %IRI: 52.2 and 22.2 respectively), while *Scomber* sp. prevailed in Northwest Spain (Galicia) (n=7; %N: 28.7; %W: 53.1; %IRI: 48.8), closely followed by *Sardina pilchardus* (%N: 40.9; %W: 34.6; %IRI: 45). Despite the similarity in the predominant species (Alosidae and Scombridae families) between sexes, females showed a less diverse diet compared to males. Results suggest a temporal shift in the diet of common minke whales in the west Iberian Peninsula (2005-2015 vs. 2016-2024), possibly related with changes in sardine abundance in this region, resulting from prolonged poor recruitment over several years associated with fishing mortality above sustainable levels. In addition, the estimated length of the main prey ingested by common minke whales was within the legal landing size allowed for fisheries in the west Iberian Peninsula. Finally, both minke whales and fisheries target the same energy-rich species, required to meet the high metabolic cost of living of minke whales. As such, the results of this study suggest the potential for minke whale-fisheries resource competition (in terms of species, size class and quality), stressing the potential indirect or direct threat that this socioeconomic activity may represent for common minke whales. This information may be relevant for the definition of efficient conservation strategies for this Vulnerable population. This study presents the first description of the diet composition of common minke whales in the southern part of their distribution range, in the North Atlantic. For an early view of this paper, please visit: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0141113625000819 If you are unable to download the article, please contact me by email and I will be happy to send you a copy: s.monteiro(a)ua.pt Best wishes, Silvia Monteiro

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Employment Posting / Opportunity from New College of Florida; Professor Marine Mammal Science
by Daniel Hernandez 25 Feb '25

25 Feb '25

Good morning, New College of Florida has an opening for a Professor, Marine Mammal Science and we were asked to have this posted from our Marine Mammal Science department. Professor, Marine Mammal Science <https://www.schooljobs.com/careers/ncfl/jobs/4846218/professor-marine-mamma…> *New* - *5800 Bay Shore Road Sarasota* - *Full-Time - Negotiable* - *Category: Faculty* - *Division: Marine Mammal Science* Thank you for your time and consideration, -- Daniel C. Hernandez Executive Assistant - Office of Human Resources New College of Florida 5800 Bay Shore Road Sarasota, FL 34243-2109 941-487-4583 *Please note: Due to Florida's broad open records law, most written communication to or from College employees is public record, available to the public and the media upon request. Therefore, this e-mail communication may be subject to public disclosure.*

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New publication: Habitat Preference of Risso's Dolphins (Grampus griseus) off the South Coast of Portugal
by Joana Castro 25 Feb '25

25 Feb '25

Dear all, On behalf of my co-authors, I am pleased to announce and share our recent paper titled "Habitat Preference of Risso's Dolphins (*Grampus griseus*) off the South Coast of Portugal" - https://doi.org/10.1111/mms.70001 The full paper is available here: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/mms.70001 Abstract: Information on the occurrence and ecology of Risso's dolphins off the southern coast of Portugal is limited and poorly understood. This study investigated the occurrence of this species in the Algarve via presence-absence models. In total 63 Risso's dolphin sightings were recorded with an average group size of 10 animals and a presence of immature animals in most groups (73.02%). Generalized Additive Models were fitted to test how static and dynamic oceanographic variables affected Risso's dolphin occurrence between 2010 and 2020, from a presence-absence dataset. The optimal model showed that Risso's dolphins' probability of occurrence was higher close to the coast, and positively related to sea surface temperature, reaching a maximum presence probability between 22°C and 24°C. A positive but nonsignificant relationship between chlorophyll-a concentration with 1 month time lag and Risso's dolphin presence was also detected. This study provides a first step to understanding habitat preference of Risso's dolphins in the south of Portugal and identifies this area's importance for the species. Feel free to email me (joana.castro(a)aimmportugal.org) if you have any questions. Best regards Joana

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Environmental Training Opportunities in Newfoundland and Labrador
by Emily Welsh 25 Feb '25

25 Feb '25

Edgewise Environmental is offering Seabird Observer and Marine Mammal Observer courses with in-person at-sea practicals taking place in the St. John's area of Newfoundland. See below for dates and information: *Seabird Observer* Online Theory: March 10 - April 7 In-person practical: May 2 *Marine Mammal Observer* Online Theory: March 19 - April 16 In-person practical: May 2 All courses can be taken simultaneously and a discount is applied when registering for multiple courses. Click here <https://www.edgewiseenvironmental.com/events/> for more information or email info(a)edgewiseenvironmental.com Cheers, Emily Welsh *Social Media and Marketing Coordinator* Edgewise Environmental Ltd. (709) 770-0492 St. John's, NL, Canada www.edgewiseenvironmental.com [image: Facebook icon] <https://www.facebook.com/edgewiseenvironmental> [image: LinkedIn icon] <https://www.linkedin.com/company/edgewise-environmental/> [image: Instagram icon] <https://www.instagram.com/edgewiseenvironmental> CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: *The contents of this email message and any attachments are intended solely for the addressee(s) and may contain confidential and/or privileged information and may be legally protected from disclosure. If you are not the intended recipient of this message or their agent, or if this message has been addressed to you in error, please immediately alert the sender by reply email and then delete this message and any attachments. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any use, dissemination, copying, or storage of this message or its attachments is strictly prohibited. *

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Join the Summer School 2025 ECOWAVES: Marine Soundscapes in the Anthropophony Era
by Francesco Caruso 25 Feb '25

25 Feb '25

Dear colleagues and friends, We are excited to announce the upcoming Summer School 2025 ECOWAVES , titled " Marine Soundscapes in the Anthropophony Era ", which will take place from May 26th to 30th, 2025 , at the Darwin-Dohrn Museum of the Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn in Naples, Italy . ABOUT THE COURSE This intensive program offers participants a comprehensive introduction to the application of acoustics in ecological studies. Attendees will explore the science of acoustic waves in seawater, gaining fundamental knowledge of the physics of sound and the use of cutting-edge instruments to analyze marine soundscapes . Through a combination of theoretical sessions and hands-on training, participants will develop the skills needed to assess the role of sound in marine ecosystems and evaluate the impacts of noise on the physiology and behavior of marine organisms. Special attention will be given to marine mammals , whose reliance on acoustic communication makes them particularly vulnerable to noise pollution. The course will explore the use of passive acoustic monitoring and bio-logging technologies to study cetacean distribution, behavior, and responses to anthropogenic disturbances. Additionally, participants will learn how acoustic tools contribute to conservation efforts, supporting the development of mitigation strategies for the protection of these species in a rapidly changing ocean. The program takes a multidisciplinary approach , equipping attendees with the tools to contribute to innovative research and conservation strategies in marine mammal ecology. ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES Beyond the academic schedule, participants will enjoy: • An exclusive visit to our public aquarium and museum, offering unique insights into marine biodiversity. • A taste of authentic Italian cuisine, including a welcome aperitif and a social dinner, featuring local specialties. APPLICATION DETAILS We invite early-career researchers, graduate students, and professionals with an interest in marine ecology and bioacoustics to apply for this unique opportunity. For more details and application instructions, please visit our official website: [ https://szn.it/index.php/it/formazione/advanced-courses-summer-schools/summ… | https://szn.it/index.php/it/formazione/advanced-courses-summer-schools/summ… ] For any inquiries, feel free to contact us at: [ mailto:ecowaves@szn.it | ecowaves(a)szn.it ] We look forward to welcoming you to vibrant Naples for an inspiring and enriching experience! Best regards, Francesco -- Francesco Caruso, PhD Researcher, Marine Biologist and Ecologist https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Francesco-Caruso Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn (http://www.szn.it/en/) Department of Marine Animal Conservation and Public Engagement Darwin-Dohrn Museum, Villa Comunale, Naples, 80121, Italy Phone:+390815833461

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MMO & PAM Training 17-21 March Okehampton Devon UK
by Zoe Wright 25 Feb '25

25 Feb '25

Seiche Training has spaces left on our next training at Okehampton Devon UK (first come first serve basis) * 17-18 March Classroom MMO with (optional) PSO * 19-21 March, Classroom/ Boat 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 Plymouth Harbour, 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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Call for Abstracts: 4th Humpback Whale World Congress
by Lyne Morissette 23 Feb '25

23 Feb '25

Call for Abstracts: Humpback Whale World Congress (HWWC2025) – "Coexisting with Whales, for our Ocean" Dear Colleagues and Friends, We are delighted to invite you to submit your abstracts for the upcoming Humpback Whale World Congress that will be held in Tadoussac, Québec (Canada) in mid-October 2025. This congress is dedicated to the scientific research on humpback whales, and also to all the human activities, including conservation, science, marine engineering, blue economy, social activities, education and arts. Different topics about humpback whales will be discussed including biology, ecology, genetics, bioacoustics, migratory routes, marine protected areas, economy, citizen science, effects of human activities at sea. This year’s theme, "Coexisting with Whales, for our Ocean," reflects our shared commitment to fostering a positive and sustainable relationship between human endeavors and whale conservation. Who Should Submit? We warmly welcome submissions from researchers, students, marine engineers, conservationists, and professionals who are passionate about marine mammal science and the broader challenges of ocean stewardship. Whether you are presenting groundbreaking research, sharing innovative strategies, or recounting success stories, your contribution will help drive forward our understanding of and commitment to sustainable coexistence with marine mammals. What We’re Looking For We are accepting abstracts for: • Oral Presentations: Detailed explorations of your latest research findings, methodologies, and insights. • Posters: Visual and concise summaries of your work that inspire discussion and collaboration. • Workshops: Interactive sessions designed to share practical tools, innovative ideas, and collaborative solutions. Submission Guidelines Please ensure that your abstract adheres to the following guidelines: • Language: All abstracts must be written in English. • Content: Your submission should clearly present your research question, methods, key findings, and the broader implications for promoting harmonious coexistence between humans and whales. • Required Details: • Full names of all authors • Affiliation(s) • Email address of the corresponding author • Main text of the abstract (up to 350 words) Deadline for abstract submissions is May 1, 2025. Detailed submission instructions and further congress information will be shared in an upcoming announcement. In the meantime, please submit your abstracts via: https://www.hwwc.mg/abstract-submission INVITED KEYNOTE SPEAKERS (alphabetic order) Dr. Ted Cheeseman, co-founder and director of Happywhale, USA Dr Phil Clapham, former leader of the Cetacean Ecology and Assessment Programme at NOAA's National Marine Mammal Laboratory in Seattle, USA Dr Erich Hoyt, Whale and Dolphin Conservation, UK Dr Robert Michaud, founder of the Group for Research and Education on Marine Mammals (GREMM), Canada Dr Joy Reidenberg, Prof at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City, USA SCIENTIFIC COMMITTEE (alphabetic order) Prof. Olivier Adam; Sorbonne Université, Paris, France Dr. Cristiane Albuquerque, Marine Park of Saguenay–Saint-Laurent, Canada Dr. Jaime Bolanos-Jimenez, Caribbean-Wide Orca Project, Venezuela Dr. Isabelle Charrier, Insitute of Neuroscience, France Dr. Yann Doh, Terre Mer Veille, France Dr. Violaine Dulau, Globice, La Réunion Dr. Nadege Gandilhon, NG Marine Studies Office, France Dr. Claire Garrigue, IRD, France Dr. Erich Hoyt, IUCN Marine Mammal Protected Areas Task Force, UK Dr. Chloe Huetz, Institute of Neuroscience, France Dr. Jeff K Jacobsen, VE Enterprises, McKinleyville, CA, USA Dr. Lindsey Jones, College of the Atlantic, ME, USA Prof. Jean-Luc Jung, French Museum of Natural History, France Dr. Eduardo Mercado, University at Buffalo, NY, USA Dr. Robert Michaud, Group for Research and Education on Marine Mammals, Canada Dr. Benjamin de Montgolfier, Aquasearch, Martinique Dr. Lyne Morissette, M Expertise Marine and UQAR-ISMER, Canada Dr. Christina Perazio, University at Buffalo, NY, USA Dr. Maevatiana Ratsimbazafindranahaka, Cetamada, Madagascar Prof. Joy S. Reidenberg, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City, NY, USA Dr. Jooke Robbins, Center for Coastal Studies, Provincetown, MA, USA Dr. Anjara Saloma, Cetamada, Madagascar Dr. Peter T. Stevick, Allied Whales, College of the Atlantic, ME, USA Dr. Alison K. Stimpert, Vertebrate Ecology Lab, at Moss Landing Marine Laboratories in Moss Landing, CA, USA The Scientific Committee is keen to encourage the attendance of students, as well as established researchers, engineers and professionals. Need More Information? If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us at: • hwwc(a)cetamada.org • lyne(a)m-expertisemarine.com We look forward to welcoming you to a congress that promises to be both inspiring and collegial. Your expertise and enthusiasm are what make our community so vibrant and effective in advancing marine mammal science and conservation. Warm regards, The HWWC2025 Organizing Team Lyne G. Morissette, Ph.D., M.S.M. & Médiatrice accréditée (IMAQ) Écologie des écosystèmes & mammifères marins Marine mammals & ecosystem ecology 418.750.5685 Lyne(a)M-ExpertiseMarine.com www.m-expertisemarine.com

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2nd announcement: Workshop in Marine Mammal Conservation - ethical perspectives in a climate of urgency at the oncoming ECS in the Azores (12-16 the of May 2025)
by Volker Smit 22 Feb '25

22 Feb '25

Dear MARMAM Community, We are excited to inform about our workshop entitled *"Marine Mammal Conservation: Ethical Perspectives in a Climate of Urgency" *within the framework of the upcoming European Cetacean Society Conference has been accepted. As a reminder, this event will delve into the critical ethical considerations surrounding the conservation of marine mammals, especially in the face of accelerating environmental changes. It will take place on Tuesday, the 13^th of May 2025 (full day). We are currently preparing the programme. If you are interested in participating as a speaker please get in touch asap. Location: University of The Açores, Ponta Delgada, São Miguel Island, Portugal During this workshop - also depending on the input of speakers and attendees - we aim to exchange about: * The intrinsic value of marine mammals and their right to exist. * The ecological importance of marine mammal species diversity for the equilibrium of marine ecosystems. * The impact of human activities such as ship strikes, commercial fishing, pollution - acoustic and chemical, as well as climate change. * The cultural and social values associated with marine mammals, including indigenous perspectives. Among the topics addressed, the workshop’s discussions will include specific training for seafarers, research and conservation campaigns, publication. Best regards, Barbara Putnam, Luigi Bundone, Noel Covián and Volker Smit If you want to get in touch mail to: smit(a)m-e-e-r.de or luigibundone(a)tiscali.it -- Volker Smit President M.E.E.R. e.V. https://m-e-e-r.de/

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JNCC MMO training (February and March) and PSO training
by Carolyn Barton 21 Feb '25

21 Feb '25

JNCC-recognised MMO training, by an instructor with over 25 years' experience, is available remotely (via Zoom) on the following dates: 27th-28th February (limited spaces), cost 150GBP (135GBP students/recent graduates) 17th-18th March, cost 150GBP (135GBP students/recent graduates) An online distance learning version of the course is also available at any time (same price) for those who prefer to work through the course at their own pace. The JNCC MMO course includes comprehensive resources and equips trainees with all the knowledge needed to perform the role of marine mammal observer in the offshore industries: 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 suite of JNCC mitigation guidelines for different offshore activities 5) Data recording and reporting requirements 6) Visual monitoring and distance estimation 7) Overview of passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) 8) Working as an MMO / PAM operator and life at sea 9) Identification of marine mammals An online PSO course is also available, cost 180GBP (162GBP students/recent graduates). A multi-course discount is available for the JNCC MMO and PSO courses combined. For further information and for a registration form for any of the courses, see https://carolynbarton.co.uk or email info(a)carolynbarton.co.uk

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