February 2025 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New publication: Reducing Cetacean Interactions With Bottom Set-Nets and Purse Seining Using Acoustic Deterrent Devices in Southern Iberia
by Ana Marçalo 06 Feb '25

06 Feb '25

Dear all, We would like to share our latest work: Marçalo, A., Carvalho, F., Frade, M., Bentes, L., Monteiro, P., Pontes, J., Alexandre, S., Oliveira, F., Kingston, A., Erzini, K., Gonçalves, J.M.S 2025. Reducing Cetacean Interactions With Bottom Set-Nets and Purse Seining Using Acoustic Deterrent Devices in Southern Iberia. Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems, 35 (2):e70061 You may find the abstract here: In southern Iberia (NE Atlantic), cetacean bycatch is reported in several fisheries, whereas depredation by bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) is commonly observed in bottom set-net fisheries. This study tested the effectiveness of acoustic deterrent devices in discouraging small cetaceans from approaching bottom set-nets and purse seine to reduce interactions. The acoustic deterrent devices used in the study were dolphin deterrent devices and dolphin interactive devices for the bottom set-net fishery to reduce dolphin bycatch and depredation and dolphin deterrent devices in the purse seine fishery to reduce common dolphin (Delphinus delphis) bycatch. Data collection was carried out by at-sea observers and trained fishing vessel crew observers. Hauls with and without acoustic deterrent devices were compared and analysed to investigate differences in catch per unit effort, factors affecting the interaction, probability of interaction and habituation (in bottom set-nets only). In bottom set-nets, the depredation rate was significantly lower and reduced by about 50% in hauls using acoustic deterrent devices. Habituation of the bottlenose dolphins to the devices was observed but was gradual. In the purse seine fishery, common dolphin bycatch was reduced by 100% when using the acoustic deterrent devices. Overall, the results are promising, but the different interaction reduction efficiencies observed between gear types indicate that the potential application of acoustic deterrent devices should be considered on a métier-by- métier basis. Other mitigation measures should be developed, especially for static gears, in collaboration with the fishing sector in an inclusive management approach to reduce direct interactions between fisheries and cetaceans. Best wishes, Ana Marçalo *Ana Marçalo* Fisheries Biologist/Researcher, PhD Fisheries, Biodiversity and Conservation / Coastal Fisheries Research group Tel: +351 967307539 *CCMAR - Centro de Ciências do Mar do Algarve* Universidade do Algarve - Campus de Gambelas Building 7 - Office 2.89 8005-139 Faro (see map <http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=pt-PT&geocode=&q=ccmar,+faro,…> ) [image: Logo Description automatically generated] <http://ccmar.ualg.pt/>

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PhD position in toothed whale predatory interactions
by fvisser＠kelpmarineresearch.com 06 Feb '25

06 Feb '25

Dear Marmam, We have opened a PhD position on the deep-sea predatory prey dynamics, focussed on deep diving toothed whales, based on Texel Island in the Netherlands. Closing date is Feb 20. If you are interested, please find more information here: https://workingat.nioz.nl/o/phd-position-deep-sea-predator-prey-interactions All the best, Fleur

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New publication: Abundance and residency patterns of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in Alabama waters
by Thibaut Bouveroux 06 Feb '25

06 Feb '25

Dear Colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to share our recent publication: Bouveroux, T., Sinclair, C., Barry, K., Clance, L., Hansen, J., Mullin, K., Rosel, P. and Carmichael, R. (2025), Abundance and Residency Patterns of Common Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in Freshwater-Influenced Estuaries of the Northern Gulf of Mexico. Aquatic Conserv: Mar Freshw Ecosyst, 35: e70055. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.70055 Abstract: Multiple stressors are affecting common bottlenose dolphins in the northern Gulf of Mexico, including two embayments in Alabama, Mobile Bay (MOB) and Perdido Bay (PER), where no comprehensive abundance estimates and residency data are currently available. This study provides the first seasonal abundance estimates and residency patterns for bottlenose dolphins in MOB and PER and discusses the effects of seasonal entry of large volumes of freshwater on dolphin abundance. In MOB, abundance estimates were larger in summer, with the highest abundance recorded in summer 2022 (1712 dolphins, 95% CI: 1520–1928) and the lowest in winter 2019–2020 (518 dolphins, 95% CI: 260–1032). The opposite pattern was found in PER, where abundances were larger in winter, with the highest abundance in winter 2021–2022 (191 dolphins, 95% CI: 157–232) and the lowest in summer 2020 (100 dolphins, 95% CI: 81–122). Stronger residency patterns were found in PER, with 28% (n = 52) encountered in more than three seasons compared to MOB where only 9% (n = 57) were encountered in more than three seasons, and considered resident dolphins. The two studied embayments support a larger number of dolphins than previously documented and likely provide seasonally different resources, indicating high and potentially complex use of these estuaries. Combined with other data concurrently collected in this area, this study will inform conservation management and strategies for these highly impacted dolphin stocks. For any queries or to request a copy of the PDF, please feel free to contact me at: tbouveroux(a)disl.org Enjoy the read! Best regards, Thibaut Bouveroux, PhD Dauphin Island Seal Lab Dauphin Island, Alabama, 36528, USA

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Seasonal Animal Care Specialist Opening(Wildlife Response)
by Savannah Costner 05 Feb '25

05 Feb '25

The Alaska SeaLife Center is looking to hire a summer seasonal with our Wildlife Response Program. Job Description is below! Apply at this link: https://jobs.ourcareerpages.com/job/930911?source=aslc&jobFeedCode=aslc&ret… Summary: This position is responsible for the routine handling and care of animals being housed in the Rehabilitation/Quarantine area under the supervision of the Wildlife Response Curator at the Alaska SeaLife Center. The main focus of this position is marine mammals but there are occasional responses to birds and other wildlife in the Seward area. Education/Training Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in biology, animal science, veterinary science or related field. Two years of experience in animal husbandry, experience with marine mammals preferred. Essential Duties: 1. Under the supervision of the Husbandry Director/Wildlife Response Curator, assists in the delivery of animal care to animals being housed and cared for in the rehabilitation area, quarantine area, and other animal areas in the ASLC. 2. Coordinates with the Wildlife Response Curator and veterinary staff to ensure consistency in the delivery of animal care to animals being housed and cared for in the rehabilitation / quarantine area. 3. Performs routine animal husbandry to include diet preparation, feeding animals, cleaning animal enclosures, disinfecting prep areas and equipment, and maintaining animal records. 4. Follows established routine for animal care, food preparation, and clean up, including proper maintenance and sterilization of equipment. 5. Under the supervision of a veterinarian or a veterinary technician performs basic medical treatments such as delivery of oral medications and wound cleaning and assists in basic medical procedures such as animal restraint for physical exam. 6. Keeps proper records in accordance with the ASLC and permit requirements. 7. As team leader, supervises interns and volunteers to ensure animals are monitored and daily tasks are completed in a timely manner. 8. Participates as needed in presentations to visitors and the public on topics in marine science and ASLC operations. 9. Answers the ASLC’s 24-hour stranding hotline. May be asked to be on call to cover the hotline after regular working hours. Employees are compensated for being on call. 10. Becomes familiar with maintenance and operation of mechanical systems. 11. Maintains a valid driver’s license. 12. Fosters good relations with visitors, volunteers, community leaders, contractors, and fellow staff members by promoting positive attitudes, good will, cooperation, and providing high standards of service. 13. Complies with all Alaska SeaLife Center policies, procedures, and programs. 14. Performs other duties as assigned. Other Skills and Abilities: Ability to be organized, self-motivated, and possess a strong sense of cleanliness and animal awareness. Attention to detail. Willingness to work holidays, weekends, and/or overnights to accommodate the needs of the animal patients. Comfortable with social media and potentially being on camera and interviewed while working. Physical Requirements: - The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. - Ability to perform moderate to strenuous physical activity. Ability to swim, see and hear; twist, bend, kneel, stand, and crouch for extended periods of time; use arms and hands; handle objects, tools, and controls; climb stairs and ladders; and sit for periods of time. Must be able to lift and move 50lbs, walk and stand on uneven surfaces, and have a good sense of balance. - Ability to work around small and large groups of people. Ability to work safely with and around large, wild animals. Ability to work weekends. Availability to work holidays as necessary. - Candidate must have the ability to work in an outdoor area involving uneven, slippery surfaces in potentially extremely cold and wet weather. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums APPLICATION DEADLINE: Open Until Filled, Apply by 2/27/2025 for full consideration START DATE: 5/1/2025 END DATE: 9/30/2025 PAY RATE: $18.50-$20.25 Please upload your resume, cover letter and letter of reference when you apply. Must be able to pass a background check. In compliance with Federal and State equal employment opportunity laws, qualified applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, veteran status, non-job related disability, or any other protected group status. APPLY AT THIS LINK: https://jobs.ourcareerpages.com/job/930911?source=aslc&jobFeedCode=aslc&ret… -- <https://www.facebook.com/AlaskaSeaLifeCenter> <https://twitter.com/alaskasealife> <http://instagram.com/alaskasealifecenter> <https://www.youtube.com/user/AKSeaLifeCenter> <https://www.linkedin.com/company/alaska-sealife-center> *Savannah Costner**(pronouns:she-her <https://www.mypronouns.org/>)* *Animal Care Specialist II *Alaska SeaLife Center P.O. Box 1329 • 301 Railway Ave • Seward, AK 99664 <https://maps.google.com/?q=1329%C2%A0%E2%80%A2+301+Railway+Ave%C2%A0%E2%80%…> Direct: 907-224-6399 *ASLC 24-hour Stranded Animal Hotline* 1-888-774-7325 (SEAL) www.alaskasealife.org

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University of North Carolina Wilmington Marine Mammal Stranding Program Internship Coordinator
by Tift, Michael S. 05 Feb '25

05 Feb '25

The University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) Marine Mammal Stranding Program is looking for an internship coordinator for our summer internship program. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. For more information, and to apply, visit: https://jobs.uncw.edu/postings/31964 Dr. Michael Tift (He/Him/His) Assistant Professor Director of UNCW Marine Mammal Stranding Program Department of Biology and Marine Biology University of North Carolina Wilmington 601 S. College Rd. Wilmington, NC 28403. U.S.A. Telephone: +1-(910) 962-2777 Lab Website: https://michaeltift.weebly.com/

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New Publication: Long-Term Demographic Trends of Near Threatened Coastal Dolphins
by Guido Parra Vergara 05 Feb '25

05 Feb '25

Dear colleagues, On behalf of all co-authors, we are excited to share with you our new publication in Ecology and Evolution: Haigh, K., Parra, G.J., Möller, L., Steiner, A. and Bossley, M. (2025), Long-Term Demographic Trends of Near Threatened Coastal Dolphins Living in an Urban Estuary. Ecol Evol, 15: e70834. https://doi.org/10.1002/ece3.70834 ABSTRACT Understanding population demography of threatened species and how they vary in relation to natural and anthropogenic stressors is essential for effective conservation. We used a long-term photographic capture-recapture dataset (1993–2020) of Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) in the highly urbanised Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary (ADS), South Australia, to estimate key demographic parameters and their variability over time. These parameters were analysed in relation to environmental variables used as indicators of local and large-scale climatic events. Our findings indicate that apparent survival was high (0.98–0.99) and did not vary seasonally. Estimates of abundance were not directly related to environmental variables but were linked to seasonal temporary emigration. Abundance peaked in summer with an average of 85.37 dolphins (SD = 30.23) and was lowest in winter, with 68.57 (SD = 24.70) individuals. Site fidelity at the population level was low, but lagged identification rates revealed a population of approximately 28 individuals at any one time. Trend analysis suggests an increase in dolphin abundance from 1993 and persistence of the population over decades despite significant urbanisation, although numbers have declined in more recent years. Further research is needed to understand the cumulative impacts leading to this population decline and to assess its future viability under different management scenarios. Conservation strategies aimed at increasing reproductive rates and promoting connectivity to adjacent waters are likely to be more effective in reversing population declines. The article is open access and available here: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/ece3.70834 All the best, Guido ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Guido J. Parra, PhD Associate Professor | College of Science and Engineering Research leader | Cetacean Ecology, Behaviour and Evolution Lab (CEBEL) Staff: http://www.flinders.edu.au/people/guido.parra Lab: www.cebel.org.au<http://www.cebel.org.au> GoogleScholar<https://scholar.google.com.au/citations?hl=en&user=7YisEoAAAAAJ> | ResearchGate<https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Guido_Parra> | LinkedIn<https://www.linkedin.com/in/guido-j-parra-093217183/> Flinders University, GPO Box 2100 Adelaide, SA 5001 Australia Tel: +61 8 8201 3565|email: guido.parra(a)flinders.edu.au<mailto:guido.parra@flinders.edu.au> ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Please consider the environment before printing this email

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New publication: Icelandic soundscape
by Amelie Laute 05 Feb '25

05 Feb '25

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New Publication: Testing assumptions for stable isotope analysis of dentinal growth layer groups in killer whales
by Kelly Bowen 05 Feb '25

05 Feb '25

Hello all, Please see below for details regarding our recent open-access publication, in which we empirically test three common assumptions underlying stable isotope sampling of growth layer groups in marine mammal teeth. This study is part of my larger PhD work (alongside my advisor and co-author Dr. Carolyn Kurle) on killer whale ecology using teeth; I have graduated and am pursuing postdoc/employment opportunities, so please feel free to get in touch if you might be interested in working together or discussing this work further. Bowen KR, Kurle CM. 2025. Testing Assumptions for Stable Isotope Analysis of Marine Mammal Dentin Growth Layer Groups. Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry. http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/rcm.9997 ABSTRACT *Rationale* Stable isotope analysis of growth layer groups (GLGs) in mammal dentin is an increasingly prevalent and noninvasive approach to study animal foraging ecology. However, empirical evidence to support assumed proper methodologies for sampling GLGs is lacking. Here, we examine the effects of intratooth and intertooth variations with respect to targeted GLGs, as well as the effects of common pretreatments (e.g., formic acid and graphite) to enhance GLG visibility, on stable isotope values (δ13C and δ15N) from dentin. *Methods* We measured the δ13C and δ15N values of killer whale (Orcinus orca) dentin. We used dentin from 37 teeth to compare stable carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) isotope values from multiple locations within a GLG (intratooth variation), from corresponding GLGs among teeth of an individual (intertooth variation), and from treated and untreated teeth. *Results* We observed no significant differences in the δ13C or δ15N values when sampling a single GLG from multiple locations (intratooth variation) or when comparing the same GLG across duplicate teeth of individuals (intertooth variation). One tooth in a triplicate set showed a significantly different but likely biologically inconsequential δ13C value. Lastly, formic acid and graphite highlighting to accentuate GLGs did not significantly influence measured stable isotope values. *Conclusions* We validate several previous assumptions in this field of study. First, dentin samples for stable isotope analysis can be sampled from different locations across a GLG. Second, researchers can compare stable isotope values from the same GLGs of different teeth collected from the same individual in most cases, as the δ13C and δ15N values did not vary with the sampled tooth. Third, a common protocol of formic acid and graphite treatment to enhance GLG visibility does not bias the δ13C and δ15N values from dentin. We also describe factors to consider and cautions associated with these conclusions. Best regards, Kelly Bowen -- Kelly R. Bowen (Flanders) Ph.D. Candidate - Kurle Lab Ecology, Behavior, and Evolution - Biological Sciences University of California San Diego 9500 Gilman Dr. La Jolla, CA 92093

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American Cetacean Society Research Grant RFP - Deadline 15-March
by ACS-LA.Grants 04 Feb '25

04 Feb '25

The American Cetacean Society, Los Angeles Chapter (ACS-LA) is happy to announce the opening of the request for applications (RFP) for the 2025 Research Grant The American Cetacean Society protects cetaceans and their habitats though conservation, education and research. Working with world-class scientists, ACS-LA funds research projects that address some of the most pressing issues facing cetaceans today. The Los Angeles Chapter of ACS is pleased to announce the availability of one research grant, in the amount of $3,000.00, to be awarded to a qualified researcher whose study focuses on cetaceans along the west coast of the US or to a researcher or student attending or affiliated with an accredited west coast university while studying cetaceans anywhere in the world. · The John E. Heyning Research Award* will be awarded in 2025. This award is in the amount of $3,000. *The John E. Heyning and the William F. Samaras Awards will be awarded in alternating years. Eligibility: The Applicant should be a researcher or a student living or attending school along the west coast of the United States OR if Applicant does not reside along the west coast, the Applicant’s research focus should be on cetaceans along the west coast of the United States. For information on how to apply, please go to the Grants & Awards tab on our website: acs-la.org/grants-and-awards <https://acs-la.org/grants-and-awards/>. Deadlines: Deadline for submission is 15th March 2025, midnight PST (GMT -8). Awards will be announced by 15th April 2025. Please feel free to contact ACS-LA Grants Chair Christina Tombach Wright with any questions, ACSLA.Grants(a)gmail.com. Applications should be sent by E-mail to ACSLA.Grants(a)gmail.com <mailto:ACSLA.Grants@gmail.com>. Follow instructions on the website for submissions. Information about the Los Angeles Chapter of ACS can be found on our website: www.acs-la.org <http://www.acs-la.org/>.

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Early Career Opportunity/Response Apprentice - The Marine Mammal Center
by Sarah Tatum 04 Feb '25

04 Feb '25

Greetings Everyone, The Marine Mammal Center's Response Team is hiring a part-time, temporary Response Apprentice at our Castroville Operations: Location of Position: Castroville, California Reports to: Volunteer and Community Engagement Manager Position Classification & Expected Hours of Work, and Travel: This is a temporary, hourly position. This position is 20 hours per week, for 6 months, approx.: March - September 2025. * Days of work are generally Saturday to Wednesday. * Evening and weekend work are required. * Some travel within California may be expected for this position. Compensation Range: $20.00/hr. Benefits: * Sick Time * 401k Retirement Plan * The Marine Mammal Center offers benefits to support the emotional wellbeing of you and your loved ones (Employee Assistance Program) Job Summary: The Response Apprentice will contribute meaningful support to the response & animal care of marine mammals, such as California Sea Lions and Northern Elephant Seals, at our Castroville Operations at The Marine Mammal Center.  The 6-month apprenticeship provides a high-level view of community powered conservation while supporting the advancement of the mission and strategic priorities of the world’s largest marine mammal stranding response programs. OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY The Marine Mammal Center actively engages individuals from all backgrounds. We are committed to embracing diversity within our organization because we firmly believe that diverse employee teams help us to achieve our best organizational outcomes and provide the most effective support to the communities we serve. We are deeply dedicated to creating and maintaining an inclusive, equitable and supportive work environment. We strongly encourage people from underrepresented groups to apply. The Marine Mammal Center believes in growth and supporting our employees as best we can so they can become their best selves in and outside of work. We believe that a healthy work environment means building an inclusive culture where people can thrive together and feel supported and empowered. We believe in stretch versus constraint. OUR MISSION The Marine Mammal Center advances ocean health through marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation, research, and education. ABOUT THE MARINE MAMMAL CENTER The Marine Mammal Center is leading the field in ocean conservation through marine mammal rescue, veterinary medicine, science, and education. For more information, please visit our “About Us” page at www.marinemammalcenter.org<https://www.marinemammalcenter.org/about-us/what-we-do> To read the full position posting and to apply, please visit this link: https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/Details/3024144/Marine-Mam… Thank you! Sarah [Icon Description automatically generated with low confidence] Sarah Tatum (she-her) Human Resources Operations Coordinator TatumS(a)tmmc.org<mailto:tatums@tmmc.org> | MarineMammalCenter.org<http://www.marinemammalcenter.org/> The Marine Mammal Center, 2000 Bunker Road, Sausalito, CA 94965

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