May 2025 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

NOAA Fisheries Proposed Incidental Take Regulations for Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Military Readiness Activities in the Atlantic Fleet Training and Testing Study Area
by Alyssa Clevenstine - NOAA Federal 08 May '25

08 May '25

Dear Colleagues, This morning, NOAA Fisheries announced proposed regulations to govern the incidental take of marine mammals under the Marine Mammal Program Act related to the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard military readiness activities in the Atlantic Fleet Training and Testing Study Area. These proposed regulations would authorize take of individuals of 41 species of marine mammals by Level A and Level B harassment incidental to the use of sonar and other transducers, in-water detonations, air guns, and vibratory and impact pile driving and extraction. The definition of harassment as applied to a military readiness activities is: Any act that injures or has the significant potential to injure a marine mammal or marine mammal stock in the wild (Level A harassment); or any act that disturbs or is likely to disturb a marine mammal or marine mammal stock in the wild by causing disruption of natural behavioral patterns, including, but not limited to, migration, surfacing, nursing, breeding, feeding, or sheltering, to a point where such behavioral patterns are abandoned or significantly altered (Level B harassment). In addition, this proposed rule would authorize serious injury or mortality for up to six takes of large whales from vessel strikes over the 7-year authorization period. NOAA Fisheries has preliminarily determined that the number and manner of “take” proposed for authorization would have a negligible impact on all affected marine mammal species and stocks. NOAA Fisheries, Navy, and Coast Guard have worked together to develop a comprehensive suite of mitigation measures that will ensure the “least practicable adverse impact” on marine mammals and their habitat. They have also developed a robust monitoring plan specifically for these activities to help better understand the effects of military readiness activities on marine mammals. The public comment period on the proposed regulations is open from May 9th 2025- June 9th 2025. NMFS will consider all comments related to the proposed rule prior to making any final decision on the requested regulations. Documents associated with this proposed action are available on our website <https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/action/incidental-take-authorization-militar…> . If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. *Alyssa Clevenstine* Marine Resources Management Specialist Permits and Conservation Division Office of Protected Resources <https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/about/office-protected-resources>, NOAA Fisheries (301) 427-8489

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Job Listing: Stranding Biologist & Research Technician Alabama Marine Mammal Stranding Network
by Maureen Goretti 08 May '25

08 May '25

*Stranding Biologist:* *General Duties:* The Stranding Biologist will work with the Stranding Program Manager, contract veterinarians, staff, students, interns and volunteers to enhance reporting and response efforts for marine mammal strandings; collect consistent, high-quality data that are used to determine causes of strandings and death; support research projects; and engage in public education and outreach. Specifically, the position will help monitor a 24-hour stranding hotline; assist with and lead field stranding response; collect, archive and inventory samples; lead and participate in necropsies; manage data and documentation, including writing reports; maintain equipment and ensure safe and clean lab conditions; assist with public outreach activities and volunteer coordination; contribute to research projects, conduct data mining, and data analyses. *Minimum Qualifications:* *Education:* BS degree in biology, marine science, wildlife biology, or other relevant field. *Minimum previous experience:* 1 yr of experience in a related field *Requirements:* Valid driver’s license and clean driving record; Applicant is required to obtain an Alabama vessel license and complete a DISL boating safety class, and should be willing to obtain a hazardous materials shipping certification within 6 months of employment. Occasional out-of-state and overnight travel required. *Skills and Abilities:* - Strong written and verbal communication skills in a professional setting, including ease of speaking to the public and responsible use of social media - Physically fit, able to lift at least 50 lbs and strong swimmer - Ability to endure long hours under harsh field conditions, including temperatures ranging 20°F-100°F, rain, humidity and biting insects - Ability to establish and maintain effective and cooperative working relationships - Ability to work independently, think logically and apply problem-solving techniques - Calm demeanor under stressful conditions - Willingness to work irregular hours, including nights, weekends and holidays and be responsive and reliable at all times is essential - Knowledge and experience operating large vehicles, ATVs, kayaks, vessels up to 24’ and trailering - Must carry a “go-bag” when on-call and have dependable transportation for rapid response outside of normal business hours - Knowledge of marine mammal conservation issues, especially relating human interactions - Experience with computer software such as MS Office, and ArcGIS - Prior experience with stranding response and necropsy (marine mammal or other relevant large-animal experience) is a plus - Familiarity with MMPA, NOAA/NMFS and USFWS stranding protocols The position is full-time for 1-year, with the possibility of extension based on funding and performance. Pay is competitive and will be commensurate with experience. *Supervision:* The Stranding Biologist will be directly supervised by the Stranding Programs Manager in collaboration with the MMRP Director. *Applicants must be able to legally work in the U.S. at the time of application, without employer sponsorship. *Interested applicants, please send a *cover letter, CV, list of three references and date of availability *to *ALMMSN(a)disl.org* <ALMMSN(a)disl.org> before *June 1, 2025 *to be considered. *Application review will begin immediately *and will continue until a successful applicant is chosen. DISL is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from the pool of candidates without regard to identity information. Established in 2011, ALMMSN is a cooperative regional stranding network partner that works in conjunction with NOAA's NMFS and USFWS to respond to dolphin, whale and manatee strandings. ALMMSN responds to an average of 40 cetacean and 3 manatee strandings annually, including 1-3 live marine mammal strandings per year. 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(a)disl.org. <almmsn(a)disl.org>

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MARMAM - MMO and PAM Level 1 training at remotely via Microsoft Teams + Cardigan Bay Wales UK Boat trip
by Zoe Wright 08 May '25

08 May '25

Seiche Training MMO and PAM Level 1 training at remotely via Microsoft Teams (first come first serve basis) + Cardigan Bay Wales UK Boat trip. * 16-17 June Remote Learning MMO with (optional) PSO * 18,19 + 27th June Remote Learning PAM Level 1 + Boat trip Cardigan Bay Wales UK JNCC MMO/PSO 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. Delegates of the MMO training also have the option of joining the Boat trip on 16th May included in this training. first come first serve basis. 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 Cardigan Bay Harbour, 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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Training workshop on Cetacean Necropsy - Portugal
by Carolina Bento 07 May '25

07 May '25

We are pleased to invite you to a hands-on training workshop on Cetacean Necropsy, taking place on the 23rd and 24th of May 2025 at Escola Universitária Vasco da Gama, in Coimbra, in cooperation with ECOMARE and SPVS. This event is designed for veterinarians, biologists, and students with an interest in marine mammal health and conservation. The workshop will be led by Dr. Manuel Hartmann, a veterinarian with recognized expertise in cetacean pathology and stranding response. Program Highlights: * Theoretical Session: * Overview of cetacean strandings: causes, context, and response strategies * Introduction to cetacean pathology and disease surveillance * Standardized necropsy procedures and sampling protocols * Best practices in data recording and sample handling * Practical Session: * Full necropsy demonstration on a stranded cetacean * Guided dissection and identification of key anatomical and pathological features * Hands-on training in tissue sampling and preservation * Group discussion and case interpretation This workshop offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in cetacean postmortem examination and to better understand the health challenges facing these marine species. The training follows internationally recognized guidelines and emphasizes the importance of accurate data collection for conservation and research purposes. 📎More information and full details about the workshop here<https://www.euvg.pt/formacao/workshop-on-cetacean-necropsy/> or via the link: https://www.euvg.pt/formacao/workshop-on-cetacean-necropsy/ For any additional information or clarification, please contact: formacao(a)euvg.pt<mailto:formacao@euvg.pt> Carolina Bento, DVM MsC PhD GPcert(US) [cid:image003.jpg@01DBBF64.B44A3AC0] AVISO Esta mensagem (incluindo quaisquer anexos) pode conter informação confidencial para uso exclusivo do destinatário. Se não for o destinatário pretendido, não deverá usar, distribuir ou copiar este e-mail. Se recebeu esta mensagem por engano, por favor informe o emissor e elimine-a imediatamente. Obrigado. DISCLAIMER This e-mail (including any attachments) may contain confidential information for exclusive use of its recipient. If you are not the intended recipient you must not use, distribute or copy this e-mail. If you have received this e-mail in error please notify the sender and delete it immediately. Thank You.

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New paper on Tooth wear and dental calculus in a group of orca stranded in New Zealand
by Carolina Loch Silva 06 May '25

06 May '25

Dear MARMAM subscribers, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the publication of the following paper in the Journal of the Royal Society of New Zealand: *Tooth wear and dental calculus in a group of orca (Orcinus orca) stranded on the New Zealand southern coast* Carolina Loch, Ingrid N. Visser, Kali Stratford, Sophie White,Joe Wakefield, Stewart Bull, Lydia Matenga, Muriel Johnstone andRamari Oliphant-Stewart https://doi.org/10.1080/03036758.2025.2491510 *Abstract* In 2014, a group of nine orca stranded in Te Waewae Bay, Western Southland, and their remains were collected, processed and studied in partnership with Ōraka Aparima Rūnaka. A total of 436 teeth were analysed to determine the location, type and intensity scores of tooth wear. The presence of dental calculus and percentage surface coverage was assessed on 1744 surfaces. Tooth wear and calculus were investigated in relation to sex and total body length (as a proxy for age). All orca had some degree of tooth wear; however, most teeth were worn superficially. Only two individuals had severe wear as the most common wear type; nonetheless, no exposure of the pulp cavity was observed. There were slightly lower wear scores in the upper dentition and wear scores were associated with body length. Calculus varied within and between orca, with eight of the nine having calculus deposits present. More calculus was found on the upper dentition on mesial and buccal aspects. Despite the limited number of individuals analysed here, the opportunity to investigate patterns of tooth wear and calculus in a group of nine wild orca was enabled by the research partnership with significant support of the local community. Full text is available at: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/03036758.2025.2491510 Or alternatively, a *pdf* can be requested at: carolina.loch(a)otago.ac.nz Best regards, *ASSOC PROF CAROLINA LOCH* (She/Her) *PhD Associate Professor in Oral Biology and Deputy Director, Sir John Walsh Research Institute* Faculty of Dentistry University of Otago | Otakou Whakaihu Waka Tel*/Waea* +64 3 479 9255 Dunedin | Otepoti PO Box 56, Dunedin 9054 New Zealand | Aotearoa Website*/Pae tukutuku* https://www.otago.ac.nz/dentistry/about/people/expertise/profile?id=2033

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New publication: Ecology and conservation of socially learned foraging tactics in odontocetes
by Taylor Hersh 06 May '25

06 May '25

Dear MARMAM community, On behalf of my coauthors, I’m pleased to share our recent publication in Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: “Ecology and conservation of socially learned foraging tactics in odontocetes” Abstract: Culture—group-typical behaviour shared by community members that rely on socially learned and transmitted information—can drive animal adaptations to local environments and thus has the potential of generating specialized behavioural tactics to solve fundamental life challenges, including capturing prey. However, as human activities rapidly change the world in unprecedented ways, animal foraging cultures may no longer represent optimal solutions to local environments. Odontocetes (toothed whales, dolphins and porpoises) are of particular concern because they rely on learned, specialized foraging tactics in habitats highly affected by human activities. We present a global inventory of odontocete foraging tactics to evaluate their cultural underpinnings, vulnerability to human-induced threats and how this knowledge can inform safeguards. Our synthesis reveals a diverse repertoire—190 cases of 36 foraging tactics in 21 species—but highlights that linkages between culture and anthropogenic impacts are generally obscured by a dearth of data on individual identity, social associations and behavioural diffusion. By identifying global patterns, knowledge gaps and common threats to specialized foraging, our review can guide long-term research towards understanding their ecological and evolutionary drivers. This crucial first step towards designing policies that mitigate human impacts on marine habitats may ultimately protect the diverse odontocete behavioural repertoires that contribute to their survival. The paper is open access and can be read and downloaded here: https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rstb.2024.0134 Cheers, Taylor Hersh (she/her/hers) taylor.hersh(a)bristol.ac.uk Human Frontier Science Program Postdoctoral Fellow School of Biological Sciences University of Bristol Current time zone: Australia Western Standard Time (UTC/GMT +8)

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New publication: Integrating cultural dimensions in sperm whale conservation: threats, challenges and solutions
by Isabel C. Avila 05 May '25

05 May '25

Dear MARMAMs, I am happy to share a new review paper titled 'Integrating Cultural Dimensions in Sperm Whale (*Physeter macrocephalus*) Conservation: Threats, Challenges, and Solutions,' led by first author Dr. Eguiguren: Eguiguren, A., Avila I.C., Mesnick S., Cantor M., Hersh T., Pérez-Puig H., Rosero P.,Rendell L., Whitehead H., Rojas C. & Alava J. J. 2025. Integrating cultural dimensions in sperm whale (*Physeter macrocephalus*) conservation: threats,challenges and solutions. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: 38020240142. http://doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2024.0142 This review highlights how culture—socially transmitted behaviors—affects the structure, vulnerability, and resilience of sperm whale populations, particularly in the Eastern Tropical Pacific (ETP). ETP sperm whales face numerous human-caused threats, such as fishing conflicts, pollution, and climate change, which hinder their population growth. Although a 2017 UN initiative recognized the importance of cultural considerations in their conservation, significant knowledge and implementation gaps remain. The article calls for stronger international collaboration and the use of advanced technologies to better integrate cultural dimensions into conservation strategies for this vulnerable species. The article is available at: https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rstb.2024.0142 Thank you, Isabel C. Avila

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DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP PROGRAM IN PORTUGAL
by AIMM Internships 05 May '25

05 May '25

*BACKGROUND: *The Marine Environment Research Association - AIMM, is a non-profit, non-governmental organization focused on the research and conservation of marine species, running an ongoing study of cetaceans in southern Portugal (Algarve). This project aims to obtain baseline information on species occurrence, behavior, and social structure of the local cetacean populations in order to obtain scientific data to support conservation measures and inform marine management policies. The main species observed are Short-beaked common dolphins (Delphinus delphis), Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), and Harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena), although other species such as Minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) and Fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) can also be sighted. AIMM Interns are young, hard-working individuals who are willing to contribute to the association and support on-going activities, while experiencing fieldwork at sea, learning data collection and processing methodologies, and being a part of AIMM's team of researchers and marine biologists. All team members and participants share accommodation, house tasks, knowledge and experience in an friendly and multicultural environment. Interns have the additional option to enrich their time with AIMM by beginning or improving their SCUBA skills with a PADI-certified instructor, hiking, kayaking, surf classes and others. *WHERE:* Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal *WHEN:* The field season lasts from June to end of November 2025. The minimum internship attendance is 14 days. *FIELDWORK: *The field trips are conducted in AIMM's research vessel, Ketos, commercial dolphin watching boats and from the shore. Fieldwork is dependent on weather conditions. The field days can be intense, especially in the peak of summer but are fulfilling and good fun. The interns will be trained to: - Conduct on-board surveys of marine species occurrence; - Record effort tracks on a handheld GPS; - Access and collect environmental data; - Collect data on behavior, group size, species, etc.; - Collect photos to photo-identification, acoustic recording, and underwater videos; - Help to collect of drone footage from the marine mammals; - Land base monitoring of marine mammals. *DATA ANALYSIS: *This will be conducted on a daily basis and will entail entering data into established databases and spreadsheets, photo-identification processing, and preliminary data interpretation. *INTERNSHIP FEES:* AIMM is a non-profit organization that relies on donations from our volunteers, partners, and conservation-minded people like you so that we may continue our important research and education programs in the Algarve. This internship requires a monetary contribution which is used to off-set the cost of accommodation and running a non-profit. For more information on internship fees for the 2025 season, please contact: interns(a)aimmportugal.org *Included* in the fee is: - Accommodation in AIMM field station; - Transportation to/from the marina; - All meals at home (breakfast, lunch, and dinner); - Fieldwork; - Theoretical classes. *Not included* in the fee is: - Transportation to/from Albufeira; - Meals in restaurants; - Free time activities; - Personal insurance (all participants should have health and/or travel insurance); - Others personal expenses. *INTERNS ARE EXPECTED TO:* - Be above the age of 16; - Have a mature attitude towards marine mammal research and environment; - Be autonomous and flexible; - Be able to live and work in an international team and mainly outdoors at sea; - Speak English; - Participate for minimum 7 days. *Preference will be given* to those who have: - Relevant marine mammal field experience - Working experience on research vessels - Experience working from dolphin/whale watching platforms - Experience in photo-identification - Availability to stay for longer periods of time *INTERNSHIP APPLICATION:* You can apply on AIMM website here <http://www.aimmportugal.org/opportunities/dolphin-research-internship/>*.* *or * Send us an e-mail to: interns(a)aimmportugal.org, with the subject “*DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP*” with your CV and motivation letter. We will send you a confirmation email with the availability and all the other details. Applications will be accepted during all season. However, early application is recommended due to limited vacancies. The follow links are a shorts videos about the internship in Albufeira. You get a different perspective and feedback from old participants about it: http://bit.ly/aimm-movie <https://bit.ly/AIMM-movie> https://youtu.be/hTJJQPHBdI0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4zTIEQEsftA *Contacts*: interns(a)aimmportugal.org | www.aimmportugal.org | Thank you, AIMM Team [image: Logo AIMM] <https://www.aimmportugal.org/> Associação para Investigação do Meio Marinho *Marine Environment Research Association* m: (00351) 912596211 e: interns(a)aimmportugal.org www.aimmportugal.org <https://www.facebook.com/AIMM.org> <https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8jcTONJZsvaQ3tZiQtRFNQ> <https://www.linkedin.com/company/aimm-portugal---marine-environment-researc…> <https://www.instagram.com/aimmportugal_org/>

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3rd an last 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 03 May '25

03 May '25

Dear MARMAM Community, We are excited to present the program of our workshop entitled *"Marine Mammal Conservation: Ethical Perspectives in a Climate of Urgency"*. 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). If you are interested in participating it is still possible to register online or on-site with us directly. Location: University of The Açores, Ponta Delgada, São Miguel Island, Portugal 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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Public Comment Period Open: Offshore Oil & Gas Leasing Program – Deadline June 16, 2025
by Cory Hom-Weaver 02 May '25

02 May '25

Dear MARMAM community, The U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has opened a 45-day public comment period for the 11th National Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) Oil and Gas Leasing Program. This program outlines potential offshore oil and gas lease sales, including areas off the coast of California. The comment period began on April 30, 2025, and will close on June 16, 2025. Given the potential impacts of offshore drilling on marine mammals and coastal ecosystems, your input is crucial. BOEM is seeking comments on all 27 planning areas, including those along the Pacific coast. *How to Submit Comments:* - *Online:* Visit regulations.gov <https://www.regulations.gov/docket/BOEM-2025-0015/document> and follow the instructions to submit your comments electronically.Bureau of Ocean Energy Management <https://www.boem.gov/oil-gas-energy/national-program/national-ocs-oil-and-g…> - *By Mail:* Send written comments in an envelope labeled “Comments for the 11th National OCS Oil and Gas Leasing Program” to: Kelly Hammerle Bureau of Ocean Energy Management 45600 Woodland Road Sterling, VA 20166-9216 All comments must be received by June 16, 2025. For more information, please refer to the official BOEM announcement <https://www.boem.gov/oil-gas-energy/national-program/national-ocs-oil-and-g…> Best Regards -- *Cory Hom-Weaver* *Senior Marine Bioacoustician & Ecologist* Ocean Science Analytics 📞 (808) 635-5075

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