September 2025 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Seeking Comment on the U.S. Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972
by Charles Hamilton 25 Sep '25

25 Sep '25

Dear Colleagues, In the United States the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, has been key to our marine mammal conservation and recovery – truly a success story. Our Congress is currently considering amending this law and members are seeking comments and suggestions. I hope many of you, especially those who are here in the US, will provide comment especially to Congressman Begich of Alaska. The following link provides additional information - 092325_marine_mammal_prot_act.pdf<https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/static/species/pdfs/092325_marine_mammal_prot_a…> Kind Regards, Charles Hamilton Anchorage, Alaska

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New Publication - Epigenetics in Lahille's Bottlenose Dolphins in Brazil
by Ashley Barratclough 25 Sep '25

25 Sep '25

Dear Colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to share an Open Access Publication in Endangered Species Research entitled "Application of epigenetics to understand the demography of the Lahille’s bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus gephyreus”. ABSTRACT: Estimation of age in wild cetaceans is pivotal for effective conservation, enabling insight into population demographics and long-term viability. Handling cetaceans can be challenging; therefore, developing remote sampling tools to assess age is critical. Epigenetics, specifically DNA methylation, provides an opportunity to develop a remote sampling diagnostic aging tool using DNA extracted from skin biopsy samples. DNA methylation is the addition of methyl groups to cytosine-phosphate-guanine (CpG) sites, and the degree of methylation at a subset of sites has been shown to be correlated with aging (among other biological processes). The degree of methylation can be used to provide chronological age estimates using models called epigenetic clocks. We applied an epigenetic clock previously trained on 358 skin samples from bottlenose dolphins Tursiops spp. from southeastern USA to Lahille’s bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus gephyreus (Ttg), a vulnerable South American cetacean. With less than 600 individuals remaining and ~360 females capable of reproducing, local populations are vulnerable to extinction. Remote biopsy skin samples were collected from 51 Ttg from the Patos Lagoon Estuary and adjacent coastal waters in Southern Brazil to enable DNA extraction, age estimation, and sex determination. The applied Tursiops epigenetic clock model predicted ages ranging from 1 to 45 yr. DNA methylation analysis also facilitated sex identification, confirming 22 females and 29 males. Knowledge of a population’s age and sex structure can inform survival prediction, reproductive capacity, and, subsequently, population recovery, which is of particular importance in the conservation and management of small, isolated, and endangered populations. Barratclough A, Genoves RC, Schwacke L, Fruet P, Tatsch AC, Himes Boor GK, Secchi ER, Gomez FM, Smith CR (2025) Application of epigenetics to understand the demography of the Lahille’s bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus gephyreus. Endang Species Res 58:137-146 https://doi.org/10.3354/esr01441 Thanks so much for your interest and I’d be happy to answer any questions. Best Wishes, Ashley Ashley Barratclough BVetMed, MSc WAH, MS, PhD, MRCVS Conservation Medicine Veterinarian National Marine Mammal Foundation 2240 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego, CA

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Seasonal Stranding Response Technician Opportunity with National Aquarium
by Shaffer, Kate 25 Sep '25

25 Sep '25

Good Morning- The National Aquarium is seeking applicants to fill the seasonal Stranding Response Technician role based out of our Stranding Response Center in Ocean City Maryland. Please share this with your networks. Qualified applicants can apply at the following link: https://recruiting.ultipro.com/NAT1020NAQUA/JobBoard/807a3c85-8038-7ec5-5c5… Job Title: Stranding Response Technician Posting Date: September 2025 Job Department: Animal Rescue - 290 Schedule: Full Time Seasonal (November 2025 –May 2026) Job Type: On-site Location: National Aquarium Stranding Response Center- Ocean City Municipal Complex, 65th Street, Ocean City, MD. (410) 576-3880 JOB SUMMARY: The National Aquarium is seeking a Stranding Response Technician (Full-Time Seasonal November 2025-May 2026) that will be providing regional field response to and disposition of live-stranded marine animals and performing triage operations independently under the direction of the Stranding Response & Triage Manager. This position supports improving the capacity for field response to emergency events involving live marine mammals and sea turtles in Maryland. As scheduled, provide rotating on-call coverage of the 24-hr Stranding Hotline. NOTE: This is a field position for the National Aquarium that will be based along the Atlantic Coast of Maryland, within the primary area of stranding response. The final candidate will be expected to reside in close proximity to the primary response area. KEY REQUIREMENTS: Essential responsibilities include: * Provide field response to and triage of live stranded marine mammals and sea turtles along the Atlantic Coast and Eastern Shore of Maryland, according to established protocols. * Provide exemplary care, welfare, and final disposition of stranded animals under the care of the National Aquarium in the field and in triage, including humane euthanasia cases, in conjunction with the Stranding Response Manager and veterinarians. * Lead animal assessments, patient care, and treatment of pinnipeds and sea turtles undergoing triage, in collaboration with veterinarians and the Stranding Response & Triage Manager. * Accountable for the safe restraint and handling of animals during husbandry and clinical procedures by both staff and volunteers. * Ensures accuracy of all stranding related records (animal, accession, and related) in accordance with federal and Aquarium standards using animal management software and hardcopy files. * Assists with necropsy of animals, in conjunction with the Stranding Response Manager, veterinarians and MD Department of Natural Resources. * Improves capacity for field response to emergency events involving marine mammals and sea turtles, including mass strandings, live large whales, hazardous material spills, UME’s, natural disasters, out of habitat situations, and entanglement cases. * Implements Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Incident Action Plans (IAPs) related to stranding response; manages events under the Incident Command System and ensures volunteer and animal safety. * Support maintenance of the triage facility; ensure readiness by maintaining equipment and supplies necessary for response, recovery, transport, and triage. * Support a team of response and seal steward volunteers, providing training and guidance in animal field assessment, safe handling and restraint, data collection, and triage protocols, as well as assisting with the coordination and delivery of annual training events * Implement Animal Rescue outreach activities and programs related to stranding response, with the goal of engaging the public and youth in action-oriented programs. * As scheduled, provide rotating on-call coverage of the 24-hr Stranding Hotline, and provide exemplary customer service. * Support communications with the Regional and National Stranding Networks; collaborates with federal (NOAA Fisheries Service and US Fish and Wildlife Service), state (MD Department of Natural Resources) and local municipalities, as well as regional partners in matters relating to live-stranded marine mammals or sea turtles. * Supports digital content including photos, video, and website stories. Assists with public and media relations as directed. * Other duties as assigned or required QUALIFICATIONS: Required: * Bachelor’s degree in biology, aquatic sciences, environmental or related science or equivalent experience * Minimum of two years previous professional work experience with a stranding response and/or rehabilitation organization including experience working with live pinnipeds * Employees assigned to this position must possess and maintain a valid and current motor vehicle operator’s license, have an acceptable driving record, and possess the ability to drive a variety of vehicles (cars, vans/trucks) * Ability and willingness to work a flexible schedule including weekends, holidays and evenings * Ability to climb ladders, lift and carry 50 lbs, and physically restrain large, wild animals * Ability and willingness to mentor and train interns and volunteers Preferred: * Proficiency in phlebotomy and blood sample processing for seals and sea turtles * Familiarity with electronic animal record keeping software systems (i.e. Tracks, ZIMS, etc.) * CPR/AED and basic First-Aid Certification * 24hr HAZWOPER Certification Competencies: * Must have detailed knowledge about marine mammal and/or sea turtle biology and have an affinity for wild animals, including a comfort level around large and/or aggressive animals. * Competent regarding wound treatment, preparation and administration of oral and injectable medications, basic diagnostics, and familiar with quarantine protocols. * Must be able to apply solid knowledge of biology to a stranding response & triage setting. * Adept at observation and the ability to watch for changes in patient health and monitor changes in behavior. * Must have the capacity to make decisions, based on the best interest of the animals, public health, and staff safety. * Must be able to work productively in a teamwork environment. * Familiarity with computers is necessary, including MS Office software (Word/Excel/Teams), Zoom, and Adobe; ability to learn & effectively use all proprietary Aquarium software. * Must be able to follow established policies and protocols. * Must be able to work well under direction and have capacity to absorb feedback from manager or staff and have the capacity to decide when to act independently and when to seek consultation from manager. TOTAL COMPENSATION INFORMATION: Salary range ($43,900-50,099 Annual). National Aquarium provides an excellent benefits package, including four weeks paid time off, and six paid floating holidays and up to four weeks of paid family leave. Employees are eligible for health care (single and family) after 30 days of full-time work. Conservation day leave and 401(k) plan with employer match available. About the National Aquarium Established in 1981, the National Aquarium in Baltimore, Maryland, is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to connect people with nature to inspire compassion and care for our ocean planet. The Aquarium’s award-winning habitats are home to thousands of animals representing hundreds of species of fish, birds, amphibians, reptiles and mammals. We are proud to be accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and exceed industry standards in all aspects of animal care and welfare. More than 1.2 million people visit the Aquarium each year to experience our immersive exhibits, and we reach far more through our science-based education programs and hands-on field conservation work. The National Aquarium is one of the top three aquariums in the United States and the largest paid cultural attraction in Maryland. Our Mission and Goals The Aquarium’s mission—to connect people with nature to inspire compassion and care for our ocean planet—begins within the walls of its buildings, but it does not end there. The Aquarium protects, enhances and restores natural resources through education and engagement, habitat restoration, animal rescue and sustainable business practices, with its conservation work guided by three overarching goals—to combat climate change, save wildlife and habitats, and stop plastic pollution. Our Values At the National Aquarium, our core values form the basis for our beliefs about our organization, our colleagues and ourselves, and serve as the framework to guide our behaviors and actions to achieve our mission. Connection: We take the time to build lasting connections with each other, our guests, the animals in our care and the nature that surrounds us. We communicate clearly and collaborate readily within and across teams. We engage thoughtfully with our partners. We practice shared accountability. Curiosity: We center learning and growth in all that we do. Our people are empowered to explore new approaches. We support taking risks. We value diverse perspectives and bold ideas. We embrace change. Optimism: We celebrate the power of positive moments and shared experiences. We seek out opportunities to have fun. We reconnect with our purpose through sharing successes with our colleagues. Service: We are in service to each other, our guests and our communities. We make intentional decisions and actions for the benefit of the people and animals within our organization. Wellbeing: We ensure our people and animals have what they need mentally and physically to thrive. We are committed to improving the wellbeing of communities and sharing the healing power of natural for all. Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice National Aquarium values an inclusive and diverse environment for all employees, volunteers, and interns. Our goal is to recruit, develop, and retain the most talented people from a candidate pool representative of the variety of communities we serve. With a commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice, the Aquarium is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and promotes an environment free from all discrimination and harassment. In the selection and retention of employees, volunteers, and interns, we do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social, or ethnic origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, physical, mental, or sensory disability, sex (including pregnancy or childbirth), marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, arrest record, family or caregiver status, HIV status, socioeconomic status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Our organization is dedicated to this policy with respect to all terms and conditions of employment, including but not limited to recruitment, training, promotions, performance management, and separation, and general treatment during time of employment. Kate Shaffer Stranding Response and Triage Manager, National Aquarium KShaffer(a)aqua.org|www.aqua.org tel410-986-2378cell443-890-0790 Report sick or injured marinelife to our stranding hotline: 410-576-3880 National Aquarium Stranding Response Center 6405 Seabay Drive, Bldg #2600 Ocean City, MD 21842 We are a private nonprofit organization whose mission is to connect people with nature to inspire compassion and care for our ocean planet.

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Humpback Whale World Congress – Tadoussac, Québec (October 15–19, 2025)
by Lyne Morissette 24 Sep '25

24 Sep '25

Dear colleagues, The Humpback Whale World Congress (www.hwwc.mg ) will begin in just three weeks, from October 16 to 19, 2025, in Tadoussac, Québec, at the heart of the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park. Our Honorary President will be Pierre-Henry Fontaine, and the program features keynote presentations by Joy Reidenberg, Robert Michaud, Erich Hoyt, Phil Clapham, and Ted Cheeseman. In addition to plenary sessions and scientific talks from international experts, a full day of workshops will take place on Friday, October 17, addressing: • Industrial ports and maritime traffic • Fisheries and whale coexistence • Marine Protected Areas and conservation policy • Marine engineering and innovations (passive acoustics, visual observations, robotics, AI, eDNA) The Congress will bring together scientists, conservationists, Indigenous partners, industry representatives, and NGOs to foster dialogue and concrete actions for humpback whale conservation worldwide. We look forward to welcoming you to Tadoussac this October. Best regards, Lyne On behalf of the HWWC 2025 Organizing Committee 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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CWC - Seasonal Marine Program Assistant
by Heather Henderson 24 Sep '25

24 Sep '25

California Wildlife Center Located in the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains, California Wildlife Center (CWC) plays a critical role in the protection of Southern California's marine life. Our dedicated Marine Mammal Team responds to reports of distressed pinnipeds and cetaceans along the beaches of Malibu in Los Angeles County. Each year, we respond to over 200 marine mammals, providing rescue, rehabilitation support, and vital field assessments. Through our work, we not only save individual animals but also gather essential data on native marine species and the changing environmental conditions they face. At CWC, our mission is to take responsibility for the protection of native wildlife through rehabilitation, education, and conservation. We are dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of native California species, who otherwise would be left to suffer from the effects of human encroachment, habitat destruction and environmental damage. Job Position: Seasonal Marine Program Assistant Summary: This is a full-time (35 hours/week), seasonal, hourly position. The Seasonal Marine Program Assistant (MPA) is an experienced marine mammal rehabilitative care provider, who works under the supervision of the Marine Program Manager, Stranding Coordinator, Director of Animal Care and often without supervision. This position operates from March through July 2026. There is potential for extension through August 2026, caseload and schedule dependent. Extension is not guaranteed or required. Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following (other duties may be assigned): * Perform all duties of a marine mammal rehabilitator including, but not limited to: large animal restraint, patient intakes, oversee and perform general husbandry tasks of marine mammal patients, administer medication and fluid therapies, gavage feeding of seals and sea lions, assist with patient releases, maintain all rehabilitation equipment and enclosures. * Provide CWC marine mammal program support. * Provide marine animal response, rescue, and transport. * Facilitate volunteer and intern training and leadership. * Work with Marine Program staff to assess stranded marine mammals as soon as possible. * Utilize a tracking system for animals placed on 24-hour watch. * Transport of stranded marine mammals to the appropriate rehabilitation facility. * Manage maintenance of assigned equipment. * Maintain high quality records of all patients on site and data collected during stranding responses. * Establish and maintain good rapport with representatives of various public agencies and ensure compliance with all applicable regulations. * Assist in the response and collection of dead-stranded marine mammals. * Perform rescues of injured and contaminated marine birds within our response area. * Responsible for closely supervising up to four volunteers/interns per shift, ensuring that all safety guidelines are followed while performing rescues, completing husbandry tasks, and providing care for all patients. Experience and Requirements: * Two years’ direct experience in pinniped rehabilitation and husbandry. * Must have a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record and be comfortable driving a 12-person van (Ford Transit VN) and a Ford F-150 extended cab pickup truck. * Must be able to work cooperatively with co-workers, volunteers, interns, and the public. * Must be able to work quickly, efficiently, and calmly under stressful conditions. * Must be able to efficiently handle multiple responsibilities. * Must possess good verbal and written communication skills. * Upon hire, must pass a background check and show proof of COVID-19 vaccination. * Commitment to professionalism. Desired qualifications: * BA/BS or higher degree (preference given to marine biology fields of study). * Excellent public relations skills. Supervisory Responsibilities Oversee teams of up to four people per shift. Works with the Marine Program Manager and Stranding Coordinator to provide a safe environment for staff and volunteers to perform and expand their skillsets. Contact: To apply, please email cover letter and resume to Heather Henderson (hhenderson(a)cawildlife.org<mailto:hhenderson@cawildlife.org>) We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcome a diverse pool of applicants. EOE/M/F/D/V/SO Heather Henderson Marine Program Manager California Wildlife Center P.O. Box 2022 Malibu CA 90265 310/458-WILD (9453) cawildlife.org 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Job Announcement: Postdoctoral Researcher – Social Dynamics in Killer Whales
by Croft, Darren 23 Sep '25

23 Sep '25

Dear colleagues, We are currently hiring a three-year Postdoctoral Research Associate to join our team at the University of Exeter (UK), working with myself, Dr Samuel Ellis (Exeter), Prof Daniel Franks (York), and Dr Michael Weiss (Center for Whale Research, USA). This NERC-funded project in collaboration with the Center for Whale Research (Orcas // Killer Whales | United States | Center For Whale Research<https://www.whaleresearch.com/>), will investigate how information access influences social dynamics in resident killer whales, utilising a unique 50-year dataset on the critically endangered Southern Resident killer whale population. The PDRA will coordinate and conduct advanced analyses of long-term behavioural and ecological data, integrate diverse datasets, and test predictions about the drivers and consequences of social and ecological dynamics. This role offers the chance to work at the interface of behavioural ecology, conservation, and data science, addressing fundamental questions about social behaviour while generating insights directly relevant to the conservation of an iconic species. Full advertisement and application details are available here: Postdoctoral Research Associate at University of Exeter<https://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/DOT336/postdoctoral-research-associate> The post is anticipated to begin on 1st November (or as soon as possible thereafter) and end on 31st October 2028. Applications close on 19th October 2025. Prospective candidates can contact me (Darren Croft) about the opportunity d.p.croft(a)exeter.ac.uk Best Wishes Darren Darren P. Croft Professor of Behavioural Ecology Centre for Research in Animal Behaviour 01392 725649 http://www.psychology.ex.ac.uk/resgrp/abgroup.shtml

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Author needed for minke whale chapter - Handbook of Marine Mammals, Second Edition
by Thomas Jefferson 23 Sep '25

23 Sep '25

Dear MARMAM, We are looking for an author to prepare the chapter on the Common minke whale Balaenoptera acutorostrata Lacepede, 1804 for the upcoming Handbook of Marine Mammals, Second Edition (Academic Press/Elsevier). This will be in Volume 4 on baleen whales, and the draft chapter is due on 1 April 2026, about 6 months from now. Ideally, we are looking for someone who has extensive experience with this species. Let me know if you have any questions or would like to volunteer to lead the chapter. You may include 2-3 co-authors, if needed, to help with the writing. Bestwishes, Tom ********************************************************************* Thomas A. Jefferson, Ph.D. Clymene Enterprises / ¡VIVA Vaquita! 13037 Yerba Valley Way Lakeside, CA 92040 USA Email: sclymene(a)aol.com *********************************************************************

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New publication on the trophic ecology of Atlantic spotted dolphins
by Mariana C Neves 23 Sep '25

23 Sep '25

Dear all, My co-authors and I are pleased to share our new publication: Neves MC, Tovar LR, Montanini G, Azevedo AF, Cunha HA, Lailson-Brito J, Bisi TL. Trophic ecology of Atlantic spotted dolphins (*Stenella frontalis*) in a tropical bay of the Southwestern Atlantic Ocean. Global Ecology and Conservation. 2025 Sep 11:e03847. Abstract: Information on the trophic ecology of top predators such as cetaceans is critical for understanding their role in ecosystem structure. Furthermore, populations of the same species can exhibit different feeding ecologies, with intraspecific variation leading to unique dynamics. Atlantic spotted dolphins (*Stenella frontalis*) use Ilha Grande Bay, southeastern Brazil, as an important feeding area, with some individuals showing site fidelity. However, there is no previous information on the feeding ecology of this species in this region. Stable isotope analysis of carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) in Atlantic spotted dolphins (n = 28) and their primary prey species (n = 8) was carried out to provide a better understanding of the feeding habits of these dolphins and the potential risks of ecosystem disturbances on their population dynamics. Mixing models indicated that teleost fishes from the Sciaenidae and Trichiuridae families contributed most to the diet of both sexes throughout the year. The models also indicated a foraging preference within a demersal habitat. The relative contributions of prey species to the diet were similar between the sexes. Still, females showed a broader isotopic niche area, greater isotopic diversity, and lower trophic redundancy than males. Thus, this study indicates a degree of similarity in the feeding ecology of female and male Atlantic spotted dolphins, but also reveals some segregation, either in foraging habitat selection or in prey selection. It also highlights the dietary preferences of commercially important species in the area, which may have conservation implications for these dolphins, either in terms of population health or dynamics. The paper can be accessed at https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gecco.2025.e03847 Best regards, Mariana --- Mariana Cappello Neves, Dr. Laboratório de Mamíferos Aquáticos e Bioindicadores (MAQUA) Faculdade de Oceanografia - Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro

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Internship opportunity (funded): Sea Otter Research Internship
by Leilani Konrad 23 Sep '25

23 Sep '25

The Sea Otter Program at the Monterey Bay Aquarium is hiring one paid research interns for the January-July 2026 field season. This is a paid, part-time, term position with a six-month commitment of 20-25 hours each week. Core Responsibilities include but are not limited to, data collection from shore and occasionally on a small boat using radio telemetry equipment and making visual observations with spotting scopes. Will record daily re-sights, movement patterns, and forage observations, on tagged and untagged individual sea otters. A research-based project will be required at the end of the internship. Desired Skills / Knowledge / Ability / Experience or Education * Strong Interest in animal behavior, natural history, and marine science/ecology * Attention to detail * Ability to multitask * Ability to work independently with minimal direct supervision * Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications * Familiarity with ArcGIS and R is a plus Early submission of applications is encouraged. The deadline to apply to this opportunity is October 24, 2025. For more information on the position and to apply, visit our website: https://recruiting2.ultipro.com/MON1023MBAF/JobBoard/84cdbbe5-6ebd-4432-86f… [cid:5933e385-111a-45f6-9316-2c628e2b8dbd] Leilani Konrad (Pronouns<https://www.montereybayaquarium.org/visit/visitor-faqs/accessibility-and-in…>: she/her/hers) Senior Research Biologist O: 831.648.4941 MontereyBayAquarium.org<https://www.montereybayaquarium.org> Inspiring conservation of the ocean

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Seeking Volunteer ASL Interpreters
by Shiva Jian-Javdan 22 Sep '25

22 Sep '25

Dear MARMAM Community, The Society for Marine Mammalogy (link <https://marinemammalscience.org/>) is a non-profit organization founded in 1981. The Society aims to promote the global advancement of marine mammal science and contribute to its relevance and impact in education, conservation and management. Part of the Society's objectives is to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in its membership, leadership, and readership. As such, the Society's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee is currently seeking volunteer ASL Interpreters (or students working towards certification). Interpreters will be expected to join monthly, virtual meetings and facilitate translation of spoken language (English) to American Sign Language and sign language to spoken language. Knowledge of marine mammal sciences is not required for the position(s). If you or anyone you know is interested in this role, please reach out to us (diversity(a)marinemammalscience.org) We kindly ask that in your initial email (using "Volunteer ASL Interpreter" in the subject line), you include a brief statement of interest and an updated resume. Thank you! Sincerely, Shiva Jian-Javdan -- Shiva Jian-Javdan Chair, Diversity and Inclusion Committee Society for Marine Mammalogy diversity(a)marinemammalscience.org

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