September 2025 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Final call: workshop registration St Andrews introductory distance sampling (closes 26 September)
by Eric Rexstad 22 Sep '25

22 Sep '25

Attention marine mammal researchers who procrastinate: If you have interest in learning about distance sampling for marine mammal population assessment, you need to act quickly. There are only a few places remaining for the workshop that takes place 06-17Oct. Registration for the final introductory distance sampling workshop I will deliver is about to close. Registration closes at the end of this week (26Sept25). Details regarding payment for registration, workshop content, time of day of workshop delivery and other matters of interest can be found on the website below https://distancesampling.org/training/announcements/intro-oct-2025.html If you have questions about the workshop or the registration process, contact me by email. Eric Rexstad Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling University of St Andrews Registered Charity in Scotland SC013532

1 0

New publication: Using an acoustic deterrent system (ADS) with Targeted Acoustic Startle Technology (TAST) to mitigate seal-human conflicts in shared coastal environments.
by Heimberg, Kim Nina 21 Sep '25

21 Sep '25

New publication: Using an acoustic deterrent system (ADS) with Targeted Acoustic Startle Technology (TAST) to mitigate seal-human conflicts in shared coastal environments. Dear MARMAM Community, On behalf of my co-authors and myself, I am very pleased to share our new publication in Scientific Reports, which provides the first empirical evidence on using this non-invasive tool to reduce seal-human interactions in a recreational setting. Heimberg, K.N., Gross, S., van Neer, A., Escobar-Calderon, J.F., Ruser, A., Schaffeld, T., & Siebert, U. (2025). Acoustic deterrence as a mitigation tool for seal-human conflicts in the Helgoland Dune swimming zone. Sci Rep 15, 32530. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-17236-2 Abstract: Successful species conservation and rising tourism in coastal ecosystems lead to more human-wildlife conflicts. Non-invasive conflict mitigation measures are needed to ensure human safety and wildlife conservation. The Helgoland Dune, a small German offshore island, is home to Germany’s largest grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) colony alongside popular tourist beaches, leading to frequent human-seal encounters. Previous physical incidents in the shared swimming zone have raised safety concerns. This study evaluated an acoustic deterrent system (ADS) using Targeted Acoustic Startle Technology (TAST) to reduce such interactions. During two field trials, the ADS emitted pulsed signals (2 s, 700–1500 Hz, 180 dB re 1 µPa) while a camera tracked seal movements. Analysing 22,086 positions via a cumulative link mixed model (CLMM) revealed seals were 3.57 times more likely (odds ratio, CI: 2.38–5.37, p-value < 0.001) to occupy the two farther distance categories (10–25 m, > 25 m) during signal emission, compared to the closest distance zone (< 10 m). Individual variability accounted for 94% (ICC) of behavioural differences. Results provide the first empirical evidence of the ADS’s effectiveness in a recreational context as a non-invasive deterrent tool, while maintaining seal access to surrounding habitat crucial to them. The open access publication is available here: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-17236-2 Please do get in touch if you have any questions (kim.nina.heimberg(a)tiho-hannover.de<mailto:kim.nina.heimberg@tiho-hannover.de>). Thank you very much, Kim On behalf of all the co-authors -- Kim Nina Heimberg, MSc Research associate & doctoral candidate Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research (ITAW) University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation Werftstr. 6│25761 Buesum│Germany

1 0

New publication on underwater behaviour of Hector's dolphins
by Ilias Foskolos 21 Sep '25

21 Sep '25

Dear MARMAM community, We are happy to share with you our latest, open-access publication: Foskolos, I., M. Johnson, D. Clement, et al. 2025. “Subsurface Behaviors of Hector's Dolphins Could Increase Their Risk of Bycatch.” Conservation Letters 18, no. 5: 18, e13144. https://doi.org/10.1111/conl.13144 *Abstract* Hector's dolphins, endemic to New Zealand, suffer from bycatch in fishing gear. Fishing restrictions in inshore areas have reduced bycatch, although dolphins have been recorded outside these areas. We studied the subsurface movements and foraging behavior of 11 Hector's dolphins using high‐resolution biologging tags to gain insight into their bycatch risk. Tagged dolphins traveled up to 15 km offshore, well beyond the boundaries of fishery exclusion zones, and regularly dove to the seafloor to forage at depths of up to 122 m. During these dives, the dolphins exhibited specific body postures that could increase their risk of bycatch. In addition, some dolphins produced very few echolocation clicks while traveling throughout the water column, potentially limiting their ability to detect nets. These subsurface behaviors may make Hector's dolphins more vulnerable to bycatch than previously thought, highlighting the need to reassess the efficacy of current protection measures. The press-release for this paper can be found in the following link: https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/news/2025/09/19/underwater-acrobatics-of-hect… Best regards, Ilias --------------------------------------------------------------- Ilias Foskolos, PhD, MSCA postdoctoral fellow Hopkins Marine Station, Oceans Department, Stanford University, USA & Center for Active Sensing with Sound, Department of Biology, Aarhus University, Denmark E-mail: ilias.foskolos(a)bio.au.dk<mailto:ilias.foskolos@bio.au.dk> GoogleScholar<https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=8XYiOHYAAAAJ&hl=el> Bluesky<https://bsky.app/profile/theclickitclick.bsky.social> Phone: +306970481050<tel:+306970481050>

1 0

New publication on humpback whale response to noise
by Elisa Maria Girola 20 Sep '25

20 Sep '25

Dear Colleagues, We are happy to announce the publication of our new paper Girola E, Dunlop RA, Noad MJ. 2023 Singing humpback whales respond to wind noise, but not to vessel noise. Proc. R. Soc. B 290: 20230204. https://doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2023.0204 Abstract Animal communication systems evolved in the presence of noise generated by natural sources. Many species can increase the source levels of their sounds to maintain effective communication in elevated noise conditions, i.e. they have a Lombard response. Human activities generate additional noise in the environment creating further challenges for these animals. Male humpback whales are known to adjust the source levels of their songs in response to wind noise, which although variable is always present in the ocean. Our study investigated whether this Lombard response increases when singing males are exposed to additional noise generated by motor vessels. Humpback whale singers were recorded off eastern Australia using a fixed hydrophone array. The source levels of the songs produced while the singers were exposed to varying levels of wind noise and vessel noise were measured. Our results show that, even when vessel noise is dominant, singing males still adjust the source levels of their songs to compensate for the underlying wind noise, and do not further increase their source levels to compensate for the additional noise produced by the vessel. Understanding humpback whales' response to noise is important for developing mitigation policies for anthropogenic activities at sea. The paper can be accessed here https://doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2023.0204 or you can request a pdf copy from the corresponding author (e.girola(a)uq.edu.au<mailto:e.girola@uq.edu.au>). Best regards Elisa Dr. Elisa Girola The University of Queensland Australia

2 1

HMAR Internship Opportunity
by Taylor Prostor at HMAR 19 Sep '25

19 Sep '25

Aloha, Interested in a career in marine animal conservation? Hawaiʻi Marine Animal Response (HMAR) is offering Field Operations Program (FOP) internships where you’ll gain hands-on experience protecting Hawaiʻi’s endangered and threatened marine species. What you’ll do as an FOP Intern: * Field response & surveys – Monitor Hawaiian monk seals, sea turtles, and seabirds; respond to haul-outs, strandings, and animals of concern. * Animal care & interventions – Assist with assessments, disentanglements, rescues, transport, and husbandry of sea turtles at HMAR’s Care Center. * Research support – Collect photo ID, behavioral observations, and other data used in conservation and recovery efforts. * Outreach & education – Share information with the public in the field and at the Care Center to encourage stewardship of Hawaiʻi’s wildlife. * Dispatch & reporting – Answer hotline calls, coordinate responses, enter data, and generate reports. * Facility support – Help with cleaning, upkeep, and operations at the HMAR Care Center. What you’ll gain: * Practical skills in marine animal conservation and rehabilitation * Field experience with endangered species * Training and mentorship from experienced conservation professionals * Opportunities to connect with the public and make a real impact Location: Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi Commitment: 21 hours a week Requirements: * Must be at least 18 years old * Access to a personal vehicle * Access to a computer with internet 🔗 Apply now: h-mar.org/jointheteam<https://h-mar.org/jointheteam/> Join us in protecting Hawaiʻi’s monk seals, sea turtles, and seabirds — and build the skills for your future career in marine conservation! Mahalo, [cid:0fb2e741-6638-4e7d-8651-92df4761fcf2] Taylor Prostor Animal Care Manager Hawai‘i Marine Animal Response / Hawai‘i Marine Mammal Alliance taylor.prostor(a)h-mar.org<mailto:jon.gelman@h-mar.org> Hotline: (888) 256-9840 Direct: (509) 701-3945 See our latest impact report HERE<https://h-mar.org/3d-flip-book/hmar-2023-impact-report/> Browse our WEBSITE<http://h-mar.org/>

1 0

Open Acoustic Dataset of Manatee Vocalizations for Machine Learning Development
by Athena Rycyk 19 Sep '25

19 Sep '25

Dear colleagues, We are excited to share a new open acoustic dataset of manatee vocalizations designed to support machine learning detector development efforts. This dataset includes 0.5-second WAV clips from African and Florida manatees recorded at four sites (18,129 manatee vocalizations clips and 23,444 noise clips). Access the dataset here. <https://doi.org/10.6073/pasta/f6b14cae6916da998808a8395cf38ae0> Citation: Rycyk, A., V. Cargille, D. Bolaji, C. Factheu, U. Ejimadu, C. Berchem, and A. Takoukam Kamla. 2025. Bioacoustic Dataset of African and Florida Manatee Vocalizations for Machine Learning Applications, 2020-2022 ver 1. Environmental Data Initiative. https://doi.org/10.6073/pasta/f6b14cae6916da998808a8395cf38ae0 If you use the dataset, we would love to hear how it supports your work (Athena Rycyk arycyk(a)ncf.edu) -- *Athena Rycyk, Ph.D. *(she/her) Associate Professor of Marine Mammal Science & Biology Master's in Marine Mammal Science New College of Florida 5800 Bay Shore Rd. Sarasota, FL 34243-2109 Note: Florida has a very broad public records law. Most written communications to or from state employees regarding state business are public records available to the public and media upon request. Your email communications may therefore be subject to public disclosure.

1 0

New publication on the cellular composition of the Minke whale brain
by Kamilla Souza 19 Sep '25

19 Sep '25

Dear Colleagues, My coauthors and I are excited to share our new publication in Journal of Comparative Neurology: Avelino-de-Souza, K., N. Patzke, K. Æ. Karlsson, P. R. Manger, and S. Herculano-Houzel. 2025. “ Cellular Composition of the Brain of a Northern Minke Whale.” *Journal of Comparative Neurology* 533, no. 9: e70089. https://doi.org/10.1002/cne.70089 *Abstract* The largest mammalian brains belong to cetacean species among the cetartiodactyls. Stereological analyses have estimated cetacean numbers of cerebral cortical neurons to be more than the average 16 billion of humans, yet isotropic fractionator estimates in artiodactyls predict that even the largest cetacean brains should have no more than a few billion cortical neurons. Here, we used the isotropic fractionator to investigate these contrasting estimates of neuronal numbers by determining the numbers of neurons and non-neuronal cells forming the brain of a northern minke whale, previously estimated using stereology as containing 12.8 billion cortical neurons (Eriksen and Pakkenberg 2007), and comparing it to our dataset of several dozen mammalian species analyzed with the same method. We report that, with 3.2 billion neurons, the minke whale cerebral cortex conforms to the quantitative scaling rules that apply to other mammals, especially the closely related artiodactyls. The same brain contained a total of 57.4 billion neurons, of which 54.2 billion were cerebellar neurons, matching the expected numbers of a hypothetical artiodactyl brain of similar cerebellar mass. In addition, we found that the northern minke whale brain, with a mass of 2683.9 g, contained 173.4 billion non-neuronal cells, following the universal scaling rules that apply to the brain in all therian mammals examined to date. Thus, how non-neuronal cells are added to the mammalian brain is conserved across therian mammals and is not affected by the transition to an obligatory aquatic life history. Strikingly, we find that the minke whale is an outlier amongst mammals in having almost 18 cerebellar neurons for every neuron in the cerebral cortex, compared to the average ratio of 4, which might be related to infrasonic communication. In addition, with only approximately 88 million neurons, the remainder of the brain (brainstem/diencephalon/subcortical telencephalon) of the northern minke whale exhibited the lowest relative neuronal density of these regions reported in mammalian brains, which might be related to the absence of limbs compared to all other mammalian species. Our results indicate that the number of neurons in cetacean brains has been grossly overestimated by stereological accounts, and place whale brains on par with highly cognitively capable macaws, macaques, baboons, and elephants, but below great apes and humans, in terms of numbers of cortical neurons. Best, -- *| Kamilla A. de Souza* Director of the Brazilian Neurobiodiversity Network Ph.D. in Morphological Sciences Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. kamilla(a)neurobiodiversidade.org +5521 999261442 *https://lattes.cnpq.br/0983547349106771* <https://wwws.cnpq.br/cvlattesweb/PKG_MENU.menu?f_cod=EBC24F10BBACA52C804813…>

1 0

ACCOBAMS MMO/PAM certification course in Genoa (Italy)
by Oceanomare Delphis 19 Sep '25

19 Sep '25

Oceanomare Delphis APS and the Interdisciplinary Centre for Bioacoustics and Environmental Research (CIBRA), under the agreement signed with ACCOBAMS, will be running a training course to qualify individuals as Marine Mammal Observers (MMOs) and operators of Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) systems. When: 24-29 November 2025 Where: Genoa (Italy) Participation fee: 800 Euro The qualification: The ACCOBAMS certification qualifies people to work as MMO/PAM operators throughout the Mediterranean and the Black Sea in 24 countries. After the course, the ACCOBAMS qualified MMO/PAM operators will be able to work to minimize the impact of noise on cetaceans by applying the knowledge, expertise, and skills acquired during the training course and using the standard procedures, forms, and manuals, following the ACCOBAMS principles. Speakers: Giovanni Caltavuturo, Claudio Fossati, Guido Gnone, Patrick Lyne, Michele Manghi, Barbara Mussi. Requirements: All attendees will be expected to satisfy the ACCOBAMS experience requirements of 30 days of experience with marine mammals before registration for courses. The course is aimed primarily at MMOs who wish to expand their skills to include Passive Acoustic Monitoring. The ACCOBAMS course is specifically aimed at mitigation in the Mediterranean and Black Sea, but the principles learned are applicable worldwide. Topics Covered in the Training Course: Introduction to marine mammals and acoustics Human activities generating underwater noise and impacts on marine mammals Existing regulations, mitigation procedures, and ACCOBAMS Guidelines The role of MMO/PAM and the lifestyle onboard during operations Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to map acoustic and visual sightings Using PAM for survey and research Introduction to the hardware used for PAM Hands-on training with PAMGUARD-Tips and troubleshooting. Autonomous acoustic bottom recorders The InterCet platform Practical Sessions (hydrophones: types, use and installation, soundcards and software) Fees cover the training, the certificate, lunches, and coffee breaks (the accommodation is not included). For more information or to apply, email postmaster(a)oceanomaredelphis.org or visit https://oceanomaredelphis.org/en/v-corso-mmo-pam-accobams/

1 0

OSA Services & New PAMPortal Tool
by Liz Ferguson 18 Sep '25

18 Sep '25

Dear MARMAM community, At Ocean Science Analytics, our technical services are designed to support research, monitoring, and conservation efforts focused on marine mammals—with particular emphasis on passive acoustic data analysis and analytical tool development and documentation. We recently updated our services to reflect four core aspects of our capabilities: 🔹 *Passive Acoustic Data Analysis* We offer comprehensive workflows to process, analyze, and interpret passive acoustic datasets—with a strong focus on marine mammal detections. We’ve recently launched PAMPortal, a cloud-hosted tool that allows users to interact directly with their processed acoustic data, including detection events and soundscape metrics. Users can filter results, listen to clips, and visualize patterns over time—making exploration more intuitive and effective. Learn more: https://www.oceanscienceanalytics.com/passive-acoustic-analysis 🔹 *From Data to Dashboard* We translate complex marine datasets into interactive dashboards that support data exploration and stakeholder communication. Waveform Analytics <https://waveformanalytics.com/> is our collaborative partner for dashboarding tasks and phenomenal at bringing data to life through visualization and user interaction. 🔹 *Marine GIS & Spatial Analysis* Our geospatial capabilities support habitat mapping, biodiversity hotspot identification, and ecosystem services assessment. 🔹 *Analytical Tools & Documentation* We develop GUI-based tools and tutorials that help teams engage with analytical products—without requiring a coding background. Across all of our services, we aim to make analytical results accessible, interpretable, and relevant to marine mammal research, conservation, and decision-making. If you're working with marine mammal datasets and looking for analytical support or custom tool development, feel free to reach out—we’re always happy to connect. Best regards, Liz Ferguson CEO, Ocean Science Analytics 🌐 https://www.oceanscienceanalytics.com/our-services

1 0

FWC Marine Mammal Research Program Opening in Port Charlotte, FL
by Lugge, Molly 18 Sep '25

18 Sep '25

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Marine Mammal Research Program is hiring a 40 hr per week position, located in Port Charlotte, FL. The marine mammal team at the Charlotte Harbor Field Lab covers ten counties (Manatees: coastal and inland waterways of Sarasota County to Monroe County and inland to Glades/Hendry Counties; Cetaceans: Charlotte, Lee and Collier Counties) of southwest Florida. Knowledge, skills, job duties, minimum qualifications, and how to apply are included in the posting below. https://jobs.myflorida.com/job/PORT-CHARLOTTE-OPS-FW-Bio-Scientist-II-77907… Molly R. Lugge Marine Mammal Biologist Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Fish and Wildlife Research Institute Southwest Field Lab 585 Prineville St Port Charlotte, FL 33954 Office: (941) 249-6559 Molly.Lugge(a)myFWC.com Manatee Hotline: 1-888-404-3922

1 0