January 2026 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New publication
by Helena Costa 05 Jan '26

05 Jan '26

Dear all, My co-authors and I are pleased to share our recent publication: "Disease Investigation in Norwegian Killer Whales (Orcinus orca): Challenges and Needs for Improving Free-Living Cetacean Health Assessments" * Abstract: Knowledge of the occurrence and etiology of cetacean diseases remains limited in northern areas, including in the Arctic and sub-Arctic. In November 2023, three killer whales (Orcinus orca) were observed in northern Norway exhibiting abnormal behavior, including inability to swim upright, loss of directional control, short and shallow dives, and lethargy. These unusual cases occurred within a 2-wk period and in the same area, suggesting a common underlying condition. However, due to the lack of diagnostic biologic samples, the cause of disease remains speculative. Herein, we discuss possible differential diagnoses based on the available data, including infectious disease, exposure to biotoxins, and blast trauma. Disease in live free-swimming killer whales in Norway has not been documented previously. These cases illustrate the significant challenges of investigating disease in wild, live cetaceans and emphasize the urgent need for improved surveillance, field diagnostic tools, and response protocols. Suggested developments include the implementation of ready-to-use kits for blow, fecal, and environmental DNA sampling; drones equipped with sampling devices and thermal sensors; and mobile laboratories to support on-site diagnostics. Collectively, these tools could significantly improve early detection, investigation, and management of similar unusual events in wild cetacean populations. The article is available at: https://jwd.kglmeridian.com/view/journals/jwdi/aop/article-10.7589-JWD-D-25… Cheers, Helena Costa DVM, PhD helena.g.costa(a)hotmail.com Nord University Bodø, Norway

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Summer 2026 Internship Opportunities
by Info SeaLifeR3 05 Jan '26

05 Jan '26

SeaLife Response, Rehabilitation and Research (SR3), located just outside of Seattle, WA, is now accepting applications for two summer 2026 internships for Marine Mammal Rehabilitation and Education and Outreach. *Marine Mammal Rehabilitation*: The Marine Mammal Rehabilitation Intern position provides undergraduates or recent college graduates an opportunity to gain skills in the field of marine mammal rehabilitation which includes providing primary care of stranded marine mammals, assisting with post-mortem examinations, developing and conducting a marine mammal research project, medical record keeping, and the possibility of some field response. This is a three to four month long, full-time, unpaid position during the summer; we do not offer any fall or winter internship opportunities at this time. Interns are responsible for their own housing and must have reliable transportation. *Education and Outreach*: The Education and Outreach Intern plays a critical role in public awareness by engaging with community members to educate about local marine wildlife. They will promote SR3 and conservation messaging at events, lead solo and volunteer-based beach education to foster marine mammal stewardship, and assist in the training and support of outreach volunteers. They will practice science communication through verbal and written storytelling, and create themed social media posts throughout the summer. This is a four month, part-time (8-20 hours per week), unpaid position. Interns are responsible for their own housing and must have reliable transportation. For more information on our available internships and how to apply please visit our website: https://www.sealifer3.org/employment. Applications close February 2nd, 2026.

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ONLINE COURSE: Introduction to US Wildlife Law & Policy
by CWS Admin 05 Jan '26

05 Jan '26

This introductory online course gives marine mammal researchers a thorough overview of wildlife law & policy in the United States. COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course provides a thorough introduction to wildlife policy in the United States. First, participants will learn about the motivations behind policy, who creates policy, and why policy is important for wildlife biologists and scientists, including those who work with marine mammals. Participants will learn about how policy is implemented and enforced in practice and about the different agencies involved. The course also covers several specific wildlife policies that are influential in the United States, including The Lacey Act and the Endangered Species Act. The final module of the course focuses on marine life and examines the Marine Mammal Protection Act and other relevant marine policy. Throughout the course, we will discuss how these policies influence wildlife management initiatives and vice versa. Participants will be asked to think critically and discuss their thoughts in a number of discussion board posts and complete quizzes to gauge their understanding of the material. DATES: March 2 - May 24, 2026 PRICE: Starts at $425 students/unemployed, $525 employed (early bird* ends February 1) *Early bird discount saves $75! LEARN MORE & REGISTER HERE: https://www.centerforwildlifestudies.org/courses/p/us-wildlife-policy [image: Logo] <https://www.centerforwildlifestudies.org/> *Emily J. Uhrig*, PhD Director of Education Center for Wildlife Studies <https://www.centerforwildlifestudies.org/> *Center for Wildlife Studies is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose global mission is to deliver **specialized education and conduct science and outreach that advance wildlife conservation.*

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Aquatic Species / Marine Conservation Internship Opportunities with CMS - application deadline 16 January
by Heidrun Frisch-Nwakanma 05 Jan '26

05 Jan '26

Happy New Year to all MARMAMers! Looking for an internship at the heart of global migratory species conservation? The CMS Secretariat in Bonn, Germany is offering full-time internships (3-6 months) in 2026. You will work with the Aquatic Species Team of the Secretariat of the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS<https://www.cms.int/>), which also coordinates the ASCOBANS<https://www.ascobans.org/> Agreement, Sharks MOU<https://www.ascobans.org/> and IOSEA Marine Turtle MOU<https://iosea-turtles.cms.int/>. You will contribute through tasks such as desktop research and literature reviews, compiling information, data analysis, supporting preparations for meetings and workshops, and helping shape policies that benefit marine mammals, sea turtles, sharks and rays, freshwater fish, and more. The internships can start at a mutually agreed date anytime in 2026 and run for 3-6 months. Interns will work from the CMS Secretariat office in Bonn, Germany. The application deadline is 16 January – so please apply soon. Applications must be submitted through the UN Careers portal, where you can also find further details on this opportunity and the eligibility criteria: https://careers.un.org/jobSearchDescription/269223?language=en. Please reserve ample time to complete your profile in Inspira (which you can find via 'Apply Now' in the Job Opening), as the system can sometimes be slow. Please pass on this information to university students and recent graduates in your networks, and don’t hesitate to contact me off-list with any questions you might have. Best wishes, Heidi Heidrun FRISCH-NWAKANMA (she/her) IOSEA Turtle MOU Coordinator & CMS Aquatic Species Team Secretariat of the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) UN Campus - Platz der Vereinten Nationen 1 - 53113 Bonn - Germany Phone: +49 228 815 2491 – Email: heidrun.frisch-nwakanma(a)un.org<mailto:heidrun.frisch-nwakanma@un.org> www.cms.int/iosea-turtles<http://www.cms.int/iosea-turtles> / www.cms.int<http://www.cms.int/> [cms_logo_blue_300dpi][_IOSEA_Logo - OFFICIAL Transparent small]

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New publication: Thirty years of herd focal follows reveal the functions of important habitats identified for the endangered St. Lawrence Estuary beluga
by Barreau, Emmanuelle 05 Jan '26

05 Jan '26

Dear MARMAM community, My co-authors and I are pleased to share the following publication in Endangered Species Research on space use of belugas, Delphinaterus leucas, from the St. Lawrence Estuary : Barreau, E., Lesage, V., Michaud, R., Senecal, J. F., Chion, C., & Dupuch, A. (2025). Thirty years of herd focal follows reveal the functions of important habitats identified for the endangered St. Lawrence Estuary beluga. Endangered Species Research, 58, 435-449. The full article is available in open acess at: https://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v58/esr01461 ABSTRACT Identifying habitat functions is crucial for understanding how endangered populations such as the St. Lawrence Estuary (SLE) beluga Delphinapterus leucas use their environment, and for guiding effective conservation measures. Often, the only way to infer the behavior of cetacean herds is by observing their surface activity and configuration. A previous study developed a classification connecting SLE beluga herd surface characteristics to their underwater diving behavior, enabling the inference of behavior from surface cues alone. Using this method, we analyzed surface activity descriptors collected every 30 min during multi-hour focal follows of 1496 beluga herds tracked in 1991-2020 to classify their behavior into 6 categories: (1) benthic feeding/resting/caring for young, (2) pelagic feeding, (3) pelagic exploration, (4) socialization/benthic feeding, (5) transit, and (6) mixed activities. The relative frequency of these behaviors within each of 27 previously identified key beluga areas formed the basis for statistically grouping areas by their dominant function. Two groups characterized by high directional movement closely matched (≥90%) previously hypothesized transit corridors. The other 2 groups predominantly exhibited foraging and social behaviors, and matched mainly (≥70%) areas with high beluga residency whose specific function was previously unclear. Although habitat groups varied in environmental characteristics, no clear separation was observed, suggesting other factors may shape habitat use at multiple scales. This study highlighted that beluga have limited alternative habitats to support vital functions should local stressors compromise habitat quality or accessibility. These findings are critical because segments of the population show strong fidelity to specific summer sites. Best regards, Emmanuelle Barreau ------------------------------ PhD Candidate Beluga - Noise impact project, LISSE research lab. https://www.lisse-lab.com University of Quebec in Outaouais (Gatineau, QC)

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DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIP IN PORTUGAL
by AIMM Internships 05 Jan '26

05 Jan '26

*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 17th May to end of November 2026. 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 scientific data on species, behavior, group structure and reaction to presence of vessel, species, etc.; - Collect photos to photo-identification methodology, acoustic recording, and underwater videos; - Use of UAV’s for marine mammals research. - 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 organization. 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 (5 days per week); - 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 (mandatory); - Participate for minimum 14 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, <http://aimm-marineresearch.blogspot.com/> AIMM Team [image: Logo AIMM] <https://www.aimmportugal.org/> Associação para Investigação do Meio Marinho *Marine Environment Research Association* m: (00351) 964464657 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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IMMS Animal Training Internship
by Carrigen Manns 03 Jan '26

03 Jan '26

Hello, My name is Carrigen Manns and I am the internship coordinator for the Animal Care department at the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies, located in Gulfport Mississippi. The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies (“IMMS”) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in 1984 for the purposes of public education, conservation, and research on marine mammals in the wild and under human care. IMMS has been an active participant of the National Stranding Network since its inception. IMMS is the premier stranding organization in the Mississippi-Louisiana-Alabama region of the Gulf Coast with the capability and expertise to care for sick and injured marine mammals and sea turtles. IMMS serves as an important educational outlet for the Mississippi Gulf Coast, incorporating programs for conservation, education and research of marine mammals and their environment. We offer year round internships that provide hands on experience in the animal care field. The IMMS Animal Training Internship Program is designed as a way for students/individuals interested in a career in animal care and training to gain valuable experience in a real-world setting. Interns will primarily be trained in aspects of animal care, but will also participate in other activities at IMMS. Our goal is to give interns a well-rounded experience in a variety of areas while providing expert training and experience. Below I will attach the appropriate forms necessary for interested applicants to apply. We are currently accepting internship applications for our Spring 2026 term (February-April). The application deadline is March 1st. Please feel free to distribute this information as you see fit and don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions. Sincerely, Carrigen Manns Internship Coordinator-Animal Care IMMS-Gulfport, MS

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Marine Mammals of Maine Summer Harbor Seal Pup Internship
by Walk, Dominique 02 Jan '26

02 Jan '26

Marine Mammals of Maine (MMoME) is accepting applications now through February 18th, 2026 for the summer harbor seal pup season internship. This internship begins on May 5th and concludes on August 16th, 2026. MMoME is a non-profit organization federally authorized to respond to live and dead marine mammals and sea turtles between Kittery and Rockland, Maine, covering some of the busiest seal stranding activity on the East Coast. MMoME also operates a unique triage and rehabilitation center which provides critical care to around 50 sick and injured pinnipeds annually. Currently, this is the only facility taking in maternally dependent harbor seal pups. Additionally, our mission and work heavily encompasses marine mammal research, education, and outreach. MMoME is seeking flexible, positive, independent, and hard-working interns who will be given the unique opportunity to participate in a variety of activities. Interns will learn marine mammal field health assessment, handling, basic husbandry and clinical care of pinnipeds, as well as Level A data collection, and sampling and necropsy of deceased marine mammals. The internship is based out of Midcoast Maine (town of Brunswick), though travel throughout our response region will be necessary. Interns will work closely as a team alongside volunteers and staff to accomplish MMoME’s broad scope of work during our busiest time of year, and will be required to dedicate 5 full days per week to the internship. These hours will include holidays, weekends, late nights, and early mornings. Interns are provided with housing and a stipend to help support the cost of living during the summer. *Key Tasks and Responsibilities:* *Stranding Response:* respond to live and dead cetacean, pinniped, and sea turtle strandings to collect Level A data, collect biological samples, perform health assessments, monitor, relocate, or collect for rehabilitation or humane euthanasia. Carcass collection for disposal or necropsy will also be required. *Patient Care:* assist with all aspects relating to the care of sick, injured, and abandoned pinnipeds (primarily harbor seal pups) undergoing care at MMoME’s center. Tasks include extensive daily cleaning of animal enclosures/dishes/laundry, etc., meal prep, tube-feeding, assisting with medical procedures, animal restraint for exams, running diagnostic lab samples, charting, and medical record maintenance. *Necropsy:* transport carcasses to necropsy and compost sites, assist staff with necropsy of fresh dead pinnipeds (both from the field, and rehab patients), and cetaceans, archive necropsy samples, and maintain and clean necropsy equipment. *Education and Outreach:* give presentations to the public about the organization, attend outreach and fundraising events, and help create educational materials. *Other Tasks:* additional time will be spent on data entry, fundraising, lots of cleaning, and other tasks as needed. *Internship Requirements:* - Must be 18 years of age or older to apply. This internship is open to undergraduate and graduate students currently enrolled in an accredited college or university or graduated within 4 years from an undergraduate program. -Must be able to commit to the full internship starting on May 5 and concluding on August 16th. Preference given to interns who can stay later through October 19th, 2026, but not required. *All interns must be able to start on May 5th, no exceptions possible.* -Must have a valid driver’s license, a good driving record, and willing/able to drive a full-size truck in urban and rural areas. -Must be able to work independently and as part of a team with other interns, volunteers, and staff, and be adaptable to a fast-paced, changing, and unpredictable schedule. -Must be in good physical condition and able to lift at least 50 pounds. -Individuals that are passionate, responsible, hardworking, eager to learn, able to work under minimal supervision and with others on a team are encouraged to apply. -The ideal candidate is working towards a career in marine mammal science, veterinary medicine, marine biology, environmental education, or a related field. -Preference given to individuals with a demonstrated interest in marine mammals and are specifically interested in marine mammal stranding response and care. Previous marine mammal experience or animal husbandry is a plus but not required. *How to Apply:* Applications must include a letter of interest which includes the exact start and end dates you can commit to, a resume, and two professional letters of recommendation. Completed applications can be sent to info(a)mmome.org by 11:59 PM EST on February 18th, 2026. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. Learn more at www.mmome.org. We look forward to your application for this exciting and unique experience! *Dominique Walk* *Assistant Stranding Coordinator* *Marine Mammals of MaineOffice: 207-844-8718* *Reporting Hotline: 1-800-532-9551* *www.mmome.org <http://www.mmome.org>*

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MARMAM - JNCC MMO / PSO Remote training 8-9 January 2026
by Zoe Wright 02 Jan '26

02 Jan '26

JNCC MMO / PSO Training Course 8–9 January 2026 Delivered Remotely via Microsoft Teams Enhance your offshore career prospects with our accredited JNCC Marine Mammal Observer (MMO) / Protected Species Observer (PSO) training. This comprehensive course provides a clear insight into offshore life and the practical responsibilities of an MMO, ensuring you are fully prepared for future offshore assignments. Whether you are entering the industry or working alongside MMOs, this training offers a detailed exploration of mitigation requirements and operational expectations. A scientific background is beneficial, and a strong interest in marine mammals is essential. What You’ll Gain A thorough understanding of MMO duties and offshore working environments Practical knowledge of mitigation protocols and regulatory requirements Preparation for real‑world offshore scenarios Certificate for offshore work upon successful completion Discounts Available 5% student discount for one course (with valid student ID) 10% student discount when booking this course together with the PAM Level 1 course Discounts exclude the PSO additional modules course offered to delegates completing or having completed JNCC MMO training. Booking & Enquiries Spaces are still available. To reserve your place or request further information, contact Zoe at: 📧 training(a)seiche.com Zoe Wright Marketing & Training Communications Officer 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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Last Chance to Apply - ORCA Ocean Conservationists, Bay of Biscay - Multiple Positions
by Kate Weston-McDowell 02 Jan '26

02 Jan '26

Would you like to join ORCA’s team of at-sea conservation professionals? We have an exciting opportunity for eight Ocean Conservationists to join our team on board Brittany Ferries from April - October 2026. You’ll work onboard one of four ships from one of three departure ports: Pont Aven (Plymouth - UK), Salamanca (Portsmouth- UK), and Galicia (Portsmouth - UK), Santoňa (Rosslare - Ireland). The role follows an approximate 4-weeks-on, 4-weeks-off rotation, sailing across the Bay of Biscay (see the key dates document on vacancies page for exact rotations). Who is ORCA? ORCA is a charity dedicated to studying and protecting whales, dolphins, and porpoises worldwide. We identify and protect critical whale and dolphin habitats. What makes ORCA unique is our commitment to combining accessible marine education with our conservation activities, allowing people from all walks of life to participate in marine science and conservation. About the Role The Ocean Conservationist Network is a vital part of ORCA’s education and outreach work, inspiring thousands of passengers about the wonders in our waters every year. ORCA has partnered with Brittany Ferries for over 20 years, giving us a wealth of data and allowing us to inspire countless guests about the wonders of cetaceans. The work on board is divided into two key areas: Inspiring the Public - Deliver lectures and workshops to people of all ages and backgrounds. - Connect with passengers through onboard activities, inspiring a personal connection to marine conservation. Data Collection - Conduct daily wildlife watches and collect data on cetaceans using our ORCA OceanWatchers app. - Guide wildlife watches, helping guests have memorable wildlife experiences at sea. *Note: This is a remote role, and you will be the sole ORCA representative onboard. However, you will be integrated into the Brittany Ferries entertainment team.* Who We’re Looking For We are seeking passionate and enthusiastic science communicators who can ignite excitement in people of all ages and backgrounds. As the face of ORCA’s work, Ocean Conservationists bring dedication and commitment to inspiring everyone to take an active role in safeguarding the future of whales and dolphins. How to Apply - Submission: Submit an up-to-date CV and a 2-minute video outlining *why marine conservation matters to you* via www.orca.org.uk/vacancies - Deadline: Applications close on *Sunday 1*1*th **J*anuary *at 23:59 (GMT)* or when the desired number of applicants is reached*.* Only complete applications will be considered. *For the person specification, application form, FAQs & key dates document visit www.orca.org.uk/vacancies <http://www.orca.org.uk/vacancies>*

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