June 2026 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New publication on CKMR study design for marine mammals
by Eiren Jacobson 23 Jun '26

23 Jun '26

Dear MARMAM, On behalf of my coauthors, I am pleased to circulate our recent publication on individual and close-kin mark-recapture study design for marine mammals, using walrus as a case study. This publication is Open Access and should be available to all. Details below. Cheers, Eiren Jacobson, Eiren K., Mark V. Bravington, Rebecca L. Taylor, Irina S. Trukhanova, David L. Miller, and William S. Beatty. 2026. “Combining Individual and Close-Kin Mark–Recapture to Design an Effective Wildlife Population Survey.” Ecology107(6): e70377. https://doi.org/10.1002/ecy.70377 Abstract: Close-kin mark–recapture (CKMR) is a promising approach for assessing population size of species that have been difficult to survey using more traditional methods. Here, we combine individual and close-kin mark–recapture in a single modeling framework (ICKMR) and provide an example of study design using this approach for Pacific walrus (Odobenus rosmarus divergens). We develop the ICKMR model and test it using simulated datasets, then use properties of the pseudo-likelihood to investigate the expected precision in estimates of abundance with different proposed survey designs. Our motivating example, the Pacific walrus, is an ice-associated marine mammal found in the Bering and Chukchi seas, where it is an important resource for Indigenous peoples. Pacific walrus abundance declined in the late 20th century, and it is currently a species of conservation concern due to potential impacts of climate change, particularly the loss of sea ice. To reduce uncertainty in population size estimates, researchers undertook a genetic mark–recapture sampling campaign from 2013 to 2017 and collected tissue samples from over 8000 individuals. Another campaign of a similar scale is ongoing (2023–2028). While sample collection was designed for individual mark–recapture, advances in CKMR methods and associated molecular techniques mean that these samples could also be suitable for CKMR. The advantages of CKMR over mark–recapture include an increased effective sample size (because each individual tags itself and its parents, siblings, and offspring) and additional insights into demographic quantities of interest. To make best use of genetic samples, we combine individual mark–recapture (IMR) with CKMR (ICKMR) and investigate whether different sampling strategies can increase precision in estimates of abundance. Our modeling approach includes special considerations for walrus life history, including a multi-year inter-birth interval. We found that expected coefficients of variation (CVs) of the ICKMR estimates of abundance, adult female survival, juvenile female survival, and proportion of breeding females are lower than those expected from IMR alone, and with ICKMR, fewer years of sampling can be conducted to obtain sufficient precision in estimates of abundance. This work demonstrates the utility of ICKMR and could be applicable across a variety of taxa. Eiren Kate Jacobson, PhD (she/they) Research Fellow Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling School of Mathematics and Statistics University of St Andrews eiren.jacobson(a)st-andrews.ac.uk<mailto:eiren.jacobson@st-andrews.ac.uk>

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SAVE THE DATE FOR INTERNATIONAL SAVE THE VAQUITA DAY 2026!
by Thomas Jefferson 22 Jun '26

22 Jun '26

Dear MARMAM, Every year, we and our conservation partners dedicate oneday of the year to draw people’s attention to the plight of the vaquita,International Save the Vaquita (ISTV) Day. This year, the event will occur on Saturday, 10 October. As in the past, it will feature a half-daylive-streamed event (available for viewing on YouTube and several other platforms),as well as several in-person booths and tables at venues in California andOregon. The focus of all these activities will be to increase publicawareness, education, and support for the vaquita and its conservation. This year, as the species struggles tosurvive among the web of illegal gillnets that kill them in the northern Gulfof California, Mexico, we feel a renewed sense of hope. The estimates of the size of the vaquitapopulation, although frighteningly small (about 10-15), appear to have remainedrelatively stable over the past several years. This suggests that their numbers may no longer be declining. The remaining vaquitas are survivors, and wewant to give them the best possible chance to rebuild their species’numbers. To do so, they need yoursupport, and also for the several things to happen: 1) The Mexican Government to stop the illegalfishing that is killing them, 2) The Chinese Government to clamp down on theillegal import of totoaba swim bladders that fuel the illegal fishing, and 3) The US Government to redouble its efforts tostop the smuggling of totoaba bladders from Mexico to China, through USchannels. Please join us on Saturday, 10 October, as we present thelatest findings on the status of the vaquita population, and hear from expertswho are working to save the species. Thelive-streamed event will have a panel discussion at the end, which will providea chance for viewers to ask questions and have them answered by vaquitascientists and conservation leaders. Andbe sure to tell all your friends and family members about the vaquita, and thisyear’s ISTV Day event, so that we can all work together to get the word out tomore people! Check back on our website< https://vivavaquita.org/save-the-vaquita-day/> regularly to get updates on the plans and the latest schedule ofevents. Thank you all for your concernabout the vaquita and for doing your part to help save Mexico’s lovely littleporpoise from the tragedy of extinction! Tom JeffersonDirector, VIVA Vaquitasclymene(a)aol.comwww.vivavaquita.org

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Underwater Acoustics in the Marine Environmental training course Devon 13- 16 April
by Zoe Wright 22 Jun '26

22 Jun '26

Underwater Acoustics in the Marine Environment Training Course (Classroom) Date: 13–16 April 2026 Location: Okehampton, Devon, UK Cost: £1950 + VAT Understanding how underwater sound propagates — and how anthropogenic noise influences marine mammals and other acoustically sensitive species — is essential for researchers, conservation practitioners, regulators, and consultants working in the marine environment. This four‑day classroom‑based course provides a targeted introduction to underwater acoustics, acoustic modelling, and marine noise assessment, with direct application to marine mammal impact assessment, behavioural response studies, and mitigation planning. Designed specifically for professionals involved in marine mammal research, conservation, offshore environmental assessments, and regulatory review, the course delivers the foundational knowledge needed to: * interpret and quantify underwater sound fields * assess and predict potential impacts of industrial noise on marine mammals * understand auditory sensitivities and species‑specific vulnerabilities * evaluate noise exposure in relation to regulatory thresholds and guidance * support the development of effective mitigation and monitoring strategies Course Modules * Introduction to Acoustics & Underwater Acoustics * Key Quantities, Units and Dimensions * Decibels and Acoustic Calculations * Boundary Reflection and Transmission * Ocean Acoustic Environments * Sound Sources and Spectra * Noise, Reverberation & Measurements * Hydrophones and Instrumentation * Anthropogenic Noise in the Ocean * Biological Sound Sources * Marine Wildlife Hearing & Noise Impacts (incl. marine mammals) * Sound Field Modelling for Impact Assessment * Methods for Environmental Impact Assessment * Environmental Regulation & EIA * Soundscapes * Vessel Radiated Noise * Marine Seismic Noise * Mitigation Techniques * Emerging Research Delivered by Dr Paul Lepper and Professor Victor Humphrey, internationally recognised researchers in underwater acoustics and marine environmental noise. Discount 5% student discount with valid ID. Booking & Enquiries 📧 training(a)seiche.com Zoe Wright Marketing & Training Communications Officer Seiche Ltd E:z.wright@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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Job Opportunity
by Telesco, David 22 Jun '26

22 Jun '26

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is advertising the Manatee Management Program Coordinator position, which will be located in Tallahassee, Florida. This leadership position serves as the Manatee Management Program Coordinator within the Imperiled Species Management Section. The Coordinator provides oversight and strategic direction for FWC's Manatee Management Program activities, ensuring that conservation, management, and regulatory activities are effectively implemented to conserve Florida's manatees and their habitats. Key responsibilities include: * Program Leadership and Administration * Provide leadership, strategic direction, and oversight for the Manatee Management Program. * Manage program budgets, grants, and contracts to ensure expenditures are appropriate, compliant with state procedures, and within allocated limits. * Ensure assignments and projects are completed on schedule, with high attention to detail. * Serve as a subject matter expert for agency leadership, teams and interagency working groups. * Ensure Section leadership is aware of any emerging or controversial issues in a timely manner. * Supervision of Staff * Provide direct supervision, mentorship, and professional development opportunities for up to six staff members. * Hold regular meetings with staff to discuss program priorities, workload management, performance expectations, and emerging issues. * Conduct regular performance evaluations, including goal setting and career development planning. * Communicate regularly with supervisors and staff on job duties, priorities, and emerging or controversial issues. * Stakeholder Coordination and Partnership Development * Coordinate with federal, state, and local partners, non-governmental organizations, and stakeholders on manatee conservation and management. * Coordinate and lead statewide and regional meetings, workshops, and stakeholder forums. * Maintain regular communication with research staff to ensure management needs are supported by current science. * Respond to stakeholder inquiries promptly and maintain constructive relationships, even on controversial projects. * Conservation Planning, Policy, and Technical Assistance * Oversee program activities related to manatee protection plans, manatee protection rules, manatee warm-water habitat, water-control structure assessments, and other conservation initiatives. * Provide expertise in reviewing regulatory proposals, environmental resource permits, coastal construction authorizations, and other activities that may affect manatees or their habitat. * Ensure consistent implementation of agency policies, procedures, and conservation objectives across program areas. * Evaluate and develop management strategies to support the long-term conservation and recovery of Florida manatees. * Outreach, Education, and Public Representation * Represent FWC and the Manatee Management Program at conferences, public forums, and outreach events. * Support training efforts and other educational initiatives that promote manatee conservation. * Provide clear communication to the public and stakeholders regarding manatee conservation and regulatory requirements. How to Apply: In addition to submitting a completed state application via People First (BIOLOGICAL ADMINISTRATOR II A -SES - 77072000 Job Details | State of Florida<https://jobs.myflorida.com/job/TALLAHASSEE-BIOLOGICAL-ADMINISTRATOR-II-A-SE…>), applicants are required to submit a current cover letter expressing their interest in the position and resume highlighting their qualifications. Cover letters and resumes should be uploaded to the People First System. Applications without a cover letter and resume are deemed incomplete and will not be considered. Application deadline is July 6, 2026. [A picture containing text Description automatically generated] David Telesco Section Leader Imperiled Species Management Section Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission 1875 Orange Ave E, Tallahassee, FL 32311 850-922-4330 David.Telesco(a)MyFWC.com<mailto:David.Telesco@MyFWC.com>

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Reminder 4th Marine Mammal eDNA Workshop at SMM 2026: submit abstracts by July 15
by Amy Van Cise 22 Jun '26

22 Jun '26

Dear MARMAM, The 4th Marine Mammal eDNA Workshop <https://www.smmconference.org/workshops/#1647455659326-59b2adc5-38db> will be held on Sunday October 9 before the 2026 SMM Biennial conference, titled "From detections to deliverables: Using eDNA data to inform and guide management and conservation actions." If you are planning to join the workshop and/or are interested in presenting your recent analyses and applications of eDNA data, please complete our Participation and Abstract Submission Survey <https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdTWy5UxpV8YMHUu21vMMwwoV0MQ97-XkW…> . *Abstracts will be accepted until 15 July 2026.* *Workshop Description:* *The 4th Marine Mammal eDNA workshop will bring together early-career and established scientists interested in applying emerging techniques in environmental DNA (eDNA) research to marine mammal species. In this workshop, we will focus specifically on developments in the analysis and interpretation of eDNA detection data for marine mammals, and the application of these results to management and conservation plans.* * Researchers will share methods developments and lessons learned from recent eDNA work and explore priority areas for further development in the next two years. Participants will then engage in small-group discussion via breakout groups on topics such as using eDNA detections in spatiotemporal distribution modeling; developing methods to move toward quantitative metabarcoding and data analysis (i.e. eDNA for abundance estimation); developing methods for the use of eDNA for stock identification or population genetic analyses. Throughout the workshop, we aim to broadly discuss both the challenges and opportunities faced by marine mammal eDNA researchers aiming to use eDNA data in statistical or modeling frameworks.* We look forward to seeing you there! Warm Regards, Amy Van Cise, Kim Parsons, Kristina Cammen, and Maggie Hunter <*)))>< <*)))>< <*)))>< <*)))>< <*)))>< <*)))>< <*)))>< <*)))>< Amy M. Van Cise, Ph.D. (she/her/hers) Assistant Professor Whale and Dolphin Ecology Lab <http://amyvancise.com> University of Washington | School of Aquatic and Fisheries Sciences 1122 NE Boat St, Box 355020 Seattle, WA 98105 Office: FSH 216B 206-221-6118

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Field Assistants Needed – Galápagos Sea Lion Project
by Jonas Schwarz 22 Jun '26

22 Jun '26

Dear MARMAM community, We are recruiting two field assistants for the Sea Lion Project Galápagos, a long-term study of Galápagos sea lions led by Prof. Oliver Krüger at Bielefeld University. Fieldwork will run from late October to mid-December 2026 on Caamaño, near Santa Cruz Island. Assistants will support population censuses, behavioural observations, animal handling, biologging, and sample collection under remote camping conditions. The positions are unpaid, but project-related travel, food, and accommodation costs will be covered. We welcome applicants with experience in fieldwork, animal behaviour, marine biology, camping, or wildlife handling; Spanish is a plus. The full advertisement is attached. Questions and applications can be sent to: Dr. Jonas Schwarz jonasschwarz(a)uni-bielefeld.de Best wishes, Jonas Schwarz

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MMO / PSO Remote Training July
by Zoe Wright 22 Jun '26

22 Jun '26

JNCC MMO / PSO Training Course 30-31st July 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@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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Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center is hiring
by Erin Oleson - NOAA Federal 21 Jun '26

21 Jun '26

The NOAA Fisheries Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center is hiring a Supervisory Marine Biologist to lead a new marine mammal and turtle monitoring program. This new Program brings together field data collection, laboratory support, data management, and monitoring and recovery-related science activities for Hawaiian monk seals, sea turtles, and cetaceans across the Pacific Islands Region. The new Program Leader will 1) oversee a team executing remote field camps, ship-based surveys, and laboratory-based research, aligning data collection activities with marine mammal and sea turtle assessment and recovery needs required under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, Endangered Species Act, and Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act , 2) develop strong partnerships with other NOAA offices and other Federal, state, and jurisdictional agencies and offices to facilitate the Division’s operations, 3) work across the Division to identify and integrate advanced technologies into survey activities, and 4) provide vision and oversight for modern and effective data management to deliver synthesized data products ready for advanced statistical and modeling approaches occurring within the Division’s assessment Programs. The USAJobs description and link to apply are here: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/873693700 For additional information, please reach out to Protected Species Division Director, Erin Oleson, or Marine Mammal Assessment Program Lead, Amanda Bradford. Mahalo! Erin -- Erin Oleson Director, Protected Species Division, Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center NOAA Fisheries | U.S. Department of Commerce Office: (808) 725-5712 www.fisheries.noaa.gov <http://www.pifsc.noaa.gov/cetacean>

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Vessel strike workshop at the SMM Biennial in Puerto Rico
by Ellen M Hines 21 Jun '26

21 Jun '26

Dear Colleagues, we are excited to present the following all day workshop on Sunday, October 18th, at the SMM Biennial in Puerto Rico. Advancing science-based approaches to preventing whale strikes across vessel sectors Vessel strikes are increasingly recognised as a major threat to marine megafauna worldwide. Growing commercial shipping, expanding coastal and recreational traffic, rising consumer demand, and climate-driven shifts in ocean use are intensifying interactions between vessels and vulnerable species. Scientists play a central role in quantifying risk, developing mitigation tools, evaluating effectiveness, and informing regulatory and operational decisions. Based on previous workshops at the European Cetacean Society, at the IWC Scientific Committee meetings and a recent meeting at the International Maritime Organization with leading vessel-strike scientists, this workshop will provide a platform for the global scientific community to share insights, compare methodologies, and discuss emerging challenges in vessel-strike research. Sessions will highlight how scientific evidence can guide practical mitigation, weigh emerging technologies, support policy and operational decisions, and facilitate dialogue with industry, regulatory authorities, and other stakeholders; Session 1: Global Overview of Vessel-Strike Risk, Assessment Frameworks, and Mitigation Tools Session 2: Commercial Shipping and SOLAS Vessels: Scientific Evidence Supporting Operational and Regulatory Action Session 3: Domestic, Recreational, Fishing, and Non-SOLAS Vessels: Research Priorities and Practical Solutions Each session will include: * Invited overview talks to establish key concepts and current knowledge * Contributed case-study presentations highlighting applied research and mitigation efforts * Moderated panel discussions focused on methodological challenges, data gaps, and translation of science into management and operational practice * Structured breakout discussions to encourage participant engagement and cross-sector exchange of ideas This mixed format is designed to balance knowledge sharing with active discussion and collaboration, while allowing flexibility depending on participant numbers and time constraints. Speakers include Alice Bouchard, Kathi George, Damian Foxall, Rachel Rhodes, Jess Morten, Astrid Frisch, Anna Nisi, Jon Calambokidis, Luis Bedrinana, Mun Wei-Jun, Simone Panigada, Auriane Virgili, and Raphael Mayaud, moderated by Ellen Hines You can attend both in-person and remotely. Please let me (ehines(a)sfsu.edu) know any questions. Best, Ellen Hines (Estuary & Ocean Science Center/IWC Vessel-Strike Expert Panel Chair) Alice Bouchard (IWC Vessel Strikes and Strandings Data Manager) Kathi George (The Marine Mammal Center, Cetacean Research Director) Damian Foxall (Director, Foxall Munro, LTD, Marine Mammal Advisory Group) Emily Hague (USE Shetland, Blue Connect Project, Postdoctoral Researcher) Chloe Robinson (Ocean Wise, Whales Director) Ellen Hines, PhD Estuary & Ocean Science Center Professor Emeritus, School of the Environment San Francisco State University 3150 Paradise Dr Tiburon, CA. 94940 ehines(a)sfsu.edu<mailto:ehines@sfsu.edu> https://eoscenter.sfsu.edu/ellen-hines Adjunct Scientist: Center for Coastal Studies, Provincetown, MA

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New publication: Nocturnal Haul‐Out Behavior of Rehabilitated Gray Seal Juveniles (Halichoerus grypus) in the Baltic Sea
by Laura Lupeikaitė-Kuncienė 20 Jun '26

20 Jun '26

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce our latest open access publication "Nocturnal Haul‐Out Behavior of Rehabilitated Gray Seal Juveniles (Halichoerus grypus) in the Baltic Sea" now available in Marine Mammal Science. Kuncienė, L., U. Siebert, Ž. Kleiva, and D. Nachtsheim. 2026. “Nocturnal Haul-Out Behavior of Rehabilitated Gray Seal Juveniles (Halichoerus grypus) in the Baltic Sea.” Marine Mammal Science42, no. 3: e70222. https://doi.org/10.1111/mms.70222 Abstract: Haul‐out behavior is a key component of the behavioral ecology of pinnipeds and serves essential resting functions. Various intrinsic and extrinsic factors have been shown to determine the occurrence of haul‐out events. However, in the Baltic Sea, a nontidal, semi‐enclosed shelf sea, the drivers of haul‐out behavior in seals are not well characterized, especially in juveniles. In this study, 14 rehabilitated juvenile gray seals (Halichoerus grypus) were equipped with Argos satellite transmitters to enable post‐release monitoring and to investigate the spatial and temporal aspects of haul‐out behavior. The animals dispersed widely in the Baltic Sea and hauled out along coastal areas that largely overlapped with sites used by wild conspecifics. Seals tended to haul out during evening and night hours, with peak activity occurring after sunset. Both the probability and duration of haul‐out events showed a tendency to increase with longer nights. No seasonal patterns or effects of sex or release year were identified. The association between haul‐out behavior and nighttime suggests a possible link to prey activity patterns but does not preclude additional factors such as physiological rhythms, potential effects of rehabilitation, or inherited behavioral tendencies shaped by historical hunting pressure. Our findings indicate that such patterns may emerge early in life, independent of prior experience. Kind regards, Laura Lupeikaitė - Kuncienė Lithuanian Sea Museum/Marine Research Institute of Klaipeda University

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