- MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New publication: A Bayesian approach to include Indigenous Knowledge and satellite telemetry data in habitat selection functions (R. Gryba)
by Rowenna Gryba 13 Jun '26

13 Jun '26

Dear MARMAM folks, My co-authors and I are pleased to share our recent publication "A Bayesian approach to include Indigenous Knowledge and satellite telemetry data in habitat selection functions" published in Journal of Applied Biology. Gryba, R., VonDuyke, A., Huntington, H., Adams, B., Frantz, B., Gatten, J., Harcharek, Q., Sarren, R., Henry, G., & Auger-Méthé, M. (2026). A Bayesian approach to include Indigenous Knowledge and satellite telemetry data in habitat selection functions. *Journal of Applied Ecology*, 63, e70413. https://doi.org/10.1111/1365-2664.70413 Abstract: 1. Indigenous Knowledge (IK) of species-habitat relationships provides in-depth understanding of species presence. While this is the case, IK and ‘Western’ scientific data are rarely combined in the same modelling approaches and species manage-ment remains mostly within colonial frameworks with limited capacity to include different data sources, such as IK, in management decisions. 2. In partnership with Iñupiat hunters, we developed a method to include IK in Bayesian habitat selection functions as priors and show how habitat variables mapped by IK holders can be included as covariates, with satellite telemetry data.We applied our methods in a case study for ringed seals (natchiq in Iñupiaq; Pusahispida) in habitat selection function models that also include dynamic habitat types(e.g. ice concentration). 3. We show, through our case study, that IK and Western scientific data can reflect similar ecological processes and how IK can provide extended insight into broad habitat use that are not captured by Western methods alone. We demonstrate that when spatial IK is included as new categorical variables it allows for the inclusion of environmental covariates that may not be available from other data sources at an appropriate scale and can account for complex habitat types that would not be possible to model otherwise. Through our case study, we show the importance of the inclusion of IK to provide fully informed models predicting spatial variation of ringed seal relative probability of use that can be used to inform critical habitat designations. 4. Synthesis and applications. Our work points to the importance of both Western science and IK data sources in models used for conservation and management decisions. We show how the models that include the IK result in more informed predictions and the value of IK when predicting important areas for species that may be relied upon for conservation and management decisions. Our results high-light the impact that the inclusion of IK can have in modelling outputs, with IK providing needed insights into the potential limitations of Western scientific data,leading to a more informed understanding of species-habitat use.

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Jonian Dolphin Conservation Expedition – July 2026 Edition
by lia＠joniandolphin.it 13 Jun '26

13 Jun '26

Dear Marmam Community, We are excited to announce a new session of the Jonian Dolphin Conservation (JDC) Expedition, a field-based scientific experience focused on the monitoring and study of cetaceans in the Gulf of Taranto, Northern Ionian Sea (southern Italy). The July 2026 edition will take place from 20–36 July, offering a one-week immersive training program designed for students, early-career researchers, and anyone interested in gaining practical skills in marine mammal science. Participants will work alongside professional researchers with over 15 years of field experience. Highlights of the expedition include: · Fieldwork aboard our research vessel for data collection on dolphin behavior and distribution · Techniques in photo-identification, acoustic monitoring, genetic sampling, drone use, and environmental data recording · Daily workshops and data analysis sessions at Ketos, JDC's scientific and cultural hub · Discussions on marine biodiversity, ecological dynamics of the Ionian Sea, and the ethical challenges of cetacean captivity All program details, the full PDF with course information, and the registration form can be found on the landing page: 🔗https://www.joniandolphin.it/jdc-expedition-luglio-2026/ For further questions, participants can contact us at 📧 areaprogetti(a)joniandolphin.it We look forward to welcoming passionate individuals ready to contribute to meaningful research and marine conservation. Warm regards, The Jonian Dolphin Conservation Team 🌐 www.joniandolphin.it Kètos - Palazzo Amati Vico Vigilante s.n.c. 74123 - TarantoFrancesca Cornelia Santacesaria Responsabile ricerca e tirocini +39 3407204648 +39 099 470 6269 lia(a)joniandolphin.it www.joniandolphin.it

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Job Opportunity: HCRI Marine Animal Response Coordinator – Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi
by HCRI 12 Jun '26

12 Jun '26

Aloha MARMAM Community, The Hawaiʻi Coral Reef Initiative (HCRI) is seeking a full-time Marine Animal Response Coordinator. This position will be hired through the Research Corporation of the University of Hawaiʻi (RCUH) and work directly with the Hawaiʻi Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR), with the primary work location based in Lihuʻe, Kauaʻi. The coordinator will plan, coordinate, and lead response to monk seal, sea turtle, and cetacean strandings and perform related tasks. The Monthly Salary Range is $5,416.67 - $5,833.33/Month. For full details, please see the job ad on the RCUH Job Openings Page at https://www.rcuh.com/opportunities/job-openings/. To view the ad, go to Explore Open Positions and Apply Now and search by the Job ID#, 226360. Applications must be submitted through the RCUH site. The closing date is June 22, 2026 or until filled. Please contact Kira Yamashita (HCRI) at hcri(a)hawaii.edu or 808-200-9554 with any questions. Thank you, Kira Yamashita

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New publication: Predicting Habitat Suitability for Humpback Whales Megaptera novaeangliae Around the Chichijima Islands, Ogasawara Islands, Japan
by Koki Tsujii 12 Jun '26

12 Jun '26

Dear all, On behalf of my co-authors, I am pleased to inform you about our paper titled "Predicting Habitat Suitability for Humpback Whales *Megaptera novaeangliae* Around the Chichijima Islands, Ogasawara Islands, Japan", recently published in Mammal Study. Tsujii, K., Okamoto, R., Murase, H., & Mitani, Y. (2026). Predicting Habitat Suitability for Humpback Whales *Megaptera novaeangliae* Around the Chichijima Islands, Ogasawara Islands, Japan. Mammal Study, 51(3). ABSTRACT The waters around the Chichijima Islands of the Ogasawara Islands, approximately 1000 km south of mainland Japan, are known breeding areas for humpback whales *Megaptera novaeangliae*, although their suitable habitat in this area has not been assessed in a spatially explicit manner. This study examined the relationship between the spatial distribution of humpback whales and topographic factors, using boat-based sighting survey data from 2013 and 2015–2018. A generalized additive model (GAM) and a maximum entropy model (Maxent) were used to estimate the suitable habitat of humpback whales. Both models demonstrated that the whale distribution was related to water depth and seabed slope, with water depth having a particularly strong influence. High suitability was observed at shallow water depths and gentle slopes, reaching a maximum at depths of 50–60 m and slopes of 0.5–0.8°. Additionally, suitable habitats were more extensive off the west coast than off the east coast, suggesting that the western area was more suitable for whales. The resulting habitat suitability map provides valuable information about their key habitats and can be utilized for their appropriate conservation in this area. The paper is available at: https://doi.org/10.3106/ms2025-0036 Best regards, Koki -- ---------------------------- Koki Tsujii, Ph.D. Executive Director / Chief Researcher Ogasawara Whale Watching Association Aza Higashimachi, Chichijima, Ogasawara-mura, Tokyo 100-2101, JAPAN Tel: +81-4998-2-3215; Fax: +81-4998-2-3500 E-mail: tsujii(a)owa1989.com ----------------------------

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Mailing list submission - New publication: Comparative non-targeted lipidomic profiles in blubber of endangered St. Lawrence Estuary belugas and their potential prey (Zeppetelli-Bedard et al., 2026)
by Laura Zeppetelli-Bedard 12 Jun '26

12 Jun '26

Dear MARMAM community, On behalf of my co-authors and me, I am very pleased to share our latest publication in *Endangered Species Research*: Zeppetelli-Bedard L, Sherrill M, Ewald J, Pang Z, Cabrol J, Lesage V, Michaud R, Verreault J (2026) Comparative non-targeted lipidomic profiles in blubber of endangered St. Lawrence Estuary belugas and their potential prey. Endang Species Res 60:esr01501 https://doi.org/10.3354/esr01501 ABSTRACT: The St. Lawrence Estuary (SLE) belugas *Delphinapterus leucas* are a small and isolated population listed as endangered in Canada. Profound changes in the SLE ecosystem and a parallel deterioration in SLE beluga body condition suggest a potential decline in the quality and/or quantity of their prey. Using a non-targeted screening approach, this study aimed to gain insights into the blubber lipid profiles of SLE belugas and their potential prey, and to examine variations among beluga males and females and age classes, as well as among prey taxa and sampling seasons. Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) was used to analyze 71 SLE beluga blubber biopsies (outer blubber layer) and 126 prey homogenates from 10 fish and 2 invertebrate species. Over 10383 features were detected across SLE beluga and prey samples, highlighting structural lipids such as glycerolipids, sphingolipids, and glycerophospholipids as the predominant components. Distinct lipid profiles were found between SLE beluga males and females, suggesting potential differences in diet and lipid metabolism, thus underscoring the importance of considering sex-specific lipid variations in beluga blubber. Prey species displayed unique lipid fingerprints, clustering according to phylogeny, diet, and trophic guilds. Significant seasonal variations in lipid composition were also observed in prey sampled across seasons. This study constitutes a critical first step toward assessing beluga–prey ecological interactions and lipid composition in the SLE food web, as well as how lipid composition influences energy allocation and storage. Cheers, Laura Zeppetelli-Bédard, MSc., University of Quebec in Montreal, Canada Aquatic science technician at Fisheries and Oceans Canada Laura.zeppbed(a)gmail.com or laura.zeppetelli-bedard(a)dfo-mpo.gc.ca Tel.: (514)-691-9712

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Consequences of culturally-driven ecological specialization: Killer whales and beyond
by Hal Whitehead 12 Jun '26

12 Jun '26

The following paper has just been published: Consequences of culturally-driven ecological specialization: Killer whales and beyond. by: Hal Whitehead and John K.B. Ford Journal of Theoretical Biology 456: 279-294 Abstract: Culturally-transmitted ecological specialization occurs in killer whales, as well as other species. We hypothesize that some of the remarkable demographic and ecological attributes of killer whales result from this process. We formalize and model (using agent-based stochastic models parametrized using killer whale life history) the cultural evolution of specialization by social groups, in which a narrowing of niche breadth is spread and maintained in a group through social learning. We compare the demographic and ecological results of cultural specialization to those of a similar model of specialization through natural selection. We found that specialization, through either the cultural or natural selection routes, is adaptive in the short term with specialization often increasing fitness. Generalization, in contrast, is rarely adaptive. The cultural evolution of specialization can lead to increased rates of group extirpation. Specialization has little effect on group size but tends to reduce population size and resource abundance. While the two specialization processes produce similar results, cultural specialization can be very much faster. The results are generally consistent with what we know of the formation and maintenance of specialist ecotypes in killer whales, and have implications for the persistence, nature and ecological effects of these apex predators. You can read a .pdf at: http://whitelab.biology.dal.ca/labpub.htm Hal Whitehead Dalhousie University hwhitehe(a)dal.ca

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LAMLA V – Second Circular
by Gisela Giardino 11 Jun '26

11 Jun '26

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to share the Second Circular of LAMLA V – Listening for Aquatic Mammals in Latin America, which will be held in Mar del Plata, Argentina, within the framework of the XX Argentine Congress on Acoustics (AdAA2026). LAMLA brings together researchers, professionals, and students interested in aquatic mammal bioacoustics, passive acoustic monitoring, animal behavior, conservation, and related fields. 📅 Important reminder: Abstract submission deadline: June 15, 2026. We encourage you to submit your work and to share this announcement with colleagues and students who may be interested. The circular includes information about: • Abstract submission • Mel Cosentino Fellowships • Workshop activities • Important dates • Registration details We look forward to welcoming you to Mar del Plata in November 2026. Best regards, The LAMLA V Organizing Committee More information: https://congresoadaa2026.web.app/lamla -- Dra. Gisela Giardino Grupo de Investigacion Biol., Ecología y Conserv. de Mamíferos Marinos Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP) -IIMyC (CONICET) Deán Funes 3350, (7600) Mar del Plata, Argentina. Tel: +54 223 4752426 (int. 244) Casilla de Correo 1260-Correo Central-MdP https://linktr.ee/becmm

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New publication: Changes in sea ice influence bowhead whale distribution and overlap with vessel transits in the Pacific Arctic
by Angela Szesciorka 11 Jun '26

11 Jun '26

Dear MARMAM community, My co-authors and I are pleased to share our new publication in Frontiers in Marine Science: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/marine-science/articles/10.3389/fmars.… Szesciorka, A.R., Crawford, J.A., Ferloni G., Hauser, D.D.W., Quakenbush, L., Stafford, K.M. (2026). Changes in sea ice influence bowhead whale distribution and overlap with vessel transits in the Pacific Arctic. Frontiers in Marine Science, 13:1818623e. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2026.1818623 Abstract: Arctic warming has resulted in substantial decreases in sea ice and a longer open-water season. This is occurring concurrently with changes in Bering-Chukchi-Beaufort bowhead whale seasonal movements and increasing vessel traffic through Bering Strait, which may increase strike risk. To assess vessel traffic relative to bowhead whale distributions before (2013/14–2016/17), during (2017/18), and after (2018/19) a significantly low winter sea ice event in the Pacific Arctic, we combined vessel location data for eight vessel types during six seasons (September–March 2013–2019) transiting through whale utilization distributions (UDs) developed from satellite-linked telemetry from whales tagged during 2008–2019. Before the low ice event, the home range (95% UD) and core use area (50% UD) followed a consistent seasonal pattern of bowhead whales migrating south through the Chukchi Sea to wintering areas in the western Bering Sea. The UDs shifted northward during the low ice event, resulting in a decline in annual vessel transits through UDs, from an average of 234 transits in the 95% UD and 139 in the 50% UD during the four seasons before the event to 62 and 45 transits, respectively during the low ice event. Mean vessel speeds, however, increased from 7.2 to 8.7 kt in the 95% UD. After the event, UDs shifted southward, although not as far as before, and transits through UDs remained low (81 and 34) and at similar mean speeds (8.9 and 8.7 kt) than during the event. Regardless of period, vessels spent the most time along the northern coast of Chukotka and western Bering Sea resulting in the highest vessel densities and fastest mean vessel speeds. While it appears bowhead whales can adjust their distributions to rapidly changing ice conditions consequently overlapping with fewer vessels, faster transits through their UDs could put whales at increased risk of lethal strikes in the future. Please reach out if you have any questions. Best regards, Angela Szesciorka, Ph.D. Bioacoustician, Greenland Institute of Natural Resources Faculty Affiliate, Marine Mammal Institute, Oregon State University

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Full-Time Marine Mammal Rehabber Position
by Savannah Costner 10 Jun '26

10 Jun '26

Hi Marmam! We are looking to add one member to our small rehabilitation team at the Alaska SeaLife Center. Our main focus is harbor seals and sea otters with the occasional ice seal or walrus calf! Please see the posting below for details and apply at this link https://workforcenow.cloud.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitme… Summary: This position is responsible for the routine handling and care of animals being housed in the rehabilitation and quarantine areas under the supervision of the Wildlife Response Curator at the Alaska Sealife Center. The primary focus of this position is marine mammals, though there are occasional responses to birds and other wildlife in the Seward area. Education/Training Requirements: Bachelor's degree in biology, animal science, zoology, veterinary science, or related profession preferred. Computer skills including Google mail, spreadsheets, word processing, and database programs. Must possess a valid driver’s license and be comfortable driving in rain and snow conditions. SCUBA certification preferred. Specialist 1 In addition to the above, Experience in animal husbandry and wildlife rehabilitation is required; experience with marine mammals is preferred. For Specialist 2 In addition to the above, Experience in animal husbandry and wildlife rehabilitation is required with at least two years of experience in marine mammal rehabilitation preferred. Experience with operant conditioning is also preferred. Essential Duties: Specialist 1 Under the supervision of the Wildlife Response Curator, provides care for animals admitted into rehabilitation. Assists with the care and husbandry of animals housed in the rehabilitation area, quarantine area, and other animal care areas at ASLC. Coordinates with the Wildlife Response Curator and veterinary staff to ensure consistency in animal care. Performs routine animal husbandry duties, including diet preparation, feeding animals, cleaning animal enclosures, disinfecting preparation areas and equipment, and maintaining animal records. Under the supervision of a veterinarian or a veterinary technician, performs basic medical treatments such as administering oral medications and cleaning wounds, and assists in basic medical procedures including animal restraint for physical exams. Under the direction of the Wildlife Response Curator, supports research and data collection within accepted research and husbandry protocols and assists with data collection and sampling procedures. Maintains accurate records in accordance with ASLC and permit requirements. Serves as a team leader for interns and volunteers to ensure animals are appropriately monitored and daily tasks are completed in a timely manner. Monitors animal behavior, health, and progress, and reports updates or concerns to senior staff and veterinary personnel. Participates, as needed, in presentations for visitors and the public on topics related to marine science and ASLC operations. Learns to appropriately lead VIP tours through quarantine spaces while respecting the needs of animals in care. Answers the ASLC stranding hotline and may be scheduled for on-call coverage outside regular working hours. Employees are compensated for on-call duties. Maintains HAZWOPER 24 certification (training provided) and serves as member of the Oil Spill Response Team. If certified in SCUBA, maintains active SCUBA diver status and is comfortable diving in cold water environments. Functions as a diver/dive tender during underwater activities carried out at the ASLC. Fosters positive relationships with the public, ASLC visitors, volunteers, community leaders, contractors, and fellow staff members by promoting cooperation, professionalism, goodwill, and high standards of service. Becomes familiar with the fundamentals of operant conditioning for animals housed at ASLC and for animals that may remain in permanent human care following rehabilitation. Cross-trains with other husbandry departments to support efficient use of staff resources when appropriate. Complies with all Alaska Sealife Center policies, procedures, and programs. Performs other duties as assigned. Specialist 2 In addition to the above duties, 1. Under the supervision of a veterinarian or a veterinary technician, assist with medical procedures such as blood collection, anesthesia preparation and monitoring, and animal restraint for advanced physical exams and radiographs. 2. Under supervision of senior staff, assist in developing animal care and treatment plans. 3. Develop supervisory skills by mentoring interns and supporting their progression through the program. 4. Leads animal pickups and releases in the field. 5. Assist with the preparation and transport of non-releasable animals to permanent placement in zoos and aquariums. 6. Use principles of operant conditioning to shape and maintain husbandry behaviors of non-releasable animals. Other Skills and Abilities: Ability to remain organized, self-motivated, independent, and attentive to cleanliness and wildlife safety awareness. Willingness to work holidays, weekends, and overnights as needed to accommodate animal requirements. Comfortable with social media and with potentially being filmed and interviewed while working. Physical Requirements: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities. This role includes a range of physical activities, such as standing or moving for extended periods, bending, kneeling, crouching, and occasional climbing, as well as handling tools, equipment, and materials. The ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds may be needed depending on the assignment. Salary Range: $20.35-$25.03(1), $23.65-$29.15(2) Full Time with Benefits Please submit a resume, cover letter and letter of recommendation with your application. Must be able to pass a background check. --

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New publication - Far from the coast: organohalogen bioaccumulation in spinner dolphins from the Southwestern Atlantic
by Caroline Castro 10 Jun '26

10 Jun '26

Dear MARMAM community, My co-authors and I are pleased to share our new publication in Marine Pollution Bulletin, available in: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0025326X26005850 Caroline A.C. Corrêa, Bárbara M.R. Manhães, Nara Oliveira-Ferreira, Elitieri B. Santos-Neto, Eduardo R. Secchi, Juliana C. Di Tullio, Rodrigo C. Genoves, Haydée A. Cunha, Tatiana L. Bisi, Alexandre F. Azevedo, José Lailson-Brito. Far from the coast: organohalogen bioaccumulation in spinner dolphins from the Southwestern Atlantic, Marine Pollution Bulletin, Volume 230, 2026, 119798. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2026.119798. Abstract: Organohalogenated compounds (OCs) are persistent, toxic, and easily transported in the environment. They bioaccumulate in biota and biomagnify along trophic webs, reaching high concentrations in top predators, such as odontocetes. Although data on OCs in South Atlantic oceanic species are limited, these compounds have been detected in dolphins far from pollution sources. This study evaluated the levels and contamination profile of organochlorine (PCBs, DDTs, HCHs, HCB, and mirex) and organobromine compounds (PBDEs, MeO-BDEs, HBB, and PBEB) in spinner dolphins (Stenella longirostris) from the outer continental shelf and slope of southeastern and southern Brazil. Remote biopsies of subcutaneous adipose tissue were collected (n = 42) and grouped by region (southeastern: n = 33; southern: n = 9). Discriminant analysis was conducted to assess differences in the contamination profile; five subgroups were found and defined by oceanographic features. PCBs were predominant in the Southeast (Sub-areas 1 and 2) while DDTs in the South (Sub-areas 3, 4 and 5). Concentrations (in ng/g lw) ranged from <11.90 to 15,344 for ΣDDT; <10.70 to 13,267 for ΣPCB; 1521.4 to 12,152 for ΣMeO-BDE; <18.30 to 3139.7 for Mirex; and <1.00 to 324.7 for ΣPBDE. HCHs, HCB, HBB, and PBEB were below the quantification limits. Mirex concentrations were among the highest reported in South Atlantic delphinids. Three assemblages (Sub-areas 1, 2 and 3 + 4 + 5) were identified, suggesting different foraging areas related to oceanographic processes. These results reveal cross-regional environmental dispersion and bioaccumulation in oceanic top predators of organohalogenated compounds, suggesting that coastal pollution can significantly impact the conservation of oceanic species. Thank you and all the best, -- *Caroline de Araujo Castro Corrêa* *B.S. and M.Sc. in Oceanography - UERJ*

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