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Post-doctoral position at Oregon State University Marine Mammal Program
by Carol DeLancey 06 Mar '06

06 Mar '06

Please post: POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT Oregon State University Coastal Oregon Marine Experiment Station Postdoctoral Research Associate TITLE: Postdoctoral Research Associate. A full-time, fixed-term annual appointment with renewal at the discretion of the principal investigator. SALARY: $38,000–$44,000 RESPONSIBILITIES: The Marine Mammal Program at Oregon State University has been successfully tracking whales and dolphins using satellite-monitored radio tags for the past two decades. Improved attachment durations and data return in recent years have provided us with sample sizes from which inferences about movement patterns and habitat characteristics can be made. However, the statistical methodology for doing so requires further development and refinement. We seek a candidate with experience acquiring and processing remote sensed oceanographic data who can devise statistical approaches to investigate whale habitat preferences by comparing oceanographic datasets to locations of satellite-tracked whales. This individual will compartmentalize analytical methods in easy-to-use, well-documented software for use by technical staff, and will take part in all aspects of satellite-monitored radio tagging operations on large whales. In addition, she/he will need to be able to communicate the methodology and results of research at conferences and in peer-reviewed literature. The successful candidate will work under the direction of Dr. Bruce Mate at the Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport, Oregon. QUALIFICATIONS: - PhD in oceanography, ecology, statistics or related field - Ability to process, manage and analyze a variety of digital datasets, including bathymetric data, remotely sensed data (e.g. AVHRR, SeaWiFS, TOPEX/POSEIDON), oceanographic climatologies and time series data. - Scientific programming experience is required; proficiency with general analytical and visualization software such as IDL, PV-Wave, or Matlab is desired. Experience with GIS is preferred. Experience with telemetry and working with whales in the field is also helpful, but not required. - Ability to work relatively unsupervised, plan work and achieve results. Also, a demonstrable commitment to promoting and enhancing diversity. TO APPLY: Send a statement of interest, curriculum vitae, and names, addresses, telephone numbers and electronic mail addresses of three references to: Carol DeLancey Hatfield Marine Science Center 2030 SE Marine Science Drive Newport, OR 97365 /Electronic submissions are encouraged/ and should be sent to: carol.delancey(a)oregonstate.edu <mailto:carol.delancey@oregonstate.edu>. For full consideration, apply by 31 March 2006. Questions about the position may be directed to Cyndee Pekar by phone (541-867-0202), FAX (541-867-0128), or email at cyndee.pekar(a)oregonstate.edu <mailto:cyndee.pekar@oregonstate.edu>. Further information about the OSU Marine Mammal Program can be found at www.marinemammalprogram.org <http://www.marinemammalprogram.org/>. /Oregon// State University// is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer, and has a policy of being responsive to the needs of dual-career couples./ -- Carol DeLancey Oregon State University Marine Mammal Program Hatfield Marine Science Center 2030 S Marine Science Drive Newport OR 97365 541.867.0133 phone 541.867.0128 fax carol.delancey(a)oregonstate.edu www.marinemammalprogram.org -- Carol DeLancey Oregon State University Marine Mammal Program Hatfield Marine Science Center 2030 S Marine Science Drive Newport OR 97365 541.867.0133 phone 541.867.0128 fax carol.delancey(a)oregonstate.edu www.marinemammalprogram.org

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New paper: Body proportions of the harbour porpoise
by Pavel Gol'din 06 Mar '06

06 Mar '06

Dear colleagues, The following paper was recently published in the Vestnik Zoologii journal: Gol’din P. E. Body proportions of harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) (Cetacea, Phocoenidae) in the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea. - Vestnik Zoologii (=Zool. Herald). - 2005. - 39(5). - P. 59-65. The studies of the allometric growth of the body parts in harbour porpoises have shown that the growth of body parts during the postnatal ontogenesis of harbour porpoise differs substantially in four body sectors, which correspond to the skull and the departments of vertebral column. The highest rates of allometric growth are observed in the thoracic and caudal departments. The middle part of the body is characterized by maximum rates of allometry in both sexes. The hypothisis was brought forward that the two-stage growth of the organism is determined by the periodicity of growth of the caudal department. Sexual dimorphism of the body size is determined by the body parts, which exhibit positive allometry or isometry in both sexes. Sexual differences in growth rates are observed in the lumbar department but the differences of absolute length values concern only the anus-genital distance. To obtain pdf reprints please contact the following addresses: oblako(a)home.cris.net pavel_goldin(a)mail.ru Pavel E. Gol'din Department of Zoology V. I. Vernadsky Taurida National University 4, Vernadsky Avenue, Simferopol, Crimea, 95007 Ukraine oblako(a)home.cris.net

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BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN PHOTO-ID VOLUNTEERS REQUIRED
by CBMWC 05 Mar '06

05 Mar '06

BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN PHOTO-ID VOLUNTEERS REQUIRED Opportunities for Volunteering in association with the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre, New Quay, West Wales 2006. For more information please visit our website <http://www.cbmwc.org/> www.cbmwc.org. Our 2005 Bottlenose dolphin photo-identification catalogue can be found on our website, (http://www.cbmwc.org/current_res/photo-idcatalogue.htm) We are recruiting willing volunteers to assist with our ongoing research and education programmes concerning the marine wildlife of Cardigan Bay, primarily the bottlenose dolphins (photo-identification), harbour porpoise and Atlantic grey seals. Volunteers are needed from mid April until mid October 2006. Undergraduate and postgraduate student research projects can be supported with boat time and office space. Please contact us to discuss feasible projects email: info(a)cbmwc.org. We support non-invasive and non-disruptive research. About the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre (Est.1996): The Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre, based in New Quay, West Wales is a non-profit organisation run by a group dedicated to working for and in the interest of Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre. The group is part of and affiliated to the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales. Our headquarters are located in the heart of New Quay in a heritage building overlooking the beautiful beach and harbour. This facility is a valuable and important marine wildlife and conservation asset, which is used for interpretation, education and research and furthermore acts as a focal point of interest and reference for visitors to the area. The Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre is dedicated to promoting public awareness of the marine species, habitats and conservation of the marine wildlife in Cardigan Bay through research and education. It is also dedicated to forming links and working with established marine conservation and research groups to set up specific projects and new initiatives both within and outside the local area. The primary purpose of our ongoing research, supported by Environment Wales and the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales, is to monitor the marine mammal populations found within Cardigan Bay's Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and beyond. We endeavour to raise awareness and understanding of the importance of the local marine wildlife and habitats, to encourage respect and conservation of these important entities and to ensure the long term well-being of these animals and the local marine environment. Our intention is to establish an enduring and stimulating education programme for all. We also aim to provide interpretational materials on the species and habitats in Cardigan Bay and to conduct public awareness initiatives. This is a fantastic opportunity for volunteers to make a positive contribution to marine wildlife research, to gain knowledge and experience of the species and habitats in Cardigan Bay and of public awareness and education programmes. Volunteers will be involved in the following: Shorter Term Posts Research & Education Assistant Boat Based Work * Assist with boat based photo identification surveys. * Assist with collection of data on marine mammals & other wildlife in Cardigan Bay * Act as a marine mammal "lookout". * Educate passengers about the wildlife in Cardigan Bay. * Assist with other ongoing projects at our centre including opportunistic jellyfish surveys and sunfish surveys amongst others. * Help crew research vessel, Sulaire. Land-based work * Assist with the day-to-day operation of our Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife visitor centre, including staffing the front desk, taking boat bookings and answering enquiries. * Advise visitors to the centre and the public about the Marine Wildlife in Cardigan Bay and the work that is being conducted. * Help develop the facilities at the Marine Wildlife Centre. * Creation and regular updating of our website pages with sightings and other information. * Conduct land based surveys from New Quay in conjunction with Ceredigion County Council. * Record sightings information, update sightings boards in our centre and central database with information gained from our boat and land based research surveys. * Assist with analysis & cataloguing of photo identification of the bottlenose dolphins. * Assist with research and production of our education programme and interpretational materials. * Develop ideas for refurbishment of the CBMWC, what materials etc. could be displayed in the centre, including interactive materials, touch tanks, interpretation boards etc. * Develop ideas for articles for other publications including CBMWC newsletter & website. * Train new volunteers in collection of data and survey work. * Help develop Fundraising ideas Desired skills/qualifications: * Fluency in English (essential). * Willingness to work in a conscientious, responsible and reliable manner. * Enthusiastic and hard working. * An interest in wildlife and conservation. * An interest and knowledge of British cetaceans would be an advantage. * A background in biology, particularly marine biology/environmental science. * A background in environmental interpretation or education and experience working with children is desirable. * Experience working with the public, and public speaking would be useful. * Excellent verbal and written communication skills. * IT skills. Sightings Officer * The sightings officer will be responsible for ensuring that the land and boat based sightings' are updated on our website and in our visitor centre on a daily basis. * Ensure that all sightings data collected during surveys are input onto computer. * They will also be responsible for ensuring that the "new" Welsh sightings' database is kept up to date with data from our surveys and land based work and that data submitted by other organisations is input promptly and correctly. * As above (Research & Education assistants) Longer Term Posts (5-6 Months) Bottlenose dolphin Photo-id catalogue Officer * Main responsibility will be to oversee the cataloguing of the bottlenose dolphin photo-id catalogue and matching individuals to previous year's images. * Conduct talks on the photo-identification work conducted at the CBMWC to interested parties. * As above (Research & Education assistants) Education Officer * Help to plan, research and design interpretation boards on the marine wildlife in Cardigan Bay for display in the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre and other organisations' centres throughout Wales. * Design educational materials for younger children on the marine wildlife in Cardigan Bay e.g. Activity booklet. * Act as mentor and point of contact for work experience students. * Conduct talks on the work of the CBMWC to interested parties. * Coordinate and organise other volunteers participating with the education work at CBMWC * Help plan, develop ideas for events at the CBMWC (e.g. talks on local wildlife). * As above (Research & Education assistants). We are also looking for volunteers with website building experience for a new project, volunteers with accountancy experience, fundraising experience and any other experience that may be of benefit to the CBMWC. Volunteer positions are available from mid April until October 2006, commitment for a minimum of 2 weeks is required. Priority will be given to volunteers available for longer periods. Accommodation can be arranged for committed volunteers (approx 45 - 50GBP per week). Volunteers are responsible for their own food, travel and accommodation costs. Local volunteers are always welcome to join us. For further information about the work we do please visit - <http://www.cbmwc.org/> www.cbmwc.org To apply: Please contact us by email at volunteer(a)cbmwc.org and include a copy of your CV detailing your background and relevant experience together with a covering letter indicating when and how long you are available to volunteer. Or alternatively post your application to: Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre Patent Slip Building Glanmor Terrace New Quay Ceredigion SA45 9PS West Wales (UK) Tel: +44 (0) 1545 560032/ (0) 7796135490 www.cbmwc.org <http://www.cbmwc.org/>

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Summer field course -- Delphinid and Sirenian Field Studies in Belize
by Leszek Karczmarski 02 Mar '06

02 Mar '06

Summer Field Course Marine Mammal Research Experience: Delphinid and Sirenian Field Studies Please see the announcement below. There are still a few places available, although the registration due date is less than a month ahead. Please note: further information can be viewed and printed out from the following websites: a. Detailed Course Description: <http://www.tamug.edu/mmrp/Postdoctoral/Leszek/LK%20PDFs/Belize%20HPF%20mari…> b. 1-Page Course Flyer: <http://www.tamug.edu/mmrp/Postdoctoral/Leszek/LK%20PDFs/Belize%20Flyer.pdf> c. Registration Form: <http://www.tamug.edu/mmrp/Postdoctoral/Leszek/LK%20PDFs/Belize%20Registrati…> The dates are as follow: Session 1: June 15-26, 2006 - students arrive on June 15, afternoon - June 16-25 -- classes and fieldwork (10 days) - students leave in the morning June 26 Session 2: July 1-12, 2006 - students arrive on July 1, afternoon - July 2-11 -- classes and fieldwork (10 days) - students leave in the morning July 12 Lectures and Instructions by: Dr. Leszek Karczmarski (Texas A&M University, Galveston, USA) Caryn Self-Sullivan, Ph.D. Candidate (Texas A&M University, College Station, USA) Hosted by: Spanish Bay Conservation and Research Center, Hugh Parkey Foundation for Marine Awareness & Education Course Summary The course will provide an overview of population ecology, behavior, and conservation biology of cetaceans and sirenians, and will focus on the primary field and laboratory research techniques used in studies of these marine mammals. Classes will include review of recent scientific literature, and open discussion on current issues in behavioral, population, and conservation ecology. Emphasis will be given to hands-on practical experience in data collection and analyses, especially in behavioral and ecological research, such as photo-ID mark-recapture techniques, population assessment, behavioral sampling, genetic research, etc. Students will participate in boat-based research surveys investigating population ecology and social dynamics of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and conservation biology of Antillean manatees (Trichechus manatus manatus) in the Drowned Cayes area, central Belize. The course will last 10 days, and - weather permitting - we will be out on the water at least during five or six of these days. Students will actively participate in data collection and analyses as part of an ongoing research. This is a great opportunity to gain practical experience in delphinid and sirenian field research in a unique tropical habitat of central Belize. All classes will be in a form of either (a) lectures that will lead to more "informal" discussion, hopefully ending with a constructive brain-storming on the specific topic, or (b) instructions with hand-on practical component, especially when it involves field techniques or analytical lab techniques. The course will be hosted by the Hugh Parkey Foundation for Marine Awareness & Education (HPF) as a non-credit course . The lecture and lab hours are equivalent of a 4-credit academic course, and, when applicable, credits might be issued by the participating student's own university. In such a case a written assignment will be to follow by e-mail within six weeks of the completion of the course. Location The courses will take place at a unique field location, Spanish Lookout Caye (SLC), a small (184-acre) tropical mangrove island formation off the coast of Belize. SLC is approximately 10 miles east of Belize City and less than 2 miles west of the Belize Barrier Reef -- the second largest barrier reef in the world. This is approximately 20 minutes by boat from Belize City. Spanish Lookout encompasses two of several mangrove islets within the Drowned Cayes range. The Drowned Cayes represent pristine mangrove habitat, surrounded by seagrass beds and coral patch reefs, within the Belize Barrier Reef Lagoon system. SLC is privately owned, with approximately 10% of the island developed exclusively for the conservation and research center. We will be hosted at the facilities of Spanish Bay Conservation and Research Center (SBCRC), home to the Hugh Parkey Foundation for Marine Awareness & Education (HPF) . Both SBCRC and HPF are in partnership with (and supported by) Hugh Parkey's Belize Dive Connection, the largest commercial diving operator in Belize. Course Syllabus Day 1 a. Behavioral, population, and evolutionary ecology of marine mammals: The concept of studying natural populations and free-ranging animals b. Marine mammal field research: Basic standards and routines c. Individual identification: Principles and applications d. Individual identification applied in field studies of cetaceans and sirenians: the photo-ID approach, equipment, logistics e. Mark-recapture techniques: Advantages and limitations; the critical issue of equal-catchability Day 2 a. Measuring behavior: Behavioral categories and sampling techniques b. Measuring behavior: The issue of scale and resolution; avoiding potential biases c. Assessing daily behavioral budget and dial/tidal/lunar/seasonal patterns d. Application of behavioral research in assessing area preferences and habitat choice e. The research question dilemma: identifying the issue, formulating the research question, finding the means of bringing in the answer (open discussion) Day 3 Morning: a. Reconnaissance delphinid research survey: Getting used to standards and routines (half-day) - photo-ID in practice - sampling behavior - measuring environmental variables Afternoon: b. Digital versus traditional photography in photo-ID studies: advantages and limitations c. Assessing photographic quality and distinctiveness of digital images, matching IDs Day 4 Morning: a. Reconnaissance sirenian research survey: Getting used to standards and routines (half-day) - standardized point counts for population abundance assessment - sampling behavior - measuring environmental variables and seagrass parameters Afternoon: b. Field surveys: questions and answers c. Population assessment for free-ranging cetaceans: Applications and limitations - photo-ID surveys versus transect surveys; populations estimate versus population abundance - aerial survey - quantifying population parameters d. Open discussion Day 5 Morning: a. Bottlenose dolphin photo-ID research survey (half-day) Afternoon: b. Changing world: Application of marine mammal research in biodiversity conservation and ecosystem management (part 1) c. Designing field data sheet (cetacean surveys) Day 6 Morning: a. Manatee research survey: distribution and habitat preferences (half-day) Afternoon: b. The priorities, scope, and limitations of sirenian field research: The case of Antillean manatees in Belize versus other species c. Designing field data sheet (sirenian surveys) Day 7 Morning: a. Application of genetics and genetic sampling techniques b. Cetacean social behavior and social structure: Modeling population structure, parameters, and social dynamic Afternoon: c. Tracking and remote sensing techniques d. "Invasive" versus "non-invasive" research: Ensuring that scientifically valuable is still ethically acceptable e. Changing world: Application of marine mammal research in biodiversity conservation and ecosystem management (part 2) Day 8 Morning: a. Research survey, dolphins and/or manatees (half-day) Afternoon: b. Field surveys: questions and answers; advanced level c. Current challenges in field studies of free-ranging cetaceans and sirenians: how far can we reach? d. Assignment of research papers to read e. Data entry (optional) Day 9 Morning: a. Research survey, dolphins and/or manatees (half-day) Afternoon: b. Current topics in behavioral and evolutionary ecology and conservation biology of marine mammals (part 1) c. Reading assigned research papers, optional data entry Day 10 Morning: a. Current topics in behavioral and evolutionary ecology and conservation biology of marine mammals (part 2) . b. Student presentations and open discussion Afternoon: c. Closing comments Room and Board Students will be accommodated in dormitory style housing (12 students per bunkhouse with shared bathroom facilities). Full daily meals will be provided (basic meals, mostly Belizean style), and served in a comfortable dining facility. Tea, coffee, and water will be provided; other beverages can be purchased at the site. The appropriate choice of beverages and snacks can be arranged on request. Off Time Activities a) Kayaking (times to be scheduled) b) Snorkeling at the Spanish Lookout Caye (available anytime) c) SCUBA diving (for additional fee, times would need to be scheduled) d) A day trip to a historic Maya site at Xunantunich or Caracol can be scheduled for a day immediately following the last day of the course (additional fee applies) Timeframe Session 1: June 15-26, 2006 - students arrive on June 15, afternoon - June 16-25 -- classes and field work (10 days) - students leave in the morning June 26 Session 2: July 1-12, 2006 - students arrive on July 1, afternoon - July 2-11 -- classes and field work (10 days) - students leave in the morning July 12 Costs Total costs (all inclusive - except airfare to/from Belize) -- $1,950 payable to HPF (all or part of this fee may be tax-deductible; please see your tax accountant for advice) For Further Details Contact either L. Karczmarski or C. Self-Sullivan Dr. Leszek Karczmarski Associate Research Faculty Institute of Marine Life Sciences, Texas A&M University 4700 Avenue U, Building 303, Galveston, TX 77551, USA Tel: (409) 740-4718 Fax: (409) 740-4717 E-mail: karczmal(a)tamug.edu <mailto:karczmal@tamug.edu> Caryn Self Sullivan Ph.D. Candidate, Texas A&M University Director of Research, Hugh Parkey Foundation for Marine Awareness & Education President & Co-founder, Sirenian International, Inc. Principal Investigator, Earthwatch Institute Email: caryn(a)sirenian.org <mailto:caryn@sirenian.org>; Tel: (540) 287-8207 To Sign Up for the Course, Contact: Caryn Self-Sullivan Email: caryn(a)sirenian.org <mailto:caryn@sirenian.org> Travel Information Air Travel Direct flights to Belize City (airport code BZE) can be booked from Houston, Dallas, Charlotte, Atlanta, or Miami. Airlines services to Belize include Continental, American, US Airways, TACA, and Delta. Prices for a round trip generally range from $400 to $600 from these port cities. Visa Information You will travel under a tourist visa. As of September 2003, United States, British, Australian, Canadian, and most European Union citizens will not require a tourist visa for entry to Belize for a stay of up to 30 days (i.e., you receive a 30 visitor's visa automatically upon entry to Belize). Citizens of Japan will need a tourist visa. All visitors are required to have a passport and it must be valid for 6 months beyond your intended stay. You also must have documents for return/onward travel. Citizens of countries other than those listed above should check with their travel agent or a visa agency for specific visa and entry requirements. A useful website for visa requirements is: http://www.embassyworld.com . Currency The Local Currency: Belize Dollars, however $US are accepted and WELCOMED everywhere. There is NO NEED to change $US into $BZ (the general exchange rate is $1US = $2BZ). Traveler's Checks and Credit Cards are more difficult to use, but are becoming more acceptable each year. Debit cards rarely work, but VISA and Mastercard can be used to get cash advances from most banks. The Time Zone GMT/UTC -6:00. Electricity 110 volts AC, 60 Hz. Flat two-pin plugs. Electricity at Spanish Bay is generated onsite via solar and wind power with diesel backup. DO NOT bring high voltage appliances such as blow dryers, they will not work! Water We practice water conservation at Spanish Bay because we must capture all our water from rain or transport it in by boat. We recommend one short shower per day. Drinking water is filtered and available at designated taps. Personal Funds Approximately $200- $500 US for personal spending, extra tours, souvenirs, beverages, and snacks might be useful. If you want to call home, you will need to purchase a local phone card. Phone cards from the USA DO NOT work in Belize. Average costs: $1.25 US per minute with a BTL Prepaid Phone Card; $4.00 per minute with your credit card. Tips It is customary to tip for services in Belize. Culture Belize is a melting pot of ethnic cultures including Creole (former African slaves mixed with other cultures), Garifuna (non-slave African mixed with Carib Indian), Maya (Ketchi and Mopan), Mestizo (Mexican, Maya, Spanish mix), Mennonite (predominately German), and other Caucasian (European mix). Shorts and t-shirts are fine for both men and women. Swimwear is appropriate for beaches, but not for Belize City, where shirts and shoes are recommended at all times. ________________________________________________ Leszek Karczmarski, Ph.D. Institute of Marine Life Sciences, Texas A&M University 4700 Avenue U, Building 303, Galveston, TX 77551, USA Tel: (409) 740-4718 Fax: (409) 740-4717 E-mail: karczmal(a)tamug.edu and leszek(a)hawaii.edu http://www.tamug.edu/mmrp/Postdoctoral/Leszek/Leszek.htm ________________________________________________

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Upcoming workshop of interest
by Shelby Walker 02 Mar '06

02 Mar '06

Guiding National Ocean Research Investment: Public Workshop on the Ocean Research Priorities Plan The National Science and Technology Council Joint Subcommittee on Ocean Science and Technology is holding a public workshop on April 18-20, 2006 in Denver, CO, to solicit input and guidance from the ocean science communities on the Ocean Research Priorities Plan (ORPP). Called for in the Ocean Action Plan, the ORPP, in conjunction with a follow-on Implementation Strategy, will describe a vision for U.S. ocean science and technology, describe the challenges to be addressed, identify key themes, specify goals for each theme and a time frame for their achievement, and address implications for the use or prioritization of resources. Members from the research community, government representatives (federal, state, tribal, and local), industry groups, international representatives, non-governmental organizations, and any individuals interested in helping guide national ocean research are invited to attend. For more information on the ORPP and the workshop, go to: http://ocean.ceq.gov/about/jsost_workshop/welcome.html In addition to the workshop, interested parties will have the opportunity to provide comments on the ORRP during a 45-day public comment period, scheduled to open March 2006. Check back to the web page often for more information. Contact: Shelby E. Walker, USGCRP/CCSP Office, 1717 Pennsylvania Ave., Suite 250, Washington, DC 20006 (tel: 202-419-3464; fax: 202-223-3064; e-mail: swalker(a)usgcrp.gov) --

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marine education internship, summer 2006
by Simone Cromwell 02 Mar '06

02 Mar '06

MERI Announces Marine Education Internships Summer 2006 The Marine Environmental Research Institute (MERI), a nonprofit organization based in Blue Hill, Maine, is recruiting to fill three Marine Education Internships at the MERI Center for Marine Studies. These are full-time positions requiring a commitment of 12 weeks in Summer 2006. MERI, founded in 1990, is an organization in Blue Hill, Maine, dedicated to protecting the health and biodiversity of the marine environment. Current work includes community-based marine education programs operating out of the MERI Center for Marine Studies, and field research on the effects of pollution on marine mammals. MERI's education programs focus on marine life along the rocky Maine coast and promoting environmental awareness and stewardship. This internship is an excellent opportunity for an individual working toward a career in marine science education or environmental education to gain practical experience in the field. The ideal candidate will possess a personal interest in the marine environment and a commitment to the mission of the organization. Primary Job Responsibility: This position will involve working closely with senior Education Staff in key components of the MERI education program, including leading island ecology trips for children and adults, assisting with the day-to-day operation of the MERI Center for Marine Studies, planning and implementing educational science materials for adult and child community programs, and managing MERI library and information clearinghouse files. Interns are also expected to complete an individual education project over the term and to produce, at minimum, a Summary Report on their topic. Job Description: * Assist with the implementation of educational programming, including educational Boat Cruises, MERI's Summer Day Camp, Ocean Story Hour, Ocean Video Night, and Ocean Aquarium Room programs * Assist with day-to-day operation of the MERI Center for Marine Studies, including staffing the reception desk and the Ocean Room, and attending some weekend and evening programs and special events * Help maintain Ocean Room aquaria and touch tank, including collection of species for exhibit in the tanks * Work with Education Department staff and volunteers to reorganize and catalogue the Sea Lending Library * Compile background information, assist with production of Fact Sheets, Teaching Kits and informational materials as assigned and for an individual project subject area * Complete a Summary Report on an assigned individual project topic * Articulate and promote the MERI mission to the public * Perform other duties relating to the organization's goals and mission as required Reports to: Education Program Coordinator and Education Director Qualifications: Applicants should possess a BA or BS degree (Juniors and Seniors may also apply) in environmental education, marine sciences, biology, environmental sciences or a similar major. Applicants should also have teaching experience both in the classroom and in the field with multiple age levels, and should be able to work well independently and as part of a team. Good public speaking and writing skills are required. Applicants must be flexible, able to adapt to a changing work environment, and at times, be available to work evenings, weekends, and holidays. Knowledge of computer software including Microsoft Word, Power Point, Excel, Adobe Photoshop required. Photography, graphics, and GIS skills a definite plus. Must possess a valid drivers license and a good driving record. Knowledge of First Aid, CPR, and water safety is a plus. Time Requirements: June 12 - September 2 (12 weeks); Full-time (min. 40 hours/week); additional hours to be agreed upon by employee and Director. Compensation: Housing in Blue Hill and a stipend are provided. Interns are responsible for all travel expenses and food. Deadline: April 15, 2006 To Apply: If you are interested in applying for this position, please submit by email a letter of interest with your updated résumé and 3 references to: MERI Search Committee/Summer 2006 Education Internship <mailto:education@meriresearch.org> education(a)meriresearch.org Marine Environmental Research Institute (MERI) PO Box 1652, 55 Main Street Blue Hill, ME 04616 Tel: (207) 374-2135 Fax: (207) 374-2931 Website: <http://www.meriresearch.org> www.meriresearch.org MERI is an Equal Opportunity Employer Simone Cromwell Lab Assistant MERI P.O. Box 1652 Blue Hill, ME 04614 207-374-2135

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20th ECS Conference - deadline for late registration (fwd)
by MARMAM Editors 01 Mar '06

01 Mar '06

>From LISTSERV(a)UVVM.UVIC.CA Mon Feb 27 17:11:48 2006 Received: from UVVM.UVic.CA (uvvm.uvic.ca [142.104.5.6]) by castle.comp.uvic.ca (8.13.2/8.13.2) with ESMTP id k1S1Bl7q13029414 for <marmamed(a)UVIC.CA>; Mon, 27 Feb 2006 17:11:47 -0800 Received: by UVVM.UVic.CA (IBM VM SMTP Level 430) via spool with SMTP id 1013 ; Mon, 27 Feb 2006 17:11:44 PST Received: from UVVM.UVIC.CA (NJE origin LISTSERV@UVVM) by UVVM.UVIC.CA (LMail V1.2d/1.8d) with BSMTP id 1131; Mon, 27 Feb 2006 17:11:45 -0800 Received: from UVVM (NJE origin SMTP@UVVM) by UVVM.UVIC.CA (LMail V1.2d/1.8d) with BSMTP id 1129; Mon, 27 Feb 2006 17:11:44 -0800 Received: from castle.comp.uvic.ca [142.104.5.97] by UVVM.UVic.CA (IBM VM SMTP Level 430) via TCP with SMTP ; Mon, 27 Feb 2006 17:11:42 PST X-Comment: UVVM.UVic.CA: Mail was sent by castle.comp.uvic.ca Received: from julia.univ.gda.pl (julia.univ.gda.pl [153.19.1.240]) by castle.comp.uvic.ca (8.13.2/8.13.2) with ESMTP id k1S1BeIG9031844 for <MARMAM(a)UVVM.UVIC.CA>; Mon, 27 Feb 2006 17:11:41 -0800 Received: from localhost (localhost [127.0.0.1]) by julia.univ.gda.pl (Postfix) with ESMTP id A42FCFA4F for <MARMAM(a)UVVM.UVIC.CA>; Tue, 28 Feb 2006 01:40:26 +0100 (CET) Received: from julia.univ.gda.pl ([127.0.0.1]) by localhost (julia [127.0.0.1]) (amavisd-new, port 10024) with ESMTP id 12648-01 for <MARMAM(a)UVVM.UVIC.CA>; Tue, 28 Feb 2006 01:40:26 +0100 (CET) Received: by julia.univ.gda.pl (Postfix, from userid 2166) id 80D9FFADF; Tue, 28 Feb 2006 01:40:26 +0100 (CET) Received: from IWONA (h40.hel.univ.gda.pl [213.77.30.40]) by julia.univ.gda.pl (Postfix) with ESMTP id 0E872FA4F for <MARMAM(a)UVVM.UVIC.CA>; Tue, 28 Feb 2006 01:40:25 +0100 (CET) Message-ID: <01ec01c63bff$db9b11b0$6901010a(a)hel.local> From: "Iwona Kuklik" <oceik(a)univ.gda.pl> To: "Marine Mammals Research and Conservation Discussion" <MARMAM(a)UVVM.UVIC.CA> Subject: 20th ECS Conference - deadline for late registration Date: Tue, 28 Feb 2006 01:42:30 +0100 MIME-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: multipart/alternative; boundary="----=_NextPart_000_01E9_01C63C08.3D21AD60" X-Priority: 3 X-MSMail-Priority: Normal X-Mailer: Microsoft Outlook Express 6.00.2900.2180 Disposition-Notification-To: "Iwona Kuklik" <oceik(a)univ.gda.pl> X-MimeOLE: Produced By Microsoft MimeOLE V6.00.2900.2180 X-Spam-Checker-Version: SpamAssassin 3.0.3 (2005-04-27) on julia.univ.gda.pl X-Spam-Level: X-Spam-Status: No, score=-2.5 required=7.0 tests=AWL,BAYES_00,HTML_40_50, HTML_MESSAGE autolearn=ham version=3.0.3 X-Virus-Scanned: by amavisd-new-20030616-p10 (Debian) at univ.gda.pl X-UVic-Virus-Scanned: OK - Passed virus scan by Sophos (sophie) on castle X-UVic-Virus-Scanned: OK - Passed virus scan by Sophos (sophie) on castle X-UVic-Spam-Scan: castle.comp.uvic.ca Not_scanned_LOCAL X-UVic-Spam-Scan: castle.comp.uvic.ca No_recips_rejected X-UVic-Spam-Status: No X-UVic-Spam-Score: 0.591 HTML_20_30,HTML_MESSAGE,LINES_OF_YELLING,LINES_OF_YELLING_2 X-UVic-Spam-Level: Spam-Level X-Scanned-By: MIMEDefang 2.33 (www . roaringpenguin . com / mimedefang) This message was originally submitted by oceik(a)UNIV.GDA.PL to the MARMAM list at UVVM.UVIC.CA. If you simply forward it back to the list, using a mail command that generates "Resent-" fields (ask your local user support or consult the documentation of your mail program if in doubt), it will be distributed and the explanations you are now reading will be removed automatically. If on the other hand you edit the contributions you receive into a digest, you will have to remove this paragraph manually. Finally, you should be able to contact the author of this message by using the normal "reply" function of your mail program. ---------------- Message requiring your approval (123 lines) ------------------ This is a multi-part message in MIME format. ------=_NextPart_000_01E9_01C63C08.3D21AD60 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-2" Content-Transfer-Encoding: quoted-printable Dear Marmamers, Dzie=F1 dobry ! This message is to remind you to register for the 20th Conference of the = European Cetacean Society to be held in Gdynia, Poland, 2-7 April, 2006. = =20 The deadline for late registration is FRIDAY, MARCH 3rd. After that date = all new registrations will be done ON SITE only (more expensive !). The 20th Conference of the European Cetacean Society will take place in = Gdynia, Poland, between 2-7 April (pre-conference workshops on April 1, = 2 and 7, plenary sessions April 3-6) and will be hosted by the Hel = Marine Station, University of Gda=F1sk, in co-operation with the = Fundation for the Development of the University of Gda=F1sk and the City = of Gdynia.=20 The theme of the conference is: "MARINE MAMMALS AND MAN : CAN THEY COEXIST ?" There will be 57 talks and about 240 poster presentations. 7 workshops are organized before and after the conference. Please visit the website of the conference for further details. Conference website : http://www.ecs2006gdynia.univ.gda.pl ECS website :=20 http://www.broekemaweb.nl/ecs/ Do zobaczenia w Gdyni !!! Iwona Kuklik Conference Organizer _________________ Hel Marine Station University of Gdansk P.O.Box 2, 84-150 Hel tel. +48 58 6751 316 fax. +48 58 6750 420 Poland ------=_NextPart_000_01E9_01C63C08.3D21AD60 Content-Type: text/html; charset="iso-8859-2" Content-Transfer-Encoding: quoted-printable <!DOCTYPE HTML PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN"> <HTML><HEAD> <META http-equiv=3DContent-Type content=3D"text/html; = charset=3Diso-8859-2"> <META content=3D"MSHTML 6.00.2900.2802" name=3DGENERATOR> <STYLE></STYLE> </HEAD> <BODY bgColor=3D#ffffff> <DIV><FONT size=3D2></FONT> </DIV> <DIV style=3D"FONT: 10pt arial"><FONT face=3D"Times New Roman" = size=3D3>Dear=20 Marmamers,</FONT></DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV><FONT size=3D2><EM><STRONG>Dzie=F1 dobry = !</STRONG></EM></FONT></DIV> <DIV> </DIV><FONT size=3D2> <DIV><FONT size=3D3>This message is to remind you to register for = the 20th=20 Conference of the European Cetacean Society to be held in Gdynia, = Poland,=20 2-7 April, 2006.  </FONT></DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV><FONT size=3D3>The deadline for late registration is FRIDAY, MARCH = 3rd. After=20 that date all new<BR>registrations will be done ON SITE only (more = expensive=20 !).<BR><BR>The 20th Conference of the European Cetacean Society = will take=20 place in Gdynia, Poland, between 2-7 April (pre-conference workshops on = April 1,=20 2 and 7, plenary sessions April 3-6) and will be hosted by the Hel = Marine=20 Station, University of Gda=F1sk, in co-operation with the Fundation for = the=20 Development of the University of Gda=F1sk and the City of Gdynia. = <BR><BR>The=20 theme of the conference is:<BR><BR>"MARINE MAMMALS AND MAN = : CAN THEY=20 COEXIST ?"<BR><BR>There will be 57 talks and about 240 poster=20 presentations.<BR>7 workshops are organized before and after = the=20 conference.<BR>Please visit the website of the conference for further=20 details.<BR><BR></FONT><FONT size=3D3>Conference website :</FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT size=3D3><A=20 href=3D"http://www.ecs2006gdynia.univ.gda.pl">http://www.ecs2006gdynia.un= iv.gda.pl</A></FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT size=3D3><BR>ECS website :=20 <DIV><A href=3D"http://www.broekemaweb.nl/ecs/"><FONT=20 size=3D3>http://www.broekemaweb.nl/ecs/</FONT></A><BR></DIV> <DIV> </DIV></FONT></DIV> <DIV><EM><STRONG>Do zobaczenia w Gdyni = !!!<BR></STRONG></EM></DIV></FONT> <DIV><FONT size=3D2></FONT> </DIV> <DIV><FONT size=3D2>Iwona Kuklik</FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT size=3D2>Conference Organizer</FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT size=3D2>_________________</FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT size=3D2>Hel Marine Station<BR>University of = Gdansk<BR>P.O.Box 2,=20 84-150 Hel<BR>tel. +48 58 6751 316<BR>fax. +48 58 6750=20 420<BR>Poland</FONT></DIV></BODY></HTML> ------=_NextPart_000_01E9_01C63C08.3D21AD60--

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harbour porpoise paper
by Frank Thomsen 28 Feb '06

28 Feb '06

Dear colleagues Heres' a paper on harbour porpoises you might be interested in. It is published 'online first' in 'Helgoland Marine Research' (Springer) and can be downloaded from the journals' site at http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10152-006-0021-z. For those having problems or any other requests, please contact me. best, Frank A recovery of harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) in the southern North Sea? A case study off Eastern Frisia, Germany Frank Thomsen , Martin Laczny and Werner Piper Abstract Detailed information on year-round distribution, seasonal abundance and inter-annual trends of a given species is essential for any conservation effort. However, for most odontocetes this knowledge is rather limited. Therefore, area-specific management or conservation plans are often difficult to argue for. This is also true for the harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena), although it is the most common cetacean species in the North Sea. Knowledge of the current status of local stocks as well as fine scale information on the temporal use of certain areas by the species is incomplete. One area of concern is the southern North Sea where the abundance of harbour porpoises has declined in the twentieth century. Recent studies using stranding data and observations from seabird surveys indicate a comeback of the species along the Dutch and Belgian coast. However, data on other regions of the southern North Sea is sparse. Between 2002 and 2004, we undertook 25 aerial line transect surveys (11,000 km on effort; altitude = 250 and 600 ft) in a 2,500 km2 coastal area off Eastern Frisia, Germany including a small portion of Dutch coastal waters. The data were g(0) corrected using a double platform approach and analysed with distance sampling software. A total of 426 harbour porpoises were sighted, including eight calves. Densities ranged between <0.1 and 1.62 individuals/km2 with peaks in February and July 2003 as well as February and May 2004. The results of our study show that harbour porpoises are present in the coastal part of the southern North Sea even during their reproductive period. However, they seem to appear in lower numbers and much more irregular than in other areas, for example off Northern Frisia. The results of this study support the recent findings that despite a decline in the mid-twentieth century, harbour porpoises are now at times quite abundant in the southern North Sea. The underlying factors of this return should be investigated using a combination of surveys and satellite telemetry. -- Dr. Frank Thomsen biologisch-landschaftsökologische Arbeitsgemeinschaft (biola) & Lehrbeauftragter Biozentrum Grindel Universität Hamburg ______________________________________________________________ Verschicken Sie romantische, coole und witzige Bilder per SMS! Jetzt bei WEB.DE FreeMail: http://f.web.de/?mc=021193

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Contents: Marine Mammal Science Vol 22(1)
by Jan Herrmann 27 Feb '06

27 Feb '06

Dear all, Marine Mammal Science Vol 22(1) has the following table of contents. By clicking the following link you are guided to Blackwell Synergy, where you can find abstracts and contact information: http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/toc/mms/22/1 Users of the Papyrus Bibliography System (for Mac and DOS/Windows) can download the references with abstracts and contact information from http://www.cetacea.de/mms. The Papyrus Bibliography System is now FREE: http://www.researchsoftwaredesign.com Please do not contact MARMAM, the MARMAM editors or me for reprints. Thank you. Kindest Regards, Jan Herrmann ------ Marine Mammal Science Vol. 22(1) ------ Kellar, N.M. et al. 2006. Determining pregnancy from blubber in three species of delphinids. Marine Mammal Science 22(1): 1-16. Martin, A.R., V.M.F. da Silva, and P.R. Rothery. 2006. Does radio tagging affect the survival or reproduction of small cetaceans? A test. Marine Mammal Science 22(1): 17-24. Martin, A.R. and V.M.F. da Silva. 2006. Sexual dimorphism and body scarring in the boto (Amazon river dolphin) Inia geoffrensis. Marine Mammal Science 22(1): 25-33. Richter, C., S. Dawson, and E. Slooten. 2006. Impacts of commercial whale watching on male sperm whales at Kaikoura, New Zealand. Marine Mammal Science 22(1): 46-63. Woodward, B.L. and J.P. Winn. 2006. Apparent lateralized behavior in gray whales feeding off the central British Columbia coast. Marine Mammal Science 22(1): 64-73. Morissette, L., M.O. Hammill, and C. Savenkoff. 2006. The trophic role of marine mammals in the northern Gulf of St. Lawrence. Marine Mammal Science 22(1): 74-103. Trumble, S.J. et al. 2006. Dietary and seasonal influences on blood chemistry and hematology in captive harbor seals. Marine Mammal Science 22(1): 104-123. Griebel, U., G. König, and A. Schmid. 2006. Spectral sensitivity in two species of pinnipeds (Phoca vitulina and Otaria flavescens). Marine Mammal Science 22(1): 156-166. Mathews, E.A. and G.W. Pendleton. 2006. Declines in harbor seal (Phoca vitulina) numbers in Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska, 1992-2002. Marine Mammal Science 22(1): 167-189. NOTES Gibson, Q.A. 2006. Non-lethal shark attack on a bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops sp.) calf. Marine Mammal Science 22(1): 190-197. Jones, I.M. 2006. A northeast pacific offshore killer whale (Orcinus orca) feeding on a pacific halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis). Marine Mammal Science 22(1): 198-200. Vos, D.J., L.T. Quakenbush, and B.A. Mahoney. 2006. Documentation of sea otters and birds as prey for killer whales. Marine Mammal Science 22(1): 201-205. Reeb, D. and P.B. Best. 2006. A biopsy system for deep-core sampling of the blubber of southern right whales, Eubalaena australis. Marine Mammal Science 22(1): 206-213. Ohishi, K. et al. 2006. Serologic investigation of influenza A virus infection in cetaceans from the western North Pacific and the Southern oceans. Marine Mammal Science 22(1): 214-221. Clark, J.A. and P.D. Boersma. 2006. Southern elephant seal, Mirounga leonina, kills Magellanic penguins, Spheniscus magellanicus, on land. Marine Mammal Science 22(1): 222-225. Jay, C.V. et al. 2006. Comparison of remotely deployed satellite radio transmitters on walruses. Marine Mammal Science 22(1): 226-236. -- Jan Herrmann <jan.herrmann - at - cetacea.de> Vorlesungsreihe Wal und Mensch +----> http://www.cetacea.de

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New publications week 7
by Jan Herrmann 27 Feb '06

27 Feb '06

Dear all, here are some new publications of week 07 / 2006, which haven't been announced on MARMAM earlier AFAIK. By clicking the following link you are guided to a website, where the following references are linked to their according journal homepages. There you can find abstracts and contact information: http://www.mmbib.com/news.html Please do not contact MARMAM, the MARMAM editors or me for reprints. Thank you. Kindest Regards, Jan Herrmann CETACEA Bisack, K.D. and J.G. Sutinen (2006): Harbor Porpoise Bycatch: ITQs or Time/Area Closures in the New England Gillnet Fishery. Land Economics 82(1): 85-102. Dalton, R. (2006): Panel quits in row over sonar damage. Nature 439(7075): 376-377. Hastie, G.D., B. Wilson, and P.M. Thompson (2006): Diving deep in a foraging hotspot: acoustic insights into bottlenose dolphin dive depths and feeding behaviour. Marine Biology 148(5): 1181-1188. Knowles, T.G. and A. Butterworth (2006): Immediate immobilisation of a Minke whale using a grenade harpoon requires striking a restricted target area. Animal Welfare 15(1): 55-57. Rossi-Santos, M.R. and J. Podos (2006): Latitudinal variation in whistle structure of the estuarine dolphin Sotalia guianensis. Behaviour 143(3): 347-364. Tougaard, J. and N. Eriksen (2006): Analysing differences among animal songs quantitatively by means of the Levenshtein distance measure. Behaviour 143(2): 239-252. PINNIPEDIA Härkönen, T. et al. (2006): The 1988 and 2002 phocine distemper virus epidemics in European harbour seals. Diseases of Aquatic Organisms 68(2): 115-130. McMahon, C.R., C.J. Bradshaw, and G.C. Hays (2006): Branding can be justified in vital conservation research. Nature 439(7075): 392. -- --> jan.herrmann -at - cetacea.de

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