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New paper: Balancing aerobic and anaerobic metabolism in Steller sea lions
by Rosen, David 26 May '26

26 May '26

Dear MARMAM community, On behalf of my co-author, I am excited to share our new open access publication in Marine Mammal Science: Purdy, Aaron S., and David AS Rosen. "Balancing Aerobic and Anaerobic Metabolism, and Its Effect on Recovery Time in Freely‐Diving Steller Sea Lions (Eumetopias jubatus)." Marine Mammal Science 42, no. 3 (2026): e70193. Abstract: As breath‐hold divers, marine mammals must coordinate their use of both aerobic and anaerobic metabolism to maximize their time at depth. One indication of the relative reliance between these two energy‐producing systems is the aerobic dive limit (ADL), defined as the dive duration where post‐dive blood lactate concentrations surpass resting levels. Both the timing of the ADL and ensuing rate of lactate accumulation can affect subsequent diving behavior. Despite its importance as a physiological benchmark in diving physiology, the ADL is rarely measured directly. This study investigated the relative reliance on aerobic and anaerobic metabolism in freely diving Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus) by measuring post‐dive lactate concentrations and oxygen and carbon dioxide recovery times in relation to dive duration. The rapid onset of elevated post‐dive lactate concentrations suggests that Steller sea lions rely on anaerobic metabolism even for dives with relatively short durations. Further, relative decreases in oxygen recovery times with increasing dive durations are consistent with a downregulation of aerobic metabolism during longer periods of submergence. These findings offer new insights into the metabolic strategies employed by Steller sea lions and could inform the development of physiologically‐based optimal foraging models. The paper is freely available here: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/mms.70193 Best, Dave David Rosen, Ph.D. (He, Him, His) Assistant Professor, Marine Mammal Research Unit Director, Marine Mammal Energetics and Nutrition Lab Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries University of British Columbia

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New publication: Rising competition among seals and harbour porpoises revealed through a multi-method approach (Eileen Hesse)
by Eileen Hesse 26 May '26

26 May '26

New publication: Rising competition among seals and harbour porpoises revealed through a multi-method approach Dear MARMAM community, On behalf of my co-authors, I am pleased to share our latest publication in Scientific Reports on the competition among seals and harbour porpoises in the southern North Sea, revealed through a multi-method approach. The open-access publication is available here: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-026-53094-2 ABSTRACT: Top predators are crucial in shaping ecosystem dynamics by regulating key processes such as prey populations, energy transfer, and community structure, particularly in systems where multiple species compete for the same resources. Understanding their trophic niches and interactions is essential for effective conservation. In the southern North Sea, harbor seals, gray seals, and harbor porpoises are top predators with overlapping prey. This multi-method study examined resource partitioning using complementary stomach content analysis, metabarcoding, and carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur stable isotope analysis to refine habitat use, incorporating sulfur isotopes, for the first time in marine mammals of the southern North Sea. Gastrointestinal data from stranded harbor seals (n = 223), gray seals (n = 87), and harbor porpoises (n = 218), alongside 283 scat samples from wild seals, collected between 2014 and 2021, were analyzed. Harbor seal and gray seal showed high prey similarity (Jaccard index 0.71), while porpoises exhibited lower similarity with both seal species (Jaccard index 0.46 and 0.45). Interactions with prey guilds were strongest for demersal roundfish, flatfish, gobies, and sandeels. Bayesian isotope mixing models revealed consistent trophic differences among the three top predators, with seals occupying higher trophic positions than porpoises and showing minimal dietary change over time. Isotopic niche metrics indicated increasing overlap between porpoises and gray seals, particularly in δ34S/δ15N space, suggesting growing trophic similarity, while harbor seals showed a contraction in niche area. Also, stomach content data revealed that high-energy prey in porpoises declined as gray seal abundance increased. These results highlight trophic niche overlap and substantial interspecific interactions, potentially leading to competition under limited resources. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. Best, Eileen Dr. Eileen Heße (she/her) Researcher Marine Ecology WMR | Wageningen Marine Research email eileen.hesse(a)wur.nl<mailto:eileen.hesse@wur.nl> phone +31(0)625485736<tel:+31625485736> website www.wur.nl/marine-research<http://www.wur.nl/marine-research> address Ankerpark 27 | 1781 AG Den Helder | The Netherlands

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New publication - sampley: A Python package for sampling marine mammal visual survey data
by Jonathan Syme 25 May '26

25 May '26

Dear colleagues, My co-authors and I are pleased to share with you the publication of our package, 'sampley', and the associated paper, 'sampley: A Python package for sampling visual survey data'. The package's functionality is applicable to, and indeed was developed for, data collected during aerial and/or boat surveys for marine mammals. As such, it can assist marine mammal researchers by facilitating the processing of their survey data into samples that can be used in ecological modelling. The package is freely available at: https://pypi.org/project/sampley/ The full paper is freely available at: https://doi.org/10.1111/2041-210x.70320 Syme, J., Pendleton, D. E., Meyer-Gutbrod, E. L., Tupper, B., & Record, N. R. (2026). sampley: A Python package for sampling visual survey data. Methods in Ecology and Evolution. https://doi.org/10.1111/2041-210x.70320 Abstract: Visual surveys are a common method of obtaining data for ecological studies, including studies that develop models (e.g. species distribution models). In the case of transect or non-transect line surveys, data must often be partitioned into spatiotemporal units (i.e. samples) before being modelled. This processing typically follows one of three approaches -the grid, segment and point approaches- each with its own variations. Currently, processing of visual survey data is done in custom scripts that can be time-consuming and technically demanding to develop, which hinders the development of ecological models. This issue is exacerbated if multiple approaches and/or variations are to be applied. Here, we present sampley, a user-friendly Python package for processing visual survey data into samples. It operates on various common formats and filetypes, ensuring its applicability to diverse datasets and compatibility with other software. It can process data by multiple variations of the grid, segment and point approaches. As this processing follows a straightforward sequence of stages and involves a limited number of functions, it is easy to learn and use. The combination of these traits will increase efficiency and reproducibility of survey data processing and allow researchers to readily trial different methods. In this paper, we provide a description of the package - the types of data that can be processed, the approaches and variations available and the stages involved in processing. An example application, based on a mock dataset consisting of survey tracks, sightings and in situ environmental data, is also provided with descriptions of each stage. Thank you, Jonathan Jonathan Syme PhD, BSc (Hons) jonathan_syme(a)outlook.com

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Half-Day Workshop, October 18. 2026 08:00-12:30 AST - Response Planning for High-Interest Stranding Events: Managing Public Expectations and Communications While Maintaining Operational Continuity
by Alli Deperte 22 May '26

22 May '26

Dear MARMAM Community, We are pleased to announce the following half-day SMM Workshop, scheduled for Sunday, October 18th from 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM titled: Response Planning for High-Interest Stranding Events: Managing Public Expectations and Communications While Maintaining Operational Continuity<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.smmconference.org_…> Workshop Description When the Pressure Hits Building Trust, Managing Communication, and Supporting Responders During High-Interest Stranding Events When high-interest marine mammal stranding events occur, responders are tasked with far more than field operations and scientific assessment. They are suddenly navigating public concern, media attention, stakeholder expectations, social media pressure, and the emotional weight carried by their own teams, all in real time. This workshop explores how proactive communication systems can reduce anxiety, strengthen operational clarity, and build long-term public trust during high-visibility incidents. As marine mammal response operations continue to evolve in an area shaped by rapid information sharing, heightened public engagement, and increased visibility of stranding events, communication systems have become a critical component of operational readiness. This workshop recognizes communication not as a secondary task, but as essential response infrastructure that supports responders, agencies, stakeholders, and the communities they serve. Built around the TRUST Framework. Transparency, Readiness, Unity, Stability, and Trust. Participants will engage with practical tools and real-world strategies designed specifically for the marine mammal response, management, and research community. Through case studies, collaborative discussion, and applied planning exercises, attendees will gain more tools to: * manage communication during rapidly evolving incidents * maintain public confidence while protecting scientific integrity * reduce communication overload and responder stress * strengthen coordination across agencies and stakeholders * create educational and post-incident communication strategies that build lasting community trust Responders already carry the weight of the science, logistics, and animal care. This workshop focuses on the often-overlooked layer of incident response: managing public perception, expectation, and anxiety in a way that supports both the community and the responder. Because in high-interest events, trust is not built during the crisis. It is built before it. Link to register: https://www.smmconference.org/registration/<https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.smmconference.org_…> . We look forward to seeing you at SMM 2026! Feel free to reach out to me with any questions- Alli DePerte, adeperte(a)amseas.org<mailto:adeperte@amseas.org> (On behalf of Robert A. DiGiovanni, Jr.) Workshop Steering Committee Robert DiGiovanni, Jr., Atlantic Marine Conservation Society Allison DePerte, Atlantic Marine Conservation Society Mendy Garron, NOAA Fisheries Service, Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office Lynda Doughty, Marine Mammals of Maine Keith Matassa, Ocean Animal Response and Research Alliance Kristen Epperson, Ocean Animal Response and Research Alliance Allison DePerte Research Associate/ Field Biologist Atlantic Marine Conservation Society P.O.Box 932 Hampton Bays, NY 11946 C: 631-317-0030 adeperte(a)amseas.org<mailto:adeperte@amseas.org> www.amseas.org<http://www.amseas.org> 24-HR Hotline: (631)-369-9829

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Executive Director Position - Northcoast Marine Mammal Center
by Karen Helms 21 May '26

21 May '26

Executive Director Position - Northcoast Marine Mammal Center Organization: Northcoast Marine Mammal Center (NMMC) Location: Crescent City, California Position Type: Part-Time, with opportunity for growth Compensation: Pay commensurate with experience, range $21-35/hr The Northcoast Marine Mammal Center (NMMC) is seeking a dynamic and dedicated Executive Director (ED) to lead the organization in its mission to rescue and rehabilitate sick, injured, and stranded marine mammals while promoting community engagement and education. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the ED will provide strategic, operational, and financial oversight to ensure the achievement of NMMC's mission and goals, while enhancing its impact within the community. Tucked behind the Redwood Curtain, Crescent City, CA boasts easy access to the Redwood National and State Parks along with some of the most beautiful and secluded beaches on the California Coast, making it a nature lovers' dream. Key Responsibilities 1. Administration & Organizational Management: * Oversee daily operations, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and policies. * Lead and support staff and volunteers, fostering a collaborative and positive work environment. * Partner with the Board of Directors to develop and execute strategic plans. * Ensure compliance with NOAA Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response Program standards. 2. Fundraising & Financial Management: * Develop and execute comprehensive fundraising strategies, including donor cultivation, grants, and * corporate sponsorships. * Ensure financial sustainability through effective budgeting and financial reporting. * Research and secure grant opportunities to support NMMC's mission. 3. Membership & Donations: * Expand the donor base and membership program to increase recurring contributions. * Cultivate lasting relationships with existing donors to sustain long-term support. 4. Event Planning & Execution: * Manage annual events and develop new community engagement initiatives. * Oversee event planning logistics, promotion, and execution. 5. Public Relations & Community Engagement: * Build and nurture partnerships with local businesses, government entities, and community members in Del Norte and Humboldt Counties. * Represent NMMC in the NOAA West Coast Region Marine Mammal Stranding Network. * Serve as the public face of the organization, handling media relations and community outreach. 6. Education & Outreach: * Develop and deliver educational programs to promote marine mammal conservation. * Collaborate with schools, community groups, and organizations to expand NMMC's educational impact. Qualifications * Proven experience in nonprofit leadership, administration, or a related field. * Strong skills in fundraising, grant writing, event planning, and community relations. * Demonstrated ability to manage budgets and maintain financial sustainability. * Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills. * Passion for marine mammal conservation and education. * Education: Bachelor's degree required (Marine Biological Sciences, Nonprofit management, or related * field preferred). Application Process Interested applicants should submit the following: 1. Cover Letter 2. Resume 3. Professional References Email submissions to: Director(a)northcoastmmc.org<mailto:Director@northcoastmmc.org> Deadline: Open until filled. Join us in furthering marine mammal rescue, rehabilitation, and educational outreach in our communities. This part-time position offers growth opportunities, with compensation commensurate with experience. We look forward to receiving your application! Karen Helms 425-444-1386 Karen(a)northcoastmmc.org<mailto:Karen@northcoastmmc.org> [cid:image001.jpg@01DCE927.B85B4DA0]

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New paper: Microbial and small zooplankton communities predict density of baleen whales in the southern California Current Ecosystem
by Michaela Alksne 21 May '26

21 May '26

Dear MARMAM community, On behalf of my co-authors, I am excited to share our new publication in PLoS one: Satterthwaite, E. V., Ruiz, T. D., Patin, N. V., Alksne, M. N., Thomas, L., Dinasquet, J., ... & Semmens, B. X. (2026). Microbial and small zooplankton communities predict density of baleen whales in the southern California Current Ecosystem. *PLoS One*, *21*(5), e0334209. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0334209 Abstract: Understanding the distribution and abundance of marine mammals is important for assessing population dynamics and evaluating the impacts of human activities on these species. Here, we assessed the capability of microbial and small plankton communities to predict the density of *Balaenopteridae* whales in the Southern California Current Ecosystem in each season from 2014 to 2020 using data from the California Cooperative Oceanic Fisheries Investigations (CalCOFI). Densities of *Balaenopteridae* whales were estimated from visual line transect surveys for three target species – blue (*Balaenoptera musculus*), fin (*Balaenoptera physalus*), and humpback (*Megaptera novaeangliae*) whales – and microbial and small plankton communities were examined in concurrent water samples via metabarcoding of the 16S and 18S rRNA genes. Planktonic communities specific to each target whale species appeared as strong statistical predictors of whale estimated density, explaining 81–99% of variability and predicting density estimates to within ~1 individual per 1000 km2. Our approach improved out-of-sample root mean square prediction error by up to 65% compared with simple alternative methods. Specific planktonic communities observed indicate that some predictor taxa may be ecologically associated with whales as parasites, as skin and respiratory microbiome species, or through the food chain of whale prey. However, further studies are needed to understand how these organisms function collectively as a community and interact with the “ecological habitat” that supports whales. Our results suggest that using planktonic communities to quantify the potential ecological habitat of larger organisms, like baleen whales, can enhance predictive models and may inform hypotheses about the ecological relationships between whales and the biological communities with which they co-occur. The paper is available here: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0334209 Best, Michaela -- Michaela Alksne, M.S. | (she/her/hers) PhD Candidate | Biological Oceanography NDSEG Fellow <https://ndseg.org/> Scripps Acoustic Ecology Lab <https://sael.ucsd.edu/> Scripps Institution of Oceanography, Ritter Hall 105

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New publication on Lahille's bottlenose dolphins
by Pedro Fruet 21 May '26

21 May '26

Dear Marmam community, I am delighted to share a recent paper on Lahille’s bottlenose dolphin conservation, now published in *Biological Conservation: **Range-wide monitoring reveals demographic vulnerability in Lahille's bottlenose dolphins.* Please feel free to access the paper through the link below and share it with anyone who may be interested. https://authors.elsevier.com/sd/article/S0006-3207(26)00176-X <https://kwnsfk27.r.eu-west-1.awstrack.me/L0/https:%2F%2Fauthors.elsevier.co…> This publication is a product of the Gephyreus Network <https://gephyreus.org/en/inicio> — an initiative built on trust, transparency, collaboration, and a shared commitment to conservation. Abstract: Robust demographic estimates are critical for effective conservation but often lacking for threatened species, demanding long-term, range-wide monitoring to generate data and assess risk. Here, we quantify key demographic parameters and evaluate extinction risk at a metapopulation scale to inform conservation planning for Lahille's bottlenose dolphin, an endangered dolphin endemic to the coastal waters of the Southwest Atlantic Ocean. Using Robust Design mark-recapture models on data from a coordinated photo-identification program (2018–2023) across five Management Units (MUs) in the southern Brazil-Uruguay subpopulation, we estimated abundance and survival. Best estimates indicate a total subpopulation abundance of 341 individuals (95% CI: 333–348), with annual survival varying among MUs from 0.934 (95% CI: 0.856–0.971) to 0.968 (95% CI: 0.926–0.986). Metapopulation-based Population Viability Analysis (PVA) projects a 2% decline in subpopulation size over three generations (63 years) under current conditions, with ~4% extinction risk for two MUs. Under a worst-case scenario with increased bycatch and habitat degradation, a 94% decline in the subpopulation is projected. Findings highlight the vulnerability of Lahille's bottlenose dolphins and the urgent need for habitat protection and bycatch mitigation. We recommend maintaining and expanding coordinated, long-term monitoring to support adaptive management. Thank you. Best regards, Pedro ----- Website: https://gephyreus.org/equipe/pedro-fruet CV: http://lattes.cnpq.br/0658064204638392 ----------------------------------------------------------------

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Pathology & Diagnostics Apprentice - Applications Open! (The Marine Mammal Center) (Brittany Dolan)
by Brittany Dolan 20 May '26

20 May '26

Greeting All, The Marine Mammal Center is Hiring a Pathology & Diagnostic Apprentice at our Sausalito location! Location of Position: Sausalito, California Reports to: Necropsy Manager Position Classification & Expected Hours of Work, and Travel: · This is a full-time, temporary position, from approximately June 2026 - February 2027 with the possibility of extending. · Regular onsite work is required. · Evening and weekend work may be required as job duties demand. · Occasional travel to satellite facilities and/or fieldwork within California may be expected for this position. Compensation Range: $20.00 - $22.00 / hour. Benefits: · Holidays · Sick Time · Vacation · Medical, Dental, and Vision · Life Insurance · Long Term Disability Insurance · 401k Retirement Plan · Employee Assistance Program Job Summary: The Pathology and Diagnostics Apprentice will perform various activities in support of the Pathology & Diagnostics team including gross necropsy, histopathology (trimming of cases), and support of the biobank archives. They will assist in the collection, analysis, storage, and shipment of samples for collaborative research projects as well as the training of pathology participants of the Teaching Hospital program and The Marine Mammal Center’s visitors. OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY The Marine Mammal Center actively engages individuals from all backgrounds. We are committed to embracing diversity within our organization because we firmly believe that diverse employee teams help us to achieve our best organizational outcomes and provide the most effective support to the communities we serve. We are deeply dedicated to creating and maintaining an inclusive, equitable and supportive work environment. We strongly encourage people from underrepresented groups to apply. The Marine Mammal Center believes in growth and supporting our employees as best we can so they can become their best selves in and outside of work. We believe that a healthy work environment means building an inclusive culture where people can thrive together and feel supported and empowered. We believe in stretch versus constraint. OUR MISSION The Marine Mammal Center advances ocean health through marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation, research, and education. ABOUT THE MARINE MAMMAL CENTER The Marine Mammal Center is leading the field in ocean conservation through marine mammal rescue, veterinary medicine, science, and education. For more information, please visit our “About Us” page at www.marinemammalcenter.org<https://www.marinemammalcenter.org/about-us/what-we-do> To Apply: Please submit a cover letter and resume and provide a brief description about how your experience aligns with the role. Note that applications without a cover letter will not be considered. In your cover letter, please feel free to note which pronouns you use (For example – she/her/hers, he/him/his, they/them/theirs, etc). We strongly encourage people of color, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and non-binary people, veterans, parents, and individuals with disabilities to apply. The Center is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone to our team. If you need reasonable accommodation at any point in the application or interview process, please let us know. Salary Description $20.00 - $22.00 / hour. Click here to apply! https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/Details/4169791/Marine-Mam… Thank you! Brittany Aja Dolan, CWR, MPS (she-her) Necropsy Manager MarineMammalCenter.org<http://www.marinemammalcenter.org/> The Marine Mammal Center, 2000 Bunker Road, Sausalito, CA 94965

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New publication about humpback whale movement
by Stephanie Stack 20 May '26

20 May '26

Dear MARMAM colleagues, My coauthors and I are excited to announce our new open-access publication, "First evidence of bidirectional exchange between distant humpback whale breeding populations in eastern Australia and Brazil." Abstract: Movements between humpback whale (*Megaptera novaeangliae*) breeding stocks are exceedingly rare, and exchange between distant breeding grounds in both directions has not previously been documented between eastern Australia and Brazil. Using 19,283 curated photo-identification images from eastern Australia (Breeding Stock E1; BSE1) and Brazil (Breeding Stock A; BSA) collected between 1984 and 2025, we identified two individuals photographed in both areas. These cases represent the first recorded exchange in both directions between BSE1 and BSA. The breeding grounds in which these individuals were photographed are separated by minimum great-circle distances of 14,200 km and 15,100 km, respectively. These distances represent the separation between sighting locations rather than the actual distance travelled by each whale, because photo-identification records only the endpoints of each individual’s travel. Time intervals of 12 and 22 years between sightings suggest that these represent rare, possibly single-lifetime events rather than regular migratory shifts. These findings significantly extend the known spatial limits of inter-basin connectivity for Southern Hemisphere humpback whales and provide direct evidence supporting the “Southern Ocean Exchange”, whereby population recovery and environmental variability may create opportunities for exceptional exchange between ocean basins. Although such events occurred in only 0.01% of identified whales, they highlight the potential for rare individual movements to influence population structure, cultural transmission, and connectivity across ocean basins. Continued global collaboration through photo-ID platforms will be essential for detecting these extreme exchange events. Citation: Castro Ayala, C., Stack, S.H., Marcondes, M.C.C., Cardoso, J., Cheeseman, T., Currie, J.J., Francisco, A., Olio, M., Righi, B., Stuckenbrock, S., & Sousa-Lima, R.S. (2026). First evidence of bidirectional exchange between distant humpback whale breeding populations in eastern Australia and Brazil. Royal Society Open Science, 13(5), 260251. https://doi.org/10.1098/rsos.260251 The article is available here: https://royalsocietypublishing.org/rsos/article/13/5/260251/481844/First-ev… <https://royalsocietypublishing.org/rsos/article/13/5/260251/481844/First-ev…> Kind regards, Stephanie Stack

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New Perspective Paper
by Valeria Perez 20 May '26

20 May '26

Dear MARMAM community, My co-authors and I are excited to share our new open-access perspective paper in Mammal Review. Perez-Marrufo, V., L.Thorne, and S. E.Parks. 2026. “The Importance of Individual Body Condition in Mammalian Behavioural Responses to Disturbance.” Mammal Review56, no. 2: e70038. Link: https://doi.org/10.1111/mam.70038 Abstract: Introduction Behavioural responses are widely used to assess disturbance impacts on mammals, yet body condition has received less attention. Energy state influences how mammals balance foraging against safety, making body condition—a reflection of energy reserves—a critical but overlooked factor in disturbance responses. We propose that mammals follow predictable, state-dependent strategies when responding to disturbance. Methods We reviewed theoretical frameworks for how body condition shapes behavioural responses to danger. Then, we examine how energetic demands vary by life-history, draw on predator–prey studies showing body condition influences risk acceptance, and finally, review the limited studies directly examining body condition effects on disturbance responses. Results We identified three theoretical frameworks—asset-protection, needs-based, and ability-based strategies—that predict how body condition influences behavioural responses to disturbance. Energy demands differ by sex, age, reproductive status, and life-history strategy, creating variation in how individuals balance foraging needs and safety when energetically challenged. Predator–prey studies reveal a consistent pattern: poor-condition individuals adopt needs-based strategies (increased foraging, reduced vigilance) while good-condition individuals follow asset-protection strategies (heightened vigilance, greater reactivity). Although fewer studies examine body condition in anthropogenic disturbance contexts, they show the same relationship, suggesting these principles extend to human-wildlife interactions. Discussion As climate change intensifies nutritional stress, understanding body condition's role in disturbance responses becomes increasingly critical. More individuals may exhibit reduced responses not from habituation, a common management assumption, but from heightened foraging needs. Behavioural studies must incorporate body condition to avoid misinterpreting impacts and develop effective management strategies. Kind regards, Valeria Valeria Perez Syracuse University Biology - Ph.D. Candidate vperez03(a)syr.edu

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