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NOAA Fisheries Initiates Status Review for the Rice’s Whale
by Ana Bishop - NOAA Affiliate 04 May '26

04 May '26

NOAA Fisheries announced the initiation of a status review of the Rice’s whale under section 4(b)(1)(A) of the Endangered Species Act. A status review is a periodic undertaking conducted to ensure that the listing classification of a species is accurate and to determine whether the species should be reclassified or removed from the list. The Rice’s whale is currently listed as an endangered species. To ensure that the status review is based on the best available scientific and commercial data, we are soliciting new information concerning the status of the Rice’s whale. Categories of requested information include: ● Species biology including, but not limited to, population trends, distribution, abundance, demographics, and genetics ● Habitat conditions including, but not limited to, amount, distribution, and suitability ● Conservation measures that have been implemented that benefit the species ● Status and trends of threats ● Other new data regarding Rice’s whales that have become available since December 2016 If the status review indicates a change in listing status under the ESA is warranted, a rulemaking process would be initiated to propose the appropriate change in its classification under the ESA. Additional information is available on the *Federal Register*’s website here <https://www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/2026-08663/endangered-and…>. The public comment period is open from May 5, 2026 through July 6, 2026. If you have any questions, please reach out to me. -- *Ana Bishop* Rice's Whale Coordinator Contractor with ERT in support of the Protected Resources Division Southeast Regional Office | NOAA Fisheries <https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/> ana.bishop(a)noaa.gov (301) 427 - 2567

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New publication: Bowhead whale foraging dives are defined by speed and body orientation
by Manon den Haan 04 May '26

04 May '26

Dear Marman members, On behalf of my co-authors, I am happy to share with you our recent publication on bowhead whale movement in the Canadian Arctic. den Haan MF, Segre PS, Kilabuk E, Agnakak M, Dialla F, Fortune SME (2026) Bowhead whale foraging dives are defined by speed and body orientation. PLoS One 21(4): e0343408. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0343408 ABSTRACT: Quantifying the time baleen whales spend foraging is central to understanding the extent to which climate driven shifts in low-trophic prey may affect energy acquisition. To date, the most comprehensive understanding of balaenid (bowhead and right whale) feeding behavior comes from studies using inertial sensing tags (biologgers). Here, periods of ram filtration were inferred under predictable foraging conditions where whales targeted a deep, diapausing prey layer. However, foraging conditions are increasingly variable in high latitudes and zooplankton vertical distribution, abundance and biomass vary seasonally based on ontogenetic migration. Our objective was to identify the kinematic features of confirmed bowhead feeding in a sub-Arctic fjord where prey availability fluctuates with tidal cycles, by collecting high-resolution, 3D biologging data (Customized Animal Tracking Solutions Tags) and concurrent video recordings for behavioral validation. Using a mixed-model approach we found that mean bottom speed, bottom pitch and roll, change in average swim speed and time of day were the best predictors of bowhead whale feeding. Consistent with previous studies, fluke stroke frequency was significantly faster when feeding (0.191 Hz ± 0.045 SD) compared with not-feeding (0.172 Hz ± 0.037 SD). However, we observed a depth-dependent switch in fluke stroke frequency, whereby the fluking rate was higher (0.192 Hz ± 0.039 SD) at shallow depths (≤23 m) and lower (0.151 Hz ± 0.024) at deeper depths (>23 m). Observed shifts in fluke stroke frequency may be attributed to physical forces acting in the upper water column such as buoyancy, drag and tidal forces. By using the descriptive kinematic variables, we can better identify feeding behavior in kinematic data from balaenids and improve our understanding of foraging efforts of bowhead whales in a changing climate, particularly since dive shape alone may overestimate feeding activities. Many thanks, Manon

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New publication: Multispecies matching algorithm applied to Risso's dolphins
by Ted Cheeseman 03 May '26

03 May '26

New publication: Multispecies matching algorithm applied to Risso's dolphins Dear Marmam community, We are pleased to share our new publication in Marine Mammal Science: Vanderzee, A., T. Cheeseman, P.T. Patton, and J. Calambokidis. 2026. Evaluating the Effectiveness of a Multispecies Matching Algorithm Applied to a Novel Species, Risso's Dolphins (Grampus griseus). Marine Mammal Science 42(2): e70159. doi: 10.1111/mms.70159 Abstract: Automated matching algorithms are an increasingly valuable tool in marine mammal research. A multispecies matching algorithm, originally described in Patton et al., analyzes distinctive morphological characteristics on cetaceans using scarring, pigmentation patterns, and notches along the trailing edge of the dorsal fin, which can pose challenges in traditional eye-based matching due to individual variation over time. While the algorithm was trained on 24 different cetacean species, Risso's dolphins were not included. Here, we assess its effectiveness using Cascadia Research's Risso's dolphin photo-identification catalog, which consists of 1,165 unique individuals from Southern California documented across 701 sightings from 2010 to 2021. The multispecies algorithm identified 90 missed matches within the catalog and was subsequently used to update the Cascadia Research catalog more efficiently with sightings collected through 2024. Our results indicate that the algorithm outperformed experienced human matchers, particularly for individuals with less distinctive features, streamlining the identification process and supporting the long-term monitoring of Risso's dolphins while showing strong potential for application to other species with similar identification challenges. A full PDF and supplemental materials are available on the Cascadia Research website:https://cascadiaresearch.org/publications/vanderzee_etal_2026mms/ And in announcing this I’d like to especially commend Alex Vanderzee for what I think is a fantastic piece of work :-) <3 Yay cetaceans! Ted — Dr. Ted Cheeseman Director, Happywhale // Research Fellow, University of California Santa Cruz ted(a)happywhale.com // www.Happywhale.com Support ocean conservation science! https://donorbox.org/donate-to-the-whales-of-guerrero-and-happy-whale Happywhale on NPR: https://n.pr/42W0vjI and https://www.wbur.org/hereandnow/2024/07/31/ai-whale-recognition Recent publications: Bellwethers of Change: North Pacific humpback whale climate response: https://doi.org/10.1098/rsos.231462 Humpback whale automated image recognition: https://rdcu.be/cCOtw Multi-species image recognition: https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/2041-210X.14167 ** know your whales :) ** — I live and play on unceded lands of the Ohlone.

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New U.S. Ocean Sound Monitoring and Condition Reporting website!
by Carrie Wall Bell - NOAA Affiliate 01 May '26

01 May '26

Dear partners, collaborators, and friends, We are pleased to announce the launch of the new U.S. Ocean Sound Monitoring and Condition Reporting website <https://www.soundscapemonitoring.us/>. This platform uses 12 National Marine Sanctuaries as geographic management areas to present standardized time-series metrics of sound levels, detection products, and other ocean indicators across 29 monitoring stations. *You will see that marine mammals are an indicator of interest for almost all sanctuaries! Check out all the amazing marine mammal acoustic detection* *time-series* *presented in the "ocean indicators" sections of these reports!* As a nationally coordinated passive acoustic monitoring community, our goal is to provide place-based, contextualized soundscape information that aligns with international standards and supports research activities, resource protection, education, and management. We gratefully acknowledge the following data providers for making underwater sound recordings, some dating back to 2014, accessible via NCEI’s Passive Acoustic Data Archive <https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/maps/passive-acoustic-data/>, enabling this large-scale reporting effort: NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries; NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service; NOAA/National Park Service’s Ocean Noise Reference Station Network; Naval Postgraduate School, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute. The soundscape data processing and visualizations featured in these reports build on years of collaborative work, especially community standards and tools developed during the NOAA Integrated Ocean Observing System, Bureau for Ocean Energy Management, U.S. Navy Living Marine Resources, and the Office of Naval Research SoundCoop <https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/products/passive-acoustic-data#tab-6801> project, and the NMFS Passive Acoustic Monitoring Strategic Initiative <https://nmfs-ost.github.io/PAM-Soundscapes/content/technical_documentation.…> . Special thanks to Megan McKenna and Leila Hatch for their vision, leadership, and expertise in creating the initial design and scope of this platform. Future website updates will expand geographic coverage (e.g., Gulf of Maine, the Arctic, etc.), extend time-series, incorporate additional monitoring locations and data providers, introduce new ocean indicators, and implement interactivity. We welcome your feedback and encourage you to explore and share the reports widely. Thank you for your continued interest and support. Sincerely, Lindsey Peavey Reeves Carrie Wall Bell Emma Beretta Samara Haver Tim Rowell Eden Zang John Ryan Quincy Cantu Anastasia Kunz … and many more collaborators! Carrie C. Wall, PhD Ocean Acoustic Archives Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences | University of Colorado Boulder Embedded in the NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information 325 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80305 *In support of NOAA Fisheries* *CIRES <http://cires.colorado.edu>* | *Water Column Sonar Archive <http://www.ncei.noaa.gov/products/water-column-sonar-data>* | Passive Acoustic Archive <http://www.ncei.noaa.gov/products/passive-acoustic-data>

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JNCC MMO / PSO PAM Level 1 Okehampton Devon UK
by Zoe Wright 01 May '26

01 May '26

Seiche Training JNCC MMO and PAM Level 1 training at Okehampton Devon UK (first come first serve basis) * 29-30 June Okehampton Devon UK JNCC MMO with (optional) PSO * 01-03 July Okehampton Devon UK PAM Level 1 JNCC MMO/PSO training course will give you a thorough insight into all aspects of life as a marine mammal observer. Exploring: how noise impacts marine mammals; the legislative landscape; record-keeping; reporting requirements; and mitigation measures. Delegates of the MMO training also have the option of joining the Boat trip on 27th March included in this training. first come first serve basis. PAM Level 1 course combines classroom study with practical experience at sea to equip you with the all the skills required to become a professionally qualified Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) Operator. you will look at the role of a PAM Operator and an in-depth introduction to PAM software, including an interactive PAMGuard workshop. The practical Boat trip will be at Plymouth, and we will arrange travel to and from the Boat to our offices. Preparation for real‑world offshore scenarios Certificate for offshore work upon successful completion Discounts Available 5% student discount for one course (with valid student ID) 10% student discount when booking this course together with the PAM Level 1 course Discounts exclude the PSO additional modules course offered to delegates completing or having completed JNCC MMO training. Booking & Enquiries Spaces are still available. To reserve your place or request further information, contact Zoe at: 📧 training(a)seiche.com Zoe Wright Marketing & Training Communications Officer Seiche Ltd E:z.wright@seiche.com W: https://www.seiche.com Bradworthy Industrial Estate, Langdon Road, Bradworthy, Holsworthy, Devon, EX22 7SF, United Kingdom Seiche Ltd is registered in England & Wales. Registered number: 03475558. Registered Office: Bradworthy Industrial Estate, Langdon Road, Bradworthy, Holsworthy, Devon, EX22 7SF, United Kingdom The information contained in this e-mail transmission, and any documents, files or previous e-mail messages attached to it, is privileged and confidential, and solely intended for the use of the individual(s) to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient or a person responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient you should not read, copy, distribute or otherwise use the information, and you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution or use of any of the information contained in or attached to this message is strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please notify sender immediately and delete this e-mail and attached documents.

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Internship opportunity (funded): Sea Otter Research Internship, Deadline: May 15th 2026
by Leilani Konrad 01 May '26

01 May '26

The Sea Otter Program at the Monterey Bay Aquarium is hiring one paid research interns for the July-December 2026 field season. This is a paid, part-time, term position with a six-month commitment of 20-25 hours each week. Core Responsibilities include but are not limited to, data collection from shore and occasionally on a small boat using radio telemetry equipment and making visual observations with spotting scopes. Will record daily re-sights, movement patterns, and forage observations, on tagged and untagged individual sea otters. A research-based project will be required at the end of the internship. Desired Skills / Knowledge / Ability / Experience or Education * Strong Interest in animal behavior, natural history, and marine science/ecology * Attention to detail * Ability to multitask * Ability to work independently with minimal direct supervision * Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications * Familiarity with ArcGIS and R is a plus Early submission of applications is encouraged. The deadline to apply to this opportunity is May 15, 2026. Housing for this internship is available. For more information on the position and to apply, visit our website: https://recruiting2.ultipro.com/MON1023MBAF/JobBoard/84cdbbe5-6ebd-4432-86f… [cid:f47ac40a-ec12-4629-b216-465253767720] Leilani Konrad (Pronouns<https://www.montereybayaquarium.org/visit/visitor-faqs/accessibility-and-in…>: she/her/hers) Senior Research Biologist O: 831.648.4941 MontereyBayAquarium.org<https://www.montereybayaquarium.org> Inspiring conservation of the ocean

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Register on Ocean Science Consulting Contractors Portal MMO PAMO ESAS FLO & more
by OSC Admin 01 May '26

01 May '26

Hello MARMAM Community, For those of you qualified in the following: Marine Mammal Observer (MMO) Protected Species Observer (PSO) Passive Acoustic Monitoring Operator (PAMO) Acoustic Technician (AT)/ Bioacoustician Environmental Scientist European Seabirds At Sea (ESAS) surveyor Fisheries Liaison Officer (FLO) please register on our contractors portal: Ocean Science Consulting Limited<https://contractors.osc.co.uk/> For those who are thinking of qualifying, our contractors portal is a great opportunity to get work with us in many cases straight away and all over the world. We run training courses for MMO PSO and PAMO, please follow the link MMO & PAM Training Courses<https://www.osc.co.uk/training/> and contact us admin(a)osc.co.uk<mailto:admin@osc.co.uk> for more details. We look forward to hearing from you. OSC Admin Ocean Science Consulting Ltd. Ocean Science Consulting Ltd. T: +44 (0)1368 865 722 W: www.osc.co.uk W: www.ocean-science-consulting.gr W: www.osc-nz.co.nz Spott Road, Dunbar, East Lothian, EH42 1RR. Scotland, UK MMO or PAM requirement? We wrote the Book. Now available on Amazon: www.marinemammalobserverhandbook.com

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MMO PSO PAM Courses - Spaces available. Book now!
by OSC Admin 01 May '26

01 May '26

Hello MARMAM Community, Our renowned OSC JNCC MMO, PSO, and PAM courses are underway this year with great feedback: Super clear and comprehensive. Really appreciate the anecdotes. Thanks for such a great session on cetacean acoustics - and with a lot of passion! We're delighted to let you know that we still have spaces in our courses this year for the following sessions: * Session 3 - MMO - Jun 30 (1 day); PSO - Jul 1 (0.5 day); PAM - Jul 1-3 (2.5 days) * Session 4 - MMO - Sept 8 (1 day); PSO - Sept 9 (0.5 day); PAM - Sept 9-11 (2.5 days) * Session 5 - MMO - Nov 17 (1 day); PSO - Nov 18 (0.5 day); PAM - Nov 18-20 (2.5 days) It's the perfect time to enhance your expertise, advance your professional development, or connect with others who share your passion. These courses are carefully crafted to keep you at the forefront of the industry. With a strong focus on interactivity and practical application, each course will equip you with valuable skills and knowledge you can put to use straight away. Our experienced instructors are committed to guiding you throughout your learning journey, ensuring you get the most from every session. This is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in a dynamic learning environment and elevate your capabilities. Courses are delivered by the authors of the highly regarded 'How To guide', Marine Mammal Observer & Passive Acoustic Monitoring Handbook. If you're interested in enrolling or have any queries, please reach out to us regarding MMO & PAM Training Courses on admin(a)osc.co.uk<mailto:admin@osc.co.uk>. Spaces are limited and filling up quickly, so secure your place soon. We look forward to welcoming you to the programme and supporting your ongoing success in the marine field. For booking please follow this link: MMO & PAM Training Courses<https://www.osc.co.uk/training/>. Course attendees also receive a discount code for Opticron binoculars and tripods. For those of you qualified already, please register on our contractors portal: Ocean Science Consulting Limited<https://contractors.osc.co.uk/> and for those who are thinking of qualifying, our contractors portal is a great opportunity to get work with us in many cases straight away and all over the world! We look forward to hearing from you. OSC Admin Ocean Science Consulting Ltd. Ocean Science Consulting Ltd. T: +44 (0)1368 865 722 W: www.osc.co.uk W: www.ocean-science-consulting.gr W: www.osc-nz.co.nz Spott Road, Dunbar, East Lothian, EH42 1RR. Scotland, UK MMO or PAM requirement? We wrote the Book. Now available on Amazon: www.marinemammalobserverhandbook.com

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New killer whale ID catalog from Japan
by Hiroshi OHIZUMI 01 May '26

01 May '26

We are pleased to announce the publication of the Photo Identification Catalog of Orcas in the Nemuro Strait (Rausu), Hokkaido (2010-2025). This is the latest version of the catalog for orcas in the Nemuro Strait, Hokkaido Japan. You may be able to observe the growth of some individuals by comparing the identification photos with those in the previous version. You can download it from the following link: http://hdl.handle.net/2433/300531 Currently, the DOI link may not be functioning correctly, but the DOI for this catalog is 10.57723/kds619223. (Link to previous version: https://doi.org/10.57723/kds596917) Best regards, Hiroshi Ohizumi

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Alaska Whale Foundation’s 2025 Research Report
by Andy Szabo 30 Apr '26

30 Apr '26

Alaska Whale Foundation is pleased to share its 2025 Southeast Alaska Research Report: https://www.alaskawhalefoundation.org/_files/ugd/b74f83_e91201b8b7f94a3c9c9… The report presents preliminary findings from AWF’s 2025 field season as part of its long-term Whale and Ocean Health Monitoring Program in the inside and coastal waters of Southeast Alaska. The report focuses primarily on humpback whales. Findings from AWF’s 2025 Sitka Sound Gray Whale Program are available here: https://www.alaskawhalefoundation.org/_files/ugd/b74f83_be5db00344dc40a8b8d… Sincerely, Andy Szabo, PhD Director, Alaska Whale Foundation szabo(a)alaskawhalefoundation.org alaskawhalefoundation.com

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