- MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Announcement of Louis M Herman Research Scholarship winners
by Kimberley Bennett 16 Apr '26

16 Apr '26

Dear Marmam members. Please see below the announcement of the winners of the Louis M Herman scholarship for 2026. Dear Marine Mammal Community, We are delighted to share the recipients of the 2026 Louis M. Herman Research Scholarship <https://eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fprotect.c…> . The scholarship honors the legacy of Louis M. Herman, a pioneer in dolphin sensory perception and cognition and humpback whale behavioral ecology. Dr. Herman founded the Kewalo Basin Marine Mammal Laboratory in 1969 and co-founded The Dolphin Institute, shaping decades of groundbreaking research and mentoring generations of marine mammal scientists. Established in 2017 by his family, colleagues, and friends, the scholarship is awarded biennially to support research that reflects his innovative and rigorous scientific approach. This year, we received an exceptional 45 proposals from researchers across the globe, representing Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Israel, Madagascar, Mexico, Norway, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The quality and breadth of submissions were the highest on record, making the review process both inspiring and highly competitive. We appreciate the efforts of all the applicants and would like to thank everyone who submitted an application for this award. After careful consideration, the Herman Family generously elected to support two outstanding applicants this year: Lewis EvansUniversity of Hawai'i, Marine Mammal Research Program Energetic Expenditure and Physical Traits Shaping Male Reproductive Strategies in Humpback Whales on the Hawaiian Breeding Grounds Melanie Smith Syracuse University, Bioacoustics and Behavioral Ecology Lab (BABEL) Examining the Effect of Female Acoustic Signaling on Dyad Stability on a Humpback Whale Breeding Ground Please join us in congratulating Lewis and Melanie on this well-deserved recognition. Their work reflects the innovation and excellence that the Louis M. Herman Research Scholarship aims to support. We extend our sincere thanks to the Herman Family and the review panel for their continued commitment to advancing marine mammal science. Warm regards, Kimberley Bennett Chair of the Awards Committee Society for Marine Mammalogy awardschair(a)marinemammalscience.org <awardschair(a)marinemammalscience.org?subject=&body=> -- The Society for Marine Mammalogy Awards and Scholarships Committee AwardsChair(a)marinemammalscience.org

1 0

OSC MMO/PSO/PAMO Course advertisement
by OSC Admin 16 Apr '26

16 Apr '26

Hello MARMAM Community, Our renowned OSC JNCC MMO, PSO, and PAM courses are underway with a course running at this moment! We have a group of enthusiastic and engaged candidates from around the world here at our offices in Dunbar, Scotland and so far the feedback is very positive! 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. OSC Admin Ocean Science Consulting Ltd. [cid:image837939.png@8F1FFA52.15CB37E9] Ocean Science Consulting Ltd. T: +44 (0)1368 865 722<tel:T:%20+44%20(0)1368%20865%20722%E2%80%8B> W: www.osc.co.uk<http://www.osc.co.uk/> W: www.ocean-science-consulting.gr<http://www.ocean-science-consulting.gr/> W: www.osc-nz.co.nz<http://www.osc-nz.co.nz/> Spott Road , Dunbar , East Lothian , EH42 1RR . Scotland, UK [cid:image450289.png@64404783.0863421E] [cid:image011699.png@BB0A451D.33BCBCEF] MMO or PAM requirement? We wrote the Book. Now available on Amazon: www.marinemammalobserverhandbook.com<http://www.marinemammalobserverhandbook.com/>

1 0

New publication: From traits to threats : A Global Assessment of Marine Mammal Vulnerability
by Isabel C. Avila 16 Apr '26

16 Apr '26

New publication: “From Traits to Threats: A Global Assessment of Marine Mammal Vulnerability”. In this study, we assess the vulnerability of 125 marine mammal species to nine major threats using ecological traits and global data. We find that traits such as range size, age at maturity, body size, and dive depth strongly shape risk exposure. This trait-based approach helps identify overlooked species and provides a framework to guide more targeted and effective conservation efforts worldwide. Reference: Avila, I.C., Kaschner, K., & Dormann, C. (2026). From traits to threats: a global assessment of marine mammal vulnerability. Marine Ecology Progress Series, 783, meps15117. https://doi.org/10.3354/meps15117 The paper can be accessed here: https://www.int-res.com/journals/meps/articles/meps15117 or you can contact me: isabelc.avila(a)gmail.com

1 0

Marine Mammal Research and Conservation Internship – Coastal Cambodia
by Khmer Ocean Life 16 Apr '26

16 Apr '26

*Currently looking for interns to join in May 2026 * Khmer Ocean Life (KOL) is a UK non-profit in partnership with a local NGO Samaky Organization in Cambodia, based in the coastal town of Kampot. The organisation focuses on supporting the conservation of marine mammal species (Irrawaddy dolphins, Indo-pacific humpback dolphins, Indo-pacific finless porpoises, and dugongs), and their habitats, through research, capacity building, community collaboration, and outreach. We are looking for marine mammal research and conservation interns to join the team who can commit to at least one month. We conduct our work year-round, and applicants are encouraged to apply any time. Longer-term applicants are encouraged to apply. We are looking for people to join as soon as possible, as we have current *openings from May 2026 onwards*. *What to expect?* Internships are customized to each intern based on personal and academic skills and interests, and interns are encouraged to specialize in targeted areas of conservation including social media management and ecological research. We are open to collaborations with universities for the completion of a thesis or associated report. You are also welcome to conduct your own research or outreach project with us, depending on your interest, skill set, and length of stay. Our work is multifaceted and extends into multiple areas of conservation. While a large part of our project activities and intern training involves data collection, we prioritize internal and external capacity building for our team members and the local community. Prioritizing the empowerment of community members allows us to engage with conservation work in a variety of ways and become immersed in science and local life. Project activities: · Ecological surveys (weather dependent!) with a basis in animal behaviour and anthropogenic impact monitoring: - Boat surveys in collaboration with local fishing communities - Land surveys · Post fieldwork activities: - Photo-identification - Data entry and proofing · Community involvement and capacity building - Responding to marine mammal bycatch and stranding events - Social media and content creation - Education and outreach in local schools - Beach clean-ups - Monthly team outings e.g. visiting a local waterfall or mangrove planting - Citizen science training for community members · Current Projects: - Depending on your length of stay and project stage there may be the opportunity to become involved with the following: - Cambodian Marine Mammal Bycatch and Stranding Network (CMMBSN) - Bycatch mitigation and action plan (BMAP) - Ghost net removal - Acoustic deterrent device implementation - University collaboration - Partnerships with international marine mammal organizations Internship training includes: · Research method training on observational land and boat surveying techniques · Marine mammal identification and behaviour training · Marine vessel identification training · Field data collection and data entry training · Grant writing workshop · Weekly Khmer language lessons Internship requirements: We are looking for dedicated and motivated interns who would love to join our fantastic team of Khmer and International members. Everybody with a keen interest in marine mammals and their conservation is welcome, including University students, recent graduates, experienced conservationists, and individuals who want to gain experience in marine mammal conservation. Project site & fee: The project is based in Kampot, Cambodia. The project office and intern accommodation are at the same site. Intern accommodation is fitted with everything you will need, it is very comfortable and right in the heart of the town. All marine mammal research training and accommodation are included in the 700 USD per month fee, but not your food, giving you freedom with your meals and the chance to explore Khmer food as you like. For more information visit our website: Khmer Ocean Life <https://www.khmeroceanlife.com/> There are limited spaces available, if interested, please send a CV/resume stating your available dates and desired length of stay, to info(a)khmeroceanlife.co <info(a)khmeroceanlife.com>m

1 0

New publication: A Machine Learning Approach to Assess the Relevance of Interspecific Acoustic Cetacean Co-Occurrence When Modeling Species Presence
by Braulio Leon Lopez 15 Apr '26

15 Apr '26

Dear colleagues, On behalf of my coauthors, I am pleased to share our recent publiction in Marine Mammal Science: Cruz‐Villagran, H., Gutiérrez‐Jagüey, J., Von Borstel, F. D., Leon‐Lopez, B., Paniagua‐Mendoza, A., & Romero‐Vivas, E. (2026). A Machine Learning Approach to Assess the Relevance of Interspecific Acoustic Cetacean Co‐Occurrence When Modeling Species Presence. *Marine Mammal Science*, 42(2), e70165. https://doi.org/10.1111/mms.70165 *Abstract* Ecological models are essential for understanding cetacean distribution, particularly in marine ecosystems where direct observation is challenging. The present study applied passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) and artificial neural networks (ANN) to model the presence of dolphins (Family Delphinidae) in the Cerralvo Channel, Gulf of California, Mexico, incorporating 10 environmental descriptors and introducing the variable of interspecific acoustic co-occurrence of cetaceans (IACC). The latter implies acoustic co-detection regardless of proximity, interaction or mutual awareness among species. Data were collected from November 2022 to December 2023 using PAM, yielding 452 h of acoustic recordings. The best-performing ANN achieved 81.7% accuracy, identifying IACC, wind speed, Chlorophyll-a concentration, hydrophone distance-to-coast ratio, and diel pattern as the most influential descriptors. Variable contribution analyses revealed that IACC exerted the strongest positive influence on dolphin detection, with blue and sperm whale vocalizations being the most frequently detected with dolphins. These findings highlight PAM and ANNs as effective tools for capturing complex ecological relationships and emphasize IACC as a key driver shaping dolphin habitat use through the shared acoustic space. Best regards, *Braulio León-López, Ph.D.* *Postdoctoral Researcher, SECIHTI Fellowship* Acoustics and Signal Processing Research Group / Natural History Museum Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste (CIBNOR) <https://www.avast.com/sig-email?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campai…> Virus-free.www.avast.com <https://www.avast.com/sig-email?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campai…> <#DAB4FAD8-2DD7-40BB-A1B8-4E2AA1F9FDF2> -- -------------------------------------------------------------------------- *Este correo puede contener datos personales, por lo que su distribución es responsabilidad de la persona servidora pública que lo emite.*

1 0

Job Opportunity: Research Analyst in Bioacoustics
by Susan E Parks 15 Apr '26

15 Apr '26

The Bioacoustics and Behavioral Ecology Lab (https://babel.syr.edu/) at Syracuse University seeks a Research Analyst (RA) to support a diverse portfolio of research projects focused on the ecology and evolution of acoustic signaling and animal behavior. A range of research topics in the lab span the fields of behavioral ecology, bioacoustics, and conservation biology. The RA will work closely with the PI (Susan Parks), postdocs and graduate students in the lab to collect, manage, analyze, and interpret datasets. The RA will use cutting edge equipment and approaches to collect and analyze data to address questions in the fields of animal bioacoustics and conservation. Projects involve both terrestrial and marine studies in bioacoustics, including passive acoustic monitoring and fine-scale acoustic animal biologger data collection. This position requires a strong computational background, demonstrated experience with acoustic data analysis and statistical analysis, and enthusiasm for collaborative work. Excellent communication skills and a desire to train junior scientists are essential, as the position includes mentorship and training responsibilities. More details on the position can be found at: https://www.sujobopps.com/postings/112795 Please contact Susan Parks (sparks(a)syr.edu<mailto:sparks@syr.edu>) with any questions you may have about the position.

1 0

IFAW Marine Mammal Stranding Internships - Fall 2026
by Wellman, Michaela 15 Apr '26

15 Apr '26

The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) is currently accepting applications for Fall 2026 Marine Mammal Stranding Internships. IFAW Marine Mammal Stranding Internship Fall Session 2026 (First Week of September 2026 - Middle of January 2027) Complete Applications due: May 20th, 2026 Program Background IFAW is an international non-profit organization. This internship is based out of our International Operations Center in Yarmouth Port, Massachusetts, USA. IFAW's Marine Mammal Rescue (MMR) program is a federally authorized program dedicated to marine mammal stranding response on Cape Cod and southeastern Massachusetts. Our program strives to promote the conservation of marine mammal species and their habitat by improving the rescue and humane care of stranded marine mammals, advancing stranding science, and increasing public awareness through education. Cape Cod is a marine mammal stranding "hot spot," with an average of over 315 strandings occurring each year. These strandings include live and dead seals, whales, porpoises, and dolphins. In addition to stranding response, IFAW's MMR division has developed the Cetacean Intensive Care Unit (CICU) located at the Dolphin Rescue Center in Orleans, MA. CICU is a short-term holding facility (96 hours) that aims to provide rehabilitative care to dolphins and porpoises experiencing acute effects of stranding. Stranding Intern Duties * Stranding hotline coverage: answer calls, document reports, educate callers, dispatch volunteers, complete associated paperwork and enter data. * Marine mammal stranding response & necropsy: assist staff with all aspects of marine mammal stranding response, including live animal health assessment and supportive care, biological data collection, post-mortem examinations and sampling in both field and laboratory settings. * CICU operations: assist staff with aspects of CICU operations, including animal care (i.e. in-water support, assist during procedures, monitoring animal behavior etc.), CICU education and outreach, CICU readiness and cleaning, etc. Please note experiences will be opportunistic as cases arise. We do not have a long-term rehabilitation program or animals on-site regularly. * Stranding & necropsy readiness: cleaning, organizing and maintaining stranding response and necropsy gear, equipment and facilities, restocking kits and supplies. * Data entry & sample processing: assist in entry of stranding data. Assist in organizing, cataloging, disseminating and archiving of photos, videos, datasheets, samples, etc. * Outreach: assist staff with training and outreach material preparation and organization, participate in opportunistic outreach at stranding sites, participate in community events. Please see the following link for the full posting and to apply: https://recruiting.ultipro.com/INT1059IFFA/OpportunityCreate?opportunityId=… Michaela Wellman Stranding Technician Marine Mammal Rescue 290 Summer Street Yarmouth Port, MA 02675 United States www.ifaw.org<https://www.ifaw.org/> +1 (774) 212-1103 (cell) +1 (508) 743-9548 (stranding hotline) [ifaw]<https://www.ifaw.org/> The content of this email is intended only for the use of the above-named addressee and may contain information that is confidential, proprietary, and/or legally privileged. Please notify the sender if you received this email in error.

1 0

New Publication: Availability of Chinook and Sockeye Salmon as Prey to Cook Inlet Beluga Whales
by Kate Lomac-MacNair 14 Apr '26

14 Apr '26

Dear MARMAM Community, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce our new publication in Frontiers in Marine Science: Bernard J, Templin B, Reimer A, McKinley T, Kellie K, Lomac-MacNair K, Blees M, Bender M, Adkison M, Polasek L and Quakenbush L (2026) Availability of Chinook and sockeye salmon as prey to Cook Inlet beluga whales. Front. Mar. Sci. 13:1726132. doi: 10.3389/fmars.2026.1726132 Abstract: Cook Inlet beluga whales (CIBW) are an endangered population of toothed whales in southcentral Alaska that have not shown signs of recovery over the past two decades. Since the 1999 harvest moratorium, the number of whales in the population has remained relatively stable, with the 2022 estimate at 381 whales. Despite extensive research efforts since its Endangered Species Act listing in 2008, the mechanisms limiting population growth remain poorly understood. Recent studies suggest prey availability could be a significant factor limiting reproduction. This study provides information relating to CIBW prey availability and identifies mechanisms that may limit CIBW population growth. We developed a database containing decades of Cook Inlet fisheries data collected by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. We used annual run size and fish size data to establish indices of Chinook (*Oncorhynchus tshawytscha)* and sockeye salmon (*Oncorhynchus nerka*) availability within the Northern and Central Districts of Upper Cook Inlet. Data were not available to do the same for chum (*Oncorhynchus keta*), coho (*Oncorhynchus kisutch*), and pink salmon (*Oncorhynchus gorbuscha*) or for other important prey species, such as eulachon (*Thaleicthys pacificus*) and Pacific herring (*Clupea pallasii*), thus we focus on prey species Chinook and sockeye salmon. Here we summarize fisheries information archived in the database, estimate annual vital rates of CIBWs using an age-structured integrated population dynamics model, and correlate these vital rates to indices of prey availability (i.e., the annual biomass of select salmon runs based on available fisheries data). The biomass of Chinook salmon, the first species of salmon to arrive in Cook Inlet to spawn, declined significantly in the late 2000s. However, the biomass of other species, including sockeye salmon, has shown no clear trend since the 1980s. There were some indications that CIBW survival rates declined between 2005 and 2017, a period over which the biomass of Chinook and sockeye runs decreased in magnitude. However, it is not clear without additional information, such as a longer time series on CIBW survival rates and prey abundance, whether an increase in salmon availability would lead to an increase in CIBW population. Our paper is available online: https://doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2026.1726132 Cheers, Kate Kate Lomac-MacNair, PhD Email: kate(a)owlridgenrc.com or klomacmacnair(a)gmail.com

1 0

New publication: A sensitive liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry analytical method of steroid hormones in small blubber samples from four whale species
by Clare Margaret Andvik 14 Apr '26

14 Apr '26

Dear MARMAM community, My co-authors and I are pleased to share our new open-access publication in Conservation Physiology: A sensitive liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry analytical method of steroid hormones in small blubber samples from four whale species<https://academic.oup.com/conphys/article/14/1/coag023/8653515?login=false> https://doi.org/10.1093/conphys/coag023 Abstract: Steroid hormones can give an indication of stress, physiological health and reproductive status in whales; however, analysis is often limited by sample mass. We developed a sensitive analytical method using solid phase extraction–liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–ESI–MS/MS) for the identification and quantification of eight steroid hormones (cortisol, cortisone, testosterone, androstenedione, progesterone, 11-deoxycortisol, 11-deoxycorticosterone and 17-hydroxyprogesterone) in small amounts of whale blubber (≤50 mg). Blubber biopsies were collected from stranded killer whales (Orcinus orca; n = 7), harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena; n = 3) and sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus; n = 4), harvested common minke whales (n = 10; Balaenoptera acutorostrata) and free-living killer whales (n = 2) in Norway and the Barents Sea. Steroid hormones were separated using pentafluorophenyl propyl stationary phase and an optimized gradient programme with a total 20-min run. All samples (n = 26) were analysed at 50-mg sample mass, and a subset (n = 11) at 25 mg or lower. Low limit of detection and limit of quantification values resulted in high detection rates of hormones, and we found similar hormone concentrations between parallel samples and at the lowest tested sample mass (14 mg). Cortisol concentrations in sperm whales (4.3 ± 1.6 ng/g) were four times higher than stranded killer whales (1.1 ± 0.96 ng/g), which in turn were up to four times higher than free-living killer whales (0.23 ± 0.12 ng/g), harbour porpoise (0.64 ± 0.38 ng/g) and harvested minke whales (0.22 ± 0.13), possibly due to fatality type and duration of stress prior to death. We provide the first quantification of blubber steroid hormones in killer whale, minke whale, sperm whale and harbour porpoise, and in less than 50-mg sample mass. By minimizing sample mass without compromising precision or sensitivity, our method allows for steroid hormone analysis even on samples with limited availability, strengthening our ability to monitor and conserve marine mammal populations. We have also shared a popular science article and infographic on the early career researcher website Whale Scientists: https://whalescientists.com/a-new-method-to-measure-whale-hormones-in-a-sam… And a reel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reels/DXH44yyDDJr/ Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about the work. Kind regards Clare Andvik ——————————————————————————— Clare Andvik PhD Candidate Section for Aquatic Biology & Toxicology Department of Biosciences University of Oslo [cid:68833832-9d30-48db-b1d0-accfbc8beb68] MULTIWHALE<https://www.mn.uio.no/ibv/english/research/sections/aqua/research-projects/…> ________________________________ From: MARMAM <marmam-bounces(a)lists.uvic.ca> on behalf of marmam-request(a)lists.uvic.ca <marmam-request(a)lists.uvic.ca> Sent: 14 April 2026 20:35 To: marmam(a)lists.uvic.ca <marmam(a)lists.uvic.ca> Subject: MARMAM Digest, Vol 249, Issue 11 Send MARMAM mailing list submissions to marmam(a)lists.uvic.ca To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit https://lists.uvic.ca/mailman/listinfo/marmam or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to marmam-request(a)lists.uvic.ca You can reach the person managing the list at marmam-owner(a)lists.uvic.ca When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific than "Re: Contents of MARMAM digest..." Today's Topics: 1. Florida Manatee Management Job Opportunity (Sosa, Ana) 2. New publication: Gray whales (Eschrichtius robustus) in San Francisco Bay experience high mortality and have limited affiliation to known foraging groups (Josie Slaathaug) 3. PhD Opportunity: Structure/Function Perspectives on Mammal Encephalons (Deadline: May 19th) (Jean-marie Graic) 4. Fresh off the press: Publication on inferring internal organ contaminant burden in cetaceans (von Hellfeld, Rebecca) 5. New publication: Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding as a complementary monitoring tool in cetacean visual surveys: from broad to fine-scale spatial analysis in open waters (Miguel ?lvarez-Gonz?lez) (Miguel ?lvarez) 6. Marine Mammal Internship 2026 ? Southern Right Whale Research in Brazil (Daniel Danilewicz) 7. New publication: Air?water interface calling behavior of southern right whales (Eubalaena australis) in Pen?nsula Vald?s, Argentina: A sound production?based approach (virginia tortolini) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Message: 1 Date: Mon, 13 Apr 2026 14:40:09 +0000 From: "Sosa, Ana" <Ana.Sosa(a)MyFWC.com> To: "marmam(a)lists.uvic.ca" <marmam(a)lists.uvic.ca> Subject: [MARMAM] Florida Manatee Management Job Opportunity Message-ID: <DS9PR09MB12262401EF7DB096720F8A2A89D242(a)DS9PR09MB12262.namprd09.prod.outlook.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="windows-1252" Greetings, The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is seeking a Fisheries & Wildlife OPS Biological Scientist III to aid the agency?s Manatee Management Program. The Manatee Warm-Water Habitat Biologist position is a dynamic administrative and office-based role, focused on supporting the collaborative implementation of the Manatee Warm-water Habitat Action Plan. Primary duties will involve facilitating, organizing, and leading interagency and partner groups regarding warm-water habitat restoration, enhancement, and creation. Assisting with the creation, maintenance and quality control of shapefiles, layers and geodatabases, developing maps and data summaries using ArcGIS, GoogleEarth, MS Access and MS Excel for management purposes. Maintaining industrial partnerships by monitoring operations, contributing to updates/revisions of manatee protection plans. Contributing to the preparation of reports and presenting results through internal and external (peer-reviewed publications, professional and public meetings, etc.) outlets. Please follow this link to the job posting to learn more about this opportunity: OPS- F & W Biological Scientist III - 77905006 Job Details | State of Florida<https://jobs.myflorida.com/job/TALLAHASSEE-OPS-F-&-W-Biological-Scientist-I…> Posting Closing Date: 04/19/2026 Sincerely, Ana Sosa, M.P.A., B.S. Manatee Warm-water Habitat Coordinator, Biological Scientist IV Imperiled Species Management Section Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission<https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/manatee/> 1875 E. Orange Ave., Tallahassee, FL 32311 (850) 922-4330 Ana.Sosa(a)MyFWC.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: <http://lists.uvic.ca/pipermail/marmam/attachments/20260413/192cd5a3/attachm…> ------------------------------ Message: 2 Date: Sun, 12 Apr 2026 21:55:05 -0700 From: Josie Slaathaug <j.m.slaathaug(a)gmail.com> To: marmam(a)lists.uvic.ca Subject: [MARMAM] New publication: Gray whales (Eschrichtius robustus) in San Francisco Bay experience high mortality and have limited affiliation to known foraging groups Message-ID: <CACX30s-67kPm2u0Ny_gWX2Sy7Tn99_r7z2okKQqQ=G7uawD0Fw(a)mail.gmail.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8" Dear MARMAM community, My co-authors and I are pleased to share our open-access publication in Frontiers, the results of a very collaborative study and the first publication detailing live gray whales in San Francisco Bay, available here: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/marine-science/articles/10.3389/fmars.… Slaathaug JM, Lane RS, Keener W, Pe?rez A, Flannery M, Webber MA, Grimes A, Wilkin AM, O?Hern JE, Duignan PJ, Calambokidis J and Crocker DE (2026) Gray whales (*Eschrichtius robustus*) in San Francisco Bay experience high mortality and have limited affiliation to known foraging groups. Front. Mar. Sci. 13:1775666. doi: Abstract Terrestrial and marine species are exhibiting distributional shifts due to climate change and resource availability. As food webs are impacted, some species have moved into areas of increased human activity, encountering anthropogenic hazards. A coastal marine species that undertakes a long migration between breeding and foraging ranges, the Eastern North Pacific (ENP) population of gray whales (Eschrichtius robustus) is especially vulnerable to changes. Subgroups of ENP gray whales, including the Pacific Coast Feeding Group and the (Puget) Sounders, have adapted to exploit alternative feeding grounds as prey availability declines in the Arctic. Novel to known migration phenology, gray whales have been observed seasonally since 2018 in San Francisco Bay (SF Bay), California. We evaluated subgroup identity and mortality of gray whales in SF Bay from 2018 - 2025 using photo-identification. Data were collected through vessel-based surveys, opportunistic effort, and community submissions. We identified 114 individual whales of which eight were matched to a subgroup, indicating gray whales utilizing SF Bay are not merely a range extension by foraging subgroups. Only four gray whales were resighted within SF Bay between years. Using photographs, 21 individuals were successfully matched to carcasses and a minimum mortality rate of 18% was determined. Blunt and/or sharp force trauma consistent with vessel strike was determined to be the cause of death for 30 of 70 carcasses, and for nine of 11 matched animals where a cause of death was determined. Sounder and PCFG matched whales were more likely to survive SF Bay than ENP individuals, though minimum length of stay did not influence mortality. This work confirms that gray whales entering SF Bay are highly susceptible to vessel strike mortality and highlights a crucial need to identify and implement adaptive management strategies to mitigate injuries and mortality as whales continue to utilize novel habitat. Kind regards, Josephine (Josie) Slaathaug *she/her* National Science Foundation Graduate Fellow M.Sc Student, Crocker Lab Sonoma State University, Department of Biology slaathaugj(a)sonoma.edu Linkedin <http://www.linkedin.com/in/josie-slaathaug-341234236> -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: <http://lists.uvic.ca/pipermail/marmam/attachments/20260412/794fcac4/attachm…> ------------------------------ Message: 3 Date: Tue, 14 Apr 2026 10:21:43 +0200 From: Jean-marie Graic <jeanmarie.graic(a)unipd.it> To: marmam(a)lists.uvic.ca Subject: [MARMAM] PhD Opportunity: Structure/Function Perspectives on Mammal Encephalons (Deadline: May 19th) Message-ID: <CAOGgvfAeRgM8T3L7r1K9pKTeSOgkQCg12t9Ngwh-YgS8r09QcQ(a)mail.gmail.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8" Dear MARMAMers I am currently recruiting a PhD candidate for a new position within the Veterinary Sciences program at the University of Padua, Italy The research project focuses on structure/function perspectives of the encephalon in terrestrial and marine mammals. The student will be trained primarily in histology, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence. Additionally, the role involves opportunistic brain extraction, MRI brain scan analysis, and opportunities to engage in broader anatomical research. Application Details: - Topic: Evolutionary perspectives on the encephalon (terrestrial and marine mammals). - Key Activities: Histology, IHC, Immunofluorescence, MRI analysis, Brain extraction. - Deadline: May 19th. - Full Call & Requirements: https://www.dottorato.veterinaria.unipd.it/evolutionary-perspectives-terres… Please review the link above for specific requirements and the application procedure. If you know any motivated students or researchers interested in this field, please forward this information to them. Best regards, *Jean-Marie Gra?c, Dr. Vet. Med., Ph.D.* Associate Professor* - Veterinary Anatomy* University of Padua, Italy - Veterinary Medicine Tel : +39 049 827 2572 <https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1974-8356>ORCID 0000-0002-1974-8356 <https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1974-8356> *The hypothalamus - "Here in this well-concealed spot, almost to be covered with a thumbnail, lies the very main spring of primitive existence ? vegetative, emotional, reproductive ? on which with more or less success, man has come to superimpose a cortex of inhibitions.? Cushing (1932)* -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: <http://lists.uvic.ca/pipermail/marmam/attachments/20260414/7a98d61a/attachm…> ------------------------------ Message: 4 Date: Tue, 14 Apr 2026 13:22:41 +0000 From: "von Hellfeld, Rebecca" <rebecca.vonhellfeld(a)abdn.ac.uk> To: "marmam(a)lists.uvic.ca" <marmam(a)lists.uvic.ca> Subject: [MARMAM] Fresh off the press: Publication on inferring internal organ contaminant burden in cetaceans Message-ID: <AS8PR04MB8359935B688359CE446400CAC1252(a)AS8PR04MB8359.eurprd04.prod.outlook.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" Dear marmam community, With the unique (and tragic) occurrence of long-finned pilot whale mass stranding events, we have been given the rare opportunity to assess the potential use of skin as indicator for internal organ mercury burden in these animals. Removing the usual ecological and life-history variation that is inherent with single animal strandings, we were able to determine a relationship between the skin and liver mercury burden in a group of 54 pilot whales that stranded in 2023. I would greatly appreciate if this article could be shared further, and of course am more than happy to discuss the work in more detail if anyone is interested: https://doi.org/10.1111/mms.70170 Best wishes, Rebecca von Hellfeld ________________________________ Dr Rebecca von Hellfeld Postdoctoral Researcher University of Aberdeen School of Biological Science Environmental Modelling Group . ":" ___:____ |"\/"| ,' `. \ / | O \___/ | ~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~^~ You may receive emails from me outside of core hours. Please do not feel any pressure to respond outside of your normal working pattern. The University of Aberdeen is a charity registered in Scotland, No SC013683. Tha Oilthigh Obar Dheathain na charthannas cl?raichte ann an Alba, ?ir. SC013683. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: <http://lists.uvic.ca/pipermail/marmam/attachments/20260414/ca7f9573/attachm…> ------------------------------ Message: 5 Date: Tue, 14 Apr 2026 18:37:00 +0200 From: Miguel ?lvarez <miguelalvarezgmv(a)gmail.com> To: marmam(a)lists.uvic.ca Subject: [MARMAM] New publication: Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding as a complementary monitoring tool in cetacean visual surveys: from broad to fine-scale spatial analysis in open waters (Miguel ?lvarez-Gonz?lez) Message-ID: <CAF503bgv8CwMsSgWNMWTiUnQdJr9EU5DQs9yGTRi=2UoaFVHfw(a)mail.gmail.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8" Dear MARMAM community, On behalf of my co-authors and myself, I am pleased to share our new open-access publication in *Marine Environmental Research*, led by the Marine Megafauna Research Group (MegaMAR) of the Spanish Institute of Oceanography (IEO-CSIC): ?lvarez-Gonz?lez, M., Saavedra, C., Rotllant, J., Pierce, G. J., Guti?rrez-Mu?oz, P., V?zquez Bonales, J. A., & Suarez-Bregua, P. (2026). Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding as a complementary monitoring tool in cetacean visual surveys: from broad to fine-scale spatial analysis in open waters. *Marine Environmental Research*, 217, 107985 Access to the publication: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marenvres.2026.107985 You can also find a short summary of this work on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DXHmrkslGHP/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=M… Abstract: Monitoring cetacean populations is essential for understanding the status of marine communities. In this regard, environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding is an increasingly popular innovative and non-invasive genetic tool for marine biodiversity monitoring, particularly useful for assessing the populations of highly mobile species with a wide distribution range, such as cetaceans. In this study, we compared cetacean species detection and distri?bution patterns obtained through eDNA metabarcoding with the sighting records obtained during simultaneous traditional visual monitoring. A total of 258 seawater samples was analysed, collected at 129 sampling stations during the SCANS-IV survey carried out in oceanic waters of the North Atlantic Ocean. Nine cetacean species were identified by eDNA metabarcoding and ten by visual monitoring; three species were detected solely by eDNA, while four were exclusively detected by visual observation, demonstrating the complementarity of the two methods. The four most frequently sighted species were also the most frequently detected species in eDNA samples, showing similar detection frequencies and distribution patterns at broad and intermediate spatial scales. At a finer scale, however, species occurrence did not overlap between methods. Additionally, eDNA provided new insights into striped dolphin (*Stenella coeruleoalba*), which may be under-represented in traditional moni?toring data. Overall, the results support the use of eDNA metabarcoding as a valuable complementary monitoring tool for assessing cetacean diversity and distribution, providing additional information on species presence throughout the study area. This is particularly relevant for species that are rarely recorded visually and for which there is insufficient information to design and implement appropriate management strategies. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions regarding this work. Miguel ?lvarez (miguel.alvarez(a)ieo.csic.es) Paula Su?rez - corresponding author (paula.suarez(a)ieo.csic.es) Best regards, Miguel -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: <http://lists.uvic.ca/pipermail/marmam/attachments/20260414/1f3a6915/attachm…> ------------------------------ Message: 6 Date: Tue, 14 Apr 2026 09:03:53 -0300 From: Daniel Danilewicz <daniel.danilewicz(a)gmail.com> To: marmam(a)lists.uvic.ca Subject: [MARMAM] Marine Mammal Internship 2026 ? Southern Right Whale Research in Brazil Message-ID: <CADkm98=YeX_yX+DFUv9tzqXNHgAxM8Q3N90Xp5DcKJOfiZBUSQ(a)mail.gmail.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8" Dear MARMAM community, Want to work hands-on with southern right whales in the wild? We are now accepting applications for the Marine Mammal Research Exchange, an academic internship program hosted by the GEMARS?Yaqu Pacha Marine Mammal Conservation Hub ? a center for collaborative research and capacity building in Latin America. The Hub integrates multiple research and conservation initiatives (including bycatch mitigation, community-based projects, and marine mammal monitoring programs). This specific call focuses on one of its flagship field programs: the long-term study of southern right whales (*Eubalaena australis*) in southern Brazil. This program is designed for advanced undergraduate students and recent graduates, offering direct involvement in data collection, analysis, and scientific research. *The experience* Interns will be embedded in the Farol das Baleias Project, contributing to ongoing research using: * Drone-based whale monitoring * Shore-based surveys * Photo-identification * Behavioral observations * Photogrammetry (growth and body condition) * Data processing and analysis *Periods & availability* We are offering two internship periods in 2026: * 1st July ? 15 August (2 positions) * 1st August ? 15 September (2 positions) *Location & logistics* * Southern Brazil (Torres, RS & Imbituba, SC) * Shared accommodation included (fully equipped house) * International research team environment *Fee* USD 175 per week, including: * Training * Accommodation Food, travel, and personal expenses are not included. *Who should apply* * Advanced undergraduate students * Recent graduates * Early-career researchers * Motivated individuals seeking hands-on experience in marine mammal science *How to apply* To receive application instructions, please contact: faroldasbaleias(a)gmail.com Subject: Internship 2026 ? Farol das Baleias -- Dr. Daniel Danilewicz gemars.org.br Grupo de Estudos de Mam?feros Aqu?ticos do Rio Grande do Sul (GEMARS) Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz (UESC) -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: <http://lists.uvic.ca/pipermail/marmam/attachments/20260414/91766205/attachm…> ------------------------------ Message: 7 Date: Tue, 14 Apr 2026 15:11:45 -0300 From: virginia tortolini <virtortolini(a)gmail.com> To: marmam(a)lists.uvic.ca Subject: [MARMAM] New publication: Air?water interface calling behavior of southern right whales (Eubalaena australis) in Pen?nsula Vald?s, Argentina: A sound production?based approach Message-ID: <CAJQCjKkAkD9BsU6dXLZ7Bkq0+2Gr-Eveeb1G1eRgDbNPJAkBeA(a)mail.gmail.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8" Dear MARMAM community, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the publication of the following paper in Acoustical Society of America: Virginia M. Tortolini, Joy S. Reidenberg, Ciro R. Mart?nez, Santiago J. Fern?ndez, Mariano A. Coscarella; Air?water interface calling behavior of southern right whales (*Eubalaena australis*) in Pen?nsula Vald?s, Argentina: A sound production?based approach. *J. Acoust. Soc. Am.* 1 April 2026; 159 (4): 3277?3290. https://doi.org/10.1121/10.0043369 Abstract: We describe an air?water interface calling behavior observed in southern right whales (SRWs; *Eubalaena australis*) in Golfo Nuevo, Pen?nsula Vald?s, Argentina. This behavior involves SRWs producing audible vocalizations at the surface, here termed ?interface vocalizations? (IFVs), which propagate simultaneously in-air and underwater. IFVs were documented through opportunistic visual observations combined with synchronized in-air and underwater recordings, complemented by citizen science videos. Twenty IFVs were recorded across eight events, with ten including fully synchronized acoustic data. Both in-air and underwater components are tonal, low-frequency signals with different harmonic structures and variable duration, perceived in air as ?foghorn?-like sounds. Behavioral and acoustic analysis indicates that IFVs are intentionally produced, voluntarily controlled, non-breathing-related vocalizations. All callers were adult whales observed across simple and complex social contexts. The findings support IFVs as a distinct sound category from those previously described for SRW, with anatomical production likely mediated by the laryngeal apparatus. These results highlight the plasticity of SRW acoustic behavior and the complexity of its sound production, raising questions about the potential biological, communicative, and adaptive roles of IFVs in dual-pathway signaling. With regards, Virginia M. Tortolini *Lic. en Ciencias Biol?gicas * *Universidad Nacional de la Patagonia San Juan Bosco (UNPSJB)* *Abuelas de Plaza de Mayo 3051, Puerto Madryn U9120, Chubut, Argentina.* *Ph.D. candidate * *Centro para el Estudio de los Sistemas Marinos (CESIMAR) - CONICET* *Abuelas de Plaza de Mayo 2915, **Puerto Madryn U9120, Chubut, Argentina* -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: <http://lists.uvic.ca/pipermail/marmam/attachments/20260414/8b856f26/attachm…> ------------------------------ Subject: Digest Footer _______________________________________________ MARMAM mailing list MARMAM(a)lists.uvic.ca https://lists.uvic.ca/mailman/listinfo/marmam ------------------------------ End of MARMAM Digest, Vol 249, Issue 11 ***************************************

1 0

New publication: Air–water interface calling behavior of southern right whales (Eubalaena australis) in Península Valdés, Argentina: A sound production–based approach
by virginia tortolini 14 Apr '26

14 Apr '26

Dear MARMAM community, My co-authors and I are pleased to announce the publication of the following paper in Acoustical Society of America: Virginia M. Tortolini, Joy S. Reidenberg, Ciro R. Martínez, Santiago J. Fernández, Mariano A. Coscarella; Air–water interface calling behavior of southern right whales (*Eubalaena australis*) in Península Valdés, Argentina: A sound production–based approach. *J. Acoust. Soc. Am.* 1 April 2026; 159 (4): 3277–3290. https://doi.org/10.1121/10.0043369 Abstract: We describe an air–water interface calling behavior observed in southern right whales (SRWs; *Eubalaena australis*) in Golfo Nuevo, Península Valdés, Argentina. This behavior involves SRWs producing audible vocalizations at the surface, here termed “interface vocalizations” (IFVs), which propagate simultaneously in-air and underwater. IFVs were documented through opportunistic visual observations combined with synchronized in-air and underwater recordings, complemented by citizen science videos. Twenty IFVs were recorded across eight events, with ten including fully synchronized acoustic data. Both in-air and underwater components are tonal, low-frequency signals with different harmonic structures and variable duration, perceived in air as “foghorn”-like sounds. Behavioral and acoustic analysis indicates that IFVs are intentionally produced, voluntarily controlled, non-breathing-related vocalizations. All callers were adult whales observed across simple and complex social contexts. The findings support IFVs as a distinct sound category from those previously described for SRW, with anatomical production likely mediated by the laryngeal apparatus. These results highlight the plasticity of SRW acoustic behavior and the complexity of its sound production, raising questions about the potential biological, communicative, and adaptive roles of IFVs in dual-pathway signaling. With regards, Virginia M. Tortolini *Lic. en Ciencias Biológicas * *Universidad Nacional de la Patagonia San Juan Bosco (UNPSJB)* *Abuelas de Plaza de Mayo 3051, Puerto Madryn U9120, Chubut, Argentina.* *Ph.D. candidate * *Centro para el Estudio de los Sistemas Marinos (CESIMAR) - CONICET* *Abuelas de Plaza de Mayo 2915, **Puerto Madryn U9120, Chubut, Argentina*

1 0