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Harbor Seal Ecology Graduate Study Opportunity
by Dawn Goley 01 Apr '26

01 Apr '26

Please share this opportunity to obtain a Master's Degree at Cal Poly Humboldt conducting research on the abundance, distribution, and diet of Harbor Seals in northern California. The student will join collaborators at Cal Poly Humboldt (Humboldt) in the Departments of Biology and Wildlife with Drs Goley and Gunther, supported by a grant from the California State University (CSU) Council on Ocean Affairs, Science & Technology (COAST). Thank you. *Dawn Goley, Ph.D.* (she, her)| *Professor of Zoology* | Department of Biological Sciences I Cal Poly - Humboldt I Arcata, California I 95521 I 707-826-4168 | Director of the HSU Marine Mammal Education and Research Program <http://gsp.humboldt.edu/Projects/MMSP/Site1/MMERP.html> and Director of the *HSU Marine Mammal Stranding Program* I HSU Marine Mammal Stranding *Hotline 707-826-3650 and email **marinemammals(a)humboldt.edu* <marinemammals(a)humboldt.edu> I HSU is a Latinx and Chicanx Serving Institution located on the traditional lands of the Wiyot people. ----- To Book an appointment - please use this link: *https://calendar.app.google/xwryhKoYamRVYTDo8 <https://calendar.app.google/xwryhKoYamRVYTDo8>* -----

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New publication: Living Near the Surface: Dive Behavior of Sei Whales (Balaenoptera borealis) in the Southwestern Atlantic Ocean
by Clarencio Baracho 01 Apr '26

01 Apr '26

On behalf of my co-authors, I’m pleased to share our recently published paper in *Marine Mammal Science*, which investigates the dive behavior of the endangered sei whale (*Balaenoptera borealis*) in the Southwestern Atlantic Ocean. ABSTRACT Understanding the diving behavior of baleen whales in tropical breeding areas is essential for evaluating both ecological functions and anthropogenic threats. In this study, we combined satellite transmitters and generalized additive mixed models (GAMMs) to investigate the dive behavior of sei whales (Balaenoptera borealis) in Santos Basin (SB), off southeastern Brazil. A total of 9963 dives were analyzed, revealing a dominance of shallow dives, with 93% of dives occurring at depths ≤ 20 m. Environmental variables such as sea surface temperature, local bathymetry, and chlorophyll concentration significantly influenced dive depth and duration. Cooler waters and deeper offshore areas were associated with longer and deeper dives, while higher surface productivity (indicated by increased chlorophyll a levels) shortened dive times. Behavioral and temporal covariates, including diel period, lunar phase, and dive shape, further modulated diving patterns. The prevalence of shallow diving behavior within the depth range of vessel drafts (≤ 20 m) raises significant conservation concerns, particularly regarding the risk of ship strikes in high-traffic areas like the Santos Basin. Our findings highlight the behavioral plasticity of sei whales in tropical low-latitude habitats and emphasize the importance of integrating dive behavior data into marine spatial planning and mitigation strategies. Reducing vessel speed and rerouting traffic in high-density whale habitats should be considered in the future with further studies to reduce the risk of anthropogenic impacts on this threatened species. The paper can be found at link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/mms.70167 All the best! Clarêncio Baracho-Neto, Dr

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Please post this advert for MMO PSO and PAM courses - last minute spaces now available in April. Thank you!
by OSC Admin 01 Apr '26

01 Apr '26

Hello MARMAM Community, We're delighted to let you know that enrolment is open for this year's course programme, featuring our renowned OSC JNCC MMO, PSO, and PAM courses. We have a few last-minute spaces that have become available on our April course, so 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. 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. 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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ECS Workshop: Building Bridges: Sign Language and Inclusive Practices for Marine Mammal Science Education – An Interactive Workshop
by Patrizia Patti 01 Apr '26

01 Apr '26

Dear all, What does inclusion in science mean to you? And how can we ensure that marine research is truly accessible to everyone? We are pleased to invite you to a hybrid workshop on inclusion in marine science, organised by EcoMarine Malta in collaboration with the University of Edinburgh, Dr Audrey Cameron, Camille Ollier, and the Deaf People Association Malta. Building Bridges: Sign Language and Inclusive Practices for Marine Mammal Science Education – An Interactive Workshop (20AM2) The workshop highlights how initiatives such as Marine Underwater Fish For INclusion (MUFFIN)—an Erasmus+ project coordinated by EUPA and co-funded by the European Union—can create more inclusive opportunities in marine research and conservation for Deaf and hard-of-hearing Early Career Ocean Professionals (ECOPs). The MUFFIN project brings together partners from Italy, Malta, Croatia, Spain, and the United Kingdom to develop inclusive educational tools, shared knowledge, and accessible pathways into marine science and the blue economy. During the workshop, participants will: Discover scientific research presented by both Deaf and hearing researchers Explore practical approaches to making marine science more inclusive Take part in interactive exercises reflecting on accessibility and inclusive practices in research and conservation environments It would be a pleasure to hear your perspectives, exchange ideas, and potentially explore new collaborations and projects together. By working across disciplines and communities, this workshop aims to demonstrate how inclusive research environments can strengthen ocean science and empower a more diverse generation of ocean professionals. Register here by the 10th of April https://www.europeancetaceansociety.eu/conference-workshops-37 For more information Patrizia(a)ecomarinemalta.com.mt -- Patrizia Patti, M.Sc in Marine Biology Eco Marine Malta Mobile : +356-77039356 <//+35677039356> mail: Patrizia(a)ecomarinemalta.com.mt Website:www.ecomarinemalta.com.mt *P **"Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail"*

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New Marine Mammal Response Course at Hawaiʻi Pacific University
by Mckinley Walter 31 Mar '26

31 Mar '26

Aloha MARMAM colleagues, I wanted to share a new course I will be offering at Hawaiʻi Pacific University focused on marine mammal response and conservation in Hawaiʻi. The class will cover topics including marine mammal stranding response, protected species management, field response coordination, and the regulatory framework surrounding marine mammal conservation. The course will run May 11th - July 3rd. If you or any students you work with are interested in gaining experience in marine mammal response and conservation, please feel free to share this opportunity with them. For more information and course details, please visit: https://www.hpu.edu/cncs/special-programs/mars-3950.html If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me at *mckinley.walter(a)h-mar.org* <mckinley.walter(a)h-mar.org>. Mahalo, McKinley Walter Hawaiʻi Marine Animal Response / Hawaiʻi Pacific University

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Cetacean Research Assistant | AIMM Portugal
by AIMM Internships 31 Mar '26

31 Mar '26

*Cetacean Research Assistant – Portugal* *BACKGROUND: * The Marine Environment Research Association – AIMM, is a non-profit, non-governmental organisation founded in Portugal in 2010, focused on the research and conservation of marine species and running an ongoing study of cetaceans in southern Portugal (Algarve). This project aims to obtain baseline information on species occurrence, behaviour and social structure of the local cetacean populations. Each year, from the May until November, AIMM operates a Dolphin Research Internship Programme <https://www.aimmportugal.org/internship-highlights?fbclid=IwAR3yRVHJdSR93Ov…> during our summer field season. We receive interns of all ages from across the globe to participate in this program and are currently looking for applicants to fill two Volunteer Research Assistant positions for the forthcoming field season in 2025. You will be joining a small and dedicated team of scientists and researchers to provide vital support to the ongoing success of our data collection and internship program. All team members and participants share accommodation, house tasks, knowledge and experience in an environmentally friendly and multicultural environment. *WHAT WE REQUIRE:* Ideal candidates for this *volunteer position* will: · be at least 21 years of age; · be fluent in English (*mandatory*) and Portuguese (*highly desirable*); · have previous experience with cetaceans and/or marine sciences ( *mandatory*); · hold a full, manual Driving License, valid in the EU (*mandatory* ); · have proven experience in team leadership and group supervision; · be highly motivated, responsible and organized with genuine attention to details; · have a friendly, patient and tolerant personality, and be capable of dealing with people from different cultures, beliefs, and backgrounds. *WHAT WE OFFER: * The Research Assistants will participate directly in our fieldwork and will receive training and supervision in species identification, research & data collection methods, photo-identification, acoustic monitoring, land base and the use of GPS and camera equipment. In turn, you will be responsible for supervising the interns while conducting surveys in AIMM's research vessel, Ketos, and on the commercial dolphin watching boats. You will also have to ensure that data is collected and entered accurately and according to AIMM's established methodologies. Field days can be long and intense, especially in the peak of summer, but are always fulfilling and good fun! Additionally, you will also receive accommodation and all the meals in AIMM's shared research house with all the other members of the team. Each assistant will be entitled to 2 days off per week when you may explore the local area or simply rest with a good book by the pool! More Info: https://www.aimmportugal.org/job/research-assistant/ To apply please send CV and motivation letter to info(a)aimmportugal.org with the subject "*RA Albufeira 2026*". Thank you! [image: Logo AIMM] <https://www.aimmportugal.org/> Associação para Investigação do Meio Marinho *Marine Environment Research Association* m: (00351) 964464657 e: interns(a)aimmportugal.org www.aimmportugal.org <https://www.facebook.com/AIMM.org> <https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8jcTONJZsvaQ3tZiQtRFNQ> <https://www.linkedin.com/company/aimm-portugal---marine-environment-researc…> <https://www.instagram.com/aimmportugal_org/>

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New publication: Modeling pinniped pup production
by Eiren Jacobson 31 Mar '26

31 Mar '26

Dear Colleagues, On behalf of my coauthors, I am pleased to announce our recent (ish) publication in Ecological Modeling: A state-space model for estimating pinniped pup production from serial counts at breeding colonies Jacobson, E.K., M.R. Goldman, L. Thomas, D.J.F. Russell https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2025.111333 Estimating pinniped abundance is difficult because they are highly mobile and widely distributed, and spend the majority of time at sea. Abundance estimates are typically based on counts on land or ice. In species that breed colonially, such as the grey seal (Halichoerus grypus), monitoring is largely focused on the breeding season, and pup production (number of pups born in a season) is used as an index of the total population size. At any one colony, grey seals give birth over several months, so not all pups are present at the colony at any one time. Pups are born white and moult into an adult-like coat before leaving the colony. At most key UK breeding colonies, over the course of a breeding season, a series of digital photographic aerial surveys are conducted and analysts count the numbers of white and moulted seal pups photographed. We developed a flexible state-space model to estimate pup production using these count data. The model is comprised of a deterministic process model for birth, moult, and leaving, and a stochastic observation model that allows for imperfect detection and classification. We implemented this model in Template Model Builder (TMB) and fit it using maximum likelihood. We show that our model performs well on simulated and real datasets. This model could be applied to other taxa for which successive counts of different life stages are collected, and used to investigate key ecological questions including, for example, the impact of climate change on phenology. Cheers, Eiren Eiren Kate Jacobson, PhD (she/they) Research Fellow Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling School of Mathematics and Statistics University of St Andrews eiren.jacobson(a)st-andrews.ac.uk<mailto:eiren.jacobson@st-andrews.ac.uk>

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UF Summer online aquatics courses - Manatee Health & Conservation and Marine Mammal Bio
by Larkin,Iskande (Iske) 30 Mar '26

30 Mar '26

Hi All, Registration is currently open for Summer 2025. The University of Florida, Aquatic Animal Health Program is offering the Manatee Health & Conservation (upper level undergrad and grad) course and Marine Mammal Biology (grad), both fully online. Classes starts Monday May 12th and run through Friday Aug 8th. Registration will remain open through Friday, May 9th. Manatee Health and Conservation Class (VME4016 and VME6017) is an online course (3 credits) that will provide students (upper level undergraduate and graduate) and professionals (with an AA or higher degree) with a detailed overview of manatee natural history, health assessment, and research findings as well as explore conservation issues. Marine Mammal Biology (VME-6014) is an online course (3 credits) available only to Post-Baccalaureate and graduate students and provides a detailed overview of marine mammal species including cetaceans, sirenians, pinnipeds, mustelids, and ursids. Each module will broadly explore a particular ecological, biological, or physiological theme related to the study of marine mammals, including taxonomy and biodiversity, diving physiology, thermoregulation, foraging ecology, and reproduction as well as the many conservation and management issues faced by different marine mammal species. For more information about the class or enrollment, contact Dr. Iskande Larkin (ivlarkin(a)ufl.edu)<mailto:ivlarkin@ufl.edu%29.*This> Sincerely, Dr Iske Larkin [cid:image001.jpg@01DB94FE.6407D300] Iske V. Larkin, PhD Senior Lecturer & Education Coordinator Director of Aquatic Animal Health Program Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine University of Florida PO Box 100136 2015 SW 16th Ave Gainesville, Florida 32610 Office phone - 352-294-4095 Work cell - 352-494-1742 Fax - 352-392-8289 Program web page: http://aquatic.vetmed.ufl.edu<http://aquatic.vetmed.ufl.edu/> "To the world you might be one person, but to one person you might be the world." -Anonymous ________________________________

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New publication: Multi-event modeling of Hector's dolphin (Cephalorhynchus hectori) fecundity using four decades of monitoring: Implications for current management of bycatch (Steph Bennington)
by Steph Bennington 30 Mar '26

30 Mar '26

Dear colleagues, we are pleased to announce the open access publication of our work. Here, we provide an updated estimate of the fecundity of Hector's dolphin at Banks Peninsula. These findings demonstrate a lower reproductive output than previously estimated. ABSTRACT: Prediction of future population trajectories is vital in the management of threatened species but requires accurate estimates of demographic rates. One such parameter is fecundity, which is commonly expressed as the number of offspring produced per female per year. The endangered Hector's dolphin (Cephalorhynchus hectori) is Aotearoa New Zealand's only endemic cetacean and is threatened by bycatch from inshore trawl and gillnet fisheries. Here, we take advantage of 40 years of continued photo-identification effort at Banks Peninsula to construct a Bayesian open-population multi-event capture–recapture model. We estimated fecundity for Hector's dolphins at 0.29 (95% credible interval [CI]: 0.22–0.39) which corresponds to an average calving frequency of one calf every 3.4 years (95% CI: 2.5–4.7 years). This new estimate is substantially lower and more precise than the previous estimate of fecundity for Hector's dolphins (e.g., 0.409, 95% CI: 0.267–0.635), but is based on a larger dataset, and aligns closely with estimates from other dolphin species. This updated estimate of fecundity indicates a lower capacity for population growth and reduced resilience to anthropogenic threats, including bycatch in fisheries. The study can be accessed at http://doi.org/10.1111/csp2.70242 Dr. Steph Bennington, Postdoctoral scholar Oregon State University, steph.bennington36(a)gmail.com

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Workshop reminder: Under-utilised tools for securing pro-conservation behaviours in a uninformed or disinterested public
by Andrew Wright 30 Mar '26

30 Mar '26

Dear Marmam, A reminder that the workshop titled “*Under-utilised tools for securing pro-conservation behaviours in a disinterested public: advancing marine mammal conservation goals through human psychology*” to be held in *Dundee, Scotland, on the 19th April 2026*, ahead of the European Cetacean Society (ECS) conference. It is expected to run 11:00-18:00 to cater to anyone arriving for the ECS conference that begins the following day. *Overview of the Workshop:* Achieving marine mammal conservation goals often hinges on the adoption of new behaviours by one or more groups of people. This can be hard to secure through regulatory changes for marine mammals as data on their distributions and the full extent of the threats and associated risks are lacking, enforcement can be tricky, especially when regulated activities are offshore, and public awareness is low because many problems are hidden far away under the waves. To overcome this, it is not uncommon that more data is sought. However, such efforts rarely secure immediate marine mammal conservation successes. Conservation projects often focus on evidence about the protected species and its environment, and evidence about human psychology is often underrepresented in the conservation efforts. Instead, securing behavioural changes in the species under management, humans, requires the application of tailored tools and techniques that have been designed based on an understanding of their social structures and motivations, as well as the psychological factors driving both. This is the purview of the conservation social sciences. Many marine mammal conservation biologists are thus being forced to venture into the relatively new and rapidly developing field of conservation social science, developing interventions and campaigns based on experience, intuition, and human understanding. While some of these interventions work out perfectly, some interventions may fail to have the desired impact due to a lack of understanding of human psychology and how this may influence the effectiveness of the tools being used. Importantly, some social science tools are counterintuitive, but incredibly effective when implemented correctly. Similarly, others can feel more intuitive but can be counterproductive in many situations. This workshop is meant to highlight a variety of social science tools and their proper use for encouraging pro-conservation behaviour. This full-day workshop will combine lectures, discussions and brainstorming sessions to: 1) introduce marine mammal scientists and managers to the human psychological factors that may hinder or strengthen their conservation efforts; 2) provide an overview of tools that can be applied to overcome some of these various challenges to incite pro-conservation behavioural changes necessary for achieving greater success in the conservation of marine mammals; and 3) explore the potential application of those tools to some of the conservation problems brought forward by participants. *Details and Registration Process:* Location: Malmaison, 44 Whitehall Cres, Dundee DD1 4AY (www.malmaison.com) TIme: 11:00 - 17:30 19th April, 20206, to cater to anyone arriving for the ECS conference that begins the following day. Registration will be open at 10:30 (with tea/coffee) Cost: *EUR 40* (coffee breaks, but not lunch, included) for 40 onsite participants - although discounted rates may be possible on a case-by-case basis. Virtual participation *IS NOW FULL*. How to register: Email Andrew Wright at Andrew (at) VocalEarth.com by 10th April - but do remember that *spaces are limited*, so allocation will be on a first-come-basis. Regards, Andrew & Sandra Andrew Wright is a marine mammal biologist by training with experience in the conservation social sciences, as well as domestic and international environmental management and policy. He co-founded the Conservation Marketing and Engagement Working Group of the Society for Conservation Biology in 2015 and remains active within that community after leaving the Board in 2019. Sandra Ploeg is social psychologist and conservationist. She is currently working as a project leader for conservation of several species, focussing on citizen science, community led conservation and behaviour change.

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