- MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New paper: Inuit hunt as a platform for observing narwhals in Inglefield Bredning, Greenland
by Evgeniy Podolskiy 04 Mar '26

04 Mar '26

Dear MARMAM community, We are pleased to share our recent open-access publication based on collaboration with Inuit hunters and drone footage: Ogawa, M., Podolskiy, E.A. Inuit hunt as a platform for observing narwhals (Monodon monoceros) in Inglefield Bredning (Kangerlussuaq), Greenland. Polar Biol 49, 30 (2026), https://doi.org/10.1007/s00300-026-03470-5 ABSTRACT Direct observations of narwhals are scarce but needed for understanding this ecologically and culturally important species. Here, we describe the first boat-based observations of narwhals in their key summering ground in Greenland (Inglefield Bredning), collected during an Inuit hunt and enhanced by drone air support. During 3–8 August 2024, 83 encounters and 506 narwhal observations were made from a semi-stationary boat at the head of the fjord, of which 58 were filmed with a drone. Boat observations near the north side of the fjord indicated that narwhals preferentially traveled outward to the west, with a clear link to currents. The presence of narwhals was more likely in the afternoon but was highly intermittent, with intervals between encounters reaching as much as 15–28 h, highlighting the patience needed to observe and catch a narwhal. We also recorded a motionless sleep-like behavior at the surface, known as pugginnartoq (Greenlandic) for narwhals. Aerial drone support was useful for revealing unseen-from-sea-surface features and behaviors, which we describe as potentially interesting for future investigation. For example, drone imagery revealed that 71 ± 7% of narwhals had tusks, with a mean tusk-to-body-length ratio of 0.23 ± 0.01. Overall, this report shows that hunting expeditions integrated with scientific methods provide important insights and inspire further work. Best regards, Evgeny Podolskiy, Assoc. Prof. Arctic Research Center, Hokkaido University

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New VIVA Vaquita website
by Thomas Jefferson 04 Mar '26

04 Mar '26

MARMAM, VIVA Vaquita is pleased to announce our band-new website. It has updated information on the vaquita, the world's most endangered marine mammal, with <15 porpoises remaining. The site includes links for people to act to help save the species from extinction. It also includes options to translate the website into seven languages, including English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Japanese, and Chinese. Check it out here: vivavaquita.org We are very hopeful that this will help us to get the world out about the vaquita's plight to many more people. Please help us spread the word!Best wishes,Thomas A. Jefferson, Ph.D.DirectorVIVA Vaquita

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MMO/PSO/PAM courses advertisement
by OSC Admin 04 Mar '26

04 Mar '26

Hello MARMAN Community, We're thrilled to announce that enrolment for this year's course program is open for our highly acclaimed OSC JNCC MMO, PSO, and PAM courses, with our next courses kicking off this April! Whether you're looking to expand your expertise, boost your professional growth, or simply connect with fellow enthusiasts in your field, these courses are tailored to help you stay ahead of the curve. Each course is designed to be interactive and practical, ensuring you gain valuable skills and knowledge that you can immediately apply. Our expert instructors are dedicated to supporting your learning journey every step of the way. Don't miss this opportunity to join a vibrant learning environment and take your abilities to the next level. Courses delivered by the authors of the 'indispensible How To guide', Marine Marine Mammal Observer & Passive Acoustic Monitoring Handbook. Ready to sign up or have questions? MMO & PAM Training Courses<https://www.osc.co.uk/training/> Get in touch today to secure your spot; spaces are limited and filling up fast! We look forward to seeing you in class and being part of your continued marine success. 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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Fw: ECS Conference March Newsletter
by Mariel tendoeschate 04 Mar '26

04 Mar '26

Dear all, The Early Registration Deadline for the ECS conference in Dundee is upon us! All first authors with accepted presentations must be registered by this deadline, which is this Thursday the 5th March 2026 (23:59 CET) for their abstracts to be included in the scientific programme. Please find the latest conference news here: March Newsletter<https://sway.cloud.microsoft/KUcPKMNrc5U9NcxQ> This, and all previous marine mammal conference newsletters are also available on the ECS Conference website --> https://www.europeancetaceansociety.eu/conference-2026 We recommend following the ECS social media channels (instagram<https://www.instagram.com/europeancetaceansociety/> <https://www.instagram.com/europeancetaceansociety/> & facebook<https://www.facebook.com/EuropeanCetaceanSociety>) for the most recent updates. We look forward to seeing you for the European Cetacean Society Conference in Dundee, Scotland, in April 2026! Have a lovely weekend! Cheers, on behalf of the entire LOC for ECS 2026, Ailsa Hall, Jo Kershaw, Carol Sparling & Mariel ten Doeschate ECS chairs of the LOC. [cid:51eb8e79-d618-4254-9d84-3ed3944c1938]

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New publication: Stock identity of stranded Tamanend's bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops erebennus) with evidence of fisheries interaction in Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, 1996–2019
by Kim Urian 04 Mar '26

04 Mar '26

Dear MARMAM community, My co-authors and I are pleased to share our recent publication in Marine Mammal Science, "Stock identity of stranded Tamanend's bottlenose dolphins (*Tursiops erebennus*) with evidence of fisheries interaction in Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, 1996–2019". *ABSTRACT* The complex population structure of Tamanend's bottlenose dolphins (*Tursiops erebennus*) along the U.S. Mid-Atlantic coast complicates assessment of their bycatch. To improve our understanding of the stock identity of individual dolphins taken as bycatch in this region, we compared images of the dorsal fins of bottlenose dolphins that stranded with evidence of fishery interactions (FI+) to the Mid-Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin Catalog (MABDC). We obtained stranding data from NOAA Fisheries for 715 FI+ bottlenose dolphins from Virginia (VA), North Carolina (NC), and South Carolina (SC) from 1996 to 2019; approximately two thirds of these records included dorsal fin images. For records for which images were available, we applied restrictive criteria for image quality and dorsal fin distinctiveness and compared the remaining 145 distinctive FI+ individuals to the MABDC. We matched 18 dolphins to regional catalogs and assigned stock identity to 13 of the matches; two were from migratory coastal stocks and 11 were from small estuarine stocks in NC and SC. Our analysis demonstrates how the risk of bycatch varies across bottlenose dolphin stocks along the Mid-Atlantic coast, provides an important feedback information loop to stranding responders and researchers studying dolphins in the field, and informs conservation efforts to address bycatch of bottlenose dolphins in this region. The link to the published article is here: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/mms.70147 If you would like to receive a PDF copy of the article, please contact me ( kim.urian(a)gmail.com) Best regards, Kim Urian

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Bayesian Modelling Using R & INLA - Dr Virgilio Gómez-Rubio
by Oliver Hooker 03 Mar '26

03 Mar '26

Strengthen your analytical toolkit for marine mammal research with our live online course *Bayesian Modelling Using R & INLA (BMIN04)*. https://prstats.org/course/bayesian-modelling-using-r-inla-bmin04/ Instructor: *Dr Virgilio Gómez-Rubio*, a leading expert in the application of INLA and author of *Bayesian Inference with INLA*. Bayesian approaches are increasingly central to marine mammal science, particularly when dealing with sparse sightings, imperfect detection, spatial structure, hierarchical population processes, and complex survey designs. This applied training provides a practical introduction to Bayesian inference using the Integrated Nested Laplace Approximation (INLA) framework in R, combining conceptual foundations with hands-on implementation. The methods taught are directly applicable to marine mammal research, including: - Spatial modelling of distribution and density - Spatio-temporal modelling of abundance trends - Hierarchical population and demographic models - Integrating multiple data sources (e.g., survey, telemetry, acoustic) - Modelling imperfect detection and observation error The course covers: - Bayesian fundamentals and interpretation - Specification and fitting of Bayesian models in R using INLA - Model selection, comparison, and diagnostics - Handling spatial, temporal, and spatio-temporal data - Hierarchical and mixed-effects modelling in a Bayesian framework - Practical strategies for reproducible Bayesian workflows Delivered live online, this course offers direct interaction with the instructor, opportunities to discuss your own marine mammal datasets, and structured guidance through applied examples. Participants receive full course materials, example code, and post-course support. *Course details* Dates: 4–8 May 2026 Duration: 5 days (approximately 7 hours per day) Format: Live online Fee: £500 This course is suitable for postgraduate students, researchers, and professionals working in marine mammal ecology, conservation, and population assessment who want to apply Bayesian methods confidently using R and INLA. Full details and registration: https://prstats.org/course/bayesian-modelling-using-r-inla-bmin04/ Email oliver(a)prstats.org with any questions -- Oliver Hooker PhD. PR stats

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Stable Isotope Mixing Models Using SIBER, SIAR & MixSIAR
by Oliver Hooker 03 Mar '26

03 Mar '26

Advance your analytical toolkit for marine mammal ecology with our course *Stable Isotope Mixing Models Using SIBER, SIAR & MixSIAR (SIMM12)* — available live online *and* as a recorded option. Stable isotope mixing models are essential for quantifying dietary contributions, movement ecology, trophic interactions, and habitat use. This course teaches practical implementation in R using three widely used packages, with workflows applicable to marine mammal datasets such as fatty acid or isotopic data from tissues, breath, or baleen. *What the course offers* - Hands-on implementation of mixing models in R - Understanding model assumptions and uncertainty - Comparing approaches across SIBER, SIAR, and MixSIAR - Ecological interpretation of source contributions - Workflows suited to marine mammal dietary and trophic studies *Why choose live or recorded?* *Live online* - Interactive sessions with the instructor - Q&A tailored to your data and research questions - Structured schedule helps momentum and focus - Peer insights during discussions *Recorded option* - Learn at your own pace with full access to all lectures - Ideal for balancing research, fieldwork, or time zones - Pause, repeat, and revisit key concepts *Course details* Dates: 27-30 April 2026 Duration: 4 days (approximately 7 hours per day) Format: Live online (with recorded access afterward) Fee: £480 This course is ideal for marine mammal researchers working on diet, trophic ecology, movement ecology, or habitat use who want to understand and apply isotope mixing models with confidence. Full details and registration: Live https://prstats.org/course/stable-isotope-mixing-models-using-siber-siar-mi… On demand https://prstats.org/course/stable-isotope-mixing-models-using-siber-siar-mi… Email oliver(a)prstats.org with any questions -- Oliver Hooker PhD. PR stats

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New Marine Mammal Genomics Opportunity at the Southeast Fisheries Science Center
by Nicole Vollmer - NOAA Affiliate 02 Mar '26

02 Mar '26

*New Marine Mammal Genomics Opportunity at the Southeast Fisheries Science Center* The Marine Mammal Molecular Genomics Lab (MMMGL) at the Southeast Fisheries Science Center is seeking highly motivated candidates for a Senior Research Associate II position. The MMMGL works on various projects focused on marine mammal species from the northwest Atlantic and Gulf of America, aiming to inform management and conservation actions. The successful applicant will conduct eDNA field and lab work including sample collection, eDNA extraction, quantitative and digital PCR, metabarcoding, next-generation library preparation, and data analysis, as well as data management, equipment maintenance, and the preparation of reports and/or peer-reviewed manuscripts. This is a full-time position offering a comprehensive benefits package. The position is based in Crowley, Louisiana. Candidates must have a Master's degree or higher in marine biology or related field, *and at least 1 year of relevant work-related experience, *as well as experience involving eDNA collection, analysis, and metabarcoding. Anyone interested in applying should see the full description on the University of Miami Careers website ( https://careers.miami.edu/us/en/job/R100095037/Senior-Research-Associate-II) and follow the application instructions posted there. The position's requisition is *R100095037*. -- Nikki Vollmer Scientist, Contractor/Affiliate with University of Miami-CIMAS in support of the Marine Mammal and Turtle Division, Southeast Fisheries Science Center NOAA Fisheries | U.S. Department of Commerce Office: (337) 291-3148 www.fisheries.noaa.gov

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2026 Ocean Innovator Awards - Open until 3/15
by Katy Nalven 02 Mar '26

02 Mar '26

Sea & Shore Solutions, a women-run and nature-based consulting firm specializing in coastal management and marine policy, is organizing our annual Ocean Innovator Award program <https://sea-shoresolutions.com/oia>. The *Ocean Innovator Award* aims to recognize and promote innovative ocean-related research and applied solutions. We are inviting early career professionals, including students, to submit their groundbreaking projects related to the ocean, coast, or estuaries. Winners will receive up to $2,000 and will be featured in an Ocean Innovator Webinar. This is a fantastic opportunity for individuals who are passionate about making a difference in the field of ocean research and we would love to see some marine mammal related projects. Applications are due March 15th, 2026. If you have any questions or need more information, please visit *sea-shoresolutions.com/oia <http://sea-shoresolutions.com/oia>* *Katy Bear Nalven* Project Coordinator Sea & Shore Solutions, LLC (541) 286-5567 katy(a)sea-shoresolutions.com https://sea-shoresolutions.com My core working hours are 9am-5pm PT. Sea & Shore Solutions works across multiple time zones. If you receive an email from me outside of your normal business hours please don’t feel obliged to reply outside of your working hours.

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Analysing Ecological Data with Detection Error
by Oliver Hooker 02 Mar '26

02 Mar '26

Improve your analysis of marine mammal survey and monitoring data in our live online course *Analysing Ecological Data with Detection Error (AEDD01)* . https://prstats.org/course/analysing-ecological-data-with-detection-error-a… Many marine mammal datasets are affected by imperfect detection — animals present but not observed, missed acoustic detections, availability bias in aerial surveys, or variable detectability across habitats. This applied R course provides practical methods for modelling detection error so you can produce more accurate and defensible ecological inferences. The techniques are highly relevant to marine mammal research, including: - Line-transect and aerial survey data - Passive acoustic monitoring datasets - Photo-ID and capture-recapture surveys - Time-series of sightings or presence–absence data - Long-term monitoring programmes with variable effort The course covers: - Understanding detection probability and observation bias - Occupancy and abundance models with imperfect detection - Distance sampling and N-mixture modelling approaches - Working with point counts, ARU/acoustic data, and time-removal methods - Interpreting model outputs for ecological decision-making Participants work through live practical examples in R and receive course materials, datasets, and post-course support. *Course details* Dates: 20–23 April 2026 Duration: 4 days (approximately 4 hours per day) Format: Live online Fee: £350 This course is ideal for marine mammal researchers working with survey, acoustic monitoring, or long-term observational datasets who want robust statistical methods that explicitly account for detectability. Full details and registration: https://prstats.org/course/analysing-ecological-data-with-detection-error-a… Email oliver(a)prstats.org with any questions -- Oliver Hooker PhD. PR stats

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