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Machine Learning for Ecological Time Series using R
by Oliver Hooker 02 Mar '26

02 Mar '26

Apply modern machine learning methods to marine mammal datasets in our live online course *Machine Learning for Ecological Time Series (METR01)*. This applied R course teaches ecologists how to analyse, model, and predict ecological time-series data using practical, reproducible workflows. The methods are highly relevant to marine mammal research, where long-term monitoring, telemetry, acoustic detections, and environmental covariates generate complex time-series datasets that require robust analytical approaches. Examples of relevant applications include: - Analysing long-term abundance or sighting records - Modelling behavioural state changes from tagging or biologging data - Forecasting habitat use or distribution shifts under environmental change - Detecting patterns in passive acoustic monitoring time series - Integrating environmental covariates with movement or population data The course covers: - Preparing ecological time-series datasets for analysis - Supervised and unsupervised machine learning methods - Model validation, forecasting, and interpretation - Building reproducible workflows in R Delivered online with recordings available afterwards, participants receive course materials, example datasets, and post-course support. *Course details* Dates: 13–17 April 2026 Duration: 5 days (approximately 7 hours per day) Format: Recorded sessions with live Q&A Fee: £450 This course is ideal for marine mammal researchers working with telemetry, acoustic monitoring, survey time series, or environmental datasets who want practical skills for analysing complex ecological data using machine learning. Full details and registration: https://prstats.org/course/machine-learning-for-ecological-time-series-metr… Email oliver(a)prstats.org with any questions -- Oliver Hooker PhD. PR stats

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MARMAM - Underwater Acoustics in the Marine Environment Training Course (Classroom) Date: 13–16 April 2026
by Zoe Wright 02 Mar '26

02 Mar '26

Underwater Acoustics in the Marine Environment Training Course (Classroom) Date: 13–16 April 2026 Location: Okehampton, Devon, UK Cost: £1950 + VAT Understanding how underwater sound behaves — and how it affects marine wildlife — is increasingly important for those working in marine environmental fields. This four‑day course provides a focused introduction to underwater acoustics, acoustic modelling, and marine noise assessment, combining expert‑led lectures with practical exercises. Designed for professionals in marine research, conservation, regulation and consultancy, the course delivers the core knowledge needed to interpret underwater sound, assess anthropogenic noise, and understand relevant regulatory frameworks and impact assessment processes. ________________________________ Course Modules * Introduction to Acoustics & Underwater Acoustics * Key Quantities, Units and Dimensions * Decibels and Acoustic Calculations * Boundary Reflection and Transmission * Ocean Acoustic Environments * Sound Sources and Spectra * Noise, Reverberation & Measurements * Hydrophones and Instrumentation * Anthropogenic Noise in the Ocean * Biological Sound Sources * Marine Wildlife Hearing & Noise Impacts * Sound Field Modelling * Methods for Impact Assessment * Environmental Regulation & EIA * Soundscapes * Vessel Radiated Noise * Marine Seismic Noise * Mitigation Techniques * Emerging Research 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. ________________________________ Delivered by: Dr Paul Lepper and Professor Victor Humphrey, leading researchers in underwater acoustics. Discount: 5% student discount with valid ID Booking & Enquiries: training(a)seiche.com

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post-doc/scientist position in Arctic Bioacoustics and Soundscape Ecology
by Stafford, Kate 01 Mar '26

01 Mar '26

The Greenland Climate Research Centre (GCRC) at the Greenland Institute of Natural Resources (GINR) invites applications for a postdoctoral position in Arctic bioacoustics and soundscape ecology, with responsibilities in the Arctic Acoustic Observation Network (AAON) under CBMP/Arctic Council (Marine Mammals Expert Network | CAFF). The position is a one-year postdoc, with the possibility of extension, and will be based in Nuuk, Greenland. Research stays at AAON partner institutions are encouraged. GCRC is responsible for several long-term programmes monitoring physical and biological parameters in marine and fjord systems in Greenland and across the Arctic. The centre develops and offers educational programmes and provides research-based advice to authorities in Greenland and Denmark. Increasing anthropogenic activity in the Arctic has made underwater noise a key parameter for understanding ecosystem change and cumulative impacts on marine fauna. The successful candidate will play a central role in coordinating and further developing AAON, and in conducting pan-Arctic analyses of underwater sound and its relationships to marine animals and ecosystems. The candidate will collaborate closely with an international network of researchers working on marine bioacoustics, oceanography, ecology, and Arctic observing systems. Areas of responsibility The candidate will be expected to: * assist coordination and contribute scientifically to the Arctic Acoustic Observation Network (AAON) * analyse and interpret long-term and large-scale acoustic datasets from across the Arctic * conduct pan-Arctic analyses of soundscapes, anthropogenic noise, and animal acoustic activity * publish scientific articles at an international level. Educational qualifications The selected candidate must hold a PhD in acoustics, bioacoustics. In the assessment, particular emphasis will be placed on the candidate’s: * experience with analysis and handling of long-term acoustic data series * ability to work with large, heterogeneous, and multi-institutional datasets * scientific output at an international level * ability to work independently while contributing to international collaborations. Salary and terms of employment Salary and employment conditions, including entitlement to travel on appointment and termination as well as relocation of household goods, follow the agreement in force at the time of appointment between the Government of Greenland and the relevant negotiating organisation. Housing The Greenland Institute of Natural Resources will provide access to a rental accommodation. Further information For further information about the position, please contact Head of Department Malene Simon Hegelund, masi(a)natur.gl, +299 548977. Application deadline: 10 March 2026 Please submit your application, CV, diplomas and certificates, and other relevant documents by mail to Malene Simon Hegelund, masi(a)natur.gl. [cid:d2000534-8151-4848-a1f6-f74fdc0b5f92]

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SMM Virtual Seminar Series: Uko Gorter – March 5 | Register Now
by Cara Gallagher 27 Feb '26

27 Feb '26

We are excited to launch the Society for Marine Mammalogy Virtual Seminar Series — a brand-new members-only initiative designed to help you learn, discover, and connect with the global marine mammal community. And we’re starting with a fascinating journey into the history of whale science. Dawn of Cetology: The Scientific Pursuit of Whales, from Antiquity to the Twentieth Century Speaker: Uko Gorter March 5, 2026 6:00-7:00 PM CET / 9:00-10:00 AM PST Location: Online (Zoom link will be emailed to registrants) Register here for this event: https://forms.gle/2cu6a9JTU73HjX3q9 In 1787, the Scottish surgeon and anatomist John Hunter lamented humanity’s “unfitness to pursue our researches in the unfathomable waters.” For centuries, the mysteries of whales challenged philosophers, naturalists, and zoologists alike. In this engaging presentation, Uko Gorter will take us on a journey through the early history of cetology—the scientific study of whales—from classical antiquity through the early twentieth century. Along the way, he will highlight the diverse figures who shaped this field, from ship surgeons and museum curators to acousticians and molecular biologists, and the eventual entry of women into whale science following World War II. Uko Gorter is a renowned natural history illustrator whose work has appeared in museums, scientific journals, and major marine mammal reference books. His illustrations of all known marine mammal species were featured in the widely used guide Marine Mammals of the World: A Comprehensive Guide to Their Identification. About the Virtual Seminar Series This event marks the first in a new SMM virtual series, with 10+ events planned in the coming months, including: - Thought-provoking keynote talks - Conservation panel discussions - Hands-on skills workshops (graphical abstracts, project design, and more) - Professional development opportunities We hope you’ll join us for this inaugural seminar and help us kick off the series in style! Warm regards, Cara Gallagher, Chair of the Education Committee, Society for Marine Mammalogy

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New publication: Spatial and temporal distribution patterns of marine mammals in the southern Sea of Okhotsk around Hokkaido, Japan
by Shiho Furumaki 27 Feb '26

27 Feb '26

Dear MARMAM community, My co-authors and I are pleased to inform you about a new publication titled “Spatial and temporal distribution patterns of marine mammals in the southern Sea of Okhotsk around Hokkaido, Japan” recently published in Regional Studies in Marine Science. Furumaki, S., Li, H., Suzuki, M., Mitani, Y. (2026). Spatial and temporal distribution patterns of marine mammals in the southern Sea of Okhotsk around Hokkaido, Japan. Regional Studies in Marine Science 95: 104853. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rsma.2026.104853 Abstract Conserving biodiversity and ecosystems require continuous monitoring to ensure effectiveness, and marine mammals serve as effective biodiversity indicators. The southern Sea of Okhotsk around Japan are waters with high biodiversity and conservation importance. Determining the comprehensive spatial-temporal distribution of marine mammals can be used as a baseline to identify critical habitats. This study aimed to reveal the spatial- temporal distribution patterns of marine mammals using a ship-based sighting survey and species distribution models. Between spring and fall, three baleen whale species, six toothed whale species, and one pinniped species were identified. Baleen whales, killer whales, and Dall’s porpoises appeared primarily in spring, followed by sperm whales appeared in summer, and Pacific white-sided dolphins appeared in fall. Maximum entropy models were developed for six species, revealing heterogeneous spatial patterns. Fin and minke whales were concentrated on the western side of the Shiretoko Peninsula. Sperm and killer whales were distributed on both sides in deep and steep slope waters. Dall’s porpoise occurs more frequently in deeper waters and Pacific white-sided dolphins in shallow waters, with both species being distributed across the study area. By combining ship- based sighting surveys with species distribution models, it was possible to evaluate spatial distributions, including unobserved areas on the western side of the Peninsula. Different species occupy distinct marine regions, highlighting that not only the waters around the Shiretoko Peninsula, a World Natural Heritage Site extending 3 km offshore around the Shiretoko Peninsula, but also the surrounding waters are crucial for marine mammals. The paper can be freely accessed until 3 April 2026 via the publisher ShareLink: https://authors.elsevier.com/a/1mbym8MvAu7TN0 <https://kwnsfk27.r.eu-west-1.awstrack.me/L0/https:%2F%2Fauthors.elsevier.co…> Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions. Best regards, Shiho Furumaki Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency Mail: furumaki96(a)gmail.com

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Publication announcement, The Dolphin FRESH Protocol
by Kristi Fazioli 27 Feb '26

27 Feb '26

On behalf of myself and my co-authors, we are pleased to announce the publication of a new method for the visual assessment of freshwater skin disease in dolphins. The open access publication is available here: https://doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2026.1743541 Please see the Supplemental Materials and other resources available at this link for additional guidance in applying the protocol: https://galvestonbaydolphin.org/fresh/fresh-protocol/ Fazioli KL, Toms CN, Takeshita R, Quackenbush A, Greig D, Rowles T, Schwacke L, Colegrove K, Ewing RY, Fauquier D, Boyd D, Bouwkamp A, Duignan P, Fougeres E, Hart L, McDaniel S, Morgan T, Sinclair C, Speakman T, Sutton M, Whitehead HR and Mintzer VJ (2026) The dolphin FRESH protocol: visual Freshwater-Related Evaluation of Skin Health in free-ranging bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops spp.). Front. Mar. Sci. 13:1743541. doi: 10.3389/fmars.2026.1743541 Exposure to freshwater is a pressing health issue for coastal bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops spp.). Environmental changes, including increased precipitation events and future coastal infrastructure projects, are altering salinity within estuarine systems. Consequently, understanding effects of freshwater exposure on dolphins and developing tools to evaluate related health conditions is urgent. To address this need, a group of veterinarians, pathologists, epidemiologists, natural resource managers, and field biologists convened to create a protocol to visually assess freshwater-related skin lesions in free-ranging bottlenose dolphins. The Dolphin FRESH (Freshwater-Related Evaluation of Skin Health) Protocol guides users without medical backgrounds to screen and evaluate photographs by focusing on the visual identification of three primary indicators of freshwater skin disease: Overgrowth, Target-like Lesions, and Light Discoloration. By determining presence of the primary indicators and scoring associated characteristics, FRESH provides users with a relative assessment of the severity of these skin anomalies, and metrics to track progressive changes. The scoring rubric performed well during systematic testing, with evaluators correctly identifying freshwater cases through recognition of primary indicators and with no significant differences in total severity scores between field biologists and medical experts. FRESH is an important step in advancing knowledge on the effects of salinity fluctuations on dolphin health. When applied to photo datasets over time, this tool will enable researchers and managers to evaluate progression and regression of freshwater skin disease, occurrence and effects of multiple exposures, and the relationship between freshwater exposure skin indicators and health and survival outcomes.

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North Atlantic right whale policy position at the Maine Department of Marine Resources, USA
by Summers, Erin L. 27 Feb '26

27 Feb '26

My name is Erin Summers and I'm the Director for the Bureau of Marine Science at the Maine Department of Marine Resources (DMR). I'd love to get the word out about a new position within DMR that is focused on developing policy for the North Atlantic right whale and fixed gear fisheries within the state. The position description is outlined below. It will be open for applications through March 16, 2026, and can be found at this link: https://maine.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/Executive/details/Marine-Resource… This is a new policy position created to support the Department of Marine Resources' work on fisheries and protected resources management, primarily related to North Atlantic right whales. The position will support the External Affairs Policy Coordinator and the Director of External Affairs in the development of statewide policies and programs, while working closely with staff in the Division of Marine Mammal Research. Focuses for this position include investigating and developing possible dynamic management options for Maine's lobster fishery, supporting federal permitting efforts as needed, supporting the Department's participation on the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Team, facilitating meetings with Maine's fishing industry, developing policy positions in response to fishery management actions, and liaising with Department scientific staff. This position will also work to support rulemaking and program coordination to maintain Maine's marine resources and the industries that depend on them. The position will interact with the commercial fishing industry, as well as counterparts in other states, or with federal agencies. Work is performed under limited supervision. Applicants with experience in fisheries management, marine policy, knowledge of the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act and experience or familiarity with federal permitting are strongly preferred. Knowledge and understanding of Maine's fishing laws and communities is also preferred. A successful candidate will demonstrate an ability to review, analyze and synthesize complicated documents and polished written communication skills. Salary range: $64,646 - $90,896 Erin Summers Acting Director, Bureau of Marine Science Maine Department of Marine Resources (207) 350-6076 www.maine.gov/dmr<http://www.maine.gov/dmr> erin.l.summers(a)maine.gov<mailto:erin.l.summers@maine.gov>

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New Publication: Increasing Efficiency of Detection and Validation of Baleen Whale Call Presence on Large Acoustic Datasets
by Gabrielle Macklin 27 Feb '26

27 Feb '26

Macklin, Gabrielle F., Hilary B. Moors‐Murphy, and Marty L. Leonard. "Increasing Efficiency of Detection and Validation of Baleen Whale Call Presence on Large Acoustic Datasets: A Case Study Using Sei Whale Downsweeps Recorded in Atlantic Canada." Marine Mammal Science 42.2 (2026): e70136. https://doi.org/10.1111/mms.70136 ABSTRACT As passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) datasets expand, studies increasingly use automated detectors to analyze baleen whale presence. However, detector errors like false positives (impacting precision, P; proportion of detected calls that are correct), and false negatives (impacting recall, R; proportion of available calls successfully detected) necessitate manual validation. Here, we demonstrate a tiered detection and validation approach to improve efficiency in sei whale (Balaenoptera borealis) call presence analysis that aims to maximize R while removing false positives. Using two detectors on eastern Canadian datasets, we tested multiple parameter settings, selecting one tier that captured only high-quality calls (High-P), one tier that captured most calls present but included more false positives (High-R), and one tier that balanced the P and R values (Mid). To assess daily call presence, validation proceeded sequentially across tiers from High-P to Mid to High-R. For each subsequent tier, detections were only reviewed from days in which sei whale calls had not yet been confirmed. For both detectors, using this tiered approach reduced the overall manual validation effort (number of detections reviewed) when compared to validating the highest recall original outputs alone. This efficient strategy maintains accuracy in PAM studies and could be used for other species. Please reach out if you have any questions, Cheers, Gabrielle Macklin

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Alaska Whale Foundation is hiring a vessel operator/field assistant
by Andy Szabo 27 Feb '26

27 Feb '26

Dear MARMAM, Alaska Whale Foundation (AWF) is looking to hire a Vessel Operator / Field Assistant (VO/FA). This is a seasonal, remote position based at AWF’s field station in Warm Springs Bay on Baranof Island, Southeast Alaska (N57.0856; W134.8126) during AWF’s primary June-September research season. The VO/FA plays a critical role in supporting AWF’s whale and ocean health research program by safely operating the organization's two research vessels – a 28’ aluminum Hewes Craft Pacific Explorer and a 20’ Zodiac rigid-hull inflatable boat - and assisting with on-the-water and shore-based field activities in a remote marine environment. The position requires strong marine operations and risk management skills, sound judgment, and the ability to work collaboratively within a close-knit 4-person field team for extended periods in Southeast Alaska. For more information on the position and how to apply, please visit: https://www.alaskawhalefoundation.org/call-for-vessel-operators. Cheers, Andy Szabo, PhD Director, Alaska Whale Foundation szabo(a)alaskawhalefoundation.org<mailto:szabo@alaskawhalefoundation.org> www.alaskawhalefoundation.org<http://www.alaskawhalefoundation.org>

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New Publication: Large Whale Entanglement in Ireland
by Emilie De Loose 27 Feb '26

27 Feb '26

Hello, We have recently published a paper, "*Assessing the risk of whale entanglement in pot fisheries in Irish waters*". In this paper we highlight areas with a high risk of entanglement and discuss known entanglements in Ireland. Additionally we address the merits of citizen science in risk assessment and address gaps in the current fisheries data. Abstract: Entanglement of large whales in static fishing gear, specifically in pot fisheries, is an increasing issue worldwide. This study assessed the entanglement risk of Ireland’s three most frequently observed large whales, humpback (*Megaptera novaeangliae*), minke (*Balaenoptera acutorostrata*), and fin whales (*Balaenoptera physalus*), with pot fisheries within the Irish Exclusive Economic Zone. Pot fisheries in Ireland are steadily growing, increasing the likelihood of present, and future, negative interactions with whales. An estimated 85% of the Irish pot fisheries take place within the 12-nautical mile limit, resulting in an increased vulnerability for whales distributed near the coast. This study determined the likelihood of co-occurrence of pot fisheries and large whales, identified areas and times of the year where the risk of entanglement was highest, and reports on actual entanglement cases associated with pot fisheries. Humpback and minke whales have a higher risk of entanglement off the southwest and south coasts of Ireland, while higher-risk areas for fin whales were located off the south coast. This study also identified data gaps that need to be addressed to improve future assessments and identify risk areas at a finer spatial resolution. Please find the paper here: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/marine-science/articles/10.3389/fmars.… Warm regards, Emilie De Loose ________________________ Project Leader of the Atlantic Whale Deal Irish Whale and Dolphin Group Merchants Quay, Kilrush, Co Clare, Ireland www.iwdg.ie

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