Dear colleagues, We invite you to participate in our survey of the methods used to conduct matching of dorsal fin images for photo-identification studies. We are interested in compiling information on the different methods used, and the pros and cons associated with each of these methods. Recently, several automated algorithms have been developed to identify cetacean dorsal fins and improve the efficiency of the matching process. However, there has been little discussion among users regarding the efficacy or accuracy of these systems. With your help, we hope to start this discussion, and to develop best practices for moving forward with automated dorsal fin matching systems in our community. The survey can be completed here: https://forms.gle/D1NQ1NFXQMxfeVRAA We will present the results of this survey during a workshop we are hosting, “Rise of the machines - Application of automated systems for matching dolphin dorsal fins: current status and future directions” at the World Marine Mammal Conference in Barcelona. The full-day workshop will be held on Sunday December 8. Information about the workshop can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/y2vrb2c4 <https://www.google.com/url?q=https://tinyurl.com/y2vrb2c4&sa=D&ust=1564669081391000&usg=AFQjCNGd4wx8BYT0fPEgVgS1cGbsAxZqaA> The focus of the workshop is to bring together photo-ID researchers and algorithm developers to discuss best practices for using fin recognition technology, and to assess whether a single ‘standard’ system can be developed for automated dorsal fin photo-ID. We hope that you will participate in our survey! We request that you complete it by 11:59 EST on 15 August 2019. The Workshop Organizers, Reny Tyson Moore (Chicago Zoological Society’s Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, Sarasota, FL USA) rtysonmoore@mote.org <rtyson@mote.org> Kim Urian (Duke University Marine Laboratory, Beaufort, NC USA) kim.urian@gmail.com -- Reny Tyson Moore, PhD Staff Scientist Sarasota Dolphin Research Program Chicago Zoological Society (352) 408-6018 cell rtysonmoore@mote.org <rtyson@mote.org>