[MARMAM] New publication on using drones to estimate availability and group size of coastal dolphins for aerial surveys

[Alex Brown]

Dear colleagues,

My co-authors and I are pleased to share our recent paper published in Remote 
Sensing in Ecology and Conservation:
Brown AM, Allen SJ, Kelly N & Hodgson AJ. 2022. Using unoccupied aerial 
vehicles to estimate availability and group size error for aerial surveys of 
coastal dolphins. Remote Sens Ecol Conserv. doi: 10.1002/rse2.313

The paper describes a cost-effective approach to collecting availability data 
using multi-rotor drones launched from a small vessel. Additionally, the study 
explored the influence of sample size on availability estimates and their 
precision, the results of which can inform target sample sizes to minimize bias 
in future research.

The pdf and supporting information are available (open access) here: 
https://doi.org/10.1002/rse2.313

The accompanying data and code are available here: 
https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.qbzkh18mq

Abstract:
Aerial surveys are frequently used to estimate the abundance of marine mammals, 
but their accuracy is dependent upon obtaining a measure of the availability of 
animals to visual detection. Existing methods for characterizing availability 
have limitations and do not necessarily reflect true availability. Here, we 
present a method of using small, vessel-launched, multi-rotor Unoccupied Aerial 
Vehicles (UAVs, or drones) to collect video of dolphins to characterize 
availability and investigate error surrounding group size estimates. We 
collected over 20 h of aerial video of dive-surfacing behaviour across 32 
encounters with Australian humpback dolphins (Sousa sahulensis) off 
north-western Australia. Mean surfacing and dive periods were 7.85 sec (SE = 
0.26) and 39.27 sec (SE = 1.31) respectively. Dolphin encounters were split 
into 56 focal follows of consistent group composition to which example 
approaches to estimating availability were applied. Non-instantaneous 
availability estimates, assuming a 7 sec observation window, ranged between 
0.22 and 0.88, with a mean availability of 0.46 (CV = 0.34). Availability 
tended to increase with increasing group size. We found a downward bias in 
group size estimation, with true group size typically one individual more than 
would have been estimated by a human observer during a standard aerial survey. 
The variability of availability estimates between focal follows highlights the 
importance of sampling across a variety of group sizes, compositions and 
environmental conditions. Through data re-sampling exercises, we explored the 
influence of sample size on availability estimates and their precision, with 
results providing an indication of target sample sizes to minimize bias in 
future research. We show that UAVs can provide an effective and relatively 
inexpensive method of characterizing dolphin availability with several 
advantages over existing approaches. The example estimates obtained for 
humpback dolphins are within the range of values obtained for other 
shallow-water, small cetaceans, and will directly inform a government-run 
program of aerial surveys in the region.

Best wishes,

Dr Alex Brown  (he/him)
SMRU Consulting, Scottish Oceans Institute, East Sands, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 
8LB, UK | Main Office: +44-1334-466010
a...@smruconsulting.com
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[MARMAM] Seasonal Animal Care Specialist - Wildlife Response

[Savannah Costner]

Hi MARMAM! We have a seasonal Animal Care Specialist position, with a focus
on marine animal rehabilitation, open at the Alaska SeaLife Center! Check
out the job description below and click the link here to apply.


*Summary:*

This position is responsible for the routine handling and care of animals
being housed in the Rehabilitation/Quarantine area under the supervision of
the Wildlife Response Curator at the Alaska SeaLife Center.  The main focus
of this position is marine mammals but there are occasional responses to
birds and other wildlife in the Seward area.

*Education/Training Requirements:*

Bachelor’s degree in biology, animal science, veterinary science or related
field. Two year experience in animal husbandry, experience with marine
mammals preferred.

*Primary Responsibilities:*

   1. Under the supervision of the Wildlife Response Curator, assists in
   the delivery of animal care to animals being housed and cared for in the
   rehabilitation area, quarantine area, and other animal areas in the ASLC.
   2. Coordinates with the Wildlife Response Curator and veterinary staff
   to ensure consistency in the delivery of animal care to animals being
   housed and cared for in the rehabilitation / quarantine area.
   3. Performs routine animal husbandry to include diet preparation,
   feeding animals, cleaning animal enclosures, disinfecting prep areas and
   equipment, and maintaining animal records.
   4. Follows established routine for animal care, food preparation, and
   clean up, including proper maintenance and disinfection of equipment.
   5. Under the supervision of a veterinarian or a veterinary technician
   performs basic medical treatments such as delivery of oral medications and
   wound cleaning and assists in basic medical procedures such as animal
   restraint for physical exam.
   6. Keeps proper records in accordance with the ASLC and permit
   requirements.
   7. As team leader, supervises interns and volunteers to ensure animals
   are monitored and daily tasks are completed in a timely manner.
   8. Participates as needed in presentations to visitors and the public on
   topics in marine science and ASLC operations.
   9. Answers the ASLC’s 24-hour stranding hotline.  May be asked to be on
   call to cover the hotline after regular working hours.  Employees are
   compensated for being on call.
   10. Becomes familiar with maintenance and operation of mechanical
   systems.
   11. Fosters good relations with visitors, volunteers, community leaders,
   contractors, and fellow staff members by promoting positive attitudes, good
   will, cooperation, and providing high standards of service.
   12. Complies with all Alaska SeaLife Center policies, procedures, and
   programs.
   13. Performs other duties as assigned.

*Other Skills and Abilities:*

Ability to be organized, self-motivated, and possess a strong sense of
cleanliness and animal awareness.  Attention to detail.  Willingness to
work holidays, weekends, and/or overnights to accommodate the needs of the
animal patients. Comfortable with social media and potentially being on
camera and interviewed while working. Ability to drive safely.

*Physical Requirements:*

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must
be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of
this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals
with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Ability to see and hear; move about; stoop, kneel, and crouch; use arms and
hands; handle objects, tools, and controls; and sit. Ability to lift and
move 50 pounds.

*Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums*

*APPLICATION DEADLINE:  1/31/2023*

*START DATE:  5/1/2023  End Date:  9/30/2023  *

*PAY RATE: $17.75*

*Please upload your resume, cover letter and letter of reference when you
apply.*

*Must be able to pass background check.*

https://jobs.ourcareerpages.com/job/783377?source=ccp&key=a9xXKGhP84Y%2fAkSlA1TH2bMKHKq3TvwAaTSJUznEg4U%3d
Equal Employment Opportunity

-- 






*Savannah Costner*


*Animal Care Specialist II *Alaska SeaLife Center
P.O. Box 1329 • 301 Railway Ave • Seward, AK 99664

Direct: 907-224-6399
*ASLC 24-hour Stranded Animal Hotline*

1-888-774-7325 (SEAL)

www.alaskasealife.org

[image: Pick.Click.Give Alaska SeaLife Center]

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[MARMAM] New Publication | Morganella morganii septicemia and concurrent renal crassicaudiasis in a Cuvier’s beaked whale (Ziphius cavirostris) stranded in Italy

[Umberto Romani Cremaschi]

Dear MARMAM community,


Together with my co-authors, I am very glad to share with you that our
newest

publication, entitled "*Morganella morganii* septicemia and concurrent
renal crassicaudiasis in a Cuvier’s beaked whale (*Ziphius cavirostris*)
stranded in Italy ( https://doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2022.1058724) " has been
published in Frontiers in Marine Science ( Sec. Marine Megafauna) as

part of the Research Topic "Risks, Threats, and Conservation Status of
Cetaceans in the Mediterranean and Black Sea" and is available online:

https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmars.2022.1058724/full


*Abstract*

Information regarding bacterial diseases in Cuvier’s beaked whale (CBW,
Ziphius cavirostris) is scattered and mostly incomplete. This report
describes a case of septicemia by *Morganella morganii* in a juvenile male
CBW with concurrent renal crassicaudiasis. The animal stranded along the
Ligurian coastline (Italy) and underwent a systematic post-mortem
examination to determine the cause of death. Histopathology showed lesions
consistent with a septicemic infection, severe meningoencephalitis, and
renal crassicaudiasis. An *M. morganii* alpha-hemolytic strain was isolated
in pure culture from liver, lung, prescapular lymph node, spleen, hepatic
and renal abscesses, and central nervous system (CNS). The antimicrobial
susceptibility profile of the strain was evaluated with the minimum
inhibitory concentrations (MICs) method and reduced susceptibility to
Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole is reported. Crassicauda sp. nematodes were
retrieved from both kidneys. No other pathogens were detected by
immunohistochemistry, serology, or biomolecular analyses. Toxicological
investigations detected high concentrations of immunosuppressant pollutants
in the blubber. The chronic parasitic infestation and the toxic effects of
xenobiotics likely compromised the animal's health, predisposing it to an
opportunistic bacterial infection. To our knowledge, this is the first
description of *M. morganii* septicemia with CNS involvement in a wild
cetacean.


Regards,

Umberto Romani Cremaschi

Veterinary Department, Mundomar (Benidorm,Spain)

Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine,
Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain

umberto.romanicremas...@gmail.com
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[MARMAM] Allied Whale/Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. Research Assistant Positions: 2023 Field Season

[AW Internship Coordinator]

Allied Whale (AW), the marine mammal research lab of College of the
Atlantic and Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. (BHWW) seeks 5 interns/research
assistants for the 2023 field season. These are entry-level research
positions designed to offer experience for individuals seeking to develop
their professional careers in marine mammal research. Two summer positions
(May 15 through August 31) and three full season positions (May 15 through
October 15) are available.

 Overview of position: This is a unique internship program in that the
selected individuals will have the opportunity to participate and receive
training in a wide range of marine mammal research activities Allied Whale
while also working as a crew/scientist aboard commercial whale watching
trips operating from Bar Harbor, Maine. Allied Whale currently supports
field projects in the trophic ecology of humpback and fin whales, the
ongoing housing and maintenance of the North Atlantic humpback and fin
whale photo ID catalogs, an active stranding response program, and a
research/education partnership with Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. In addition,
Allied Whale maintains the facilities on and conducts research from Mount
Desert Rock, a remote offshore island. The interns play a critical role in
the success of the field season and serve as support to all aspects of
summer activities within both Allied Whale and Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co.

Description of duties: Upon arrival in May, all interns will receive
research, boat crew, and Gulf of Maine natural history training by both
Allied Whale and the Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company staff. As the Allied
Whale field season does not begin until early June- the first several weeks
will be focused on hands-on training of whale watch deckhand
responsibilities, helping with boat maintenance, and assisting with whale
catalog matching in the office or stranding response.

Once the season is in full swing, interns will rotate through shifts
working as a Research Assistant/Deckhand (RA) for the Bar Harbor Whale
Watch Co., shifts working as deck/galley on lighthouse/nature cruises,
shifts in the Allied Whale office, and time off. Every week, schedules will
be different and weather dependent. A typical week in June-August may
include 2-4 days scheduled as researchers on Whale Watch vessels, 1-2 days
scheduled in the office, and two days off (these days may or may not be
consecutive). Weather may cause shifts to be canceled and some weeks may be
lighter in load or responsibilities.

 Below are specific expectations for each designated shift:

Whale watch trips: Research responsibilities on the whale watch trips
include searching for whales, photo-identification of whales, and
behavioral data collection. RAs will also collect pelagic seabird data
during offshore travel to the whale feeding areas. Beyond research, RAs are
responsible for assisting the naturalist in promoting education and
conservation programs on each trip. In this, maintaining a positive,
professional, and friendly demeanor while engaging whale watch passengers
and fellow crew is necessary. Deckhand responsibilities include line
handling, vessel cleaning, helping seasick passengers, and passenger
safety. When whale watch trips cancel for weather, crew may be asked to
report for duty to complete maintenance on the vessel.

Allied Whale office shifts: On scheduled office days, interns will be
required to be available in the Allied Whale office from 9AM-5PM. During
those hours, interns will match individual whales to our catalog, enter
their whale watch data into the database, manage the Adopt-a-whale program,
answer phone calls to the office, and be on call for assisting with
response to strandings or necropsies. Interns schedule for office shifts
will also be on call for boat research days.

Allied Whale boat research days: When weather permits, interns will assist
Allied Whale staff and graduate students on trips offshore to collect
biopsy samples of humpback and fin whales. While on board one of the
research vessels, interns will be responsible for collecting photo
identification of whales and recording data. Interns will be responsible
for processing images from these trips. If schedule allows, RAs may also
participate in an overnight trip to collect samples in Canada.

Mount Desert Rock: We hope for interns to also complete several shifts
(each at least a week in length) at our offshore research station Mount
Desert Rock. While on the island, interns will participate in land-based
whale monitoring from the lighthouse tower, seal counts, gull counts, and
maintenance/construction projects at the station. Interns will collect
weekly samples of seal scat to contribute to a collaborative microplastics
project.  Interns will also receive experience working in a remote
off-the-grid location. Once hired, RAs will work to develop a collaborative
group project (on seal colony, intertidal community, nesting birds,
jellies, etc.) and will take turns with data collection du

[MARMAM] New publication: An unknown nocturnal call type in the Mariana Archipelago

[Angela Szesciorka]

Dear colleagues,

My co-authors and I are excited to share our recent publication in JASA
Express Letters:

Szesciorka, A.R., McCullough, J.L.K., Oleson, E.M. 2023. An unknown
nocturnal call type in the Mariana Archipelago. *JASA Express Letters* 3,
011201. https://doi.org/10.1121/10.0017068

Abstract: In spring/summer of 2018 and 2021, the Pacific Islands Fisheries
Science Center Cetacean Research Program deployed drifting acoustic
recorders in the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zones surrounding the Mariana
Archipelago. Manual assessments revealed a low-frequency (median 473–554
Hz), short-duration (median 0.596 s), stereotypic tonal nocturnal call
throughout the Mariana Archipelago. Based on time of year, spatiotemporal
patterns, clear division among calls (i.e., no chorusing), comparisons with
known vocalizations of whales, turtles, and fish, and presence of Bryde's
whale calls, and because the call has not been detected elsewhere, we
hypothesize this 500-Hz pulsed call is produced by Bryde's whales
(*Balaenoptera
brydei*).

As always, feel free to reach out to me at ang...@szesciorka.com if you
have any questions or cannot access the article.

Let's solve the mystery together!

Angie

--

*Angela R. Szesciorka, M.Sc., Ph.D.*

NSF Office of Polar Programs Postdoctoral Fellow

Marine Mammal Institute, Oregon State University

Office: ‭541-867-0362‬ | Pronouns: Dr/she/her


‪
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[MARMAM] FW: MMO, PSO & PAM Training Course 2022

[Tabbi McGhee]

Ocean Science Consulting Limited (OSC) is offering its next Joint Nature 
Conservation Committee (JNCC)-approved Marine Mammal Observer (MMO), Bureau of 
Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) Protected Species Observer (PSO), and Institute 
of Marine Engineering Science and Technology (IMarEst)-approved Passive 
Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) training courses.

JNCC-certified MMOs comply with UK regulations, and PSOs comply with USA 
regulations, to minimise the risk of injury and disturbance to marine mammals 
from various offshore operations. OSC’s MMO course comprises theory and 
practice, including binocular and range estimation, and role-play sessions. The 
PAM course comprises theory and practice using PAM equipment in OSC's workshop 
facilities and/or onboard OSC’s survey vessel (subject to weather). The 
intention is to run the following course in-person near Edinburgh at OSC’s 
Dunbar headquarters:

7th to 10th March 2023

Prices are exclusive of VAT, which is charged at the current rate. A discounted 
package price of £700 is offered for participants who wish to attend all three 
courses (MMO, PSO, and PAM).

Course participants will also receive a discount for purchases of marine 
binoculars or tripod mounts from Opticron – these should be ordered in advance 
of the course to ensure availability.

For further details: https://www.osc.co.uk/training
For course registration: https://www.osc.co.uk/jncc-registration

Best wishes,
OSC training team

[cid:image001.png@01D8D963.D28AA180]
​
Admin Team
Ocean Science Consulting Limited (OSC)
Spott Road
,
Dunbar
,
East Lothian
,
EH42 1RR
,
Scotland, UK
M: +44 (0)7368 866 235
T: +44 (0)1368 865 722​
W:
www.osc.co.uk
.
MMO or PAM requirement?
We wrote the book. Now available on Amazon:
www.marinemammalobserverhandbook.com



Tabbi McGhee
PA to Directors & Office Administrator
Ocean Science Consulting Limited (OSC)
Spott Road, Dunbar, East Lothian, EH42 1RR, Scotland, UK
M: +44 (0)7368 866 235
T: +44 (0)1368 865 722​
W:
 www.osc.co.uk
.
MMO or PAM requirement?
We wrote the book. Now available on Amazon:
www.marinemammalobserverhandbook.com

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