domingo, 28 de diciembre de 2008

Actividades: curso ecología en Bahamas!

GET OUT OF THE CLASSROOM....AND GET INTO THE FIELD!
Looking for an exciting, hands-on summer course? The Dolphin Communication Project (DCP) is pleased to offer a FIELD COURSE IN CETACEAN ECOLOGY in Bimini, Bahamas.
DCP, a non-profit research and education group, has been studying Atlantic spotted and bottlenose dolphins in this area since 2001.
Dates: June 1 - 12, 2009
Topics covered include but are not limited to:
- Introduction to cetacean biology
- Introduction to delphinid species of Bimini
- Boat-based surveys Photo-ID and video analysis
During our boat based surveys, students will learn species identification, photo-ID, techniques in surface observations (including GPS) and when possible, observe the animals under water and collect photograph and video data.
Cost: $2,674 per person (USD)
Included:
- 12 nights accommodation (double occupancy)
- 3 meals a day
- 8 half-day boat trips in search of dolphins
- 1 boat trip in search of reef sharks
- Gratuity Transportation from airport to hotel in Bimini
- Course instruction
- Certificate of completion
Not included:
- Airfare to/from Bimini, Bahamas.
You must be at least 18 years old to participate. No previous experience with marine mammals or marine biology is required, however, all participants should be comfortable on a boat, snorkeling and working as a team. Course may be used for general enrichment or course credit; however the student is solely responsible for arranging credit with their home institution.
This is your chance for a hands-on research experience with wild dolphins in the clear, warm waters of the Bahamas! Come join us! There are only a few slots left!
For more information on this course, please contact Kelly Melillo at kmelillo@dolphincommunicationproject.org.
For more information on the Bimini Travel Course program, follow this link. For more information on DCP, including a list of publications, please visit www.dolphincommunicationproject.org.
A non-refundable deposit of 20% is due by 22 January 2009.

Eventos internacionales: Escocia!

2009 Annual Meeting of the UK Regional Student Chapter of the Society for Marine Mammalogy

Date: 5-7 February 2009
Location:
Sea Mammal Research Unit
University of St Andrews,
St Andrews KY16 8LB,
Scotland
Call for Abstracts
The UK Regional Student Chapter of the Society for Marine Mammalogy would like to announce the 2009 Annual Meeting taking place in the Sea Mammal Research Unit, University of St Andrews. Following our members suggestions we have increased the duration of the meeting which will this year be a 3-day event, to be able to include two afternoon workshops and an afternoon of discussion.We invite postgraduate students enrolled at UK Universities to submit abstracts for oral presentations (max 300 words). Presentations can relate to any aspect of marine mammal research. Oral presentations should be timed for 12 minutes followed by 3 minutes for questions.
Registration for the conference is free! You just have to submit the attached registration form filled in (also available on our website).
Submission of abstracts should be done as an email attachment to ukrsc@st-andrews.ac.uk before 1st December 2008. We also invite all participants to bring along a poster for display during the annual meeting (preferred but not compulsory).
If you are a student enrolled in a UK university studying marine mammals and haven't already done so, join our chapter! Becoming a member is free of charge and all you have to do is send us an email. As a member you will receive information about all the activities organised by the chapter, as well as be able to join our Facebook discussion forum.
You can visit our website(www.st-andrews.ac.uk/~ukrscgrp) to find out more about us. If you have any questions regarding the conference please email us at ukrsc@st-andrews.ac.uk.
We look forward to meeting you in 2009!

UKRSC Chapter Contactc/o Sea Mammal Research Unit
Gatty Marine Lab
University of St Andrews
St Andrews, Fife
KY16 8LB UK
http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/~ukrscgrp/

Actividades: Curso anatomía!

Shoals Marine Lab 2009 Summer Course: Anatomy & Function of Marine Vertebrates
Dates: June 8-22, 2009
Credits: 4 (issued through Cornell University)
Course limit: 15 students (undergraduates, graduate students, professionals,teachers)Application and scholarship deadline: 15 February 2009
Cost (tuition, room, board, boat transportation, fees): $4,372
The Shoals Marine Laboratory (run jointly by Cornell University and the University of New Hampshire on Appledore Island, Maine) invites applications to its summer field course on the anatomy and function of marine vertebrates. The course is designed to introduce students to a comparative study of the principal organ systems of vertebrates (i.e., *fishes, sea turtles, marinebirds, marine mammals*) that are specifically adapted to the marine environment.
Rather than focusing only on description of anatomical structure, the anatomy of structures will be integrated with function,biological role, and evolutionary relationships. Laboratory exercises cover osteology, dissection, behavior and biomechanics.
Dr. Frank Fish
Departmentof Biology, West Chester University
Dr. Willy Bemis
Cornell University, Professor of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology AND Director, Shoals Marine Laboratory.
Join students at the Shoals Lab from all over the US and the world in studying on Appledore Island this summer. Financial aid and scholarships are available. Apply early to receive first consideration for aid.
Paid research internships
are also available to undergraduates: deadline Feb. 15, 2009.
For more information:
(Tel:607-255-3717)
For other courses offered in summer 2009, see our complete course listing
Robin Hadlock Seeley, Ph.D
(607) 255-3717
Assistant Director for Academic Advising &Senior Research Associate
Shoals Marine Laboratory/Cornell University
G-14 Stimson Hall
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY 14853
(607)-255-3717 phone
(607) 379-3342 cell
(607)-255-0742 fax
www.sml.cornell.edu

Voluntariado: rehabilitación focas!

Seal Pup Rehabilitation Internships

Island Wildlife Natural Care Centre is a registered not for profit organization operating under permits from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Environment Canada and the Ministry of Water, Land and Air. Recipient of the Islands Trust Environmental Stewardship Award, IWNCC´s focus is on the rescue and rehabilitation of orphaned Harbour Seals.

This spring and summer we will be awarding 14 internships. Internships last eight weeks and run between late May to early November.

In the peak of summer the hours are long. The work day begins at 7:30 a.m. and continues until well past midnight. A shift can be 10 - 12 hours per day, six days a week, with one day off. The internships are on a voluntary basis, however comfortable housing with shared cooking and bathroom facilities are provided as well as wireless internet and a shared vehicle. Interns are accepted internationally and are responsible for their own transportation to and from British Columbia.

Interns will work directly under marine mammal rehabilitation specialists and can expect to learn or improve your skills in the following:
- Safe rescue and handling of Harbour Seal pups.
- Proper restraint techniques.
- Stabilizing critical patients and new arrivals.
- Food preparation through all stages of the rehabilitation process.
- Gavage (tube) feeding, force feeding and hand feeding techniques.
- Proper hygiene and isolation protocols to prevent the spread of disease.
- Administration of oral medications.
- Behavioral and medical observation and proper record keeping.
- Natural history of marine mammal species.
- Fundamentals of how, why and when to administer alternative remedies such as homeopathy and Chinese herbs.
- Response to the rescue hotline and public interface as well as the logistics of coordinating rescues from many remote locations.
- General care of many other indigenous avian and mammalian species.

For more information and an application see our website at www.sealrescue.org
E-mail iwncc@aol.com

Jeff Lederman,
Director
Island Wildlife Natural Care Centre
322 Langs Road
Salt Spring Island, BC V8K1N3

Actividades: Cursos observadores en Australia!

Scanning Ocean Sectors: A Marine Mammal Observer (MMO) training company and Joint Nature Conservation Committee JNCC, recognised course for industry and research.
We have years of research behind the effective training of MMOs with courses adapted to the requirements of the clients, and taught by professionals in their specialised fields. With years of experience in the work of an MMO.
Please note that the early registration for the January 2009 MMO and PAM course is still available. This course is booking up quickly so don't leave it late. Please visit our website for more information and to register for all courses.
www.scanningoceansectors.org
info@scanningoceansectors.org

Yvonne Miles9 Long Street
Point Vernon
Hervey Bay
QLD 4655
Australia
0431 824 063 mob
07 4124 8320 land line

Actividades: curso en North Carolina!

Duke University Marine Lab 2009 Summer Course: Marine Mammals

Dates: Summer Term II: 6 July - 7 August 2009
Course limit: 15 students (undergraduates, graduate students, professionals)
Application deadline (if applying for Global Fellowship): 15 February 2009
Application deadline (if applying for Tuition Scholarship): 1 April 2009
Application deadline (no funding support): 8 June 2009

The Duke University Marine Laboratory invites applications to its summer field course on the biology of marine mammals. Topics covered include the ecology, behavior, management and conservation of marine mammals, with emphasis on field study of the local population of bottlenose dolphins. This is a field and laboratory-intensive course designed to provide first-hand experience with research techniques such as photo- identification and mark-recapture analysis, line transect surveys and distance sampling, sampling prey distribution and abundance, behavioral sampling techniques, acoustic recording and analysis, and necropsy techniques.

The course is taught by Dr. David Johnston. As part of Summer Term II Integrated Marine Conservation Program, a core course BIO 109/ENV 209 (Conservation Biology and Policy) may be taken with Marine Mammals. Students are encouraged (but not required) to take both courses. Approximately ten Global Fellowships in Marine Conservation will be awarded on a competitive basis to international students, especially those from developing countries, and will fully cover travel expenses, room and board, and tuition for both BIO 109/ ENV 209 Conservation Biology and Policy plus one elective course subject to availability. Electives include: Biology and Conservation of Sea Turtles; Marine Mammals; Marine Ecology; Marine Invertebrate Zoology; and Independent Research.

Experience the beautiful North Carolina coast! Join students from all over the world in participating in this unique summer session experience. Enrollment is limited, apply early!
For more information: mL_admissions@nicholas.duke.edu (Tel: 252.504.7502). www.nicholas.duke.edu/marinelab/admissions/forms.html
http://www.nicholas.duke.edu/marinelab/admissions/summeraid.html http://www.nicholas.duke.edu/marinelab/programs/summer2.html

Actividades: cursos BDRI en Cerdeña!

The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute is a marine mammal science and education center in Sardinia Island, Italy.

BDRI's researchers are engaged in the conduction of a long term study about the life of bottlenose dolphins and the potential effects of human activities in their distribution and behaviour. Sardinia Island is a marine biologist's paradise and the dolphin behaviour you will witness is unsurpassed.

BDRI offers comprehensive and intensive bottlenose Dolphin Research Courses during the 2009 Winter Season (February - March) for motivated individuals, who ares eeking thorough training in approaches to the study of free ranging wild bottlenose dolphins. BDRI training courses provide invaluable exposure to boat based field work, marine mammals research, intensive training and mentoring in marine ecology, and encouragement to work hard, have fun, and learn from the dolphins and each other. Learning, at its best, should be an active process, one in which the students are challenged on a daily basis with responsibilities that play a large part in the outcome of the research projects. These intensive educational courses provide experience in specialized non-invasive research techniques, consisting of field sessions and lectures.

The courses will last 6 or 13 days, and - weather permitting- we will be out on the water during 4 or 8 of these days respectively. Working with our staff, you will rotate between tasks on land and sea. On board our research vessels you will work together with our team in search of cetaceans. Although our project focuses primarily on bottlenose dolphins, you will also experience the complex Mediterranean coastal ecosystem in which we live and work. Dolphin research courses can be used for academic or vocational purposes, but students are solely responsible for making all arrangements for receiving relevant credit(s) as a result of completing the course.

16th February 2009 - Bottlenose dolphins: Field methods in the wild
- Marine mammals biology
- Dolphins ecology: habitat use and bottlenose dolphin presence
- Behavioural sampling methods
- Interaction between dolphins and human activities
- Photo-identification techniques
- Diving behaviour
- Bioacoustics
- Ecological & behavioural transcription
- Cleaning of equipment and primary data analyses
- Computer orientation.

09th March 2009 - Study of bottlenose dolphin behaviour
- Bottlenose dolphins biology
- Behavioural sampling methods
- Behavioural patterns & events-
Analysis of underwater videos
- Focal individual and focal group behaviour
- Interaction between dolphins and human activities
- Opportunistic feeding behaviour
- Cleaning of equipment and primary statistical data analyses
- Computer orientation

23rd March 2009 - Photo-identification technique & bottlenose dolphins social structure
- Bottlenose dolphins biology
- Dolphin photo-identification tecniques
- General notions about photography with SLR cameras
- Use of habitat studies
- Software for analysis of digital pictures for photoidentification purposes
- Bottlenose dolphin social structure and population estimates
- Software for analysis of dolphins social structure
- Ecological & behavioural transcription
- Cleaning of equipment and primary statistical data analyses
- Computer orientation

06th April 2009 - Bioacoustics of wild bottlenose dolphins
- Bottlenose dolphin biology
- Bottlenose dolphins sound production and reception
- Bottlenose dolphin vocalizations
- Whistles categorization
- Sound analysis
- Noise pollution
- Acoustic deterrent devices
- Software to bio-acoustical studies
- Cleaning of equipment and primary statistical data analyses
- Computer orientation

Training courses’ fee: The training courses costs include your accommodation in an apartment in Golfo Aranci, dolphins research training, certificate of attendance, printed material and all associated field and laboratory costs during your stay with us. Successful applicants will be responsible for their transportation to and from the research camp on Golfo Aranci (Sardinia, Italy).

There is no deadline to apply. However, approved applications are accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. Apply early! Positions are open until filled. Please download the dolphin research courses general information at: http://www.thebdri.com/resources/downloads/courses.pdf

Further information can be found on our website (www.thebdri.com) or by e-mail at education@thebdri.com

Bruno Diaz Lopez
Chief Biologist
The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI
V.Armando Diaz Nº4 07020
Golfo Aranci (SS)
Italy
http://www.thebdri.com
info@thebdri.com
Tel:+ (39) 346 081 5414

Voluntariado: Gales!

Sea Watch Foundation - Volunteering opportunity in Cardigan Bay for 2009

Volunteers are invited to assist the Sea Watch Foundation (www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk) with the running of the Cardigan Bay Monitoring Project. The project is based in New Quay, West Wales, and takes care of the conservation management of the bottlenose dolphin, harbour porpoise and grey seal populations of Cardigan Bay , monitoring their abundance, distribution, reproductive success and population structure using a combination of line-transect, photo-identification, land-based and acoustic surveys.

The volunteers will help the Cardigan Bay Monitoring Officer and the Sightings Officer/Monitoring Officer assistant with land- and boat-based surveys and photo-identification studies, database entry, awareness raising and education initiatives, acoustic monitoring, and will assist with and participate in training courses and public talks.

Volunteers are required from April until October 2009, for 4 separate periods of 6 weeks each. Preference will be given to those who can stay for more than one period, including the whole 6-months field season.

Volunteers will be based in New Quay, West Wales . Accommodation is provided at a rate of around 50/week. Volunteers are responsible for their own travel, accommodation and living expenses, but it is generally quite easy to obtain part-time paid work in the area if required.

Volunteering periods
Period 1
27/04/09 - 7/06/09,
Period 2
8/06/09 - 19/07/09,
Period 3
20/07/09 - 30/08/09,
Period 4
31/08/09 - 11/10/09

Important skills/qualifications
Essential:
-an ability to work in a conscientious and reliable manner
-strong commitment to volunteering work
-willingness to work long hours outdoors in often very changeable Welsh weather
-basic IT skills (Office package)
-an ability to get on well with others in a small team
Desirable:
-a background in marine biology/environmental science or similar
-a strong interest and knowledge of British cetaceans
-prior experience in boat-based survey work
-good verbal and written communication skills and in public speaking
-experience in interacting with the public

All volunteers will be trained in cetacean observation and identification, in line-transect survey protocols and photo-identification of bottlenose dolphins and grey seals.

To apply: Please send to Giovanna Pesante (giovanna.pesante@seawatchfoundation.org.uk) your cv, covering letter and contact details of two references , reporting any relevant experience you have and specifying the period(s) you would prefer to volunteer for.
Deadline: 31st of January 2009.

Pleased specify New Quay volunteer application into your subject title. Applicant will be notified of the outcomes by the 22nd of February 2009.

Actividades: Earthwatch Escocia!

Whales and Dolphins of Moray Firth.
On the Expedition.

Spotting threatened whales and dolphins on Scotland's scenic northeast coastline.
Working with Robinson and his colleagues from the Cetacean Research & Rescue Unit (CRRU), you will take to the Moray Firth in 5.4-meter rigid-hulled inflatable boats to conduct systematic surveys of the southern Firth. You will be trained to spot and identify whales and dolphins and to record data such as the composition and structure of groups, their behavior, and geographic positions. You will also take photographs for individual identification. Back at the lab, especially during inclement weather, you will help identify individuals from photographs, catalogue images, and enter data. Your team may also be called upon to help with live whale or dolphin strandings, as the need arises. In your recreational time, there are rare seabird colonies, coastal wildflowers, castles, and Pictish ruins to investigate.
Meals and Accommodations.

Your team will share a rented cottage in the heart of a traditional fishing village, rich in local history and colorful characters. You will share a bedroom with one or two of your teammates, sleeping on beds in your own sleeping bag. The cottage has modern bathroom facilities and a full kitchen. Cooking and cleaning duties will be shared, on a rotational basis, using locally available foods. After dinner, the local pub is pleased to serve a very good range of ales in a friendly atmosphere.

About the Research Area.

Surrounded by majestic cliffs and rolling farmland, the village of Gardenstown in the parish of Gamrie boasts commanding views of the Moray Firth, the largest firth or embayment of its kind on the east coast of Scotland at approximately 5,230 square kilometers. Considering its northerly latitude, the climate of the area is well favored by abundant sunshine and below average rainfall for the UK. Afforded protection by the Scottish Highlands, this vast coastline is comprised of tidally exposed mudflats, dune systems and cliffs, and a composite of headlands and small bays providing a relatively sheltered environment with a vast diversity of habitats.
The research area is an absolute haven for wildlife. Fed by warm and cold waters from the Atlantic and Arctic oceans, the productive, turbid waters of the Moray Firth attract an abundance of fish and cephalopod species, providing rich feeding grounds for numerous species of whale and dolphin, grey and common seal colonies and nationally important concentrations of wintering sea ducks, saw bills, auks and many other families of offshore and nesting seabird - including a mainland gannetry and local puffin colony at Troupe Head, just a few miles from the base. In addition to the large numbers and diversity of marine fauna that exist in the project area, there is a fantastic assemblage of wild coastal flowers, rare birds of prey (such as red kite, osprey and merlin), and many other interesting plants and animals including orchids, otters, badgers, foxes and roe deer.
East of the village of Gardenstown and the Bay of Gamrie lies Pennan, made famous as the main location for the movie Local Hero. Loch Ness lies approximately 100 miles to the west, and the coastline of the surrounding landscapes is scattered with ancient remains and magnificent Pictish and early Christian carved stones.
Dates: Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep 2009.
Duration: 11 days.
Contribution: £895 - £1095.
LINKS:

Eventos Internacionales: EEUU!

Attached, please find the 'Hold the Date' and 'Call for Papers' announcements for the 3rd International Carcass Disposal Symposium that will be held next July at UC Davis. As with the first two symposia held in 2005 and 2006, this promises to offer an exciting opportunity to catch up on the latest research, policies and experiences from around the US and the world relating to animal carcass disposal (includes Marine Mammals!).

http://extension.umaine.edu/ByproductsSymposium09/default.htm

Keith A. Matassa
Marine Animal Rehabilitation Coordinator
UNE/MARC11 Hills Beach Road
Biddeford, Maine 04005
office 207-602-2670
cell 207-468-9621
kmatassa@une.edu

Actividades: Expedición WOC Argentina!

EXPEDICIÓN TRANS-PATAGÓNICA 2009: Buenos Aires-Usuahia

Os enviamos una nueva propuesta para comenzar el año 2009 con una experiencia inolvidable. Una nueva expedición recorriendo la Patagonia con la posibilidad de observar diferentes especies de mamíferos acuáticos en su hábitat natural y conocer lugares emblemáticos como los glaciares o la Tierra de Fuego. Y todo ello acompañado por investigadores especializados en mamíferos acuáticos que actuarán como "particulares guías" y que darán charlas sobre las especies que se pueden observar: su biología, habitat, proyectos de estudio, problemática y otros aspectos. Y además con la oportunidad de conocer de cerca detalles de la historia y cultura patagónica.
Mucho más que un viaje, mucho más que un curso......

DURACIÓN 15-16 días (15 Noches de alojamiento)
FECHAS Del 15 de enero al 30 de enero de 2009
GRUPO Mínimo 8 - Máximo 15 personas (inscripciones individuales hasta completar el grupo)
PRECIO 1150* euros por persona (dependiendo del nº final de participantes)

PROGRAMA (provisional)

Está previsto realizar el recorrido desde Buenos Aires hasta Ushuaia por tierra para poder conocer bien de cerca los paisajes y distintos lugares por los que vamos a pasar en minibuses alquilados para la expedición (también autobuses-cama para largas distancias). Se visitarán Carmen de Patagones -Viedma, Puerto Madryn, Península Valdés (Puerto Pirámides) Puerto Madryn, Puerto Deseado, Cabo Blanco, Puerto de Santa Cruz, Calafate (glaciares, Perito Moreno), Estrecho de Magallanes, Tierra del Fuego y Ushuaia. Durante el recorrido además de poder observar las diferentes especies de la fauna patagónica, tanto marina como terrestre, nuestros especiales guías os darán charlas sobre su biología, hábitat, proyectos de estudio, conservación; lo cual permitirá aprender en directo todos aquellos aspectos que implica el estudio de la fauna salvaje.Por otra parte también aprenderemos sobre historia, cultura y costumbres patagónicas.

GUÍAS ACOMPAÑANTES
Cristián de Haro (Argentina) Ecólogo, especialista en cetáceos. Vicepresidente de la Fundación Cethus de Argentina.
Mario Morcillo Moreno (España) Licenciado en Veterinaria. Director de Wildlife & Oceanic Company (WOC).

REGRESO OPCIONAL DE DURACIÓN VARIABLE POR LA COSTA CHILENA HASTA BUENOS AIRES

Después de nuestra llegada a Ushuaia, tendréis la opción de regresar con la expedición hasta Buenos Aires, pero esta vez RECORRIENDO LA COSTA DEL PACÍFICO CHILENO, ENTRE FIORDOS, ANDES, VOLCANES, SELVA VALDIVIANA Y UN SINFÍN DE NUEVAS ESPECIES. Si estas interesado en realizar este viaje de regreso por tierra haznoslo saber y si se reúne un mínimo de 8 personas lo podremos realizar:

Más ionformación pinchando este link:http://www.wocplanet.com/contenidos/36/expediciones.aspx
Podeis contactar con nosotros por mail en la dirección info@wocplanet.com, tanto si estais interesados en participar o simplemente quereis comentar con nosotros alguna otra cosa respecto a la expedición. También podeis llamar por teléfono al número 609518778 para cualquier consulta.

Empleo: Alaska!

There is a position available for a wildlife biologist in the Marine Mammals Management Office of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Anchorage Alaska within the sea otter program.

Activities include developing and conducting studies, implementing regulations, and policies;assisting in preparing regulations and, keeping a breast of new regulations,guidance and policy. The office is responsible for management of sea otter, polar bear and pacific walrus; the marine mammal marking, tagging and reporting program; implementation of associate specialized scientific programs; policy coordination; all activities related to preparation and implementation of international agreements and activities under the authorities of the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) and the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

The biologist will develop biological study proposals, survey designs, and scopes-of-work and will conduct complex biological field investigations involving northern sea otters; including population and harvest surveys,biological sampling, population health studies, animal collecting, food habit studies and population modeling. They will review proposed biological studies and survey designs of peers for biological integrity and statistical validity and rigor. Will prepare issue papers, briefing documents, and provide verbal briefings to supervisor, regional directorate and others. They will need to maintain a working knowledge of emerging and current international, national and regional marine mammal management issues, activities, policies, research and legal issues. Will review and prepare comments on permit applications required by the MMPA, ESA, and the Convention for international trade in endangered species (CITES).

For more information about the job, qualifications needed, and the application process, please go to http://www.usajobs.gov/ and look for job announcement number: R7-09-225210-KD.

Verena A. Gill
Wildlife Biologist
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Marine Mammals Management
1011 East Tudor Road,
MS 341Anchorage,
Alaska 99503
work phone: 907-786-3584
cell phone: 907-250-3721
fax: 907-786-3816
e-mail: verena_gill@fws.gov

Empleo: Reino Unido!

Dear colleagues I would like to draw your attention to a post that is available at Cefas (Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science; www.cefas.co.uk) within my team that deals with research in support of marine management.

For various projects, we are looking for a scientist with GIS / risk assessment expertise, if possible also some experience in assessing the impacts of underwater noise on marine life (including marine mammals).

I believe this to be quite an exciting job in a challenging and very interesting environment. Cefas is an executive agency of Defra (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs). As most of our jobs, this position is permanent (salary up to $28,000 per year) and there are possibilities to advance into higher pay-bands given appropriate performance / and time.

Please look at the full job description under www.cefas.jobs/openings; under the search options look for 'Marine Scientist' / 'scheme 121/08'. Then apply!

Frank Thomsen
Marine Scientific Advisor, Cefas
Pakefield Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk,
NR33 0HT, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1502 52 4284
www.cefas.co.uk

Eventos Internacionales: taller estadística en Escocia!

The Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling (CREEM) is hosting a *Statistical Modelling* workshop 20-23 January 2009 in our purpose-built facilities at the University of St Andrews, Scotland.

The aim of this workshop is to train participants in regression modelling methods, including Generalised Linear Models (GLMs). The 4-day workshop is set at an introductory level, and will cover the basics of statistical modelling including:
· parameter estimation, confidence intervals, hypothesis tests, /t/-tests, ANOVA
· linear models, generalized least squares models (to fit models which allow non-independence and/or non-constant error variance)
· Generalised Linear Models for presence/absence data or proportions: model specification, selection, diagnostics, interpretation
· GLMs for count data: model specification, selection, diagnostics, interpretation
· Overdispersed GLM models will also be covered.

The workshop will be taught using a marine mammal case study and workshop practicals will be based on an impact assessment example. Participants will learn to use the R software package, and no previous experience is necessary. Computer sessions take place in our modern computer classroom (attached to the seminar room); participants can use our computers or bring their own laptop computers.

For further information or registration, please contact Dr. Monique Mackenzie (monique@mcs.st-andrews.ac.uk) or Rhona Rodger (rhona@mcs.st-and.ac.uk)

Eric Rexstad
Research Unit for Wildlife Population Assessment
Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling
University of St. Andrews
St. Andrews Scotland KY16 9LZ
+44 (0)1334 461833

sábado, 29 de noviembre de 2008

Voluntariado: leones marinos en Australia!

Seal Behaviour Research in Australia

Volunteers are needed to assist with fieldwork investigating the effects of tourism on Australian fur seals in January and February, 2009.

Minimum time commitment is 7-10 days, but longer stays are possible. Research is conducted on a small, uninhabited island in Bass Strait, which is home to Australian and New Zealand fur seals as well as Little penguins and many other sea bird species.

Food and tent will be provided; camp facilities are primitive.

Volunteers will assist with observations of seal behaviour. Volunteers need to be in good health and fitness, have some experience camping and/or backpacking, have enthusiasm and patience, and be able to lift up to 50 lbs. as needed. A background in biological sciences is preferred.

If interested, please email a brief resume to:
Julia Back
MSc Candidate, A
ustralian-American Fulbright Scholar
Deakin Unviersity,
Melbourne,
Australia
jbac@deakin.edu.au

Voluntariado: projecto boto en Brasil!

RIVER DOLPHIN RESEARCH INTERNSHIPS IN BRAZIL STARTING SOON

Once again, Projeto Boto is recruiting for 9-month internships in the Mamirau Reserve, Brazil. We require fit, enthusiastic, hard-working fieldworkers who will carry forward our long-term study of botos (Amazon river dolphins). Due to close involvement with local communities, interns are required to have at least moderate Portuguese language skills, or to speak fluent Spanish, in addition to English. There are no exceptions.

Projeto boto was established in 1994. To date it has hosted more than 50 interns of many different nationalities. The Project's objective is to conserve the boto, and the sympatric tucuxi, through research leading to greater understanding of the biology and ecology of these dolphins. In recent years we have also spent considerable time investigating the impacts of fisheries on these species, and especially the relatively new harpoon hunt, in which thousands of botos are killed each year for fish bait.

Due to unexpected circumstances, we are seeking 2 people to commence work as soon as possible, ideally in December 2008. But we would also like to hear from people available in 2009.

Our work is centred on a floating lab/accommodation base, moored in the flooded forest. The research team comprises 3-5 people, who maintain daily observational boat-based research effort year-round. The basis of the work is the piecing together of the lives of over 450 individually recognisable dolphins, to provide publishable information on such diverse topics as growth, reproduction, habitat use, social system, seasonal movements, survival rates, causes of mortality etc.

Interns are provided with free accommodation and basic food, and receive a small monthly stipend. Transportation to the fieldsite (near the town of Tef?, Amazonas) from Manaus is provided, but interns must arrange and pay for their own transportation to Manaus.

All necessary training is provided on site. Further information on all aspects of the work is available at www.projetoboto.com

Successful applicants will:
- be aged 21-35
- speak at least moderate Portuguese or fluent Spanish, in addition to English
- be available for 9-12 months
- have completed a university degree, preferably in zoology or biology
- preferably have some fieldwork experience

Applicants should please provide:
- Full CV, complete with age, nationality, linguistic skills, educational and fieldwork experience
- A letter explaining why you are prepared to dedicate 9 months of your life to this study.
- The names and email addresses of 3 referees who are familiar with you and your work.
- The date on which you would be available to start work in the Amazon.

Send this information by email to both of the Project co-ordinators, Prof. Tony Martin (boto@live.co.uk) and Dr Vera da Silva (tucuxi@inpa.gov.br).

Closing date is 04 December 2008, but early application may be an advantage. Applications fulfilling the above criteria will be acknowledged within 3 days, but there will be no further communication unless the applicant is short-listed. Short-listed applicants will be notified by 09 December latest.

martes, 25 de noviembre de 2008

Empleo: Doctorado en Nueva Zelanda!

We are seeking a PhD student to work on the Hector´s dolphin photo-ID project at Banks Peninsula, New Zealand. The project has been running continuously since 1985, focusing on the conservation biology of Hector´s dolphin using non-invasive research techniques.

The student will be based at the University of Otago´s Marine Mammal Research Group in Dunedin, but will spend much of their first three years in the field at Akaroa on Banks Peninsula.

The successful applicant will be responsible for the day to day running of the project, involving operation of the research vessel, managing the photo-ID catalogue and coordinating volunteer field assistants. The student is expected to be conservation focused and maintain a high level of photo-ID effort, but opportunities exist for other forms of fieldwork including acoustic surveys, aerial surveys and land-based observations.

Previous work has focused on the topics of population size, demographic rates, impacts of fishing, social structure, distribution, acoustics, behaviour, oceanographic processes, movements of individuals and morphometrics, many of which are implicitly linked with conservation management of the population.

The student will be encouraged to seek new directions for the project, but possibilities include evaluating new management options, fine-scale habitat use studies, effects of aquaculture and studies of echolocation behaviour using T-PODs.

Essential attributes
- MSc in related field (Marine Biology, Zoology)
- Strong academic record
- Extensive experience skippering small, outboard powered research vessels
- Photo-ID skills
- Strong analytical skills
- Ability to work unsupervised and show initiative
- Team player
- Driver´s license

Desirable attributes
- Boating qualifications, e.g. skipper´s ticket, VHF operator´s ticket
- SCUBA diving experience
- Good practical skills, e.g. outboard motor maintenance

The successful applicant will be provided with a research vessel, tow vehicle, digital SLR camera and associated equipment for the duration of the project.

Accommodation costs and running costs while in the field at Banks Peninsula will also be covered. The student will be responsible for covering their food costs, all costs while in Dunedin and their tuition fees.

Information on University of Otago scholarships can be found at http://www.otago.ac.nz/study/scholarships/

The student will be expected to help with applying for funding for the project. The successful applicant will be expected to start as soon as is convenient, but by September 2009 at the latest.

Information about PhD study at Otago University can be found at http://www.otago.ac.nz/study/phd/index.html

Please send a letter stating why you are interested in this PhD position and outlining your relevant experience, along with a CV, to will.rayment@otago.ac.nz

Will Rayment
Post-doctoral Research Fellow
Marine Science Department
PO Box 56University of Otago
Dunedin
New Zealand
ph. + 64 3 479 5476
mob. + 64 21 488961

domingo, 23 de noviembre de 2008

Voluntariado. Nueva Zelanda!

Hi,

I am a PhD student with the University of Otago and I am looking for volunteers for a project on Hector's dolphins in New Zealand from the 6th until the end of January 2009.

The field work will be in beautiful Akaroa in the South Island of New Zealand. We will be theodolite tracking Hector's dolphins from a cliff overlooking the harbour in order to gather informations on the detections range of some acoustic devices (T-PODs) that will be deployed in the water during the observations.

Full training will be provided however a biology background and previous experience working with marine mammals is a bonus. The succesful applicant must be responsible and ready to work long hours outdoor.

Due to limited fundings we are not able to provide an accomodation however Akaroa offers a number of options including backpackers and camping grounds.

In order to apply please send your CV together with a cover letter to

scasi259@student.otago.ac.nz

Silvia Scali
PhD Candidate
Marine Mammal Research Group
Dept.of Marine Science
University of Otago
Ph. +64 9 950 3266
Cell. +64 021 222 6284

Empleo: Virginia, EEUU!

MARINE RESOURCE SPECIALIST POSITIONS

The Naval Facilities Engineering Command in Norfolk, Virginia is currently seeking qualified candidates with outstanding research, written and oral communication skills for a career position in the Marine Resources Section.

Duties will include preparation, management, and review of marine resources assessments; marine species density estimates; marine species survey plans and reports; Endangered Species Act (ESA) Section 7 documentation; Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) small take authorization requests; mitigation and monitoring plans; National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documentation; and environmental studies assessing the environmental impacts of proposed Navy/Marine Corps at-sea training operations.

The person(s) selected will be expected to participate in consultations with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) and the US Fish and Wildlife Service(USFWS), coordinate projects with a multi-disciplinary team, and manage contracts for research and compliance documents.

Experience or knowledge of the following is highly desirable: marine mammal, sea turtle, seabird or fisheries biology; research design for marine species monitoring programs; principals of underwater acoustics; statistical principles and methods; ESRI Geographic Information System (GIS) products; environmental legislation and DoD/Navy policy.

This is not afield biologist position, but there are numerous opportunities for travel.

Starting salary range is $45,040 to $58,557 depending on education and experience.

Applicants are encouraged to send a resume (no more than 2 pages long)to Erin Swiader (Jennifer.swiader@navy.mil) by Dec. 1.

J. Erin Swiader
Marine Resources Section Head
Naval Facilities Engineering Command Atlantic
757.322.4960 DSN 262.4960

Actividades: conferencia virtual!

CONFERENCIA VIRTUAL: "ACUICULTURA Y DELFINES MULARES EN EL MAR MEDITERRÁNEO: CAUSAS Y CONSECUENCIAS"

AQUA CAMPUS y el Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute (BDRI) http://www.thebdri.com/, vienen organizando la conferencia virtual: "Acuicultura y delfines mulares en el Mar Mediterráneo: convivencia o conflicto" que se transmitirá el viernes 28 de noviembre a las 15:00 horas de Europa.

La conferencia tiene como objetivo presentar los resultados de investigaciones realizadas para conocer la interacción entre cetáceos y la maricultura. Los resultados obtenidos por el Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI desde 1991 en la isla de Cerdeña son de gran utilidad para la gestión de los viveros con jaulas flotantes ante la presencia de depredadores como los delfines mulares.

La conferencia será brindada por el MSc. Bruno Díaz López, Director y Fundador del Instituto internacional para el estudio de los delfines mulares "Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute - BDRI".

La participación en la conferencia es libre, solo debe acceder a través de AQUA CAMPUS (http://campus.aqcen.com).

Mayores informes:
Blgo. Acui. Carmen R. Chimbor Mejía
Directora de Aqua Campus
cchimbor@aqcen.comcarmenchimbor@hotmail.com

Características técnicas que deben cumplir las computadoras de losparticipantes:
Internet Explorer 6.0 o FireFox 1.5 (browsers con Flash) en Windows 2000 o superior.

Algunos horarios de referencia:
Perú: 9:00 am
Argentina: 11:00 am (Buenos Aires)
Chile: 10:00 am (Santiago)
Brasil: 11:00 am (Sao Paulo)
Colombia: 9:00 am (Bogotá)
Venezuela: 10:00 am (Caracas)
Ecuador: 9:00 am (Quito)
México: 08:00 am (México DF)

Blgo. Acui. Milthon B. Lujan Monja
AQUA CENTER SRL
Urb. Santa Cristina C4-16, Nuevo Chimbote
Chimbote - Peru
http://www.aqcen.com
http://www.aquahoy.com
http://www.becasnews.com
Skype: milthon.lujan
mlujan@aqcen.com
milthon.lujan@gmail.com,
milthon_lujan@hotmail.com
Telefono: 51 043 318066
Movil: 51 043 943912190

jueves, 20 de noviembre de 2008

Empleo: Francia!

Marine Ecologist: marine mammal.

Applications are invited for job position (9 months) at the Centre de Recherche sur les Cétacés Marineland in Antibes,France.

Candidate: Applicants should have a minimum qualification of a Master degree or equivalent, preferably on marine ecology with experience in marine mammals. The candidate should be highly motivated and able to work both independently and as part of a team. Applicants should have good computer skills including Microsoft Excel, Word, Power point and GIS (preferably ArcView) and be familiar with some of these domains: statistical analysis, abundance estimation, GIS, modelling distribution, oceanography, remote sensing. Experience in cetaceans surveys at sea is an advantage.

French language is not compulsory, otherwise English will be needed.

Duration and Salary: Duration is 9 months.
Salary (gross) is 1 650 euro per month.

Closing date for applications is 30th December 2008. Applications should include curriculum vitae, a letter of application and a list of name of referees. Submit should be sent via e-mail to Sophie Laran: crc@marineland.fr or to the staff manager, S?verine Roussel : s.roussel@marineland.fr par snail mail to
Marineland, 306
avenue Mozart 06600 Antibes,
France.

Roles
- Marine mammals observers : line transect sampling (shipboard and aerial), biopsies collection,...
- Data coding, report editing, map editing using ArcView (8)
- Assisting Project Manager on different project: GIS project with remote sensing imagery, habitat model
- Developing new research projects on marine mammals of Marineland

Sophie Laran (PhD)
Centre de Recherche sur les Cétacés
Marineland - Parques Reunidos
306 av Mozart, 06600 Antibes, France
tel: +33 (0)4 93 33 55 77 / fax: +33 (0)4 93 33 76 91

Actividades: curso atención cetáceos y tortugas!

Curso "Atención Primaria en Varamientos de Cetáceos y Tortugas Marinas".

La Federación Sevillana de Ecologistas en Acción, a través del Programa de Recuperación de Fauna Marina de Almería (PROMAR) organizan el Curso "Atención Primaria en Varamientos de Cetáceos y Tortugas Marinas".

El curso se desarrollará el sábado día 13 de Diciembre en el Centro de Interpretación del Río (Parque San Jerónimo, s/n.) y sede de Ecologistas en Acción Sevilla.

El horario será de 10’00 a 14’00 horas y de 16’00 a 20’00 horas.

El curso es gratuito para los socios/as de Ecologistas en Acción y los demás pagarán gastos mínimos (3 Euros). Se dará certificado de asistencia, las inscripciones se harán a través del correo electrónico: sevilla@ecologistasenaccion.org, y del teléfono 954904241 (10:00 h. a 15:00 h. de Lunes a Viernes).

Atención: Asistencia limitada a 30 personas y la selección será por orden riguroso de inscripción.

El contenido del curso es el siguiente:
-Especies marinas mediterráneas en peligro.
-Biología y problemática de las tortugas marinas en el Mediterráneo.
-Tratamientos de tortugas varadas o accidentadas.
-Biología y problemática de los cetáceos en el Mediterráneo.
-Tratamientos de cetáceos varados o accidentados.

PROMAR-ALMERÍA es la responsable ante la Dirección General de Gestión del Medio Natural de la Consejería de Medio Ambiente de la Junta de Andalucía, del registro, asistencia y reintroducción de fauna marina protegida en la costa de Almería. PROMAR pertenece, a través de sus miembros, a la Sociedad Española de Cetáceos y sus instalaciones se encuentran en el Catálogo Nacional de Centros de Recuperación de Fauna Marina. El Programa de Recuperación de Fauna Marina de Almería se desarrolla siempre en coordinación con la Sociedad Española de Cetáceos y con sus Grupos de Trabajo.
Rogamos máxima difusión.

Actividades: Curso en La Gomera!

The non-profit association M.E.E.R. would like to announce it's next field course in behavioural biology in the Canary Islands:

"Field research of the project M.E.E.R. La Gomera"

from 19 April - 03 May 2009

The project M.E.E.R. La Gomera is conducting a study on the interactions between cetaceans and whale watching boats since many years. The participants of these 2-weeks practical courses will get an insight into the behavioural research conducted from whale watching boats operating off the island of La Gomera. In this area, 21 cetaceans species could be identified during the last years, representing one of the highest known species diversities in the world. A list of publications that resulted from this project is given below.

The course includes a full training program: the theory and practice of behavioural research will be learned and profound background information on whale watching will be given. Research experience that will be gained includes sighting data recording, behavioural sampling, photo identification and others.

The course is fully accepted for the study of Biology at the Humboldt-Universitaet Berlin (Germany) and the University of Vienna (Austria). Moreover, the research is embedded in conservation efforts aiming at the preservation and promotion of whale watching as a sustainable use of cetaceans and the establishment of a marine sanctuary in the waters off La Gomera.

M.E.E.R. La Gomera was honoured in 2001 with the international environmental award "Tourismus und Umwelt", which is granted since 1987 by the German Association of Travel Agencies and Travel Operators (DRV). As was said during the bestowal, the project"realises new ways of co-operation of research and tourism in an exemplary and innovative way".

For further information (including downloads of a detailed brochure anda booking form) please visit http://m-e-e-r.de/index.php?id=208&L=2

One course is offered during the 2009 spring time field season:19 April - 03 May 2009.
The price is 875.- € including 7 whale watching research excursions, accommodation, full training program, scientific supervision, donation to M.E.E.R. e.V., written working material, certificate of attendance and one year MEER e.V. membership
(The journey to and from La Gomera is not included in the price.)

Early bookings are accepted until 31 December 2008 at a price of 814.- €

For further information, booking, etc., please send an e-mail to info@m-e-e-r.de

The non-profit association M.E.E.R. is registred and based in Berlin. The objectives of the association are conservation, research and education in order to protect cetaceans in their natural habitats. Our work aims at increasing the public awareness for the oceans and to present ways how humans can deal with nature in a responsible way. Our co-operation partners are the "Deutsche Umwelthilfe"(Radolfzell/Germany) "Gesellschaft zur Rettung der Delphine"(Munich/Germany), and the "Oceano Gomera" (whale watching operator/LaGomera).

Publications in conjunction with the work of the project M.E.E.R. La Gomera:

Ritter, F. & Ladner, U.A. 1996. Whale Watch Research on La Gomera: A new Interdisciplinary Approach. European Research on Cetaceans 9. Proc. 9thAnn. Conf. ECS, Lisbon 1996, 48ff.

Ritter, F. 1996. Abundance, Distribution and Behaviour of Cetaceans offLa Gomera (Canary Islands) and Their Interaction with Whale Watching-Boats and Swimmers. Diploma Thesis to the University of Bremen,Faculty of Biology. 114pp.

Ritter, F. & Brederlau, B. 1998. First Report of Blue Whales (Balaenoptera musculus) Frequenting the Canary Island Waters. European Research on Cetaceans 12. Proc. 12th Ann. Conf. ECS, Monaco, 20-24thJanuary 1998, 95-98.

Ritter, F. & Brederlau, B. 1999. Abundance, Distribution and Behaviour of Dense Beaked Whales (Mesoplodon densirostris) off La Gomera (Canary Islands) and their Interactions with Humans. AQUATIC MAMMALS, 25.2,55-61.

Ritter, F. 2001. Twenty-one Cetacean Species off La Gomera (Canary Islands): Possible Reasons for an extraordinary Species Diversity. Poster presented at the 11th Annual Conference of the ECS, 5-7 May 2001,Rome, Italy.

Ritter, F. 2002. Behavioural Observations of Rough-toothed dolphins (Steno bredanensis) off La Gomera (Canary Islands) with a special Reference to their Interactions with Humans. AQUATIC MAMMALS 28.1,46-59.

Smit, V., Ritter, F. & Neumann, K. 2003. Feasibility study: Land-based observations of cetaceans off La Gomera. Abstr. 14 Ann. Conf. ECS, Gran Canaria, Spain.

Ritter, F. 2003. Boat-Related behaviours as a tool for the development of species-specific whale watching guidelines. Abstr. 14 Ann. Conf. ECS,Gran Canaria, Spain. R

itter, F. 2003. Interactions of Cetaceans with Whale Watching Boats -Implications for the Management of Whale Watching Tourism. M.E.E.R.e.V., Berlin, Germany, 91 pp.

Mayr, I. & Ritter, F.: PHOTO-IDENTIFICATION OF ROUGH-TOOTHED DOLPHINS OFF LA GOMERA (CANARY ISLANDS) WITH NEW INSIGHTS INTO SOCIAL ORGANISATION. Poster presented at the Annual Conference of the ECS, LaRochelle, France, April 2005.

Ritter, F. & Neumann, K. (2006): The Year of the Whale - Extraorbinary occurrence of Bryde's whales (Balaenoptera edeni) off La Gomera (Canary Islands). Poster presented at the 20th Annual Conference of the ECS in Gdynia, April 2006.

Ritter, F. (2007): BEHAVIORAL RESPONSES OF ROUGH-TOOTHED DOLPHINS TO A DEAD NEWBORN CALF. Marine Mammal Science, 23(2): 429-433

Carrillo, M. & Ritter, F. (2008). Increasing Numbers of Ship Strikes in the Canary Islands: Proposals for Immediate Action to Reduce Risk of Vessel-Whale Collisions. IWC Document SC/60/BC6.

Fabian Ritter
Vorsitzender
M.E.E.R. e.V
Bundesallee 123D-12161
Berlin
T/F: (0)30-85 07 87 55
e-Mail: ritter@m-e-e-r.de
www.m-e-e-r.org

miércoles, 19 de noviembre de 2008

Actividades: conferencias en Galicia!

"Nuevas estrategias en la conservación de las especies marinas en el norte peninsular"

Lugar: Museo del Mar, Vigo.
Fecha: 21 y 22 de noviembre de 2008.
Precio: gratuito.
Plazas: 80 (aún quedan plazas).
Organiza: CEMMA.
Inscripción: localcemma@arrakis.es

Temario:
- La conservación de un espacio marino bajo la máxima figura de protección: el ejemplo del Parque Nacional de las Islas Atlánticas.
- Estrategias proactivas de conservación de especies marinas del programa "La Caixa a favor del mar".
- Evolución social y destrucción ambiental: pasos en vista al desarrollo sostenible y la conservación.
- Redes interregionales de seguimiento de fauna marina: la red de observación de aves y mamíferos marinos (RAM).
- La ruta del Íbero en Galicia. Campaña de verano 2008.
- Monitorización y seguimiento de túnidos a través de la colocación de transmisores via satélite.
- ¿Focas en el norte peninsular?
- Introducción al proyecto " Divulgando a pe de mar".
- Estado y monitorización de las poblaciones de cetáceos en Galicia.
- Campañas Thunnus: los cetáceos de la costera del bonito.

Espero que sea de vuestro interés y que a alguien le de tiempo a apuntarse!

miércoles, 12 de noviembre de 2008

Actividades: exposición en Madrid!

Con motivo de la celebración de la Semana de la Ciencia se puede visitar la siguiente exposición:

"Delfines y Ballenas del Atlántico"

Organizan: Fundación INNOVAMAR y CEMMA.

Se adentrará a los visitantes en el apasionante mundo de los mamíferos marinos. La exposición abarcará distintas partes de la biología de estos animales, desde su sistema óseo, hasta el sistema reproductivo, pasando por su particular sistema de comunicación.

Fechas y horas: Martes 11 a Viernes 14 de 10:00 a 19:00 ; Sábado 15 de 10:00 a 14:00.

Lugar: Ciudad Universitaria, s/n. Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingenieros de Montes (Madrid).

Público destino: Público General, Público Especializado, Público Universitario, Estudiante ESO, Bachillerato y Ciclos Formativos, Estudiantes Primaria.

Observaciones: La exposición cuenta con material cedido para la ocasión por la Coordinadora para o Estudio de Mamíferos Marinos (CEMMA). Se compone de las secciones: sistema óseo, alimentación y reproducción en mamíferos marinos, y Comunicación en cetáceos.

Con reserva previa.

Dalia Perez
Telefóno: 917472116
Email: dperez@innovamar.org.
Fax: 913290713.

Voluntariado: mulares en Cerdeña!

Hi everyone,

on behalf of the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI (www.thebdri.com), I am pleased to announce that we are seeking 4 Bottlenose Dolphin Internships for our 2009 Winter season (a minimum of 7 weeks of participation between January - April) in Sardinia Island, Italy.

BDRI is a marine mammal science and education center located at Golfo Aranci in Sardinia Island, Italy. Sardinia Island is a marine biologist's paradise and the dolphin behaviour you will witness is unsurpassed. BDRI's researchers are engaged in the conduction of a long term study about the ecology and behaviour of wild bottlenose dolphins and the potential effects of human activities (fisheries, aquaculture and tourism) in their distribution and behaviour.

An internship period with the BDRI offers an invaluable exposure to boat based field work, marine mammals research, intensive training and mentoring in marine ecology, and encouragement to work hard, have fun, and learn from the dolphins and each other.

Undergraduate and postgraduate students can present their BDRI's personal research project as their Thesis. Internships can be used for academic or vocational purposes, but students are solely responsible for making all arrangements for receiving relevant credit(s) as a result of completing the internship.

Interns can expect to participate in and learn a variety of facets of marine mammal research as research assistants in three diverse research projects:

1. Mediterranean bottlenose dolphins societies project:
We will take and analyse identification photos, study group structure and composition to refine details of dolphin societies and responses to human activities at sea. Volunteers assist with data collection onboard helping to locate, photograph and keep track of bottlenose dolphin groups. Back at the lab volunteers restock field supplies, analyse photos and transcribe data collected.

2. Mediterranean bottlenose dolphin communication project:
We will record and monitor vocalizations to refine details of dolphins acoustic behaviour and responses to human activities at sea. Students will actively participate in data collection onboard and monitor dolphins vocalizations. Back at the lab volunteers restock field supplies, analyse and transcribe acoustical data collected.

3. Trial of acoustic deterrents for prevention of bottlenose dolphin bycatch:
We will test a new type of acoustic deterrent devices and study the interactions between bottlenose dolphins and aquaculture. Students will actively participate in acoustical and behavioural data collection onboard. Back at the lab volunteers restock field supplies, analyse and transcribe data collected.

Internships will stay in an apartment on Golfo Aranci. There is an internships cost of 25€/day and BDRI will provide housing and all associated field costs during the internships period (training, use of materials, electricity, gas, boat trips, etc). The apartment has a full kitchen and a full set of cooking utensils. Foods of all kinds are available at the local supermarkets within walking distance at your own expense.

There is no compensation for these internship positions and successful applicants will be responsible for their own transportation expenses to and from the research camp on Golfo Aranci (Sardinia, Italy). There is no deadline to apply. However, approved applications areaccepted on a first-come, first serve basis. Apply early! Start and end dates are flexible. Positions are open until filled.

Send cover letter or inquiries by email to the Research Chief, Bruno Diaz Lopez, at info@thebdri.com Please indicate in your cover letter the dates you are available.

Recent selected scientific publications by BDRI:
1. Diaz Lopez B. and Shirai, J.A., 2008. Marine aquaculture and bottlenose dolphins social structure. Behavioural Ecology and Sociobiology 62(6):887-894.
2. Diaz Lopez B., Bunke, M. and Shirai, J.A., 2008. Marine aquaculture off Sardinia Island (Italy): ecosystem effects evaluated through a trophic mass-balance model. Ecological Modelling 212:292-303.
3. Diaz Lopez B., Shirai, J.A.; Bilbao Prieto, A. & Méndez Fernández, P., 2008. Diving activity of a solitary wild free ranging bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). Journal of Marine Biological Association U.K 88(6):1153-1157.
4. Diaz Lopez B. and Shirai, J.A., 2007. "Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) presence and incidental capture in a marine fish farm on the noth-eastern coast of Sardinia (Italy)" Journal of Marine Biological Association U.K, 87, 113-117.
5. Díaz López, B., 2006. "Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) Predation on a Marine Fin Fish Farm: Some Underwater Observations". Aquatic Mammals 32(3): 305 - 310 pp.
6. Díaz López, B., 2006. "Interactions between Mediterranean bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and gillnets off Sardinia". ICES Journal of Marine Science 63: 944-951 pp.

Bruno Díaz López
Research Biologist / Marine Zoologist
Chief Researcher
The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI
V.Armando Diaz Nº4
07020 Golfo Aranci (SS) Italy
http://www.thebdri.com
info@thebdri.com
Tel: + (39) 346 0815414

jueves, 6 de noviembre de 2008

Actividades: curso a distancia!

Os cuelgo la información de un curso a distancia. Parece interesante y el temario es extenso. Sin embargo no está al alcance de todos los bolsillos.

WINTER 2009 MARINE MAMMAL MANAGEMENT COURSE ANNOUNCEMENT

This is an opportunity for you to consider our unique offering in the study of a fascinating but curiously unknown aquatic form of life through:

THE OCEANOGRAPHIC CENTER OF NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY'S GLOBAL DISTANCE EDUCATION COURSE IN MARINE MAMMAL MANAGEMENT (MMM).

THIS COURSE IS OFFERED TO ANYONE, ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD THROUGH DISTANCE LEARNING.

Registration starts December 1, 2008, closes on January 9, 2009

There are four versions:
a) full three credit graduate level - $745/credit hour. 3 credit course = $2235.
b) an undergraduate credit - $950
c) a general interest (audit) diploma - $1117.50
d) as part of the graduate certificate - contact the coordinator at douganj@nova.edu

MMM runs from JANUARY 5 TO MARCH 27, 2009, and covers a range of pertinent topics as indicated by the Table of Contents:

Information for Current Term.

1. Introduction to Marine Mammals
2. Marine Mammal Management
3. Introduction to Cetaceans
4. Beluga Whale, and "toxic soups"
5. Dolphins, non-consumptive use
6. Bowheads, the subsidence balance
7. Orcas, of killers and Keikos
8. Pilots, stranding and utilization
9. Introduction to Pinnipeds
10 Monk Seals
11. California Sea Lion, Big Sur and surviva
12. Harp Seal, to hunt or not to hunt?
13. Introduction to Sirenids
14. Manatee, the harassed herbivore
15. Introduction to Marine Fissipeds
16. Polar Bear, the Inuit, success and hope
17. Acoustic Stimuli of Marine Mammals
18. Marine Mammal Conservation & Future Management

There are two essay assignments for those taking the credit versions. First is due on FEBRUARY 8th with a value of 30%; the last on MARCH 22nd for 60% of the final mark. The remaining 10% is held for Interaction evaluation – how well the candidate participates within any class e-mail discussion and replies to requests.

Candidates will receive comments on the first assignment, mainly as an aid in the final essay, and evaluation. The last essay is equivalent of a final exam and is not returned. Those taking the diploma program may submit the assignments and participate in the Interaction; however, not for marks, but certainly for comment.

As communication and interaction throughout the term will be mainly via e-mail, it is essential that all have some electronic means of communication and submitting essays. Essays should be sent using "MS Word" format.

For general information on the course, contact: http://www.nova.edu/ocean/marmam/marmam.html http://www.nova.edu/ocean/disted.html
http://www.nova.edu/ocean/distedregform.html

Thank you.

Professor Keith Ronald and Barra L. Gots
Instructors for the Marine Mammal Management Distance Education course.
Please reply to Barra Gots: gots@nova.edu

miércoles, 5 de noviembre de 2008

Actualidad: rorcual aliblanco avistado en Río Negro!

Hoy he recibido estas alucinantes fotos de un rorcual aliblanco o ballena minke avistado completamente fuera de su rango de distribución en la provincia de Río Negro en Argentina. Las fotos son cortesía de Tony Brochado, buzo autor de las mismas! Gracias Tony!


Avistan ejemplar de ballena de Antártida en San Antonio Este.


Este ejemplar de ballena Minke, propia de las aguas Antárticas fue fotografiado en el golfo de San Matías, a una milla náutica del puerto rionegrino de San Antonio Este y 200 kilómetros de Viedma, según el informe del buzo profesional Tony Brochado.


El especialista náutico estaba navegando en una lancha rápida, ayer por la tarde, acompañando a la bióloga Verónica Serman, afectada al estudio de impacto del dragado Puerto de San Antonio Este, cuando observaron a lo lejos el salto del cetáceo.

“Nos acercamos a una distancia suficiente como para registrar buenas fotos y pudimos comprobar que se trataba de una ballena, pero no un ejemplar de la especie 'franca austral' que comúnmente llega a esta zona” dijo Brochado, en diálogo con Télam.

Agregó que “por lo que pudimos ver en ese momento y después, en la foto digital ampliada, es una ballena de aleta dorsal y corresponde al tipo Minke o ballena de Drake”.

Este tipo de cetáceos mide hasta 10 metros de largo y puede pesar unas cinco toneladas, con una forma muy estilizada en su cabeza, y habita aguas muy frías en cercanías de la Antártida.

Brochado aseguró que “no hay registros de la observación de ejemplares vivos en aguas cálidas como la del golfo San Matías, aunque se han encontrado algunas ballenas de este tipo ya muertas en las playas de la región”.

El esqueleto completo de una ballena, hallado hace más de 30 años en cercanías de San Antonio Oeste, se exhibe en el centro de interpretación de fauna marina de Punta Bermeja, en la reserva de lobos marinos ubicada a 60 kilómetros de Viedma.
LINKS:

Actividades: curso en el Oceanográfico de Valencia!

Curso de manejo y mantenimiento de mamíferos marinos.

Curso avanzado dirigido a personas interesadas en aumentar sus conocimientos sobre mamíferos marinos y su mantenimiento en medio controlado.

Duración: 20h.
Horario: de lunes a viernes de 16:00 a 20:00h.
Fecha: 18-20 Mayo 2009.
Lugar: Aulas y laboratorios del edificio E+I (edificio de educación e investigación), e instalaciones y zona técnica del Oceanográfico.
Precio: 130 € estudiantes, 150 € público en general.

Requisitos:

Preferiblemente estudiantes universitarios y de módulos formativos relacionados con la temática del curso, interesados en profundizar sobre aspectos de algunos mamíferos marinos y su mantenimiento en medio controlado.

Objetivos:

- Recordar las principales características biológicas de los mamíferos marinos.
- Profundizar en el conocimiento de los cetáceos odontocetos; comportamiento, manejo y entrenamiento en medio controlado de belugas (Delphinapterus leucas) y delfines (Tursiops truncatus).
- Profundizar en el conocimiento de los pinnípedos; comportamiento, entrenamiento y manejo en medio controlado.
- Conocer las principales técnicas del mantenimiento de instalaciones para mamíferos marinos.
- Calidad de agua y filtración.
- Conocer las principales patologías y los principales procedimientos en medicina preventiva de mamíferos marinos.
- Conocer las técnicas de transporte de mamíferos marinos y la normativa vigente (CITES).
- Descubrir algunas técnicas de enriquecimiento ambiental para mamíferos marinos en medio controlado.
- Conocer algunos proyectos de conservación e investigación con animales marinos.

Contenidos:

- Características biológicas de los mamíferos marinos:
* Clasificación
* Adaptaciones
* Particularidades de cada grupo

- Manejo en medio controlado
* Instalaciones y calidad de agua
* Alimentación
* Comportamiento: Entrenamientos y Enriquecimiento Ambiental
* Transporte
* Medicina veterinaria de mamíferos marinos
* Reproducción

- Conservación e investigación
* CITES
* Proyectos de Conservación e Investigación

También se celebrarán cursos de introducción a la biología marina, manejo y mantenimiento de tiburones, y biología. recuperación y conservación de tortugas marinas.

Más información en:
http://www.cac.es/microsites/loscursosoce/curso_mamiferos.htm

martes, 4 de noviembre de 2008

Voluntariado: CIRCE!

Participa en nuestros estudios de cetáceos desde tierra en 2009.

A partir de marzo CIRCE continuará con sus muestreos desde tierra para la observación y seguimiento de orcas y rorcuales, para lo cual requerimos de vuestra participación como voluntarios.

Os ofrecemos la participación en un proyecto científico con aplicación a la conservación de estas dos especies, con estancias de duración de una semana como mínimo, pero si lo prefieres puede ser más amplia, además de los conocimientos que se adquirirán en el campo, se ofrecen charlas informativas de los cetáceos del Estrecho de Gibraltar, basadas en la investigación que CIRCE viene llevando a cabo desde 1998 en la zona. No os preocupéis por el alojamiento, CIRCE pondrá a vuestra disposición el alojamiento adecuado para cada uno de los proyectos, una casa en Barbate para el proyecto de orcas y en el caso del proyecto de rorcuales una casa en el estrecho. Dada vuestra condición de voluntarios, contaréis con el seguro de voluntario tal y como requiere la Ley de Voluntariado 6/1996.

Condiciones

El principal requisito que debes cumplir para asistir como voluntario a alguno de estos proyectos es ser amigo de CIRCE, si todavía no lo eres, no te preocupes junto a la ficha de inscripción tendrás la opción de hacerte amigo de CIRCE, ficha que encontrarás al final de esta página. Vuestro cometido será el de ayudarnos en la búsqueda activa de orcas y rorcuales, desde tierra gracias a la utilización de prismáticos y telescopios, así como de realizar su seguimiento cuando sean avistados.

Debéis tener en cuenta que se trabajará durante todas las horas de sol posibles que se irán ajustando dependiendo de la época del año en la que nos encontremos, además debemos de contar con las condiciones meteorológicas, esto quiere decir, que cuando el mar esté demasiado revuelto o llueva, será imposible nuestra búsqueda, ya que se hace imposible la búsqueda de los animales, pero no os preocupéis, os ofreceremos actividades alternativas, como pueden ser charlas informativas de cetáceos o visitas a diferentes lugares de interés de la zona (duna de Bolonia, cabo de Trafalgar, cuevas …).

La comida no estará incluida dentro de la oferta, pero se harán compras conjuntas para la semana de estancia, de modo que no os falte de nada. Además debemos de advertiros que no siempre es posible el avistamiento de los animales, aunque las condiciones meteorológicas sean las perfectas, ya que estas dos especies no presentan una distribución concreta en la zona, es decir, el rorcual común presenta un patrón de migración entre el mar Mediterráneo y el Océano Atlántico a través del Estrecho de Gibraltar, y la orca presenta un patrón de distribución muy amplio por todo lo ancho y amplio del Estrecho de Gibraltar. Los periodos elegidos para la realización de esta actividad son los momentos en los que la posibilidad de encuentro de los animales es más alta.

Fechas

La participación a los proyectos es del domingo por la noche hasta el sábado por la noche. El proyecto de orcas tendrá lugar del 15 de marzo hasta el 30 mayo. El proyecto de rorcual empieza el 31 de mayo hasta el 1 de agosto. Para consultar fechas y disponibilidad de plazas, consulta la siguiente web:

http://www.circe-asso.org/spanish/index.html

Inscripción

Para inscribirte para una semana o más a los proyectos, rellena la ficha disponible en la web y envíala por email a la dirección siguiente: voluntariado@circe-asso.org

Empleo: profesor ciencias marinas!

WANTED: Professors to teach experiential field courses in Marine Science summer programs in Fiji, Costa Rica, Caribbean, and Canada.


Academic Treks - College Without Boarders (ATC) has summer employment job offerings to individuals with PhD degrees in Marine Science fields.


* Marine Mammal Ecology (Canada) - High school and college level programs

* Shark Behavior and Conservation (Fiji) - High school and college level programs

* Sea Turtle Ecology and Conservation (Costa Rica)- High school and college level programs

* Tropical Marine Biology (Various Caribbean Islands)- High school and college level programs

* Oceanography (Various Caribbean Islands) - College level programs only (PhD preferred, Masters required).

* Marine Reserves Management (Various Caribbean Islands) - High school and college level programs

AT and ATC offers high school and college students the opportunity to immerse themselves in another culture while experientially studying Marine Science and earning college credit.

Instructors are needed to teach marine science courses in many locations abroad. In addition to teaching the course, instructors are responsible for facilitating groups, leading adventure activities and field trips such as hiking, involving students in community service projects, facilitating home stays and handling various other Course Instructor responsibilities.

Qualifications:
Masters or PhD in Marine Science or relevant field (specific to program applying for), teaching experience in the subject area, proficiency in language spoken, international travel experience, experience working with young adults, and flexibility.

Dates:
Staff training includes a couple weekend trainings in April/May,as well as a week in late May. Courses run from May-August. Each courseis about 21 - 35 days.

Click here to apply.
http://www.gobroadreach.com/contact/employment/emp_inquiry.asp

Visit http://www.broadreachstaff.com/ to apply online or send resume, cover letter, photo, and contact information for 3 references to

Lauren Marchman,
Broadreach Academic Treks,
806 McCulloch Street, Suite 102,
Raleigh, NC 27603.
Fax:919-833-2129
Phone 919-256-8205/888-833-1907
Email: staffinquiry@gobroadreach.com.

For more information about our highschool programs, please visit www.academictreks.com ; or for our college programs, please visit www.academictrekscollege.com.

Voluntariado: Elefantes marinos!

Intern for the winter season on the Farallones (Dec 5- March 15). Please forward to all qualified folks you may know looking for a winter on SEFI.

VOLUNTEER ELEPHANT SEAL AND SALAMANDER RESEARCH ASSISTANT

Needed for winter on Southeast Farallon Island, 28 miles west of San Francisco, California. Daily duties involve observation of elephant seal breeding colony, including flipper-tag reading, tagging and marking of cows and pups, keeping accurate data records of pup births and deaths, and data entry and proofing. Additional work involves twice monthly cover board surveys of Farallon salamander (Aneides lugubris farallonensis), including measuring and weighing all captured salamanders.

Furthermore, RAs monitor the number and species of all birds on the island, conduct daily weather and oceanic observations. RAs also contribute to the upkeep, cleaning, and maintenance of the research station. RAs will work full-time, 7 days a week, with a variable schedule that sometimes includes long days.

Field work requires rigorous physical activity including strenuous hiking and climbing. Excellent vision, possession of good quality binoculars, being comfortable in close proximity to large toothy mammals, and hand strength for tagging are required.

Applicants should enjoy working independently with a high level of responsibility in field work and data entry as well as working frequently with a partner or team. Preference will be given to applicants with a degree in biology or related field and prior ecological research experience.

Enthusiasm for field work in windy, wet, chilly conditions is essential. The ability to coexist on a small, isolated island with gulls and humans is important.

Position is 5 Dec through 15 March.

RAs are volunteers, we provide training, great food, comfortable island housing, and a unique experience.

Please send a cover letter; resume/CV; and names, phone numbers, and email of 3 field work supervisors to
Derek E. Lee (dlee@prbo.org)
Farallon Biologist,
PRBO Conservation Science.

Visit our website at: http://www.prbo.org/cms/index.php?mid=157&module=browse for more info.

Voluntariado: Mississippi!

The University of Southern Mississippi Psychology Department is offering a Marine Mammal Behavior and Cognition internship to college juniors, seniors and recent graduates for spring 2009.

College credits for the internship are awarded by the University of Southern Mississippi. Interns work with faculty and graduate student researchers. They gain experience in different areas, such as boat-based wild dolphin research and assisting with data analysis in our research laboratory.

Interns gain hands-on experience during boat surveys studying the Mississippi Gulf Coast bottlenose dolphin population as a part of USM´s Wild Dolphin Project. Interns assist in the collection of environmental and behavioral data, using a variety of scientific tools and methods. Interns may also have an opportunity to help in the analysis of such data.

In the research laboratory, at the USM Hattiesburg campus, interns have the opportunity to learn about behavioral analysis as well as acoustical analysis. Interns are required to complete a small project on an assigned relevant topic.

For more information on our research, please visit our website:
http://www.usm.edu/psy-kuczaj/

The internship is a full time voluntary position, and students are responsible for their own transportation and housing arrangements.

Students interested in the Marine Mammal Behavior and Cognition internship are required to send:
- a resume
- a letter of intent including career goals and reasons for wanting the internship (what you expect to contribute and gain from the internship)
- an unofficial or official copy of your transcripts
- at least two letters of recommendation (preferably from college professors who know you personally)

All materials should be sent to:

Internship Coordinator
Department of Psychology
The University of Southern Mississippi
118 College Drive, # 5025
Hattiesburg, MS 39406-5025

Materials may arrive separately or together, but the complete application must be postmarked by December 1st. For more information, you can email the internship coordinator at kuczaj_laboratory@yahoo.com.

Actividades: curso "Pescadores y Fauna Marina"!

Curso de nuevas tecnologías para el sector pesquero
reducción de capturas accidentales

Vamos a pescar MAS peces y MENOS especies protegidas. Es la filosofía que tiene el curso que presentamos.

Dirigido principalmente a profesionales de la pesca, pero también a otros como "observadores" y personas relacionadas con la materia.

Será impartido por el responsable del Proyecto TECNO Ricardo Sagarminaga.

Al inicio del curso se hará entrega del material.

Fecha: sábado 8 de noviembre de 2008
Horario: de 10 a 13 horas
Lugar: Carboneras (Almería), sede de la Asociación de Armadores CARBOPESCA, c/ Bailén, Nº 3 B

Organiza: PROMAR-Almería
Financia: Consejería de Agricultura y Pesca de la Junta de Andalucía
Colaboran:

- Secretaría General del Mar del Ministerio de Medio Ambiente y Medio Rural y Marino (Proyecto TECNO).
- Asociación científica Alnitak.
- Cofradía de Pescadores de Carboneras.
- Asociación de Armadores CARBOPESCA.

domingo, 2 de noviembre de 2008

Voluntariado: Massachusetts!

Job Description: 3 field assistants are needed for a project in bottlenose dolphin strand-feeding behavior in Bull Creek, South Carolina. Bull Creek is a Spartina marsh system, part of Calibogue Sound estuary located west of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.

Successful applicants will help with data collection and entry and photo-identification. The field season will run approximately 6 months, from March through the end of August. Priority will be given to applicants who can stay for the entire season,but it may be possible to accept applicants who can only participate in part of the field season. A minimum commitment of two months is required.

Housing will be provided near study site with PI.

Qualifications:
-Assistants will be expected to work on a boat 6 to 7 days per week, for up to 6 hours at a time. --Assistants should be hard working, flexible, easy-going, work well in a team, and willing to work early morning.
-Preference will be given to assistants who have prior experience working on dolphins, photo-identification, or boating.

To apply please send the following:
(1) cover letter describing your interest in the position,
(2) CV or resume and (3) contact information for 2 references to

Teresa Gisburne at g_tgisburne@umassd.edu.
Teresa Gisburne
Masters Graduate Student
Department of Biology
University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth
285 Old Westport Rd.
North Dartmouth, MA 02747

Voluntariado: Cerdeña!

On behalf of the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI (www.thebdri.com), I am pleased to announce that we are seeking 4 Bottlenose Dolphin Internships for our 2009 Winter season (a minimum of 7 weeks of participation between January - April) in Sardinia Island, Italy.

BDRI is a marine mammal science and education center located at Golfo Aranci in Sardinia Island, Italy. Sardinia Island is a marine biologist's paradise and the dolphin behaviour you will witness is unsurpassed. BDRI's researchers are engaged in the conduction of a long term study about the ecology and behaviour of wild bottlenose dolphins and the potential effects of human activities (fisheries, aquaculture and tourism) in their distribution and behaviour.

An internship period with the BDRI offers an invaluable exposure to boat based field work, marine mammals research, intensive training and mentoring in marine ecology, and encouragement to work hard, have fun, and learn from the dolphins and each other.

Undergraduate and postgraduate students can present their BDRI's personal research project as their Thesis. Internships can be used for academic or vocational purposes, but students are solely responsible for making all arrangements for receiving relevant credit(s) as a result of completing the internship.

Interns can expect to participate in and learn a variety of facets of marine mammal research as research assistants in three diverse research projects:

1. Mediterranean bottlenose dolphins societies project: We will take and analyse identification photos, study group structure and composition to refine details of dolphin societies and responses to human activities at sea. Volunteers assist with data collection onboard helping to locate, photograph and keep track of bottlenose dolphin groups. Back at the lab volunteers restock field supplies, analyse photos and transcribe data collected.

2. Mediterranean bottlenose dolphin communication project: We will record and monitor vocalizations to refine details of dolphins acoustic behaviour and responses to human activities at sea. Students will actively participate in data collection onboard and monitor dolphins vocalizations. Back at the lab volunteers restock field supplies, analyse and transcribe acoustical data collected.

3. Trial of acoustic deterrents for prevention of bottlenose dolphin bycatch: We will test a new type of acoustic deterrent devices and study the interactions between bottlenose dolphins and aquaculture. Students will actively participate in acoustical and behavioural data collection onboard. Back at the lab volunteers restock field supplies, analyse and transcribe data collected.

Internships will stay in an apartment on Golfo Aranci. There is an internships cost of 25€/day and BDRI will provide housing and all associated field costs during the internships period (training, use of materials, electricity, gas, boat trips, etc). The apartment has a full kitchen and a full set of cooking utensils. Foods of all kinds are available at the local supermarkets within walking distance at your own expense. There is no compensation for these internship positions and successful applicants will be responsible for their own transportation expenses to and from the research camp on Golfo Aranci (Sardinia, Italy). There is no deadline to apply. However, approved applications areaccepted on a first-come, first serve basis. Apply early! Start and end dates are flexible. Positions are open until filled.

Send cover letter or inquiries by email to the Research Chief, Bruno Diaz Lopez, at info@thebdri.com. Please indicate in your cover letter the dates you are available.

Recent selected scientific publications by BDRI:
1. Diaz Lopez B. and Shirai, J.A., 2008. Marine aquaculture and bottlenose dolphins social structure. Behavioural Ecology and Sociobiology 62(6):887-894.
2. Diaz Lopez B., Bunke, M. and Shirai, J.A., 2008. Marine aquaculture off Sardinia Island (Italy): ecosystem effects evaluated through a trophic mass-balance model. Ecological Modelling 212:292-303.
3. Diaz Lopez B., Shirai, J.A.; Bilbao Prieto, A. & Méndez Fernández, P., 2008. Diving activity of a solitary wild free ranging bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). Journal of Marine Biological Association U.K 88(6):1153-1157.
4. Diaz Lopez B. and Shirai, J.A., 2007. "Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) presence and incidental capture in a marine fish farm on the noth-eastern coast of Sardinia (Italy)" Journal of Marine Biological Association U.K, 87, 113-117.
5. Díaz López, B., 2006. "Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) Predation on a Marine Fin Fish Farm: Some Underwater Observations". Aquatic Mammals 32(3): 305 - 310 pp.
6. Díaz López, B., 2006. "Interactions between Mediterranean bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and gillnets off Sardinia". ICES Journal of Marine Science 63: 944-951 pp.

Bruno Diaz Lopez
Research Biologist / Marine Zoologist
Chief Researcher
The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI
V.Armando Diaz Nº4 07020 Golfo Aranci (SS) Italyhttp://www.thebdri.cominfo@thebdri.comTel: + (39) 346 0815414