Voluntariado: Australia!

Shark Bay Humpback Whale Survey, 2008

Project title: Population status of Western Australian humpback whales.

This project will complement a major existing data setf rom surveys undertaken in 1999 and 2005 on northward migrating humpback whales from one of seven currently recognized southern hemisphere breeding stocks (Breeding Stock D).

As in 2005, there will be two components (i) an aerial survey over two months, covering the peak migration period past Shark Bay, WA, where regular aerial surveys provided relative abundance and trend information over 1982-1994; (ii) a land-based survey over a shorter period, to 'ground-truth' the aerial survey. The result should be an estimated current absolute abundance for this Breeding Stock for use in comprehensive assessments of southern hemisphere whale stocks, essential for their conservation and rational management.

Up to 6 participants are needed as part of a team to help with the land-based element of an aerial survey for humpback whales off SharkBay, Western Australia. Shark Bay is located on the most western point of the coast of Australia and field work will be undertaken on Dirk Hartog Island, an island within the Shark Bay World Heritage Area world renowned for its significant conservation values due to its diverse and ecologically important species of plants and animals.

When: for approx 2 weeks from approx 6th July 2008.
What: to observe, count and record northbound humpback whales within visual range of the cliffs of Dirk Hartog Island, off the west coast of Shark Bay.
Who: Participants must
- have an interest in marine biology
- show common sense and have proven ability to work as part of a team
- have general outdoor field experience (camping will be involved)
Desired:
- have a first degree in science Preferred: -
have previous cetacean experience
- previous experience in theodolite tracking and Cyclopes 4 wheel drive ability would be an advantage.

All expenses will be covered during the survey. Some limited assistance may be available for transport Perth/Denham and return. Anyone interested should email Rebecca Dunlop and Joshua Smith (seebelow) immediately, with a cover letter, CV, the names of two referees and contact details.

Dr. Rebecca Dunlop
School of Veterinary Sciences
University of Queensland
St. Lucia QLD 4072
Tel: +61 7 33652088 0437434041
Email: r.dunlop@uq.edu.au

Joshua Smith
School of Integrative Biology
University of Queensland
St Lucia, Qld 4072, Australia
Phone: +61 7 3365 4825
Email j.smith@sib.uq.edu.au