Activities: Workshops at St Andrews!!

The Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling (CREEM) is hosting two linked workshops in the summer of 2010 in our purpose-built facilities at the University of St Andrews, Scotland. The aim of these workshops is to train participants in the latest methods for design and analysis of distance sampling surveys, including line and point transects. The workshops are taught by leading researchers in the field, using industry-standard software.

The first workshop (24-27 August) will run at an introductory level, and will focus on "conventional" distance sampling methods, as described in the standard reference book "Introduction to Distance Sampling." The workshop will be a blend of theory and practice and participants will learn how to use the program "Distance." Participants will gain a solid grounding in both survey design and methods of analysis for distance sampling surveys.

The advanced distance sampling workshop (30 August - 1 September) will include advanced treatment of: incorporating covariates in detection function modelling, analyses in which detectability on the transect line is not assumed to be perfect (the so-called g(0) problem), automated survey design, advanced stratified survey analysis, advanced trend analysis, and adaptive survey designs. The aim of this workshop is to bring participants up to date with the latest developments in distance sampling methods and software. It is also an opportunity for those actively engaged in the design, analysis and execution of distance sampling surveys to discuss common issues and problems, and set future research directions. The workshop will be a combination of lectures and computer sessions, with considerable time for discussion.

For both workshops, participants are encouraged to bring their own data sets, and can expect to do some preliminary analyses with their data. 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.

Additional details regarding the workshop can be found at our website
http://www.ruwpa.st-and.ac.uk/distance.workshops/distance2010/workshop_overview.html

Actividades: curso CRAM!

Como cada año la Fundación CRAM (www.cram.org) organiza el Curso de Clínica y Manejo de Animales Marinos. Este año celebramos la XII edición y por primera vez los cursos se realizarán del 22 de febrero al 15 de marzo y los alumno de diversas universidades podrán convalidar el curso con créditos de libre elección.

En los archivos adjuntos te hago llegar tanto el programa, como el cartel, como información para hacer la preinscripción y matrícula. El plazo de preinscripción termina el 8 de febrero, por ello, agradeceremos cualquier acción de divulgación que se quiera hacer al respecto.

Para más información no dudes en contactar con la Fundación CRAM: formacion@cram.org
93 7524581

PROGRAMA

Biología de tortugas marinas. Problemas de conservación
Perspectiva general de la ecología y Dinámica de poblaciones de la tortuga boba (Caretta caretta). Hábitats y amenazas de esta especie en Mediterráneo.

Anatomía, Fisiología y Adaptaciones al medio de tortugas marinas
Características anatómicas específicas de la tortuga boba del Mediterráneo. Adaptaciones evolutivas de estas especies para desenvolverse en el medio marino.

Exploración, diagnóstico, Técnicas Quirúrgicas en tortugas marinas
Partes del examen físico general en tortugas marinas, técnicas diagnósticas (radiografía, ecografía, resonancia magnética...), procedimientos clínicos y tratamientos de las patologías frecuentes.

Necropsia de tortuga marina
Taller práctico de análisis postmortem de una tortuga boba. Descripción de los pasos a seguir, instrumental necesario y anatomía práctica.

Biología de cetáceos. Problemas de conservación
Identificación de especies, hábitats y ecología de los cetáceos del Mediterráneo. Descripción de las principales amenazas que afectan a su supervivencia.

Anatomía, fisiología y adaptaciones al medio de los cetáceos
Características anatómicas específicas de los cetáceos del Mediterráneo. Adaptaciones evolutivas de estas especies para desenvolverse en el medio marino.

Actuación Frente a cetáceos varados. Exploración y diagnóstico.
Protocolo de asistencia frente al varamiento de un cetáceo y técnicas de exploración clínica.

Simulacro de rescate de un delfín.
Taller práctico de actuación frente a un varamiento de delfín: exploración física, tratamiento inicial y material necesario para el rescate.

Manipulación y exploración de tortugas marinas
Descripción de las técnicas de manejo necesarias para la asistencia de estos animales. Explicación de técnicas de exploración mínimamente invasivas.

Zoonosis
Descripción de las enfermedades más comunes que los animales marinos pueden contagiar a los humanos y métodos de prevención.

Caso Prestige
Protocolo de actuación frente a un vertido de crudo en el medio marino. Conclusiones extraídas de la experiencia práctica en el caso Prestige.

Hematología y prácticas de laboratorio
Taller práctico de analítica sanguínea e identificación celular en Caretta caretta. Alteraciones hematológicas y su interpretación clínica.

Necropsia de un delfín
Taller práctico de análisis postmortem de un delfín listado (Stenella coeruolealba). Descripción de los pasos a seguir, instrumental necesario y anatomía práctica.

Biología y conservación en Aves Marinas
Perspectiva general de la ecología y Dinámica de poblaciones las aves marinas amenazadas del mediterráneo. Hábitats, amenazas e identificación de especies.

La recuperació de les aus marines
El rescat, trasllat i condicionament dels animals. Maneig de les aus. Alimentació. Normes de seguretat. Exploració, diagnòstic i tractament. Casos d’animals tractats. L’alliberament al seu hàbitat natural.

Pesquerías y artes de pesca. Normativas e impactos.
Descripción de las diferentes técnicas pesqueras utilizadas en nuestras costas y sus efectos en ecosistemas y las especies marinas amenazadas. Legislación vigente.

Mesa redonda con pescadores
Punto de encuentro entre investigadores y profesionales de la pesca para dinamizar la comunicación entre ambos colectivos.

Elasmobranquis (peixos cartilaginosos)
Biologia i problemes de conservació. Identificació de les principals espècies de la Mediterrània. Hàbitats i principals amenaces.

Anatomía, fisiología, adaptaciones al medio de aves marinas. Exploración, diagnóstico y técnicas quirúrgicas.
Características anatómicas específicas de las aves marinas amenazadas del Mediterráneo. Descripción de técnicas exploratorias, diagnósticas y tratamientos de las principales patologías.

Necropsia de ave marina.
Taller práctico de análisis postmortem de un ave marina. Descripción de los pasos a seguir, instrumental necesario y anatomía práctica.

CARGA LECTIVA.: 40 h

PRECIO: 450 euros

INFORMACIÓN E INSCRIPCIONES

Para realizar la inscripción o solicitar información contactar con:

CRAM - Área de Educación y Formación
Camí Ral, 239 - 08330 - Premià de Mar - Barcelona
Teléfono: +34 93 752 45 81
Fax: +34 93 752 57 10
formacion@cram.org

Actividades: curso biología e identificación cetáceos SEAWOLVES!

CURSO SOBRE CETÁCEOS: BIOLOGÍA E IDENTIFICACIÓN

Fechas: 22 al 25 de Julio de 2010

Lugar: Salón de Actos del Hotel Al Mar

Algeciras (Cádiz)

Prácticas en Tarifa - SALIDAS EN BARCO

Contacto: info@seawolves.es

carmen_arija@hotmail.com

(0034) 619 69 01 15

CONTENIDOS

Teoría

1.- Orcen Cetacea

1. Introducción
2. Adaptaciones
3. Taxonomía

2.- Odontocetos

1. Características del grupo
2. Especies a nivel mundial
3. Especies de aguas españolas: características físicas y biológicas

3.- Misticetos

1. Características del grupo
2. Especies a nivel mundial
3. Especies de aguas españolas: características físicas y biológicas

4.- Identificación

1. Criterios de localización e identificación de cetáceos en el mar
2. Identificación de las especies de aguas ibéricas
   1. Morfología
   2. Coloración
   3. Patrones de comportamiento
   4. Distribución
   5. Hábitos

5.- Varamientos

1. Definición, concepto y tipos
2. Causas
3. Protocolo de actuación

Prácticas

- 3 SALIDAS EN BARCO en el Estrecho de Gibraltar para la búsqueda, observación e identificación de cetáceos en estado silvestre: delfines mulares (Tursiops truncatus), Orcas (Orcinus orca), delfines comunes (Delphinus delphi), listado (Stenella coeruleoalba), calderones comunes (Globicephala melas), etc.

- Simulacro de Actuación en un Varamiento: protocolos de trabajo y práctica in situ.

HORARIO:

- Inicio curso: día 22 de Julio a las 10:00 de la mañana

- Clausura: día 25 hacia las 15:30 o 16:00 horas

- Jornada mañana y tarde todos los días, salvo el 25.

PRECIO:

SIN ALOJAMIENTO:

- Antiguos alumnos de Sea Wolves: 330 €

- Estudiantes: 350 €

- Resto: 370 €

Si quieres ALOJAMIENTO en el Hotel Al Mar mándanos un correo a carmen_arija@hotmail.com y te facilitaremos las tarifas especiales con las que cuentan los alumnos de Sea Wolves.

El precio del curso incluye:

- Certificado de asistencia

- Resumen de los contenidos tratados en el curso

- Clases teóricas

- Desplazamientos entre Algeciras y Tarifa para las prácticas

- Salidas en barco

No se incluye:

- Desplazamiento hasta Algeciras (Cádiz) desde el punto de origen de cada participante

- Manutención

Actividades: curso cuidado mamíferos marinos SEAWOLVES!

CUIDADO DE MAMÍFEROS MARINOS EN ENTORNOS CONTROLADOS

Fechas: 24 y 25 de Abril de 2010

Lugar: Madrid - C/Pizarro, 19

(Aulas edificio Eberlin Beauty International)

ÚLTIMAS PLAZAS

Contacto: info@seawolves.es

carmen_arija@hotmail.com

(0034) 619 69 01 15

CONTENIDOS

1.- Introducción a los Mamíferos Marinos, tipos, formas de vida y necesidades específicas

1. Cetáceos
2. Pinnípedos
3. Sirenios
4. Úrsidos y Mustélidos acuáticos y semiacuáticos

2.- Instalaciones para el mantenimiento de Mamíferos Marinos

3.- Alimentación y aspectos nutricionales

4.- Reproducción

5.- Bienestar y sistemas de enriquecimiento ambiental

6.- Cuidados sanitarios y manejo médico de los animales

7.- Mantenimiento de animales para reintroducción: centros de recuperación de especies marinas.

HORARIOS

Sábado: de 12:00 a 14:00 y de 16:00 a 20:30 horas, en las aulas Eberlin (C/Pizarro, 19).

Domingo: de 10:30 a 14:00 horas, mismas aulas.

PRECIO:

- Estudiantes y antiguos alumnos de Sea Wolves: 90 €

- Resto: 95 €

El precio incluye:

- Certificado de asistencia

- Resúmen de los contenidos tratados en el curso

Actividades: curso entrenamiento de mamíferos marinos SEAWOLVES!

CURSO DE INTRODUCCIÓN AL ENTRENAMIENTO DE MAMÍFEROS MARINOS

Fechas: 17 y 18 de Abril de 2010

Lugar: Madrid - C/Pizarro, 19

(Aulas edificio Eberlin Beauty International)

Contacto: info@seawolves.es

carmen_arija@hotmail.com

(0034) 619 69 01 15

CONTENIDOS

1.- Introducción a los Mamíferos Marinos y adaptaciones a su vida en el agua

1. Cetáceos
2. Pinnípedos
3. Sirenios
4. Úrsidos y Mustélidos acuáticos y semiacuáticos

2.- Etología y entrenamiento de Mamíferos Marinos

1. Introducción a la ciencia del comportamiento
2. Etología de cetáceos y pinnípedos
3. Inteligencia animal y condicionamiento operante
4. Aprendizaje y entrenamiento
5. Refuerzos primarios
6. Refuerzos secundarios
7. Elementos empleados en el entrenamiento de Mamíferos Marinos
8. Entrenamiento médico y sus aplicaciones

3.- Visita al Zoo-Aquarium de Madrid: para la observación de Delfines mulares (Tursiops truncatus), Leones marinos (Otaria flavescens) y focas comunes (Phoca vitulina), así como la aplicación de las técnicas de entrenamiento durante los shows.

Durante el curso NO existe contacto alguno entre los participantes y los animales, ni entrada a instalaciones que no sean de acceso público, según legisla la reglamentación de Bienestar Animal española.

HORARIOS

Teoría: sábado de 10:30 a 14:00 y de 16:00 a 20:30 horas, en las aulas Eberlin (C/Pizarro, 19).

Visita al Zoo: domingo de 10:30 a 15:00 aprox. (aunque todos los participantes que lo deseen pueden permanecer en el zoo hasta el cierre del mismo)

PRECIO:

- Estudiantes y antiguos alumnos de Sea Wolves: 150 €

- Resto: 160 €

El precio incluye:

- Certificado de asistencia

- Resúmen de los contenidos tratados en el curso

- Entrada al Zoo de Madrid

Activities: PAMGUARD course in St. Andrews!

The use of Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM) is becoming an increasingly important tool in both marine mammal research and applied in industry.

It is important that individuals using any passive acoustic monitoring software are properly trained to use the software to maximise its full potential. Feedback from users is also important in the ongoing development of such software.

PAMGUARD is currently funded by the OGP E&P Sound and Marine Life Joint Industry Program, and has been established to address the fundamental limitations of existing cetacean passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) software capabilities. PAMGUARD seeks to provide open-source PAM software based on a platform-independent (e.g. Windows or Linux), flexible, modular architecture. The open-source aspect of software development is facilitated through the project's presence on SourceForge, where a community of altruistic developers provides extra
resources. This community currently includes developers with proven PAM experience from both the UK and the USA. Open development means that the software is free and access to the code is easy and assured. It also allows the code's copyright to be protected in perpetuity so that it cannot readily be closed and commercialised to the detriment of its users. It ultimately means that more people have access for development. This generally speeds up innovations and improves the performance and maintainability of the code.

SMRU Ltd are running a PAMGUARD Training course on the 18th and 19th February, in St Andrews. There are still some places available on this course.

The course will be lead by Dr Doug Gillespie of St Andrews University, one of the principle architects of the Pamguard software.

If you are interested in attending the course please see the Pamguard website for further details:

http://www.pamguard.org/training.shtml

Dr Beth Mackey
SMRU Limited
Scottish Oceans Institute
New Technology Centre
North Haugh
ST ANDREWS
Fife KY16 9SR
bml@smru-com.uk
www.smru.co.uk

Actividades: Cursos Investigación en Gales!!

Cetacean Survey Training Course in New Quay, West Wales

Join a short course to learn all about British cetaceans, how to survey for them, and contribute to their conservation!

DATE FOR THE 2009 TRAINING COURSES IS SET!

Two-days weekend course, 5th-6th September 2009

The course will consist of illustrated lectures and video presentations as well as headland watches and boat surveys aboard a local research vessel. The area where land and boat trips will be undertaken is the Cardigan Bay Special Area of Conservation (SAC), a place well-known for the presence and high sighting frequency of bottlenose dolphins (the largest population in the UK), harbour porpoises and grey seals. These populations are protected in the SAC following the 1992 EU Species and Habitat Directive.

The Sea Watch Foundation is the most experienced organisation in the UK for training observers and students interested in marine mammals, having run courses for over ten years. It has provided training for staff from all three national statutory conservation agencies, the Environment Agency, CEFAS, Department of the Environment, Wildlife Trusts, Royal Navy, and MMOs working with the oil and gas industries. Most of the field guides on cetaceans on the market in UK have actually been written or had consultations from the Sea Watch Foundation. Thus we hope we can guarantee a very high level training course given by highly experienced staff.

The lectures and videos will focus on general biology and classification of cetaceans, species identification, conservation issues facing UK cetaceans, and recommended monitoring survey methods. The course will be based at New Quay, Ceredigion, West Wales, where our Welsh office is based, and will provide an unparalleled opportunity to see marine mammals in the wild and to contribute to cetacean conservation in Britain.

The practical element of the course will combine both land and boat-based surveys allowing participants to directly learn how to conduct systematic watches and fill in standardised recording forms.

Land and Boat-based work will teach participants the skills needed for:

- identifying the various cetaceans species found in the area
- estimating group size and distinguishing between calves, juveniles and adults
- determining cetacean behaviours
- assessing sea state and other key environmental features
- learning some basic photographic techniques aimed at identifying single individuals

Please note that, due to the unforeseeable weather conditions, the program might change and, in case of particularly adverse weather, the field trips may have to be modified.

All participants will receive a detailed manual on how to record and monitor cetaceans, a species identification booklet, and a certificate for completing the course. The courses will be taught by
experienced and enthusiastic staff from the Sea Watch Foundation.

The price for the course is ?180.00 and includes lectures, boat and land surveys, insurance and all the materials provided, but excludes meals, travel and accommodation.

To book a place or for further information please contact Sightings Officer, Gemma Veneruso. Tel: 01545 561227,
gemma.veneruso@seawatchfoundation.org.uk.

Actualidad: investigación desde Ferries!

In Italy different Institutions (both of public and private sector), Universities and NGO have joined forces to undertake a large scale cetacean monitoring programme from passengers ferries.

The network, active since 2007, monitors presence, relative abundance, distribution and migration timing of cetacean along the following routes:

- Civitavecchia-Golfo Aranci (since 2007) in the Central Tyrrhenian sea;

- Livorno-Bastia and Savona-Bastia (since 2008) in the Pelagos sanctuary;

- Calvi-Nizza (from 2009) in the western part of the Pelagos sanctuary.

On the research the network has already submitted two different MS (5 pages “full-paper”) for the 2008 and 2009 ECS proceedings.

Summer weekly sightings can be checked of the following blog:

http://lericerchedelleviatano.blogspot.com/

Actividades: taller de necropsias!

La Universidad de La Liège organiza el taller de necropsias "oído interno y zifios" los días 17 y 18 de Junio. En el documento adjunto se encuentra toda la información.

Gracias por leer!

Necropsy Workshop

Publish at Scribd or explore others: Arts & Architecture Research university organic

Actividades: Cursos BDRI en Cerdeña!

Change your way of learning! Are you looking for a field-specific research course? Please see the announcement below. There are still places available.

The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute - BDRI is pleased to offer comprehensive and intensive Bottlenose Dolphin Research Courses during the 2009 Spring & Summer Season for marine science students and biologist, who are seeking thorough training in approaches to the study of free ranging wild bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus).

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 since 1999. These intensive educational courses (lasting 6 or 13 days) provide experience in specialized non-invasive dolphin research techniques in Sardinia Island (Italy).

Combined with lectures, you will be trained during this field and laboratory-intensive course in a wide range of areas including scientific data collection, statistical analysis and presentation; giving public talks and much more. 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.

If the results of our research projects to date (with numerous scientific publications and thesis that substantially increase present understanding of bottlenose dolphins) are any indication, then our field courses should be very productive, both in terms of our own enlightenment about the life of these free-ranging dolphins and in producing information bearing directly on the conservation and management of this dolphin species and others.

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 training course.

Course 1. Bottlenose dolphins: Field methods in the wild

Dates: June 15, July 20, August 17 or September 14

Topics covered include but are not limited to:

- Marine mammals biology

- Dolphins ecology: habitat use and bottlenose dolphin presence

- Behavioural sampling methods

- Interaction between dolphins and human activities

- General notions about Photo-identification techniques

- General notions about diving behaviour

- General notions about bioacoustics

- Application of GIS (Geographic Information System) analysis in dolphins distribution studies.

- Fisheries & Aquaculture: Socio-economical importance and impact on coastal ecosystems.

- Ecological & behavioural transcription

- Primary statistical data analyses

- Computer orientation.

Course 2. Study of bottlenose dolphin behaviour

Dates: May 04, June 29, July 27 or August 24

Topics covered include but are not limited to:

- 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

- Fisheries & Aquaculture: Socio-economical importance and impact on coastal ecosystems.

- Bottlenose dolphin feeding behaviour

- Primary statistical data analyses

- Computer orientation

Course 3. Photo-identification technique & bottlenose dolphins social structure

Dates: May 18, July 06, August 03, August 31

Topics covered include but are not limited to:

- Bottlenose dolphins biology

- Dolphin photo-identification tecniques

- Notions about photography with SLR cameras

- Application of GIS (Geographic Information System) analysis in dolphins distribution studies.- 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 (SOCPROG)

- Ecological & behavioural transcription of data

- Primary statistical data analyses

- Computer orientation & databases

Course 4. Bioacoustics of wild bottlenose dolphins

Dates: June 01, July 13, August 10, September 04

Topics covered include but are not limited to:

- 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

- Bottlenose dolphin behaviour

- Primary statistical data analyses

- Computer orientation

The courses are limited to 8 students, so they provide an opportunity for students to interact closely with the course instructor(s), and to collaborate with other students who share the same interests.

Cost: from 550 Euros (6 days), 1150 Euros (13 days) with special fees for students. The costs include accommodation in apartment, dolphin research training, lectures, certificate of attendance, printed material and all associated field and lab costs.

Participants will share rooms with 1-2 persons of the same gender and couples can be accommodated in a private room. Single/Private bedrooms may be available in some periods.

Pre-approval is necessary for registration. 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.

For more information on this course, please contact Bruno Diaz Lopez education@thebdri.com

For more information on BDRI, including a list of publications and thesis, please visit www.thebdri.com

Bruno Diaz Lopez

Research Biologist / Marine Zoologist

Chief Researcher

The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI

V.Diaz N?4 07020

Golfo Aranci (SS) Italy

http://www.thebdri.com

info@thebdri.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Golfo-Aranci-Italy/BOTTLENOSE-DOLPHIN-RESEARCH-INSTITUTE-BDRI/61448347330

Tel: + (39) 346 081 5414

Actividades. Curso en Lund!

We would like to announce that we are again giving the international PhD student course in Ecology of Animal Migration at the Department of Ecology at Lund University and organized by CAnMove (Centre for Animal Movement Research).

The course will be held 29 Sept-9 October 2009, and you will find more information on our web page: http://orn-lab.ekol.lu.se/birdmigration/

During the course lectures will be given by invited experts in their field, there will be seminars, own projects with practice of field equipment as well as an excursion. There will be ample time for interactions between students and lecturers and we invite PhD students from any country to participate in the course.

Please, contact Keith Larson (Keith.Larson@zooekol.lu.se) for registration. Very Welcome to a very stimulating and exciting course!

Keith Larson, PhD Student

Department of Animal Ecology

Lund University

Ecology Building

S?lvegatan 3722362 Lund

Sweden

Tel: +46 (0)46 2229310

Fax: +46 (0)46 2224716

Actividades: curso MMOs!

Scanning Ocean Sectors is 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 fully trained and experienced MMOs teaching. Each student is graded in their certificates to ensure the quality standard of the MMO industry is gaining.

Please note that the late registration now applies for the UK March courses and Australian April course Registration will close two weeks before course starts.

NOTE: There is ONLY ONE MMO COURSE IN MARCH 2009. We are now running Passive Acoustic Monitoring courses for MMOs March PAM course is 26th & 27th 2009. 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.

Note: When you register for a course the course prices will be sent directly to you. There are limited numbers for each course so please book early to avoid disappointment. If anyone is interested in advertising in our newsletter please contact us for the next issue.

www.scanningoceansectors.orginfo@scanningoceansectors.org

Actividades: Máster Mamíferos Marinos!

One-year research Master's course in Marine Mammal Science

We are now accepting applications for the 2009/10 entry into the Master of Research (MRes) course in Marine Mammal Science based at the University of St Andrews in Scotland. This is a unique, one-year postgraduate course intended to prepare students for a professional career in marine mammal research and conservation. The programme is tailored to address the scientific challenges of marine mammal physiology, behaviour and population biology with strong components of analytical methodology, laboratory work, and field study.

The course is being taught by members of the Sea Mammal Research Unit (SMRU) and the School of Biology, with some modules jointly organised with CREEM (Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling).

Applications for the upcoming academic year (starting September 2009) must be received by Wednesday 15th April 2009. For further information on the course, entry requirements and how to apply see http://bio.st-andrews.ac.uk/mms/.

Please direct all enquiries to email: mresmammals@st-andrews.ac.uk

postal address:

MRes MMS Secretary,

School of Biology,

Gatty Marine Laboratory,

University of St Andrews,

St Andrews, Fife,

KY16 8LB, UK

http://www.smru.st-and.ac.uk/http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/http://creem2.st-andrews.ac.uk/

The University of St Andrews is a charity registered in Scotland: NoSC013532

Actividades: cursos cetología en Italia!

CE.TU.S. RESEARCH - Viareggio (LU) Tuscany Italy
2009 Field Courses in Cetology

The CE.TU.S. RESEARCH announces its 2009 courses on cetacean research and conservation, held in the Tuscan Archipelago (7-5-3 days) and east Ligurian Sea (WE), inside Pelagos Sanctuary waters, Italy.

The courses are intended for anyone wishing to practice cetacean research in the field and contribute to ongoing conservation efforts. Activities will include data collection at sea and lectures by experienced researchers.

Founded in 1999, the CE.TU.S. Centre is a private non-profit organization specialized in cetacean research. Exclusively based on autonomous fundraising. CE.TU.S. is the main association inside the O.T.C. (Tuscany Observatory of Cetaceans) created from Tuscany Administration. The seat is in Viareggio (Tuscany). CE.TU.S. has conducted longitudinal studies on common bottlenose dolphins in the Tuscany waters, and Striped dolphins, Risso's dolphins, Fin whales and Sperm whales studies in Tuscany Archipelago waters.

The CE.TU.S. Centre offers comprehensive and intensive Bottlenose Dolphin Research Courses during the 2009 spring Season (march-june) for motivated individuals, who are seeking thorough training in approaches to the study of free ranging wild bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). We invite you to join our ongoing study of the behaviour, habitat use and social lives of these amazing dolphins on the Versilian Coast, in Viareggio, Tuscany Region (Italy). These intensive educational courses provide experience in specialized non-invasive research techniques, consisting of field sessions.

The courses will last 3, 5 or 7 days, consist in theoric lessons in our centre (Villa Borbone seat) and practice studies on board. On board our research vessels, the sail catamaran KRILL, you will work together with our team in search of cetaceans. To refine details of bottlenose dolphin population biology and responses to human activities at sea, we will take identification photos, observe behaviour, record environmental data, monitor vocalizations using a hydrophone, etc.

The courses are available for universitary students for receiving relevant credit(s), and for entire classes to have constructive brainstorming, "informal" discussion, practice in field techniques.

Further information, fees and how to apply can be found on our website www.cetusresearch.org or by email at cetus@supereva.it - cetus@leonardo.it

Come join us!
Thank you for your attention.
Best and Kind Regards.

Silvio Nuti.

Dott. Silvio Nuti
O.T.C. member - Villa Borbone,
viale dei Tigli - 55049 Viareggio (Lucca)
T. +39.335.6564469
F. +39.0584.49067
cetus@supereva.it
www.cetusresearch.org
Skype: cetuskat

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

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:

http://www.earthwatch.org/europe/exped/robinson.html

Actividades: Nuevos cursos SEAWOLVES!

CURSO DE INTRODUCCIÓN AL ENTRENAMIENTO DE MAMÍFEROS MARINOS

Fechas: 22 y 23 de Noviembre.

Lugar: Madrid - C/Pizarro, 19
(Aulas edificio Ebelin Beauty International).

CONTENIDOS

Teoría

1.- Introducción a los Mamíferos Marinos y adaptaciones a su vida en el agua
Cetáceos
Pinnípedos
Sirenios
Úrsidos y Mustélidos acuáticos y semiacuáticos

2.- Etología y entrenamiento de Mamíferos Marinos
Introducción a la ciencia del comportamiento
Etología de cetáceos y pinnípedos
Inteligencia animal y condicionamiento operante
Aprendizaje y entrenamiento
Refuerzos primarios
Refuerzos secundarios
Elementos empleados en el entrenamiento de Mamíferos Marinos
Entrenamiento médico y sus aplicaciones

Prácticas

- Visita al Zoo-Aquarium de Madrid: para la observación Delfines mulares (Tursiops truncatus), Leones marinos (Otaria flavescens).
- Taller de condicionamiento operante: entrenamiento con señales de puente, uso de clicker, empleo de refuerzos.

HORARIOS
Teoría: sábado 22 de noviembre de 10:00 a 14:00 y de 16:00 a 20:00 horas
Visita al Zoo: domingo 23 de noviembre de 10:30 a 15:30 aprox. (aunque todos los participantes que lo deseen pueden permanecer en el zoo hasta el cierre del mismo)

PRECIO: 150 €, que incluyen:
- Certificado de asistencia
- Resúmen de los contenidos tratados en el curso
- Clases teóricas y prácticas
- Visita al Zoo de Madrid

INTERACCIÓN CON DELFINES

Fechas: 13 y 14 de Diciembre de 2008

Lugar: Salón de Actos de la Instalación Juvenil de Sevilla
(c/Isacc Peral, 2 - Sevilla - 41012)
y prácticas en Albufeira (Portugal)

PROGRAMA

1.- Sábado - bloque teórico (16:00 a 20:00 horas)
El delfín mular (Tursiops truncatus): biología, ecología y conservación
Mantenimiento de mamíferos marinos en cautividad
Entrenamiento de mamíferos marinos

2.- Domingo - Interacción:
Desplazamiento Sevilla - Albufeira (Portugal): salida a las 8:00 horas
Visita Zoomarine
Interacción con Delfines Mulares
Regreso a Sevilla (llegada hacia las 20:00 horas)

Descripción de la interacción

Charla educativa acerca de los animales con los que se va a interaccionar
Baño y ejercicios con los delfines (30 minutos aprox.)
La actividad incluye el neopreno necesario para entrar en la piscina de interacción

PRECIO: 450 €, que incluyen:
- Viaje Sevilla - Albufeira - Sevilla
- Entrada a Zoomarine
- Interacción con delfines
- Charla teórica y resumen escrito de la misma
- Certificado de asistencia

No se incluye alojamiento, manutención ni desplazamiento desde el lugar de origen de cada participante hasta Sevilla

Contacto: info@seawolves.es
(0034) 619 69 01 15

Actividades: cursos delfín mular!

Cursos de formación para el estudio de los delfines mulares en el Mar Mediterráneo.

El Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute BDRI (http://www.thebdri.com/) organiza cursos de formación sobre el estudio del comportamiento y ecología de los delfines mulares en libertad.

Tan sólo hay que ser mayor de edad y no es necesaria experiencia previa de etología ni biología de los mamíferos marinos ya que se imparten a diferentes niveles y en español. En nuestro centro pensamos que el aprendizaje, en su mejor medida, es aquel que se obtiene de forma activa, entrelazando la práctica con la teoría, así que nuestros estudiantes además de recibir clases teóricas participan en las actividades diarias como un investigador más.

Empleando técnicas de estudio no invasivas, los estudiantes participarán en las salidas al mar a bordo de nuestras embarcaciones para el estudio de la ecología y comportamiento de los delfines mulares en la isla de Cerdeña (Italia) así como recogiendo datos sobre las condiciones del ecosistema marino. Los cursos de formación, de 6 y 13 días de duración, aportan una valiosa experiencia en técnicas de estudio tan específicas como la foto-identificación, bioacústica y muestreo comportamental.

Las clases estarán estructuradas de dos formas:
(a) lecciones sobre un determinado argumento con el objetivo de generar un debate y preguntas, (b) clases con un claro componente práctico en particular cuando se traten las diferentes métodos de muestreo y estudio de los delfines. A lo largo de los 6 o 13 días de duración, siempre que la metereología sea adecuada, se realizan 4 o 8 salidas al mar respectivamente para la búsqueda y estudio del comportamiento de los delfines.

Los cursos de formación pueden ser utilizados para la obtención de créditos académicos de libre configuración, en este caso los estudiantes han de encargarse de llevar a cabo todos los requisitos que su universidad solicite para la obtención de los mismos previa la participación a dicho curso.

Curso 1. Curso general: métodos de estudio de los delfines mulares (Fecha de inicio: 8 Septiembre)
Curso 2. Estudio del comportamiento de los delfines (Fecha de inicio: 22 Septiembre)
Curso 3. Técnica de la fotoidentificación y estructura social de los delfines (Fecha de inicio: 6 Octubre)
Curso 4. Bioacústica de los delfines mulares (Fecha de inicio: 20 Octubre)

Para obtener más información acerca de los diferentes cursos visitar: http://www.thebdri.com/ , contactar via email a:
info@thebdri.com o descargarse el material informativo desde: www.thebdri.com/spain/resources/downloads/courses.pdf

Más información y reservas en: info@thebdri.com

Últimas publicaciones científicas del BDRI:
1. Díaz López B. and Shirai, J.A., 2008. Marine aquaculture and bottlenose dolphins social structure. Behavioural Ecology and Sociobiology 62(6): 887-894.
2. Díaz López 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. Díaz López, B., Shirai, J.A.; Bilbao Prieto, A. & Méndez Fernández, P., In press. Diving activity of a solitary wild free ranging bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). Journal of Marine Biological Association U.K.
4. Bunke, M., Díaz López, B., Shirai, J.A.B., 2008. The role of bottlenose dolphins in a coastal ecosystem assessed using mass-balanced models. 22nd Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society, Egmond aan Zee, The Netherlands, 10-12 March 2008
5.Environmental & anthropogenic variables influencing bottlenose dolphin presence in a marine fin fish farm. 22nd Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society, Egmond aan Zee, The Netherlands, 10-12 March 2008
6.Troncone, R., Díaz López, B., Shirai, J.A.B., 2008. Trial of acoustics deterrents for prevention of bottlenose dolphin depredation on gillnets. 22nd Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society, Egmond aan Zee, The Netherlands, 10-12 March 2008
7. Díaz López 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.
8. Díaz López, B. and Shirai, J.A., 2007. "Human activities and bottlenose dolphin's social structure". Oral communication presented at the 21st Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society, San Sebastián, Spain, 2007.
9. Underhill, K., Díaz López, B., and Shirai, J.A., 2007."Boat traffic effects on the diving behaviour of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in Sardinia, Italy". Poster presented at the 21st Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society, San Sebastián, Spain, 2007.
10. 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.
11. Díaz López, B. & Bernal Shirai, J.A., 2006. "Estudio multiescalar de la influencia de la acuicultura en la presencia de delfines mulares Tursiops truncatus (Montagu 1821)". CIVA, 2006: 282 - 290pp.
12. Díaz López, B., 2006. "Interactions between Mediterranean bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and gillnets off Sardinia". ICES Journal of Marine Science 63: 944-951 pp.
13. Díaz López, B. & Bernal Shirai, J.A., 2006. "Diurnal & Nocturnal behaviour of bottlenose dolphin groups with emphasis on foraging activity on the northeastern coast of Sardinia (Italy)". 20th Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society 2006 - Gdynia, Polonia.
14. Bernal Shirai, J. A., Díaz López, B., Méndez Fernández, P., Bilbao Prieto, A. & Díaz da Silva, J.I., 2006. "Analysis of diving behaviour of a solitary male bottlenose dolphin in the inshore waters of Galicia (Spain)" 20th Annual Conference of the European Cetacean Society 2006 - Gdynia, Polonia.

Actividades: Observador de mamíferos marinos!

Pro-MMO Training Course

Marine Mammal Observers (MMOs) are trained personnel who mitigate against potentially harmful impacts of noise on marine mammals.

Gardline Environmental Ltd.s' Marine Wildlife Department provide & train MMOs for the energy and construction industries. The Pro-MMO course trains applicants to become fully qualified, JNCC approved, professional MMOs who gain exceptional field experience during their training.

The next available dates for this course will be 25th - 28th September 2008.

Prices will vary upon number of applicants, and is inclusive of all teaching materials, experienced staff (who all work as MMOs in the field), accommodation during the course, and support afterwards.

Applications for the course can be obtained from nick.robinson@gardline.co.uk.

Actividades: taller de necropsias en Bélgica!

CETACEAN NECROPSY WORKSHOP

A cetacean necropsy workshop is organized by the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences (MUMM) and the University of Liege (Department of Veterinary Pathology).

Thesession will be held in Liège (Belgium) on June 19 and 20, 2008. During the workshop, 20 porpoises will be necropsied and sampled, based on a standard procedure (Proceedings of the first European Cetacean Society workshop on cetacean pathology: dissection techniques and tissue sampling. ECS Newsletter #17 special issue:1991, 39 p. by Kuiken T. and Garcia Hartmann M.) eventually adapted in previous European Cetacean Society necropsy workshops.

Morning sessions will be devoted to dissection, sampling and tissues banking procedures; afternoons will be dedicated to necropsies. Thenumber of attendees is limited to 10 in order to pair off participants under the supervision ofa veterinary pathologist.

Participation : The workshop is open to scientists (post-graduate students and specialists) in biology,toxicology, veterinary medicine involved in marine mammal research, with a maximum of 10 participants. Necropsy and sampling equipment will be available, participants will have to provide rubber boots and adequate laboratory coats.

Aims : The aim of the workshop is to improve participants’proficiency in (1) dissection and sampling procedures on marine mammals, mostly cetaceans, and (2) anatomy and pathology of porpoises. Participants are encouraged to collect samples for their own investigations following the Belgian Marine Mammals Tissues Bank agreement (agreement available on request).

Language : English.

Fees : Registration fees is 50 euro, including necropsy equipment, documentation, and coffee breaks. Evening meals and hotel accommodations should be organized by participants at their own charge (hotels list available on request).

Location : Department of Pathology, Veterinary College, University of Liege, Sart Tilman B43, 4000 Liege, Belgium.

Registration : Deadline for registration is Thursday June 12, 2008 by email to T. Jauniaux(t.jauniaux@mumm.ac.be) with name, institution name and address, Authorization of the supervisor is necessary for students, as well as filled in and signed agreement for tissues bank if needed.

Information and contact :
Thierry JAUNIAUX
MUMM
Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences
Gulledelle 100; 1200 Brussels,
Belgium
Phone: (+32) 27732113
Fax: (+32) 27732114
Email: t.jauniaux@mumm.ac.be
Department of Veterinary Pathology
University of Liege
Sart Tilman Bat B43; 4000 Liege;
Belgium
Phone: (+32) 43664078
Fax: (+32) 43664565
Email: t.jauniaux@ulg.ac.be

Por si alguien se puede escapar!!!