- MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

New publication on pregnancy detection in beluga whales using LC-MS/MS
by Meredith Sherrill 23 Jun '26

23 Jun '26

Dear MARMAM, On behalf of my colleagues, I am happy to share our recent publication in Marine Mammal Science on detecting pregnancy in free-ranging St. Lawrence Estuary belugas using an LC-MS/MS method to analyze progesterone in biopsy samples. The Scaled Mass Index was also explored as a morphometric index of pregnancy using drone-based aerial photogrammetry. Sherrill, M., L.-A. Renaud, N. Kellar, R. Michaud, V. Lesage, and J. Verreault. 2026. “Exploring Progesterone Levels and Scaled Mass Index as Predictors of Pregnancy in Free-Ranging Belugas.” Marine Mammal Science 42, no. 3: e70206. https://doi.org/10.1111/mms.70206 <https://doi.org/10.1111/mms.70206>. Abstract: Monitoring pregnancy rates can provide vital information regarding a population’s viability and trajectory. This study combined drone-based photogrammetry with biopsy darting to determine if the Scaled Mass Index (SMI) estimated from aerial images can be used to identify pregnant, free-ranging St. Lawrence Estuary belugas (Delphinapterus leucas). To identify reproductive status while minimizing tissue usage, liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) was first compared to a previously validated ELISA method, before being used to measure progesterone in outer blubber layer of free-ranging females (n = 37) biopsied 4–5 months post-mating. Progesterone levels from these animals were then merged with those obtained from 65 previously sampled females (progesterone quantified via ELISA) to develop a two-cluster mixture model predicting individual reproductive status. This study demonstrated the suitability of progesterone levels determined using UPLC-MS/MS at detecting pregnancy in free-ranging cetaceans, and provided a statistical framework for merging hormone datasets generated using different analytical methods. No correlation was found between the SMI and pregnancy probability, suggesting that body shape changes indicative of pregnancy may not be detectable in the early stages of gestation. However, these results provide a basis for the development of a non-invasive photogrammetry-based method for detecting pregnancies during later stages of gestation. Please do not hesitate to contact me at sherrill.meredith(a)courrier.uqam.ca <mailto:sherrill.meredith@courrier.uqam.ca> for a copy of the paper. Kind regards, Meredith Sherrill

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SMM2026 Workshop: Advancing global pinniped entanglement response
by Kim Raum-Suryan - NOAA Federal 23 Jun '26

23 Jun '26

Dear Colleagues, Are you interested in building your pinniped entanglement response knowledge and skills? If so, please consider joining us for our 5th SMM Pinniped Entanglement Response Workshop "*Advancing global pinniped entanglement response: A practical workshop on specialized tools, medical response, and tracking"* https://www.smmconference.org/workshops/#1780359160898-56b6bc05-d550. WHEN: Sunday, October 18th, 2026; 8:30-5:30. WHERE: SMM2026 <https://www.smmconference.org/>, Centro de Convenciones Pedro Roselló González, San Juan, Puerto Rico. WHAT TO EXPECT: Marine debris and discarded fishing gear represent an escalating, lethal threat to global pinniped populations. Addressing this crisis requires more than isolated efforts—it demands a synchronized, global response. Aligned with the conference theme "One Ocean, One Future," the Pinniped Entanglement Group (PEG) https://pinnipedentanglementgroup.org invites responders, researchers, and managers to our fifth international workshop. This session bridges the gap between field expertise and scientific innovation. *Whether you are a seasoned expert or a newcomer to the field, this workshop provides a collaborative platform to refine techniques, enhance communication, and advance prevention strategies*. - *Global Perspectives and Expert Insights*: A deep dive into pinniped entanglement response by international presenters and veterinary experts. We’ll cover field-tested methods from across the globe, including risk assessment, human and animal safety, veterinary-guided chemical/physical restraint, and behavioral diagnostics. - *Scenario-Based Problem Solving*: Interactive case studies to master response ethics and step-by-step field protocols. - *Hands-on Skills*: Practical training with cutting tools and net handling; medical assessment protocols - *Post-Release Innovation*: Gain proficiency in sampling, tagging, and tracking technologies (satellite, radio, and acoustic) to monitor long-term health and survival. *Why Join Us*? Join our international community to share field-tested techniques, discuss complex response challenges, and strengthen the global PEG network. By synchronizing our efforts, we can turn international collaboration into measurable success for pinniped conservation. SUPPORT: For the first time ever, PEG can provide support to cover four workshop registration fees ($120.00 each). *Criteria to be selection for workshop registration*: - First come, first served – must request by July 15, 2026 - PRIORITY goes to PEG members actively involved in pinniped entanglement response from low-income regions (based on SMM criteria using the most recent World Bank classification <https://blogs.worldbank.org/en/opendata/understanding-country-income--world…> ) - Students currently studying marine mammal pollution, marine debris, or a relevant field who: 1) request financial aid and 2) include a justification with their request to workshop organizers - Participants agree to be included in an upcoming website blog Sign up soon – the workshop is limited to 25 participants. We look forward to seeing you there! Thank you, Kim Raum-Suryan and Greg Frankfurter Questions? Contact Kim at 2009PEG(a)gmail.com or kim.raum-suryan(a)noaa.gov

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New publication: Life History Parameters of Indian Ocean Humpback Dolphins Sousa plumbea Off KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa
by Stephanie Plön, PhD 23 Jun '26

23 Jun '26

Dear colleagues, On behalf of my co-authors, I am excited to share our recent open-access publication: Plön, Stephanie, Roussouw, Natasha, Nolte, Zianca and Froneman, William P. 2026. Life History Parameters of Indian Ocean Humpback Dolphins Sousa plumbea Off KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa. *Marine Mammal Science *e70181 http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/mms.70181 Abstract For the effective conservation of coastal cetaceans, such as Indian Ocean humpback dolphin, *Sousa plumbea*, currently listed as “Endangered” by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), information on its life history is urgently required. To fill this gap, the age of 119 humpback dolphins (74 males and 45 females) incidentally caught in bather protection nets (BPN) off the east-coast of South Africa over a 40-year period was determined by counting tooth growth layer groups (GLGs). Estimated length at birth using Scott's equation was 111.57 cm for males and 104.33 cm for females. A Gompertz growth curve indicated that physical maturity was reached at 268.03 cm in males and 246.12 cm in females, corresponding to 24 and 13 years, respectively. Histological analyses of reproductive organs of 45 males and 28 females showed that sexual maturity in males is attained at 7.5 years, and 210 cm total body length. In females, sexual maturity occurred around 8 years and a body length of 220 cm. The ovulation rate was 0.2 per year, indicating a calving interval of approximately 5 years. These results will aid in assessing the status of the South African population of Indian Ocean humpback dolphins. Please reach out if you have any questions: stephanie.ploen(a)gmail.com Thank you, Stephanie Plön, PhD BioConsult SH, Germany and University of Cape Town, South Africa

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grant opportunity
by Beth Brady 23 Jun '26

23 Jun '26

Save the Manatee Club is pleased to announce the reopening of the Lesley Argiri and Brian McDonald 5K Scholarship Fund. The Fund is established to support and encourage outstanding individuals pursuing a graduate degree in Marine or Aquatic Biology. This scholarship aims to promote excellence in marine and aquatic biology research, contribute to the conservation and sustainability of aquatic ecosystems, and honor the contributions of Lesley Argiri and Brian McDonald. Lesley and Brian are a dedicated husband-and-wife duo who are retired educators from L'Anse Creuse Public Schools in Michigan. The goals are to: Provide financial assistance to deserving students who demonstrate a strong commitment to advancing the field of marine biology, particularly in marine mammal conservation, with a focus on manatees. Foster innovation and excellence in marine biology research, especially in areas related to the protection and preservation of marine mammal species, including manatees. Encourage active contribution to marine conservation and sustainable development and management, with an emphasis on manatee conservation and habitat preservation. The scholarship is open to students enrolled in or accepted to a graduate program in Marine Biology, Aquatic Biology, or a related field at an accredited institution of higher education in the United States. International students attending accredited U.S. institutions are eligible to apply. For more information please see https://savethemanatee.org/lesley-argiri-and-brian-mcdonald-5k-scholarship-… or email scholarships(a)savethemanatee.org for questions. Kind regards, Beth Brady, PhD Director of Science and Conservation Save the Manatee Club

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New publication on CKMR study design for marine mammals
by Eiren Jacobson 23 Jun '26

23 Jun '26

Dear MARMAM, On behalf of my coauthors, I am pleased to circulate our recent publication on individual and close-kin mark-recapture study design for marine mammals, using walrus as a case study. This publication is Open Access and should be available to all. Details below. Cheers, Eiren Jacobson, Eiren K., Mark V. Bravington, Rebecca L. Taylor, Irina S. Trukhanova, David L. Miller, and William S. Beatty. 2026. “Combining Individual and Close-Kin Mark–Recapture to Design an Effective Wildlife Population Survey.” Ecology107(6): e70377. https://doi.org/10.1002/ecy.70377 Abstract: Close-kin mark–recapture (CKMR) is a promising approach for assessing population size of species that have been difficult to survey using more traditional methods. Here, we combine individual and close-kin mark–recapture in a single modeling framework (ICKMR) and provide an example of study design using this approach for Pacific walrus (Odobenus rosmarus divergens). We develop the ICKMR model and test it using simulated datasets, then use properties of the pseudo-likelihood to investigate the expected precision in estimates of abundance with different proposed survey designs. Our motivating example, the Pacific walrus, is an ice-associated marine mammal found in the Bering and Chukchi seas, where it is an important resource for Indigenous peoples. Pacific walrus abundance declined in the late 20th century, and it is currently a species of conservation concern due to potential impacts of climate change, particularly the loss of sea ice. To reduce uncertainty in population size estimates, researchers undertook a genetic mark–recapture sampling campaign from 2013 to 2017 and collected tissue samples from over 8000 individuals. Another campaign of a similar scale is ongoing (2023–2028). While sample collection was designed for individual mark–recapture, advances in CKMR methods and associated molecular techniques mean that these samples could also be suitable for CKMR. The advantages of CKMR over mark–recapture include an increased effective sample size (because each individual tags itself and its parents, siblings, and offspring) and additional insights into demographic quantities of interest. To make best use of genetic samples, we combine individual mark–recapture (IMR) with CKMR (ICKMR) and investigate whether different sampling strategies can increase precision in estimates of abundance. Our modeling approach includes special considerations for walrus life history, including a multi-year inter-birth interval. We found that expected coefficients of variation (CVs) of the ICKMR estimates of abundance, adult female survival, juvenile female survival, and proportion of breeding females are lower than those expected from IMR alone, and with ICKMR, fewer years of sampling can be conducted to obtain sufficient precision in estimates of abundance. This work demonstrates the utility of ICKMR and could be applicable across a variety of taxa. Eiren Kate Jacobson, PhD (she/they) Research Fellow Centre for Research into Ecological and Environmental Modelling School of Mathematics and Statistics University of St Andrews eiren.jacobson(a)st-andrews.ac.uk<mailto:eiren.jacobson@st-andrews.ac.uk>

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SAVE THE DATE FOR INTERNATIONAL SAVE THE VAQUITA DAY 2026!
by Thomas Jefferson 22 Jun '26

22 Jun '26

Dear MARMAM, Every year, we and our conservation partners dedicate oneday of the year to draw people’s attention to the plight of the vaquita,International Save the Vaquita (ISTV) Day. This year, the event will occur on Saturday, 10 October. As in the past, it will feature a half-daylive-streamed event (available for viewing on YouTube and several other platforms),as well as several in-person booths and tables at venues in California andOregon. The focus of all these activities will be to increase publicawareness, education, and support for the vaquita and its conservation. This year, as the species struggles tosurvive among the web of illegal gillnets that kill them in the northern Gulfof California, Mexico, we feel a renewed sense of hope. The estimates of the size of the vaquitapopulation, although frighteningly small (about 10-15), appear to have remainedrelatively stable over the past several years. This suggests that their numbers may no longer be declining. The remaining vaquitas are survivors, and wewant to give them the best possible chance to rebuild their species’numbers. To do so, they need yoursupport, and also for the several things to happen: 1) The Mexican Government to stop the illegalfishing that is killing them, 2) The Chinese Government to clamp down on theillegal import of totoaba swim bladders that fuel the illegal fishing, and 3) The US Government to redouble its efforts tostop the smuggling of totoaba bladders from Mexico to China, through USchannels. Please join us on Saturday, 10 October, as we present thelatest findings on the status of the vaquita population, and hear from expertswho are working to save the species. Thelive-streamed event will have a panel discussion at the end, which will providea chance for viewers to ask questions and have them answered by vaquitascientists and conservation leaders. Andbe sure to tell all your friends and family members about the vaquita, and thisyear’s ISTV Day event, so that we can all work together to get the word out tomore people! Check back on our website< https://vivavaquita.org/save-the-vaquita-day/> regularly to get updates on the plans and the latest schedule ofevents. Thank you all for your concernabout the vaquita and for doing your part to help save Mexico’s lovely littleporpoise from the tragedy of extinction! Tom JeffersonDirector, VIVA Vaquitasclymene(a)aol.comwww.vivavaquita.org

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Underwater Acoustics in the Marine Environmental training course Devon 13- 16 April
by Zoe Wright 22 Jun '26

22 Jun '26

Underwater Acoustics in the Marine Environment Training Course (Classroom) Date: 13–16 April 2026 Location: Okehampton, Devon, UK Cost: £1950 + VAT Understanding how underwater sound propagates — and how anthropogenic noise influences marine mammals and other acoustically sensitive species — is essential for researchers, conservation practitioners, regulators, and consultants working in the marine environment. This four‑day classroom‑based course provides a targeted introduction to underwater acoustics, acoustic modelling, and marine noise assessment, with direct application to marine mammal impact assessment, behavioural response studies, and mitigation planning. Designed specifically for professionals involved in marine mammal research, conservation, offshore environmental assessments, and regulatory review, the course delivers the foundational knowledge needed to: * interpret and quantify underwater sound fields * assess and predict potential impacts of industrial noise on marine mammals * understand auditory sensitivities and species‑specific vulnerabilities * evaluate noise exposure in relation to regulatory thresholds and guidance * support the development of effective mitigation and monitoring strategies Course Modules * Introduction to Acoustics & Underwater Acoustics * Key Quantities, Units and Dimensions * Decibels and Acoustic Calculations * Boundary Reflection and Transmission * Ocean Acoustic Environments * Sound Sources and Spectra * Noise, Reverberation & Measurements * Hydrophones and Instrumentation * Anthropogenic Noise in the Ocean * Biological Sound Sources * Marine Wildlife Hearing & Noise Impacts (incl. marine mammals) * Sound Field Modelling for Impact Assessment * Methods for Environmental Impact Assessment * Environmental Regulation & EIA * Soundscapes * Vessel Radiated Noise * Marine Seismic Noise * Mitigation Techniques * Emerging Research Delivered by Dr Paul Lepper and Professor Victor Humphrey, internationally recognised researchers in underwater acoustics and marine environmental noise. Discount 5% student discount with valid ID. Booking & Enquiries 📧 training(a)seiche.com Zoe Wright Marketing & Training Communications Officer Seiche Ltd E:z.wright@seiche.com W: https://www.seiche.com Bradworthy Industrial Estate, Langdon Road, Bradworthy, Holsworthy, Devon, EX22 7SF, United Kingdom Seiche Ltd is registered in England & Wales. Registered number: 03475558. Registered Office: Bradworthy Industrial Estate, Langdon Road, Bradworthy, Holsworthy, Devon, EX22 7SF, United Kingdom The information contained in this e-mail transmission, and any documents, files or previous e-mail messages attached to it, is privileged and confidential, and solely intended for the use of the individual(s) to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient or a person responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient you should not read, copy, distribute or otherwise use the information, and you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution or use of any of the information contained in or attached to this message is strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please notify sender immediately and delete this e-mail and attached documents.

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Job Opportunity
by Telesco, David 22 Jun '26

22 Jun '26

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is advertising the Manatee Management Program Coordinator position, which will be located in Tallahassee, Florida. This leadership position serves as the Manatee Management Program Coordinator within the Imperiled Species Management Section. The Coordinator provides oversight and strategic direction for FWC's Manatee Management Program activities, ensuring that conservation, management, and regulatory activities are effectively implemented to conserve Florida's manatees and their habitats. Key responsibilities include: * Program Leadership and Administration * Provide leadership, strategic direction, and oversight for the Manatee Management Program. * Manage program budgets, grants, and contracts to ensure expenditures are appropriate, compliant with state procedures, and within allocated limits. * Ensure assignments and projects are completed on schedule, with high attention to detail. * Serve as a subject matter expert for agency leadership, teams and interagency working groups. * Ensure Section leadership is aware of any emerging or controversial issues in a timely manner. * Supervision of Staff * Provide direct supervision, mentorship, and professional development opportunities for up to six staff members. * Hold regular meetings with staff to discuss program priorities, workload management, performance expectations, and emerging issues. * Conduct regular performance evaluations, including goal setting and career development planning. * Communicate regularly with supervisors and staff on job duties, priorities, and emerging or controversial issues. * Stakeholder Coordination and Partnership Development * Coordinate with federal, state, and local partners, non-governmental organizations, and stakeholders on manatee conservation and management. * Coordinate and lead statewide and regional meetings, workshops, and stakeholder forums. * Maintain regular communication with research staff to ensure management needs are supported by current science. * Respond to stakeholder inquiries promptly and maintain constructive relationships, even on controversial projects. * Conservation Planning, Policy, and Technical Assistance * Oversee program activities related to manatee protection plans, manatee protection rules, manatee warm-water habitat, water-control structure assessments, and other conservation initiatives. * Provide expertise in reviewing regulatory proposals, environmental resource permits, coastal construction authorizations, and other activities that may affect manatees or their habitat. * Ensure consistent implementation of agency policies, procedures, and conservation objectives across program areas. * Evaluate and develop management strategies to support the long-term conservation and recovery of Florida manatees. * Outreach, Education, and Public Representation * Represent FWC and the Manatee Management Program at conferences, public forums, and outreach events. * Support training efforts and other educational initiatives that promote manatee conservation. * Provide clear communication to the public and stakeholders regarding manatee conservation and regulatory requirements. How to Apply: In addition to submitting a completed state application via People First (BIOLOGICAL ADMINISTRATOR II A -SES - 77072000 Job Details | State of Florida<https://jobs.myflorida.com/job/TALLAHASSEE-BIOLOGICAL-ADMINISTRATOR-II-A-SE…>), applicants are required to submit a current cover letter expressing their interest in the position and resume highlighting their qualifications. Cover letters and resumes should be uploaded to the People First System. Applications without a cover letter and resume are deemed incomplete and will not be considered. Application deadline is July 6, 2026. [A picture containing text Description automatically generated] David Telesco Section Leader Imperiled Species Management Section Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission 1875 Orange Ave E, Tallahassee, FL 32311 850-922-4330 David.Telesco(a)MyFWC.com<mailto:David.Telesco@MyFWC.com>

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Reminder 4th Marine Mammal eDNA Workshop at SMM 2026: submit abstracts by July 15
by Amy Van Cise 22 Jun '26

22 Jun '26

Dear MARMAM, The 4th Marine Mammal eDNA Workshop <https://www.smmconference.org/workshops/#1647455659326-59b2adc5-38db> will be held on Sunday October 9 before the 2026 SMM Biennial conference, titled "From detections to deliverables: Using eDNA data to inform and guide management and conservation actions." If you are planning to join the workshop and/or are interested in presenting your recent analyses and applications of eDNA data, please complete our Participation and Abstract Submission Survey <https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdTWy5UxpV8YMHUu21vMMwwoV0MQ97-XkW…> . *Abstracts will be accepted until 15 July 2026.* *Workshop Description:* *The 4th Marine Mammal eDNA workshop will bring together early-career and established scientists interested in applying emerging techniques in environmental DNA (eDNA) research to marine mammal species. In this workshop, we will focus specifically on developments in the analysis and interpretation of eDNA detection data for marine mammals, and the application of these results to management and conservation plans.* * Researchers will share methods developments and lessons learned from recent eDNA work and explore priority areas for further development in the next two years. Participants will then engage in small-group discussion via breakout groups on topics such as using eDNA detections in spatiotemporal distribution modeling; developing methods to move toward quantitative metabarcoding and data analysis (i.e. eDNA for abundance estimation); developing methods for the use of eDNA for stock identification or population genetic analyses. Throughout the workshop, we aim to broadly discuss both the challenges and opportunities faced by marine mammal eDNA researchers aiming to use eDNA data in statistical or modeling frameworks.* We look forward to seeing you there! Warm Regards, Amy Van Cise, Kim Parsons, Kristina Cammen, and Maggie Hunter <*)))>< <*)))>< <*)))>< <*)))>< <*)))>< <*)))>< <*)))>< <*)))>< Amy M. Van Cise, Ph.D. (she/her/hers) Assistant Professor Whale and Dolphin Ecology Lab <http://amyvancise.com> University of Washington | School of Aquatic and Fisheries Sciences 1122 NE Boat St, Box 355020 Seattle, WA 98105 Office: FSH 216B 206-221-6118

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Field Assistants Needed – Galápagos Sea Lion Project
by Jonas Schwarz 22 Jun '26

22 Jun '26

Dear MARMAM community, We are recruiting two field assistants for the Sea Lion Project Galápagos, a long-term study of Galápagos sea lions led by Prof. Oliver Krüger at Bielefeld University. Fieldwork will run from late October to mid-December 2026 on Caamaño, near Santa Cruz Island. Assistants will support population censuses, behavioural observations, animal handling, biologging, and sample collection under remote camping conditions. The positions are unpaid, but project-related travel, food, and accommodation costs will be covered. We welcome applicants with experience in fieldwork, animal behaviour, marine biology, camping, or wildlife handling; Spanish is a plus. The full advertisement is attached. Questions and applications can be sent to: Dr. Jonas Schwarz jonasschwarz(a)uni-bielefeld.de Best wishes, Jonas Schwarz

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