Saturday, December 7, 2013

Marine Mammal Smart Phone Apps

NOAA Fisheries recently announced the release of two smartphone apps that may be of interest to marine mammal enthusiasts.

See & ID Dolphins & Whales App

The SEE & ID Dolphins & Whales app provides an extensive electronic species ID guide complete with information on biology, habitat (including maps), conservation, as well as guidelines for viewing marine mammals in the wild.

The app includes illustrations and photos for over 40 marine mammal species found in the Southeast U.S.  Wildlife and nature enthusiast, dolphin tours, eco-tours, whale watching tours, educators and scientists will find the SEE & ID Dolphins & Whales app useful to identify and learn about dolphins, whales, seals and manatees, while also learning how they can protect marine mammals by responsibly viewing them in the wild them in the wild.

The SEE & ID Dolphins & Whales app provides users with the following marine mammal information:

Identification: illustrations, photos and physical descriptions (size, color, body shape)

Biology: behaviors, diet, life history

Habitat: distribution (including map)

Conservation: status (protected / endangered), population size, and threats

Viewing guidelines: recommended ways to responsibly view marine mammals in the wild that will help reduce disturbance and ensure you are following the law (Marine Mammal Protection Act).

Dolphin & Whale 911 App
The Dolphin & Whale 911 app can be used to aid in accurate and timely reporting of stranded marine mammals in the Southeastern U.S.

The Dolphin & Whale 911 app allows users to:

Report dead, injured or entangled marine mammals by connecting you to the nearest stranding response hotline, so that trained responders and veterinarians can treat the animal ( App only works in Southeastern US- stay tuned for expansion to  additional geographic areas).

Send a photo of the marine mammal along with GPS coordinates to the marine mammal stranding network

Identify the kind of animal by providing an electronic field guide of marine mammals found in the Southeastern U.S.

Help live and dead stranded marine mammals by providing you with a list of “do’s and don’ts” or tips on what to do when you find a live or dead stranded dolphin, whale, or seal.

Marine mammal apps can be downloaded at: http://sero.nmfs.noaa.gov/protected_resources/outreach_and_education/mm_apps/index.html

source: NOAA Fisheries

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