Marine Mammal Observation​ – Online – March 9th & March 16th, 2026

Dive into the world of marine mammal observation with this comprehensive practical course designed for environmental professionals, land guardians, and anyone passionate about marine life! Whether you’re working on marine development projects, protecting food, social, or ceremonial resources, or simply curious about seals, sea lions, dolphins, and whales, this course equips you with the essential tools to be an effective observer and guardian of marine mammals. 

Through engaging exercises, directed discussions, and real-world examples, you’ll master important field skills to minimize the impact of maritime operations on marine mammals. You’ll learn standardized observation techniques, fatigue prevention strategies, and best practices for estimating distances, recording, and communicating observations. 

What You’ll Learn: 

• Observation Equipment & Field Preparation: Select and use high-quality binoculars, thermal imaging devices, GPS units, and range finders. Prepare for fieldwork with redundancy, comfort, and safety in mind. 
• Standardized Observation Techniques: Apply scanning patterns, use proxy indicators (such as birds and fish), and coordinate with multiple observers to maximize detection and coverage. 
• Estimating Range & Bearings: Master methods for accurate distance and bearing estimation—including milliradian charts, laser range finders, and triangulation—using practical trigonometry for mapping sightings. 
• Fatigue Prevention: Implement strategies to maintain focus and reduce eye strain during long observation shifts. 
• Data Quality & Communication: Record clear, concise, and real-time field notes; identify essential vs. optional observations; communicate effectively via radio and digital platforms; and ensure high-quality data for stakeholder confidence. 
• Identification Skills: Recognize the three main classes of marine mammals (cetaceans, pinnipeds, fissipeds) and apply practical ID features for compliance and reporting. 
• Interdisciplinary Awareness: Understand how marine mammal observation intersects with marine biology, acoustics, oceanography, engineering, law, data science, ethics, and climate change. 
• Teamwork & Indigenous Knowledge: Collaborate with peers and local experts, integrating traditional and community knowledge for richer, context-driven data. 

Whether you’re an environmental professional, a land guardian, or a passionate advocate for marine life, this MicroCourse will empower you to minimize impacts, contribute to conservation, and confidently observe and report on marine mammals in any setting.