Dolphin &
Whale Trainer
Whale Watching Guide
Related Jobs or Working with these Jobs
Cetology is the branch of marine mammal science that studies the
approximately eighty species of whales, dolphins, and porpoise in the
scientific order Cetacea. The term was coined in the mid-19th century
from the Greek cetus ("whale") and -ology ("study"). Cetologists, or
those who practice cetology, seek to understand and explain cetacean
evolution, distribution, morphology, behaviour, community dynamics, and
other topics.
Studying cetaceans presents numerous challenges. Cetaceans only
spend 10% of their time on the surface, and
all they do at the surface is breathe. There is very little behaviour
seen at the surface. It is also impossible to find any signs that an
animal has been in an area. Cetaceans do not leave tracks that can be
followed. However, the dung of whales often floats and can be collected
to tell important information about their diet and about the role they
have in the environment. Many times cetology consists of waiting and
paying close attention.
ANZSCO ID:
234516 [Marine Biologist]
Alternative names: Marine Mammal
Biologist, Marine Mammal Scientist,
Specialisations:
- Determine areas of research to increase knowledge in a particular field.
- Whales
[Cetaceans]
- Baleen Whales (15 species)
- Toothed Whales (77 species)
- Dolphins
- Porpoises
- Military Cetology (PDF)
- Identify sources of funding, prepare research proposals and submit funding applications.
(Source:
Tradesman Skills)
Knowledge, skills and attributes
You need to obtain an undergraduate degree. The most relevant fields of study include biology, marine science, ecology, and zoology. A master’s or PhD in cetology or marine biology will give you the skills and knowledge you need to conduct research and make an impact in the field.
-
Attention to Detail
-
Passion for Marine Mammals
-
Strong Communication Skills
Marine mammal conservation problems are complex and interdisciplinary. Focus on skill acquisition. Have you learned something new each semester or year? Some areas where you can develop skills:
- bioacoustics,
- ocean engineering,
- veterinary medicine,
- microbiology,
- parasitology,
- physiology,
- anatomy,
- histology,
- toxicology,
- molecular biology/genetics,
- physical, chemical, biological oceanography,
- climatology,
- oceanographic sampling,
- terrestrial or marine field data collection and analysis,
- social science,
- economics,
- creative writing,
- science communication (take accredited writing and public speaking courses),
- Geographic Information Systems,
- systems modelling,
- programming languages (R, Python, C++, Java, etc.),
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools,
- wildlife photography,
- diving certifications (optional),
- statistics (Bayesian and Frequentist)/statistical modelling.
Duties and Tasks
Cetologists use a variety of research techniques to
learn about cetacean behaviour, biology, and habitat. For example, they
may use satellite tagging to track the movements of whales and dolphins,
or they may use underwater microphones to study the sounds that these
animals make. They may also collect tissue samples to study the genetics
of different cetacean populations.
One of the key goals of cetologists is to develop conservation
strategies that protect these species and their environments. Many
cetacean populations are threatened by human activities such as whaling,
bycatch in fishing nets, and pollution. Cetologists work to understand
the impacts of these activities on marine mammal populations, and they
use this knowledge to advocate for policies that protect these animals.
Cetologists’ work is highly interdisciplinary, and they use many
different scientific methods to study marine mammals. For example, they
may use physiological techniques to study the metabolic rates of whales
and dolphins, or they may use behavioural ecology to study the social
dynamics of these animals. They may also use oceanography to study the
physical and chemical properties of the ocean, which can have a
significant impact on cetacean populations.
In addition to their research, many cetologists also work to educate the
public about marine mammals. They may give presentations at schools and
community events, or they may work with media outlets to raise awareness
about the importance of protecting these animals.
|
Did You Know? Humpback whales engage in a variety of high-energy behaviours. To understand the significance and purpose of whale behaviours, cetologists consider factors such as season, location, and other whales in the vicinity (Source: Pacific Whale Foundation - PDF) |
|
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Head Slap Lunging head-first out of the water, the whale pounds its massive, sometimes partially engorged mouth on the water’s surface. |
 |
BLOW A blow occurs as a whale exhales and inhales at the surface. A bushy cloud of water vapour is produced above the animal’s head during exhalation. FLUKE UP DIVE The humpback brings its tail flukes above the surface of the water. It is called a “fluke up” dive if the flukes are brought straight into the air, so that the entire ventral (underneath) surface of the flukes is exposed. BREACH The whale propels itself out of the water, clearing the surface with two-thirds of its body or more. As the whale rises above the water, it often throws one pectoral fin out to the side and turns in the air on its longitudinal axis. Following a breach, other whales can often be observed breaching in the distance, indicating a possible form of communication |
 |
PEC SLAP The whale rolls sideways at the surface, slapping a pectoral fin against the water. Sometimes whales lay on their backs slapping both fins down on top of the water. SPY HOP The whale rises relatively straight up out of the water rather slowly, maintains its head above the surface to just below the eye, often turns 90 - 180 degrees on its longitudinal axis, and then slips back below the surface. TAIL SLAP This forceful slapping of the tail fluke against the surface of the water can be carried out while the whale is lying either upright or inverted in the water. The resulting sound can be heard underwater, and may be a form of communication. PEDUNCLE THROW The rear portion o fhte body, including bothe the caudal peduncle and the flukes, is thrown up out of the water then brought down sideways, either on the surface of the water or on top of another whale SINGING Sometimes described as resembling “barnyard” noises, humpback whale songs are actually complex, orderly components of a song that are repeated for extended periods. Only males “sing” and whale songs primarily occur in breeding and calving areas. |
Working conditions
Cetologists have the opportunity to travel all over the world,
studying different species of marine mammals in their natural habitats.
From the Arctic waters where beluga whales thrive, to the warm waters
off the coast of Hawaii where humpback whales migrate, cetologists get
to explore some of the most beautiful and remote places on the planet.
Field Work
Cetologists spend a significant amount of time in the field, observing
and collecting data on marine mammals. This can involve everything from
taking photos and videos of whales and dolphins to collecting tissue
samples for genetic analysis. Field work can be physically demanding,
but it’s also incredibly rewarding, as it allows cetologists to get up
close and personal with these amazing creatures.
Laboratory Research
When cetologists aren’t in the field, they’re often working in a
laboratory setting, analysing the data they’ve collected. This can
involve everything from studying the behaviour of whales and dolphins to
analysing the chemical composition of their blubber. Laboratory research
is essential for understanding the biology and ecology of marine
mammals, and it’s a critical component of cetology.
Conservation Efforts
Cetologists play a crucial role in conservation efforts aimed at
protecting marine mammals and their habitats. They work with government
agencies, non-profit organizations, and other stakeholders to develop
and implement conservation strategies. By studying the behaviour and
ecology of marine mammals, cetologists can help identify threats to
their survival and develop solutions to mitigate those threats.
|
Did you know ? That Whale poo may act as a fertiliser in the world's oceans? (Source: Australian Antarctic Division: World Oceans' Day)  Have a look at this story Iron Whales from ABC's Catalyst  |
Tools and technologies
Cetologists use equipment including hydrophones to listen to
calls of communicating animals, binoculars and other optical devices for
scanning the horizon, cameras, notes, and a few other devices and tools.
An alternative method of studying cetaceans is through examination of
dead carcasses that wash up on the shore. If properly collected and
stored, these carcasses can provide important information that is
difficult to obtain in field studies.
A researcher fires a biopsy dart at an orca.
The dart will remove a small piece of the whale's skin and bounce
harmlessly off the animal.
(Source:
Kiddle)
In recent decades, methods of identifying individual cetaceans have
enabled accurate population counts and insights into the lifecycles and
social structures of various species.
One such successful system is photo-identification. This system was
popularized by Michael Bigg, a pioneer in modern orca (killer whale)
research. During the mid-1970s, Bigg and Graeme Ellis photographed local
orcas in the British Columbian seas. After examining the photos, they
realized they could recognize certain individual whales by looking at
the shape and condition of the dorsal fin, and also the shape of the
saddle patch. These are as unique as a human fingerprint; no one
animal's looks exactly like another's. After they could recognize
certain individuals, they found that the animals travel in stable groups
called pods. Researchers use photo identification to identify specific
individuals and pods.
The photographic system has also worked well in humpback whale studies.
Researchers use the colour of the pectoral fins and colour of the fluke
to identify individuals. Scars from orca attacks found on the flukes of
humpbacks are also used in identification.
Education and training/entrance requirements
It is advised
to take as many science courses as are available along with a strong
computer science and mathematics background. These courses include
biology, chemistry, ecology, fish biology, zoology, and conservation
courses. Courses in statistics are critical to study in this field. It
takes a minimum of four years to earn Bachelor of Science degree and 2-6
more years to earn a Masters or Doctoral degree. A scuba certification,
driver's and boat operator's licenses, and a plethora of boat handling
experience are all prerequisites needed.
Did You Know?
The secret of whales: How giant whales defy cancer
Bionity: 15 February 2024
Study of gigantism in whales provides clues to genomic
mechanism involved in tumor suppression
The functioning of certain regions of a few genes in
cetaceans (whales, porpoises and dolphins) may explain why
the Blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus) can reach lengths of
up to 30 meters – almost 10 m more than a bus – while the
Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) is 4 m long at most.
It can also help toward the development of new cancer
treatments.
This is the subject of an article published in the journal
BMC Ecology and Evolution by a group of researchers at the
State University of Campinas Institute of Biology
(IB-UNICAMP) in São Paulo state, Brazil [see source below]
“Although cetaceans are divided into two well-defined
evolutionary groups, Odontoceti [dolphins and toothed
whales] and Mysticeti [baleen whales that have no teeth and
filter zooplankton through keratin bristles, including blue
whales and humpback whales, for example], we found in the
promoter region of the gene NCAPG a division between those
with lengths of more or less than 10 m – giants and
non-giants,” said Felipe Silva, first author of the
article.
The promoter region of a gene is a DNA sequence located
upstream of the protein-coding region where the messenger
RNA that intermediates protein synthesis is produced. It
begins the process of transcription, in which an RNA copy of
a gene’s DNA sequence is made. As such, it acts as a
regulator of gene expression.
Analysis of the NCAPG promoter region, which can make the
gene express more protein or inhibit protein production,
showed that the sperm whale (Physeter catodon), which has
teeth and averages 20 m in length, is closest to the
Mysticeti, which are over 10 m long and have no teeth. It
also grouped the Common minke whale (Balaenoptera
acutorostrata), which averages 8.8 m, with non-giant toothed
cetaceans.
“Our findings don’t change the group’s evolutionary tree
but constitute new evidence that giant size has a genomic
basis. The analysis of other genes confirms the
evolutionarily established groups, meaning that the
characteristics of minke whales and sperm whales are
probably convergent adaptations – similar traits that evolve
independently in separate groups via different routes,”
said Mariana Freitas Nery, a professor at IB-UNICAMP and
supervisor of Silva’s research for his master’s degree.
The study was part of the project “Using comparative
genomics to understand convergent evolution of mammals:
tracking the molecular footprints of marine and riverine
environment colonization”, led by Nery and supported by
FAPESP.
Suppression of cancer
The researchers focused on four genes explored in a previous
study, in which they analyzed alterations to gene coding
regions. Here the investigation focused on regulatory
regions for the same genes. Non-coding sequences with
regulatory functions, such as promoters and enhancers,
coordinate the spatiotemporal expression of genes.
The analysis showed that these regions influenced not only
the size of the animals but also their ability to suppress
cancer. Tumors would be expected in animals with such a
large number of cells, yet cancer is extremely rare in
cetaceans.
“It was important to analyze the coding and non-coding
portions of these cetaceans’ genomes since both proved
significant for these traits, which evolved very rapidly in
these animals, as the analysis also showed,” Silva
said.
While the proteins that regulate body size were found to be
more active in giant cetaceans, the same genes proved to be
inhibitors in those with lengths under 10 m, acting as if
they were brakes on the size of members of the group.
Not by accident, some of the genes whose activity
characterizes gigantism in cetaceans are also tumor
suppressors. Parts of other mammals’ genomes also play this
role, offsetting the influence of having a large number of
cells, which subjects them to replication flaws and would
otherwise make them more likely to develop cancer.
“Humans also have these genes, so it would be
interesting to find out more about how they suppress the
formation of tumors in these animals. Such knowledge could
help develop future cancer treatments via activation or
inhibition of specific regions of the genome, for example,”
Nery said.
ORIGINAL PUBLICATION
Felipe A. Silva, Agnello C. R. Picorelli,
Giovanna S. Veiga, Mariana F. Nery; "Patterns of enrichment
and acceleration in evolutionary rates of promoters suggest
a role of regulatory regions in cetacean gigantism"; BMC
Ecology and Evolution, Volume 23, 2023-10-24
(Source:
Bionity)
Training captive dolphins and whales to perform gives you a chance
to work with the creatures in the water. Many trainers also educate
and share the experience with people who want to touch, feed, swim
with and watch the fascinating mammals perform. A bachelor's degree
in marine biology may be necessary to secure a training position
because of the popularity of jobs that work with dolphins.
Here are two killer whales, Haida and
Chimo, kept at the Victoria Sealand of the Pacific Aquarium.
(Source: National Film Board of
Canada)
ANZSCO ID:
361100
Alternative names: Marine Mammal
Trainer,
Specialisations:
-
Husbandry Expert: As a husbandry expert your job is to supervise the preparation of the animals’ food and vitamins, and to order the food supply. This job requires a great deal of physical work, because it involves the maintenance of the fish supply and the sanitation of the marine mammal kitchen. This area needs to be clean enough so you could eat off the floor! You need to pay attention to detail to make sure your fish supply is of the highest quality. You can take pride in the fact that you are directly responsible for maintaining a healthy diet for the animals. Also called Husbandry Technician
Knowledge, skills and attributes
Every facility has a different philosophy and mission and therefore looks for different skills in their employees. At many dolphin facilities public speaking skills will be very important. Take classes that will advance your public speaking skills and knowledge of the animals and environment in which you will be working. Physical fitness is also important and because you will be working in an aquatic environment, swimming skills will be required. Many facilities required a swim test before you will be hired. Additionally, you should become SCUBA certified since some facilities only hire trainers if they are SCUBA certified.
(Source: Sea World)
Duties and Tasks
Only dependable people can be successful trainers. Trainers are responsible for preparing meals, feeding, training, cleaning fish containers, and stimulating marine mammals both physically and mentally. The dolphins and trainers have training sessions each day, which are both mentally and physically stimulating. All trainers vary the dolphins with which they work. All of the dolphins receive at least three meals a day – usually a feeding in the morning, midday and afternoon. Trainers also make sure that all of the animals receive their vitamins and any necessary medications. The dolphins also practice medical behaviours with their trainers, and each dolphin has a physical twice a year. As a trainer you need to show a great deal of enthusiasm and energy to keep the dolphins excited and interested. Trainers may continue to work on behaviours that have already been taught to the dolphins or they may have the opportunity (after they have gained much experience) to train a dolphin a new behaviour. Each day brings something new to a trainer’s schedule. Life is never dull when you are a dolphin trainer!
Working conditions
Of course there are drawbacks to working with animals. Being a
trainer means you will have to maintain the animals’ living
environment, which includes cleaning animals’ homes. This can be
difficult and tiresome work. At many facilities you will also be
outside a great deal during the hot summer months. You are working
with dynamic animals, so you need to be flexible to their schedule,
which may mean long, irregular hours. Trainers often work on
holidays because the dolphins still need to be provided with care no
matter what day it is. There are many positive aspects of being a
trainer, which include the relationships you build with the
individual animals. On a daily basis you get to work with animals
who all have their own unique dolphinalities (personalities). You
also have the chance to work closely with a team of other trainers
and to support each other in your progress with the animals.
Tools and technologies
Dolphin trainers use a variety of methods to train dolphins,
including:
Positive reinforcement: Trainers break
down the desired behaviour into steps and reward the dolphin for
each correct step. Rewards can be food, toys, attention, or an
animated response from the trainer.
Targeting: Trainers use a target, such as
a float on a pole, to teach the dolphin how to perform a behaviour.
The dolphin is rewarded for touching the target with its rostrum.
Hand signals: Trainers use unique hand
signals for each trick they want the dolphin to perform.
Whistles: Trainers use whistles to tell
the dolphin that it performed the desired behaviour correctly.
Imitation: Trainers model the behaviour
for the dolphins and reinforce imitation.
Successive approximations: Trainers
encourage and reinforce small steps that lead in the general
direction of the final behaviour.
Enrichment: Trainers provide dolphins with
toys, physical contact, and new experiences to stimulate and
challenge them.
Education and training/entrance requirements
While in high school, you can gain valuable knowledge and experiences in the field of biology. You will need lots of math and science classes to gain a strong background for college. Many trainers pursue degrees in Biology, Marine Biology, Psychology, or Animal Behaviour in university.
The best way to gain valuable hands–on experience is to complete volunteer work or an internship at a facility that has animals (they don’t necessarily have to be dolphins). Many universities require or strongly advise these programs because they enable you to learn while in the field. They also help you to determine whether or not you want to continue to pursue a training career. People often have a glorified image of marine mammal training and do not realize the hard work and dedication it takes to succeed in the field.
When you start at a facility, you will probably shadow (follow)
senior trainers a great deal to become more familiar with the
characteristics of each dolphin and to learn different training
procedures. You may then start to feed and interact with a dolphin
under the supervision of senior trainers. Eventually, the trainers
will teach you to communicate with the dolphins through hand
signals. As you grow and learn, you will gain more responsibilities
with the animals. For example: training new behaviours, working on
medical behaviours, or facilitating programs where the public
interacts with the dolphins. Your growth rate will depend on past
experiences, your comfort level and confidence.
Responsible whale watching deepens appreciation of marine conservation efforts, according to the International Whaling Commission, making a guiding job a great way to share your knowledge of the creatures with people eager to learn. Guides who take people on boats to spot whales and dolphins experience sightings of the magnificent creatures and spend hours each day on the ocean. The opportunity to share information with the passengers about the whales and dolphins makes the job even more interesting if you like to educate others with enthusiasm and knowledge. Knowledge of first aid and rescue skills along with skills in handling a boat come in handy in securing a guide position.
ANZSCO ID: 451412
Alternative names: Outdoor
Adventure Guide, Whale Watching Tour Guide,
Specialisations: Operator on
particular areas along the East and West Coast of Australia eg.
Hervey Bay.
Knowledge, skills and attributes
-
Is happy and cheerful
-
Loves to chat with guests
-
Loves nature and is genuinely excited to be out Whale Watching each day - during the whale migration period
-
Knows what needs to be done and just does it
-
Is not phased by weather conditions
-
Is very dependable
Duties and Tasks
-
Assist skipper prepare boat each morning
-
Assist skipper clean and put boat away at the end of the day
-
Ensure facilities are clean and presentable at all times
-
Meet and greet guests on arrival
-
Managing the daily manifests
-
Assist with coffee and tea facilities
-
Walking around talking with guests throughout the tour
-
Share interesting facts about the sea, birds, whales, etc with guests.
-
Making sure our guests throughout the trip are comfortable
-
Taking photos and posting to socials.
-
Understanding and adhering to safety
Working conditions
This position is approx 24-25hrs per week during
the whale migration period.
During school holidays in June & July (Hervey Bay area) they do run
extra Tours depending on demand. During school holiday (Sept & Oct
in southern eastern area - Batemans Bay to Bega) they will also run
extra tours.
A standard week would be:
Wednesday - 8.30 - 1.30pm
Friday - 8.30am - 1.30pm
Saturday - 8.30am - 3.30pm
Sunday - 8.30am - 3.30pm
Education and training/entrance requirements
No formal experience or licences are required for this position. The Whale Watching company can train anyone that enthusiastic and is interested in learning. A degree of knowledge about the sea and its creatures would be beneficial.
Employment Opportunities
This is a casual job and only during the migration period.
The Conversation 22 November 2024
New Maps show high-risk zones for whale-ship collisions - vessel speed limits and rerouting can reduce the toll
Hypothesise other solutions by brain-storming in a group of 3 - 5 students
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Materials sourced from
Tradesman Skills [How to become a Cetologist; ]
Kiddle [Cetology facts for kids; ]
Work Chron. [Dolphins & Whales; ]
Weebly [Cetologists; ]
Cronulla Whale Watching [Whale Watching Tour Guide; ]
Marine Mammal Science [Marine Mammal Scientist; ]
Dolphins Research Center [Careers; ]
