This week we give a warm welcome to Verena Gill, a specialist on marine mammals, specifically: sea otters, the Beluga whale and North Pacific Right whale. A major aspect of Verena's work at the NOAA Fisheries is aimed at the conservation of a special population of Beluga whale that lives in the Cook Inlet in Alaska. Sadly the population is decreasing due to several human threats, yet Verena is working tirelessly to save the species. During this conversation, Verena also talks to us about her fascinating work with Sea Otters and tells us the story of the trials and tribulations of doing fieldwork on the vast tidal waters of Cook Inlet! At the end of the episode, we will also be announcing who has won our latest competition - good luck!