Field Research in Animal Ecology and Energetics

3 credits · Undergraduate

(3 hrs Field Study) This course covers field and laboratory methods for studying ecological energetics and evolutionary physiology of free-ranging wild animals. During a field camp before the start of fall term, students learn techniques for studying metabolism and energy balance in animals including small mammal trapping/identification, temperature radiotelemetry, and open-circuit respirometry. The course focuses on small mammals, but there are opportunities to study songbirds, and some non-endothermic vertebrates and invertebrates. Each student conducts an independent research project during the field camp, and presents this work in a seminar and term paper during fall term. Note: Permission of the instructor is required to register. Requisite Courses: BIOL-2403 or BIOL-2451 or BIOL-3602 or BIOL-3603 or BIOL-3492; a minimum of 15 credit hours of coursework in Biology at or above the 2000 level [prerequisite(s)].