BIO480 Ecology and Conservation of Waterbirds (8)
Prerequisite: BIO430
Enrolment Restriction: Normally only available to students who are enrolled in the Graduate Diploma of Ornithology
The rate of loss and degradation of wetlands worldwide exceeds that of any other major ecosystem type. Waterbirds that depend on these wetlands are also in decline globally. In this subject students will examine the different kinds of wetlands in Australia and globally, and the reasons for the high rates of loss of these ecosystems. Students will explore basic waterbird ecology and in particular, relationships between waterbirds and their habitats. They will also examine ways of reversing loss and degradation of wetlands and different approaches to the conservation of waterbirds. Students will acquire skills in the critical evaluation of the literature and practical skills in the design of management plans to conserve waterbirds. Students will be required to have computer and internet access to complete this subject.