BIO439 Avian Behavioural Ecology (8)
CSU Discipline Area: Biological Sciences (BILSC)
Duration: One session
Abstract:
Avian Behavioural Ecology is an advanced behavioural ecology class with an emphasis on avian reproduction. It assumes students have learning that is equivalent to that provided in 'Avian Biology' (BIO430) and 'Avian Systematics' (BIO431) as well as some level of statistical knowledge. Such knowledge is needed as students are required to collect, analyse and write up bird research field data in a publishable format that could be submitted to a peer reviewed journal. As such the subject assists students to understand, evaluate, and write up ecological data and encourage them to undertake ongoing research and study in ornithology.
+ Subject Availability Modes and Locations
| Session 2 | |
|---|---|
| Distance | Albury-Wodonga |
Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: BIO439
Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.
Enrolment restrictions:
Normally only available to students enrolled in the Graduate Diploma of Ornithology
Objectives:
Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
Be able to:
- Demonstrate their understanding of the general behavioural ecology of birds;
- Identify and describe the reproductive behaviours of birds;
- Design a behavioural study and collect primary behavioural data;
- Analyse behavioural data and interpret quantitative results;
- Write up behavioural data in a scientific format suitable for submission to a peer-reviewed publication;
- Analyse the primary literature critically;
- Describe and explain the complexities and limitations surrounding the collection of, and publication of, behavioural data.
Syllabus:
The subject will cover the following topics:
1. Behavioural Ecology - basic concepts
2. Foraging
3. Habitat Choice
4. Management of Time and Energy
5. Ecology of Reproductive Systems
6. Breeding Systems
7. Competition for Mates and Female Choice
8. Parental Care Systems
9. Parental Tactics - benefits and costs
10. Parent-Offspring Conflict
11. Chick Growth and Development
12. Juvenile Mortality and Recruitment
13. Lessons in Life Histories
The information contained in the 2013 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 24 April 2013. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.