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BIO410 Landscape Ecology of Birds (8)

Abstract

In this subject, students gain an in-depth understanding of how bird species interact with different landscape elements. Birds are highly mobile organisms that move over large areas. Understanding the relationship between birds and landscape characteristics is therefore fundamental to their conservation.  It is assumed students already have a sound knowledge of avian ecology and/or geographic information systems combined with skills in communication because in this subject students undertake a critical evaluation of relevant literature and develop and implement of their own research project under the guidance of the subject coordinator. The subject has no residential school. On completion of this subject, students will have an in-depth understanding of how bird species interact with different landscape elements and be able to express research findings in applied terms.

+ Subject Availability Modes and Location

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details prior to contacting their course coordinator: BIO410
Where differences exist between the handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject information

Duration Grading System School:
One sessionHD/FLSchool of Environmental Sciences

Assumed Knowledge

BIO3%%

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • have an in-depth understanding of how landscapes influence bird assemblages, bird diversity, and bird populations
  • be able to develop and implement their own research project in one particular area of landscape/bird relationships which adds to our current understanding of the field
  • be able to communicate their research in an appropraite and effective manner
  • be able to express research findings in applied terms and consider the management implications of their results
  • have an appreciation of the importance of relevant spatial scales when studying birds

Syllabus

The subject will cover the following topics:
  1. An introduction to landscape ecology; and
  2. The relationship between birds and the following sub-topics:
    1. - Spatial scale
    2. - Connectivity
    3. - Edges
    4. - Linear landscape elements (e.g. corridors)
    5. - Habitat loss and fragmentation
    6. - Remnant characteristics (e.g. size and shape)
    7. - Landscape structure and function
    8. - Landscape heterogeneity
    9. - Landscape change
    10. - Thresholds
    11. - Dynamics of spatially subdivided populations
    12. - Habitat selection at multiple spatial scales
    13. - Landscape and regional planning
    14. - Biogeographic patterns and processes

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The information contained in the 2015 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 01 October 2015. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.