Duration
9h Th, 9h AUTR
Number of credits
| Master in forests and natural areas engineering (120 ECTS) | 2 crédits |
Lecturer
Language(s) of instruction
French language
Organisation and examination
Teaching in the first semester, review in January
Schedule
Units courses prerequisite and corequisite
Prerequisite or corequisite units are presented within each program
Learning unit contents
The course aims at clarifying the interactions between behavioral ecology and conservation biology. The course is divided into 3 parts. 1) Definitions and introduction to concepts specific to eco-ethology, and demonstration of the interconnections via study cases including the conservation plan of the black grouse in Belgium. 2) The second part includes a discussion of the main elements affecting the elaboration of conservation projects: general knowledge about ecology, social organization, socio-reproductive systems, migration type of the sexes, space/habitat use and ecological functions of the species. 3) The third part develops the methods used to quantify animal behaviour (ethometry), with practical exercises via a one-day training in zoo (Pairi Daiza or other zoological park). The evaluation of the course is based on a written report about the exercises practiced in zoo (behavioural research) and a critical reflection about the importance of the behavioral aspects for the conservation of the species studied in zoo.
Learning outcomes of the learning unit
Theoretical elements on behavioral ecology and its connections with wildlife conservation and management.
Ethometry methods: techniques of observation and quantification of animal behavior
Prerequisite knowledge and skills
Planned learning activities and teaching methods
Theoretical sessions, one fieldwork day (22/092023; practical exercises in zoo), and written report
Mode of delivery (face to face, distance learning, hybrid learning)
Face-to-face course
Additional information:
Face-to-face
The active participation to the training course is mandatory (22/09/2023).
Recommended or required readings
Slides (pdf) of theoritical lectures are available on e-Campus.
Written work / report
Additional information:
Written report (by group of 2-3 students) on the practical exercises of behavioral observation in zoo and short review on the species biology/ecology and its conservation status and implications.
Work placement(s)
One-day practical exercise of behavioral observation in zoo (Pairi Daiza or other zoological park): 22-09-2023
Organisational remarks and main changes to the course
As regard to the one-day training of behavioral observation, a participation might be requested for the entrance fees to the animal park.
Transport (by bus) from the Faculty of Gembloux to the training site is in charge of the University.
Contacts
Fany Brotcorne (fbrotcorne@uliege.be)