654-207 Australian Wildlife Biology

Credit Points

Coordinator

Prerequisites

Biology 600-111

Semester

Contact

Subject Description

This subject will introduce students to the biology of Australia's vertebrate fauna, emphasising birds, reptiles and frogs, with a particular focus on their adaptations to the uncertain nature of the Australian environment. A variety of topics will be discussed including: the problems and potential solutions to the use and control of native, introduced and pest species; wildlife diseases, both parasites and pathogens; wildlife as vectors of disease; venoms and toxins; interactions between native, domesticated and feral animals (particularly mammals); and the ethics associated with research and experimentation on animals.

Upon completion of this subject students would have an appreciation of the natural history and uniqueness of a broad range of Australian wildlife; and a sound knowledge of the interactions between wildlife and natural and human-modified environments.

Assessment

A 2-hour, end-of-semester written examination. Reports on practical work and excursions (up to 1200 words in total).