Evolution by natural selection explains why organisms have traits that are well suited to their environment. Long necks allow giraffes forage on tall trees and white fur camouflages Arctic hares in their snowy surroundings. Animal behavior is shaped by the same selection pressures! In this course, we will focus on the adaptive nature of why animals behave the way they do: Why do lions live in prides?; Why do songbirds migrate?; Why are moths attracted to light? Key topics include: foraging and predation, mating systems and reproductive behavior, senses and learning, social behavior, parental care, communication, and conservation.
Learning Outcomes:
Understand the basic principles of animal behavior
Assess the fitness costs and benefits of behavior
Synthesize primary scientific literature
Develop and test hypotheses
Delivery Method: Fully in-person
Prerequisites: Previous biology courses or permission from the instructor.
Course Level: 4000-level
Credits: 4
M/Th 1:40PM-3:30PM, M 8:30AM-12:10PM (Lab) (Full-term)
Maximum Enrollment: 24
Course Frequency: One time only
Categories: All courses , Biology , Fully In-Person
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