ZL5205:03
Wildlife Ecology and Management
Townsville
Prerequisites: Consult HOS
Inadmissable Subject Combination: ZL3205
26 lectures, 24 hours practicals, 3 days field work. Second semester.
Available to students enrolled for the degrees of MSc (including MSc Qualifying), MAppSc, BAppSc or Graduate Diplomas.
Staff: Dr C Johnson.
This subject introduces the theory and practice of the management of terrestrial vertebrates, with a strong emphasis on wildlife management in Australia. The subject begins by reviewing the ecological processes and physiological adaptations that shape the habitat utilisation, abundance and distribution of wildlife species. It then discusses the sustainable exploitation of vertebrate species and the control of vertebrate pests. Detailed case studies of Australian examples are provided throughout. Topics include: the population ecology, nutritional ecology and physiological ecology of terrestrial vertebrates; theory and practice of harvesting as applied to wildlife populations; biological invasions; prospects for control of vertebrate pests; integrated pest management; disease and disease transmission in wildlife populations. Students will be required to attend ZL3205 lectures and practicals.
Learning Objectives:
- familiarity with ecological theory as the scientific basis of wildlife management and with factors determining abundance and habitat utilisation by terrestrial vertebrates;
- familiarity with current problems, practices and controversies in wildlife management in Australia;
- familiarity with practical problems and methodologies in wildlife management.
Assessment by final examination; essays and practical assignment.
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