VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.
Vertebrate Ecology
Ökologie der Wirbeltiere
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 14:59:20
Abstract
The course gives an overview on ecology and conservation biology of vertebrates. Important concepts from physiology, behavioural ecology, and population, community and landscape ecology will be linked to applications in conservation and management. A worldwide perspective will be complemented by a focus on the native fauna. Some exercises and voluntary field trips will complete the course.
Objective
The students will be acquainted with important topics in animal ecology, with an emphasis on vertebrates. Students will be able to link theoretical concepts with visible ecological phenomena, and view them against an evolutionary backdrop. They can thus appraise applied aspects of conservation and use of animal populations, such as the influence of larger predators on prey populations or of herbivores on vegetation, the effects of hunting, landscape change, or other human influences on animal populations.
Content
The course deals with a number of main topics that include feeding and resource use, spatial behaviour and migrations, reproduction, population dynamics, competition and predation, biodiversity and distributions. Examples will be drawn worldwide and if possible from central Europe. The course does not include an overview of the native fauna. Instead, current problems in conservation and use of populations, and research methods will be discussed. The course includes several exercises and about two field trips, one as a voluntary option in the summer semester. If feasible, visits to field projects may be offered.
Resources
Lecture Notes
Will be available for download.
Literature
Literature lists will be provided. Some books relevant to the course are: - Caughley, G. & Sinclair, A.R.E. 1994. Wildlife Ecology and Management. Blackwell, Boston. - Boitani, L. & Fuller, T. editors. 2000. Research Techniques in Animal Ecology: Controversies and Consequences. Columbia University Press. - Pough, F. H., Andrews, R. W., Cadle, J. E., Crump, M. L., Savitzky, A. H. & Wells, K. D. 1998. Herpetology. Prentice Hall, New Jersey.
General Information
- Language
- German
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- written 60 minutes
- Aids
- None
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Ökologie der Wirbeltiere |
|
2 h weekly |