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Vertebrate Ecology
Ökologie der Wirbeltiere
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:13:05
Abstract
The course offers an overview on the ecology and conservation biology of birds and mammals. Important concepts from physiology, behavioural ecology, population biology, biogeography and community ecology will be linked to applications in conservation and management. A worldwide perspective will be complemented by a focus on the Central European fauna and its dynamics.
Objective
The students will be acquainted with important topics in animal ecology, with an emphasis on birds and mammals. 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 the conservation and the 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 of other human influences on animal populations. They understand the biogeographical characteristics of the Central European vertebrate fauna and its temporal and spatial dynamics.
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, and dynamics of the Central European fauna. There is an emphasis on linking theory with management issues in conservation and management of wildlife populations. During the first half of the course, examples will be drawn worldwide whereas during the second half, the course will focus more strongly on the European fauna, particularly of the Alpine region. Although the course is not designed to teach natural history of the native species, examples will cover much of the taxonomic breadth of the European fauna. Students are expected to read one paper and to present it to the audience. In addition, an optional field trip will be offered on a Saturday during the semester. For the provisional program, see the German text.
Resources
Lecture Notes
Lecture notes will be available.
Literature
Literature will be listed in the lecture notes, and papers to be presented will be distributed. Some books relevant to the course are (optional reading): - 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.
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- BSC
- 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 |