Purpose
To examine the phenomenon of animal migration, with emphasis on the individual's life-time track. By considering the vast array of migratory strategies that have evolved in the animal kingdom, from the spectacular to the obscure, the course aims to provide a unifying approach to the study of migration which cuts across taxa and gives a common framework for an understanding of how and why animals migrate. Compass systems such as the sun, stars and earth's magnetic field for orientation and navigation will also be reviewed.
Contents
The course will cover topics such as: life-time track, familiar area, exploratory migration, migratory restlessness, orienta-tion, navigation, magnetoreception, etc. A broad range of taxonomic groups will be considered, from bacteria to humans.
Students are expected to present/discuss seminars on chosen topics. In addition, in order to experience navigation techniques at first hand, students will be used as "homing pigeons" on a 1-day excursion and practical exercise, the results of this project being analysed and presented by the students themselves.
Teaching
8 x 1 hour lectures
7 x 2 hour seminars/practicals
Day excursion/practical
Requirements
None
Teaching material
List of books/articles will be handed out at the start of the course.
Teacher
Janice G. Mather-Christensen.
Exam
Pass/fail on basis of satisfactory participation in the course (minimum 80% attendance).
Participation
Maximum 20 students.
Time
October - November