BIRD ECOLOGY
ZOO 4970/5970, Sec. 050, 3 credit hours
Course Description: This course will introduce students to the structure, diversity, evolution, behavior, and ecology of birds. It will provide students the opportunity to learn field identification, census techniques, and a variety of other research techniques.
Topics Covered: The course will emphasize the field study of birds. This will include (1) lectures on bird structure, origin and evolution, modern diversity, behavior and ecology and, (2) field trips that provide the opportunity to find and identify birds, capture and examine birds, and observe behaviors discussed in lecture.
Laboratory: This course includes several field trips including at least 3 day long field trips. Morning and extended bird walks will be conducted daily.
Examinations: Grades will be based on two lecture examinations (midterm and final), bird identification practicals (2), paper discussions (2), and class participation. Graduate students will complete a term paper on a topic of instructor’s choice.
Grading Policy: Midterm and final exams are each worth 25% of the final grade, bird identification practicals are each worth 15% of the final grade, two paper discussions are each worth 5% of the final grade, and 10% based on class participation.
Materials Required: Binoculars, boots (hiking and rubber), and long pants. If at all possible, the student should bring appropriate binoculars with them. They should be either 7X35, 8X40, or 10X40 or some similar combination. No opera glasses or miniature binoculars, as well as no large, 20 lb binoculars. Bring a field journal that is a small notebook appropriate for carrying in your pocket. Field clothing should be appropriate for woodlands and open sunny areas (i.e., hat, long pants, sturdy shoes, light cotton shirts etc). Sunscreen, tick and mosquito repellant, and field guide are needed.
Available at the Biological Station (*all prices subject to change):
- Birder's journal : $6.60 plus tax*
- Sunscreen: $3.77-$6.37 plus tax*
- Insect repellant: $3.30-$4.46 plus tax*
Textbook: Sibley, David A. (2003) The Sibley Guide to Birds of Eastern Northern America. Alfred A. Knopf, Inc., New York., ISBN: 0-679-45120-X. Available at the Biological Station: $14.39 plus tax*.
Reasonable Accommodation: Any student in this course who has a disability that may prevent him or her from demonstrating his or her abilities should contact Doug Wood, Janet Isaac, (405) 325-7431 and the Disability Resource Center, Goddard Health Center, Rm. 166, (405) 325-3852, as soon as possible so that accommodations necessary to ensure full participation and facilitate your educational opportunities can be discussed.
Doug Wood
Southeastern Oklahoma State University
Campus Mail: PMB 4068
Durant, OK 74701-0609
Phone: (580) 745-2272
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