This course provides an introduction to vertebrate biology for students in the natural resource field. The course has three main themes: animal ecology, comparative anatomy, and the systematics and identification of amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. Lectures address the evolutionary ecology of these groups, including the adaptive significance of morphological, physiological and behavioural traits. Key concepts of vertebrate ecology are introduced, such as predator-prey theory, optimal foraging strategy, reproductive success, dispersal, metapopulation theory, and wildlife management. Basic vertebrate anatomy and functional morphology also are covered. Laboratory work involves anatomical dissections and the taxonomic identification of terrestrial vertebrates, particularly those species found in British Columbia.
Prerequisite: 3rd or 4th year standing in the Natural Resource Science program.
Corequisite: BIOL 303
Note: Students who have taken BIOL 225 and/or BIOL 427 cannot receive credit for this course.