UGA Bulletin

Course Description

Field studies to explore the ecology and natural history of plant and vertebrate communities in a variety of biomes and ecosystems. Identification and field study skills will be emphasized.

Additional Requirements for Graduate Students:
Students enrolled for graduate credit will complete all assignments listed previously and, in addition, will give at least one 30-minute presentation on one ecosystem with appropriate readings and discussion. Students enrolled for graduate credit will also submit for grading at least fifteen additional plant specimens and five additional animal specimens for their field collection.

Athena Title

Field Study in Natural History

Non-Traditional Format

Field study course taught off campus during summer. Emphasis is on field studies and experiential learning including plant and animal identification and research study techniques. Also, course includes lecture/discussions and readings on natural resource management in protected areas. Lectures in field by local experts and instructor. Typically taught in August at Great Smoky Mountains National Park or other locations. Extensive hiking may be required.

Undergraduate Prerequisite

(BIOL 1108 and BIOL 1108L) or ECOL 3500-3500L or [(FANR 3200 or FANR 3200W) and FANR 3200L] or (WILD(ECOL) 3580 and WILD(ECOL) 3580L) or permission of school

Graduate Prerequisite

(BIOL 1108 and BIOL 1108L) or ECOL 3500-3500L or [(FANR 3200 or FANR 3200W) and FANR 3200L] or (WILD(ECOL) 3580 and WILD(ECOL) 3580L) or permission of school

Semester Course Offered

Not offered on a regular basis.

Grading System

A - F (Traditional)

Student learning Outcomes

To introduce students to field techniques used in wildlife research and management.
To introduce students to the Southern Appalachian ecosystem through exploration in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
To introduce students to natural resource management issues on public lands.
To introduce students to human-wildlife conflict issues on public lands.

Topical Outline

This course will emphasize field skills and wildlife sampling techniques that may include sampling for mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians, plant ID and plant ecology, wildlife ID, and natural history.
Lectures and activities will include wildlife management/visitor management in a national park, wildlife surveys for presence/absence, forest ecology, geology, natural history, environmental education, water quality, air pollution, and resource management.

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