About this course
The course Behavioural Ecology provides insight into how evolution through natural selection shapes behaviour of animals (domestic or wild, vertebrate or invertebrate). The course includes acquiring theoretical knowledge, searching scientific information, critical reading of literature, observation and presentation of results. The acquired knowledge is directly applied in a short research project on captive or wild animals - depending on the opportunities; these can be either invertebrates or vertebrates.
Learning outcomes
Use evolutionary concepts to explain animal behaviour
Define and apply the four questions of Tinbergen in behavioural issues
Apply the basic behavioural and ecological skills of observation and (statistical) data analysis
Plan, perform, and finalize a small behavioural ecological research project
Present the results of a research project in a scientific report and oral presentation
Assessment method
- Assignment report (50%) Research report; in case of an insufficient mark after feedback and revision, the entire research part should be done the year after.
- Written test with open questions (50%)
Prior knowledge
ZSS06200 Fieldwork Safety BHE20303 Animal Behaviour.
Resources
- N.B. Davies, J.R Krebs, S.A. West (2012). An Introduction to Behavioural Ecology 4th Edition (digitally available on the library website)
Additional information
- Contact a coordinator
- Levelmaster
- Mode of instructionon campus
Starting dates
11 May 2026
ends 5 Jul 2026