Behavioural Ecology

BHE30306

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

course
6 ECTS
  • Level
    master
  • Mode of instruction
    on campus
If anything remains unclear, please check the FAQ of Wageningen University.

Starting dates

  • 11 May 2026

    ends 5 Jul 2026

    LanguageEnglish
    Term *P6
    Period 6 first half whole day