BEHAVIORAL ECOLOGY-BIOL 486
DR. BRENT HORTON - MILLERSVILLE UNIVERSITY
What is Behavioral Ecology?
Behavioral Ecology is a science that strives to explain the evolution of animal behavior in response to diverse ecological pressures. To this end, it fuses the disciplines of Animal Behavior, Ecology, and Evolution. A common thread in Behavioral Ecology is that behavior is studied in the natural context with a focus on the adaptive significance of a behavior or, more comprehensively, a suite of behaviors that comprise a behavioral strategy. Most recently, Behavioral Ecology has enjoyed rapid progress due to the integration of the once disparate fields of Ecological Physiology, Molecular Ecology, Neuroendocrinology, and Genomics.
Course Description:
Over the duration of this course we will examine a wide variety of behaviors across a wide range of taxa. In keeping with the true spirit of the Chincoteague Bay Field Station, you will spend half the course outdoors in an attempt to observe animals in their natural habitat. In the field, we will frequently examine organisms that call the bays, shorelines, and salt marshes their home. In the classroom, we will build a foundation for understanding the evolution of behaviors involved in foraging, resource defense, cooperation, mating, and parenting, and we will delve into the complexities of group living and communication. After taking this course you will possess an increased ability to observe, document, and quantify animal behavior in the wild and enjoy a keener understanding of why animals do the things they do.
Marketable Skills Gained from This Course:
General Description of Field Activities:
Field trips will include excursions to the beaches of Wallops Island, Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, and Savage Neck Dunes Nature Preserve. We will use kayaks to enter the marshes of the Chincoteague Bay and cypress swamps of the Pocomoke River, and the CBFS monitor boats to explore the Bay’s eelgrass beds, mudflats, and marshes. We will also take hikes through inland oak and pine forests. Our focal animals will include both vertebrates (e.g., birds, fish) and invertebrates (e.g., crabs, tiger beetles).
Nearly half of this course will involve field trips. The goal of these outings is to provide you with opportunities and guidance to develop your ability to observe, document, and quantify animal behavior in the wild. Most trips will occur rain or shine, hot or cold, and you are expected to be prepared, which includes wearing appropriate clothing, having proper gear, and being well rested. Come ready to participate. A positive attitude, flexibility, and real effort are necessities for getting the most out of these trips.
Approximate Amount of Course Time Spent in Field:
50%
Prerequisites:
A course in Zoology (e.g. BIOL 211) with a C- or better
Required Textbook or Supplies:
An Introduction to Behavioural Ecology, 4th Edition. 2012. By Nicholas B. Davies, John R. Krebs, and Stuart A. West. Wiley-Blackwell Publishing.
Weatherproof field notebook; rain gear; insect repellant; sunscreen; water bottle(s).
Cameras and laptops strongly encouraged.
Binoculars and spotting scopes will be provided, but feel free to bring your own if you prefer.
Number of Students:
10-13
2025 Chincoteague Bay Field Station Fee*:
3 week course; housing and meals included
Salicornia; $1,827
Traditional; $1,677
Fees are subject to change at the discretion of the board of directors
* Does not include university tuition or fees. For specific policy on CBFS fees, click HERE.
Behavioral Ecology is a science that strives to explain the evolution of animal behavior in response to diverse ecological pressures. To this end, it fuses the disciplines of Animal Behavior, Ecology, and Evolution. A common thread in Behavioral Ecology is that behavior is studied in the natural context with a focus on the adaptive significance of a behavior or, more comprehensively, a suite of behaviors that comprise a behavioral strategy. Most recently, Behavioral Ecology has enjoyed rapid progress due to the integration of the once disparate fields of Ecological Physiology, Molecular Ecology, Neuroendocrinology, and Genomics.
Course Description:
Over the duration of this course we will examine a wide variety of behaviors across a wide range of taxa. In keeping with the true spirit of the Chincoteague Bay Field Station, you will spend half the course outdoors in an attempt to observe animals in their natural habitat. In the field, we will frequently examine organisms that call the bays, shorelines, and salt marshes their home. In the classroom, we will build a foundation for understanding the evolution of behaviors involved in foraging, resource defense, cooperation, mating, and parenting, and we will delve into the complexities of group living and communication. After taking this course you will possess an increased ability to observe, document, and quantify animal behavior in the wild and enjoy a keener understanding of why animals do the things they do.
Marketable Skills Gained from This Course:
- Field observation skills
- Quantifying animal behavior
- Discussion and critical thinking
General Description of Field Activities:
Field trips will include excursions to the beaches of Wallops Island, Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, and Savage Neck Dunes Nature Preserve. We will use kayaks to enter the marshes of the Chincoteague Bay and cypress swamps of the Pocomoke River, and the CBFS monitor boats to explore the Bay’s eelgrass beds, mudflats, and marshes. We will also take hikes through inland oak and pine forests. Our focal animals will include both vertebrates (e.g., birds, fish) and invertebrates (e.g., crabs, tiger beetles).
Nearly half of this course will involve field trips. The goal of these outings is to provide you with opportunities and guidance to develop your ability to observe, document, and quantify animal behavior in the wild. Most trips will occur rain or shine, hot or cold, and you are expected to be prepared, which includes wearing appropriate clothing, having proper gear, and being well rested. Come ready to participate. A positive attitude, flexibility, and real effort are necessities for getting the most out of these trips.
Approximate Amount of Course Time Spent in Field:
50%
Prerequisites:
A course in Zoology (e.g. BIOL 211) with a C- or better
Required Textbook or Supplies:
An Introduction to Behavioural Ecology, 4th Edition. 2012. By Nicholas B. Davies, John R. Krebs, and Stuart A. West. Wiley-Blackwell Publishing.
Weatherproof field notebook; rain gear; insect repellant; sunscreen; water bottle(s).
Cameras and laptops strongly encouraged.
Binoculars and spotting scopes will be provided, but feel free to bring your own if you prefer.
Number of Students:
10-13
2025 Chincoteague Bay Field Station Fee*:
3 week course; housing and meals included
Salicornia; $1,827
Traditional; $1,677
Fees are subject to change at the discretion of the board of directors
* Does not include university tuition or fees. For specific policy on CBFS fees, click HERE.