Behavioural Ecology

The course deals with foraging, life history theory in connection with energy use, predation and survival, cooperation, group living and communication. Furthermore, behaviours as tools for phylogenetic analysis and the reproductive value of behaviours will be treated. Moreover, the connection between behavioural ecology and the preservation of biodiversity and plasticity will be explored. The course gives practical skills in the form of a behavioural background to maintaining species diversity, designing animal reserves and constructing breeding programmes to preserve threatened species. The course places an emphasis on contemporary and controversial areas within behavioural ecology.