BIOL 275 Behavioral Ecology

This course explores both the proximate causal mechanisms (e.g., hormone levels, developmental conditions) and ultimate consequences (e.g., effects on survival or reproduction) of animal behaviors as they relate to navigating a complex and ever-changing environment. Topics include predator-prey interactions, relationships between habitat and optimal foraging strategies, sexual selection, navigation within physically variable environments, and a wide variety of social interactions. Laboratory involves both indoor and outdoor observations and experiments.