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Animal Biology, Ecology and Ethology III

Course developers

Prior knowledge

BiolB004, Animal Biology, Ecology and Ethology II

VeteB004, Anatomy of the Domestic Animals III

VeteB010, Physiology II

Replaced course

Biol1021 [GBIO1021] Animal Biology, Ecology and Ethology III

Course abstract

To give students an understanding of the biological basis, causes and mechanisms of animal behaviour. To acquire knowledge of species-specific behavioural characteristics of domestic animals and methods of behaviour modification.

Learning outcomes and their assessment

In laboratory works acquire knowledge of the basic principles and patterns of animal behaviour in different species of domestic animals.
Skills to evaluate and distinguish normal, species-specific animal behaviour from abnormal or harmful behaviour.
Competence in the types of behaviour of different animal species. Ability to advise animal owners on appropriate housing conditions for their animals. CERA about animal behaviour and behaviour affecting factors.

Course Content(Calendar)

. Introduction. History of ethology. Nobel Prize winners in ethology. Methods of studying animal behaviour. 2 h
2. The role of the sensory system in animal behaviour. 4 h
3. Biological rhythms, sleep. Thermoregulation. 2 h
4. Development and formation of behaviour. Heredity and environment. 4 h
5. Feeding habits of different domestic animal species. 2 h
6. Reproductive behaviour. Maternal behaviour and care for offspring. 4 h
7. Behaviour of newborn animals. The importance of play behaviour. 2 h
8. Organisation of communities. Hierarchy. 4 h 1st test on the topic of lessons 1-7.
9. Animal communication. Body language. 2 h
10. The importance of welfare in animal behaviour. 4 h
11. Types of undesirable behaviour in different domestic animal species. 2 h
12. Behavioural problems associated with ageing. Animal stress reduction in veterinary practice. 2 h
13 Animal training. 2 h 2nd test on the topic of lessons 8-12.
14. Presentation of KEGA. 4 h

Requirements for awarding credit points

Students must pass two tests (they have to get at least 70%), take an active part in the laboratory works, present their CCRA.

Description of the organization and tasks of students’ independent work

The students have to choose the main focus of research (CCRA) about which they would like to gain more information. During the study the students have to assess and evaluate continuously the behaviour of the animal. The students have to compare the results obtained during their individual study with those ones reported in literature. During the study the students observe their own animal/s or animals in clinic, describe their behaviour and the changes under the influence of an external factor. The report (CCRA) has to be not more than 12 pages long. After submitting the written report, it should be presented within 5 minutes using PowerPoint or similar computer programme. During the presentation the students present the most important information about their chosen topic and answer the questions. The report must be submitted and presented within the time limit set by the course leader.

Criteria for Evaluating Learning Outcomes

The knowledge and skills of students are assessed according to the procedures set in the laboratory assignments. In order to pass the course, the students have to pass two tests successfully (they have to get at least 70%), as well as write and present CCRA.

Compulsory reading

1. Hosey G., etal. Zooanimal behaviour, management and welfare. 2009. 614 p.
2. Wyatt T.D. Pheremones and animal behaviour: Communication by smell and taste. 2003. 815 p.
3. Zorenko T. 2001. Dzīvnieku uzvedība: etoloģijas, zoopsiholoģijas un salīdzinošās psiholoģijas pamati. Rīga.286. lpp.

Further reading

1. Hosey G., et al. Zoo animals behaviour, management and welfare. Oxford: University Press, 2009. 661 p.
2. Wyatt T.D. Pheroemones and animal behaviour: Communication by smell and taste. Cambridge : University Press: 2003. 391 p.
3. Lapiņa H. Suns, kuru mīlam. Rīga: Avots, 1992. 174 lpp.

Periodicals and other sources

Žurnāli:
Ethology: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/14390310
Animal behavior: https://www.journals.elsevier.com/animal-behaviour
Applied Animal Behavior Science:https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/applied-animal-behaviour-science

Notes

Compulsory course of second cycle professional higher education study programme Veterinary Medicine.