BIOL 2600 - Animal Behavior

4 cr. 6 hr. Day course offered every other year.

This course focuses on classical and current research exploring the mechanisms and evolution of Animal Behavior. Course topics include the genetic, ecological, evolutionary, cellular and physiological processes that shape animal behavior. Particular emphasis is placed on reviewing primary literature to understand the evolution of adaptive behaviors for communication, predator avoidance, foraging, habitat selection, courtship, mating, parental care, kin recognition, and cooperations. Weekly laboratory sessions will provide students with the opportunity to conduct independent experiments on animal behavior using a variety of model systems.

Prerequisite(s): BIOL 1900 or equivalent.