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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

VeteB009, Physiology I

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

Course Content(Calendar)

1. 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. Thermoregulation. 4 h
3. Biological rhythms, sleep. The 3R use in animal research. 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. Animal communication. Body language. 4 h
9. Organisation of communities. Hierarchy. 1st test on the topic of lessons 1-7. 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
14. 2nd test on the topic of lessons 8-13. Presentation of homework.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 homework.

Description of the organization and tasks of students’ independent work

Students must submit their chosen topics by the deadline set by the teacher. The presentation must be made using PowerPoint or a similar computer program. During the presentation, the student must present the essential information about the chosen topic and answer questions.

Criteria for Evaluating Learning Outcomes

Students' knowledge and skills are assessed according to the procedures set forth in the laboratory assignments. To pass the course, students must successfully complete two tests (with a minimum score of 70%) and present their homework.

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.