BIOL 456 - Ornithology

Units: 4
Advanced undergraduate survey of ornithology. Topics will include avian evolution, anatomy, physiology, behavior, ecology. Special focus on local bird conservation issues. Lecture and lab components.

Prerequisites: BIOL 140A and BIOL140B with C- or better
Possible Instructional Methods: On-ground.
Grading: A-F grading only.
Course Typically Offered: Variable Intermittently

Student Learning Outcomes - Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:

Understand the evolution of birds.
Explain and compare the evolution, anatomy, morphology, physiology, and behavior of birds.
Explain and differentiate between the different families of birds globally, and genera locally.
Use common field methods like behavioral observations and point count surveys to study birds outdoors.
Identify by sight and/or sound 50 common bird species local to the Hayward area.
Compare and contrast the anatomy and physics of avian flight to other flying organisms.
Read, interpret, and discuss classic and novel scientific peer-reviewed papers about birds.
Investigate bird behavior, diversity and/or conservation.
Write a scientific report and give an oral presentation about the findings of investigations of bird behavior, diversity, and/or conservation.
Critique and weigh proposed science-based solutions to major threats facing the conservation of birds globally and locally.