This course considers the ways in which the behaviour of animals contributes to their survival and reproductive success. Two main themes run through the course: how behaviour and life histories are influenced by ecological conditions and natural selection, and the consequences of the behaviour of individuals for distribution patterns and population structure.

This option is assigned to block S2-B. Normally, one 2-hour afternoon session and one 1-hour morning session on Tuesdays. 

None.

The course will be assessed by a 2-hour end-of-course examination (70%) and in-course assessment consisting of a written assignment (30%). The written assignment will involve the design of a behavioural ecology experiment aimed at answering a research question provided by the staff.

The aim of the course is to develop an understanding of the ways in which the behaviour of animals contributes to their survival and reproductive success. Students will be introduced to the major concepts in behavioural ecology, and to the methods used. 

By the end of this course, students will be able to: 

■ Distinguish between causal, functional, developmental and phylogenetic explanations of behaviour;

■ Appraise the different approaches to studying adaptive significance of behaviour;

■ Examine the individual based approach of behavioural ecology;

■ Explain what is meant by optimality models and cost-benefit analysis;

■ Discuss the factors that influence foraging behaviour, mating systems, social organisation and the evolution of apparently altruistic behaviour;

■ Discuss life history trade-offs and how these can be studied;

■ Assess how the mechanisms underlying life history trade-offs are studied.