Learning outcomes

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


  • Critically evaluate how environmental changes and human activities influence animal behaviour.
  • Describe behavioural mechanisms and the ecological and evolutionary consequences of behavioural change.
  • Analyse case studies linking behavioural responses to individual fitness, population dynamics, and ecosystem consequences.
  • Apply knowledge of animal behaviour to real-world conservation and management challenges.
  • Design and carry out a small-scale empirical study in groups, from conceptualisation to reporting.
  • Communicate complex behavioural ecological concepts clearly, both in writing and orally, in relation to contemporary societal challenges.

Goals

This course offers an advanced, applied exploration of how animals respond behaviourally to human-induced environmental change. Students will examine both adaptive and maladaptive responses and consider how research on behaviour can advance scientific understanding while informing wildlife management and mitigation strategies. The course emphasizes critical thinking, integrative analysis, and translational approaches that link behavioural research to practical solutions in rapidly changing environments.

Content

Content (indicative)


  • Behavioural responses to human-induced environmental stressors: climate change, chemical pollution, noise and light pollution, habitat loss and fragmentation, urbanisation, biological invasions, multiple stressors.
  • Mechanisms underlying behavioural responses.
  • Consequences for individuals, populations, and ecosystems: dispersal, migration, foraging, intra- and interspecific interactions.
  • Applications for conservation and management.
  • Case studies illustrating how understanding behaviour can predict or mitigate impacts in real-world scenarios.

Table of contents

Table of contents (indicative)


  • Anthropogenic and environmental stressors affecting behaviour.
  • Mechanisms underlying behavioural responses.
  • Consequences at individual, population, and ecosystem levels.
  • Applied conservation and management strategies.
  • Integrative case studies.


The table of contents provides a broad overview of the course. Specific topics, case studies, and practical exercises may evolve during the course.

Teaching methods

  • Lectures and seminars with active discussion, including contributions from invited experts.
  • Reading and group discussion of primary scientific literature.
  • Group work (empirical research project).
  • Scenario-based exercises and role-playing to connect behavioural knowledge with applied management decisions.

Assessment method

  • Theoretical exam (60%): written exam assessing understanding of course concepts.
  • Practical work (40%): continuous evaluation of participation, presentations, and written reports.


Grades are valid only for the current academic year. In case of failure, the course (theory and practical components) must be retaken in full.

Language of instruction

English