Unit 682: Wildlife Ecology and Conservation

1. Introduction to Wildlife Ecology

• Definition and scope of wildlife ecology
• Basic principles: ecology, ecosystems, biodiversity
• Objectives of wildlife ecology studies
• Importance of studying wildlife in natural habitats

2. Habitat Selection and Use

• Concept of habitat and habitat quality
• Factors influencing habitat selection:
  • Food availability
  • Shelter and cover
  • Reproductive needs
  • Predation risk
• Habitat utilization patterns
• Case studies of habitat selection in different species

3. Population Dynamics

• Definition and importance
• Key factors influencing population size:
  • Birth rates (natality)
  • Mortality rates
  • Immigration and emigration
• Carrying capacity and limiting factors
• Population growth models (exponential, logistic)
• Population regulation mechanisms

4. Wildlife Behavior

• Types of behaviors:
  • Foraging behavior
  • Mating and reproductive behaviors
  • Communication methods
  • Social interactions and structures
• Ecological significance of behaviors
• Behavioral adaptations to environmental changes

5. Species Interactions

• Types of interactions:
  • Competition (interspecific and intraspecific)
  • Predation and herbivory
  • Mutualism and commensalism
• Impacts on population dynamics
• Influence on ecosystem structure and biodiversity

6. Wildlife Conservation

• Principles of wildlife conservation
• Conservation strategies and approaches:
  • Wildlife reserves and protected areas
  • Wildlife corridors and landscape connectivity
  • Captive breeding and reintroduction programs
• Role of policy, legislation, and community involvement

7. Human-Wildlife Conflict

• Causes of conflicts:
  • Habitat destruction and fragmentation
  • Poaching and illegal wildlife trade
  • Urbanization and land-use change
• Types and examples of conflicts
• Strategies for mitigation and coexistence:
  • Conflict prevention measures
  • Community engagement and education
  • Use of technology and monitoring

8. Wildlife Monitoring and Research Techniques

• Importance of monitoring in ecology and conservation
• Techniques:
  • Camera trapping
  • Radio telemetry and GPS tracking
  • Genetic analysis (DNA sampling)
  • Direct observation and surveys
• Data collection and analysis methods
• Applications in ecological studies and management

9. Endangered Species Management

• Definition and categories of endangered species
• Challenges in managing endangered populations
• Management strategies:
  • Habitat restoration
  • Captive breeding and genetic management
  • Reintroduction and translocation
  • Legal protections and international agreements
• Case studies of successful and ongoing efforts

10. Climate Change and Wildlife Ecology

• Overview of climate change impacts on ecosystems
• Effects on wildlife populations:
  • Shifts in species distribution ranges
  • Changes in phenology (timing of biological events)
  • Altered reproductive cycles and survival rates
• Adaptation strategies employed by wildlife
• Conservation implications and adaptive management