Interested in other ornithology classes? Check out FLOCK (Field and Lab Ornithology Collaboratory)

FW 331: Ecology of Marine and Estuarine Birds (4 credits)
Hatfield Marine Science Center Summer Session

Course Description: Marine and estuarine birds are highly diverse and differ in many ways from more familiar terrestrial species. For example, many seabirds have life histories that are more similar to much larger animals and a number of physiological and behavioral adaptations for the marine environment, including diving capabilities in many species. Through lecture, field, and laboratory experiences, students will gain detailed knowledge of the biology and ecology of marine and estuarine birds. This course will focus on how marine birds are adapted for life at sea, their morphology, physiology, foraging ecology and biogeography as well as covering topics in introductory oceanography. The course will include lecture, class discussion, field trips and sampling, lab exercises, data interpretation, class presentations and projects. 

Summer Session 2 (4-Week) (06-26 2023 to 07-21-2023), MW 1300-1750

Instructor: Dr. Rachael Orben

FW 331: Ecology of Marine and Estuarine Birds (4 credits)
E-Campus

In this course we will examine the morphology, breeding biology and life history, foraging ecology, physiology, and biogeography of these species through lecture, field, and laboratory experiences. The lectures will include examples using current and developing research methods. Threats to marine and estuarine populations and conservation solutions will also be discussed.

Modules typically contain lectures, a paper discussion, an experiential assignment, and a quiz. Experiential assignments include self-directed bird observations, data visualization and interpretation, seabird colony observations from videos, and seabird colony counts that contribute to seabird research and conservation on the Oregon coast. There are also two graded presentations and a final exam.

Spring 

Instructor: Dr. Rachael Orben