Field Methods in Research and Conservation of Vertebrate Populations. Evolutionary and biogeographic history of mammalia. Recognize, identify, and study natural history of mammals at the ordinal level, North American mammals at familial level, and mammals north of Mexico at generic level. Minnesota mammals at specific level. Fish biology, adaptations to different environments and modes of living, and evolutionary relationships.
Laboratory emphasizes anatomy and identification of Minnesota fishes.
Lectures and discussions on current topics presented by faculty and students. The physiology of fishes and their behavior, with an emphasison how life in an aquatic environment has influenced fish biology. Includes examination of ionic and osmotic balance, sensory systems, gas exchange, endocrinology, growth, foraging, locomotion, reproduction, orientation and migration, and toxicology. Ten-day field trip to Wyoming and points en route during spring break, emphasizing a broad range of fisheries and wildlife management issues including big game, waterfowl, and endangered species. Contemporary fisheries and wildlife management issues selected for topics.