Course information
Prerequisites
What's the course about?
The Animal Ecology course covers the differences between native and introduced animal species, how animals interact with each other, and why long-term predator control is vital. That is:
- New Zealand native animals have developed strategies to avoid detection; using camouflage, keeping still and being nocturnal. Sadly, these strategies do not deter exotic predators which have an acute sense of smell, operate at night, aren't fooled by camouflage and easily catch burrow dwelling prey.
- Introduced predators often breed rapidly, reproduce at an early age, have a short lifespan and recover well from setbacks. Against this, some of the most important New Zealand native animals are long-lived, slow and low breeders, and mature late, which makes them highly susceptible to knockbacks.
Along with details about the ecology of animal pest species (such as their home range, habits and preferred habitat), the course also shares best practice and introduces the standard equipment and control methods used by DOC. A key feature is video footage showing native animals being preyed upon, and animal pests interacting with traps. The latter challenges a few myths about where and how to set traps.
Who is it for?
Anyone who works or wants to work or volunteer in conservation, including:
- Regional Council staff
- Volunteers
- Members of community groups/Trusts/funding recipients
How much does it cost?
This course is free.
Where is the course held?
Animal Ecology is an online course. You can do this course from your computer right now. It takes about one hour to complete.
Do I need to register?
If you are planning to attend a DOC field based course you should register for the online course. This will help us to know if you have completed the required prerequisite. If you don't ever plan to attend a DOC field based course, you don't need to register your details.
Either register or start the course
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