Wildlife Watching

Base Knowledge

Non applicable

Teaching Methodologies

Teaching is carried out by active learning techniques, study cases, and hands-on learning. For Units 1 and 2, theoretical knowledge is provided in student-centered-learning. Subjects are further explored by group research and presentation of the information to the colleagues. For Unit 3, each faunal group is introduced in a lecture; further exploration of the subjects is carried out through research, field trips for practical observation of the faunal groups, writing and presenting of a report.

Learning Results

1.To relate a given faunal type with its respective habitat;

2.To select the appropriate methods and equipment for observation of a given faunal type;

3.To identify the groups of animals most relevant for touristic activities;

4.To know how to observe and how to guide others for observing without disturbing wildlife

Program

1.Introduction: Geographic regions, environments and habitats; Humans, tourism and wildlife; Conservation, parks and reserves

2. The art of watching wildlife: Where, when and how; Binoculars and telescopes; Diving and snorkeling; Hides; Photography; Spotlight

3. Habitats, identification, behaviour and observation of fauna: Birds; Butterflies and other insects; Reptiles and amphibians; Terrestrial mammals; Whales and dolphins; Other aquatic fauna

Curricular Unit Teachers

Maria Manuela Correia Abelho

Grading Methods

Continuous evaluation
  • - Deliverable in each unit (weight of each unit: 1: 20%; 2: 20%; 3: 60%) - 45.0%
  • - Written test in each unit (weight of each unit: 1: 20%; 2: 20%; 3: 60%) - 55.0%
Exam
  • - Written test - 100.0%

Internship(s)

NAO

Bibliography

ALLISON, NL & DESTEFANO, S (2006)-Equipment and Techniques for Nocturnal Wildlife Studies. Wildlife Society Bulletin 34(4): 1036-1044

DVORNICH, K et al. (2011)-Fostering Outdoor Observation Skills. Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies

Rewilding Europe (2012)–Wildlife watching hides: An inspirational guide, 1.0. Nijmegen: Rewilding Europe

TAPPER, R (2006)–Wildlife watching and Tourism: a study on the benefits and risks of a fast growing tourism activity and its impacts on species. Bonn: UNEP/ CMS Secretariat

TAYLOR, M (2011)–RSPB Nature Watch: how to discover, explore and enjoy wildlife. London: A&C Black Publishers

US FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE (2006)-Series 600: Land Use and Management Series, Wildlife-Dependent Recreation (Part 605). US Fish and Wildlife Service

WOLF, I et al. (2012)-Observation techniques that minimize impacts on wildlife and maximize visitor satisfaction in night-time tours. Tourism Management Perspectives 4: 164–175

Fauna field guides