Understanding British Marine Mammals

 

Understanding British Marine Mammals can be studied as a stand-alone course and a key course for the Certificate of Higher Education in Field Ecology at Aberystwyth University.

Key Facts

 

Language: English

Duration: 10 Weeks

Number of Credits: 10

Tutor: Hanna Storey-Arnell

Learning Method: Online.

Level: This module is at CQFW Level 4

Module Code: XS14510

Fee: £130.00 - Fee Waiver Scheme available

This course is available to book.

 

Overview

This module will cover the range of charismatic marine mammals that are commonly encountered in British waters (seals, dolphins and whales). Learners will be taught how to recognise individual species. The general behaviour, distribution, migration, feeding and breeding biology of each species will be investigated and ‘hot’ topics such as commercial whaling, the impact of climate changes and mass strandings will be discussed. Population monitoring and census techniques will be theoretically covered. The module will cover various conservation issues relating to each marine mammal species.

Programme

1. Identification of a range of British marine mammal species using identification guides and other publications, British marine mammal species including but not exclusive to: Common and Grey Seals, harbour Porpoise, common dolphin, bottle nose dolphin, Risso’s dolphin and Orca, Minke whale, Fin whale, Blue whale, and Humpback. The use of correct terminology will be encouraged.
2. General behaviour, distribution and migration of each species
3. Feeding and breeding biology of each species
4. Population monitoring, observation and census techniques, including citizen science projects
5. ‘Hot’ topics such as mass strandings, commercial whaling and the impact of climate change.
6. Conservation issues relating to each of the species
7. Legal framework for seals and cetaceans
8. Organisations and charity involvement in marine mammal protection

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module, students should be able to:

  1. Identify a range of British marine mammal species (Common and Grey Seal, Porpoise, Atlantic dolphins and Atlantic great whales) commonly encountered in British waters; demonstrating knowledge of their morphology and diagnostic features
  2. Explain the general behaviour, migrations, distribution, feeding and breeding biology relating to the various marine mammal species. Discuss current conservation issues
  3. Describe population monitoring and census techniques including the use of citizen science projects, photo ID and boat survey transects for a chosen British marine mammal.
  4. Demonstrate an understanding of ‘hot’ topics such as mass strandings, commercial whaling and the effects of climate changes

Assessments

  1.  Presentation 25%
  2. Written Report  75%

Reading Suggestions

Reading suggestions will be offered throughout the course. 

Entry Requirements

This course is for everyone. No previous experience is needed and there are no formal entry requirements. 

What Do I Need?

As this is an online course, you would need the following:

  • Internet access.
  • Access to a laptop or computer with a web camera and microphone; the use of headphones might also benefit.
  • Use of the Chrome web browser where possible.