Transcript title
Survey of Northwest Mammals
Credits
2
Grading mode
Standard letter grades
Total contact hours
40
Other hours
40
Recommended preparation
BI 102 or FOR 241A.
Course Description
This course is an introduction to mammal systematics, and surveys ecologically, economically, and socially important mammal species in the Pacific Northwest with an emphasis on identification and basic life history.
Course learning outcomes
1. Identify major bones and features of the mammalian skull.
2. Use a dichotomous key to identify mammals of Oregon.
3. Correctly place Oregon mammals into their appropriate order and family.
4. Identify 65 species/genera/families of Oregon mammals by external and/or skull characteristics.
5. Implement survey techniques to detect presence/absence of Oregon mammals.
6. Identify probable mammal species occupying various upland habitats in Oregon.
7. Identify the ecological role and/or economic importance of selected mammals.
Content outline
- Classification of organisms
- Use of dichotomous keys
- Bones of the mammalian skull
- Origins of mammals, mammal characteristics and classification of extant mammals
- Marsupialia to insectivora and species accounts
- Chiroptera
- Lagomorpha
- Rodentia
- Small mammals of juniper/pine woodland
- Small mammals of pine forest and rock habitats
- Carnivora
- Artiodactyla, aging cervids by tooth wear and replacement
- Eastern Oregon mammals, including pronghorn and desert small mammals
Required materials
Required textbook and special gear, see syllabus for details.
