Fall 2015

The course aims to provide participants with familiarisation with extensive and varied topics in Urban Wildlife Ecology, including subjects such as; landscape changes, biodiversity in cities, conflicts between animals and humans, environmental policy, Ecohealth, and climate change. Students should expect to critically consider exisitng approaches towards urban ecology with the goal of creating more democratic and sustainable forms of urbanization.
The program series consists of two one-week workshops in October 2015 and August 2016. The October 2015workshop is a general introduction to Urban Wildlife Ecology focusing on specific aspects of this interdisciplinary subject in August 2016. Invited speakers will include experts from SWILD, BAFU, WWF, WSL, and various international organisations. It is an opportunity for students to interact and network. Participation in both workshops is NOT a requirement.
Course Objectives:
To develop a thorough understanding of the influence of urbanization and urbanized areas on ecosystems, ecosystem services, and human societies.
To learn fundamental approaches to urban ecology research.
To gain insights into urban ecosystems and organisms in urban environments.
Active participation in class discussions on specific topics in urban ecology.
To interact with external researchers in the field of urban ecology.