Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of this module students will:
• Be able to identify at least the broad categories of habitat types using the Fossitt classification
• Have experience in using taxonomic keys to identify a range of taxonomic groups
• Be able to use, and develop some proficiency in using various sampling methods to collect biological and environmental samples/data
• Understand how to design monitoring programmes that address the challenges in recording both biological and environmental data
• Understand how to work with and report on biological and environmental data recorded during monitoring programmes
• Understand how to collect and process spatial data on species and habitats
• Understand how to comply with national and EU legislation while monitoring and sampling in the field
Indicative Module Content:
Content of the field course:
1) Habitat identification (Fossitt)
2) Key plant species identification (Trees & shrubs)
3) Vegetation sampling (quadrate, line transects)
4) GPS use, electronic apps, GIS & Mapping
5) Mammal & bird surveying (may include protected species including Badgers, Otters & Bats, birds) including scat/holt surveys, point counts & camera trapping
6) Freshwater invertebrate surveys & monitoring (habitat surveys, sampling and species identification)
7) Intertidal surveying (unique sampling methodology not covered in Systems Ecology)
8) Terrestrial invertebrate surveying (pitfall trapping, suction sampling, light trapping and slug surveys (protected Kerry slug)
9) Invasive species identification, impact assessment and management (e.g. Sika deer, Union list species, Rhododendron & skunk cabbage management, and invertebrates)