Amphibian Ecology and Conservation 320-ERS-1AEC

Substantive content:
The course aims to deepen students' knowledge of the biology and ecology of amphibians found in Poland. Students will acquire skills in conducting inventory research methods, identifying threats, and implementing conservation actions to protect these animals. Through participation in active protection projects students will actively contribute to the preservation of amphibian populations during their critical spring migratory cycles within the Podlasie region. Upon completion of the course, students will be equipped with practical knowledge and skills necessary for effective conservation and monitoring of amphibians in their environment. Additionally, the course addresses the impact of roads and traffic on wildlife, particularly focusing on mortality assessment along Carska Road in Biebrza National Park. Topics include the effects of roads on terrestrial animal populations, field methods for evaluating road impacts, identification of killed vertebrates, traffic intensity assessment, and planning road-wildlife mitigation strategies to minimize negative impacts.

Literature:
Dodd CK. 2009. Amphibian ecology and conservation. Oxford University Press. Oxford. https://www.academia.edu/7681373/Dodd_2006_Amphibian_ecology_and_conservation_A_handbook_of_techniques
Forman, R. T.T., D. Sperling, J. A. Bissonette, A. P. Clevenger, C. D. Cutshall, V. H. Dale, L. Fahrig, R. France, C. R. Goldman, K. Heanue, J. A. Jones, F. J. Swanson, T. Turrentine, & T. C. Winter. 2003. Road Ecology; Science and Solutions. Island Press, Covelo, CA.