Physiology of Adaptation and Reproduction in Exotic Animals Housed in Controlled Environments

The primary objective of the course is to provide students with knowledge about the adaptive function of animal physiology and behavior, as well as scientific methods for designing and conducting studies aimed at assessing adaptation to captivity and animal welfare.

1. Knowledge and Understanding.
Students are expected to acquire a solid understanding of the physiology of adaptation to captivity and the specific ethological approach to the management and welfare of wild animals living in close contact with humans in zoos and wildlife parks.
2. Applying Knowledge and Understanding.
Students should be able to apply an observational scientific method to the analysis of the behavior of captive wild animals and to integrate different levels of causal and functional analysis of behavior and welfare.
3. Autonomy of Judgment.
Students are expected to develop critical thinking and independent judgment in describing and interpreting behavioral data used as indicators of stress and/or welfare.
4. Communication Skills.
Students should be able to effectively communicate the results of animal behavior analyses, both in relation to animal welfare and to issues concerning human-animal coexistence in zoos and wildlife parks.
5. Learning Skills.
Students are expected to acquire the ability to understand the meaning, techniques, and methodologies of the physio-ethological approach to the study of the human-animal relationship and to the protection of the welfare of animals living in close proximity and dependence on humans.