BENS5109 Boreal winter ecology (2 cr)
Description
Content
The course deals with dynamics in physical and biotic environment in boreal and subarctic winter, individual and population level adaptation to cold environment and effects of climate change on individuals and populations. Specifically lectures, demonstrations and field work focus on snow ecology, plant adaptations to winter conditions and effects of climate change on boreal and arctic vegetation, small mammal and bird adaptations to winter and life under ice. The course week includes an excursion to a national park using cross-country skis (skis for foreign participants are available at site, possibility for walking exists if skiing is not familiar) and every student should prepare a short presentation on a selected topic related to seasonality and winter in the students’ home country.
Completion methods
Lectures and student presentations will be incorporated into the program.
Assessment details
Active participation in lectures and practicals.
Learning outcomes
- understands through lectures, seminars and field work the basis of boreal winter ecology especially for vertebrates and plants
- learns to observe and evaluate how winter and snow cover affect animals and plants
- learns how species have adapted to boreal winter conditions
- learns to work in the winter conditions