Three Course Package: Ecology, ID & Monitoring

Complete all three courses at a reduced rate of $300 (save $45 dollars). Complete the Amphibian Ecology & Identification, Reptile Ecology & Identification, and Monitoring Amphibians & Reptiles courses. Conservation of amphibians and reptiles is a high priority. Their sensitivity to disturbance, specialized ecological needs, and diverse ecological roles make them excellent candidates for monitoring ecosystem health. Monitoring programs may be improved greatly through changes in protocol. Despite these clear needs and priorities, most people working in the fields of Ecosystem Monitoring, Environmental Assessment, Ecological Restoration and Fish and Wildlife Biology know little about amphibian and reptile biology, identification and monitoring. Learning Outcomes: Basic understanding of amphibian and reptile ecology including physiology, morphology and reproductive biology with a focus on Ontario species. Correctly identify all 23 extant amphibian and 25 extant reptile species found in Ontario Demonstrate an understanding of the conservation status of all 25 amphibian all 26 reptile species found in Ontario Demonstrate an understanding of the natural history of all 23 extant amphibians and 25 extant reptile species in Ontario including habitat requirements, seasonal activity patterns and reproduction. Demonstrate an understanding of correct handling techniques for amphibians and reptiles. Demonstrate an understanding of how the natural history (habitat requirements, seasonal activity patterns and reproduction) of Ontario’s amphibians and reptiles will impact data collection protocols. Demonstrate an understanding of the techniques used to detect and monitor amphibian populations. Demonstrate an understanding of the use of equipment used in amphibian monitoring including drift fences, pitfall traps, elastomers, alpha-numeric tags, PIT tags and telemetry equipment.