Australia is famous for its unique and diverse animals, and this course will provide an overview of diversity and highlight recent research. In addition to the major lecturers, a series of guest lecturers will speak about their areas of expertise, including their own research. Groups covered will normally include reptiles, amphibians, mammals and birds. Topics will include ecology, behaviour, morphology, physiology, conservation and evolutionary history. The course takes advantage of staff and guest expertise, and so specific animal groups and topics will vary from year to year.

Assessment is based on a mid-term test and an end of semester test that cover the lecture material and a major essay.

At least one first year biology course.