An introduction to the basic principles underlying the study of animal behavior. Students will gain an understanding of the mechanisms and evolutionary causes that drive behaviors. Topics covered include: mating strategies, parental care, behavioral adaptations against predators, habitat selection, migration, communicaiton, social species, among others. Students will gain experience in observing and recording animal behavior through laboratory- and field-based studies.

Click here for pictures from 2008.

Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory each week for one semester. Four credits.

An introduction to the fundamentals of statistics and the application of statistical analyses in biological research. Sampling, parametric and non-parametric techniques and the presentation of data are also covered. Assignments involve spreadsheet calculations and use of statistical software. Required for Biology and Environmental Science majors.

Three hours of lecture each week for one semester. Three credits.

A 3-credit course offered during the summer session. This course introduces students to the biological complexity of the tropics through participatory field experiences in the ecologically diverse Central American country of Belize. Field trips and exercises are conducted in two of the most species rich ecosystems on the planet, the neo-tropical rainforest and coral reef. Saint Anselm faculty (Dr. Eric Berry and Dr. Lori LaPlante) and local experts will lecture on a variety of topics including the natural history of tropical biota, patterns of species diversity, rainforest ecology and conservation, ethnobiology, and coral reef ecology.

• Click here for course website where you can find a sample syllabus, tentative itinerary, and photos from previous years.