Download THE PRIMATOLOGY, WILDLIFE ECOLOGY AND CONSERVATION

THE PRIMATOLOGY, WILDLIFE ECOLOGY AND CONSERVATION FIELD SCHOOL
Syllabus
Draft Syllabus 2014
Rutgers Faculty Director:
Program Director:
Administrative Directors:
Field Directors:
Instructors:
Program Location:
Program Duration:
Websites:
Dr. Ryne Palombit (Rutgers University)
Dr. Luca Morino (Rutgers University)
Dr. Erin Vogel (Rutgers University); Dr. Samuel Kasiki (KWS); Dr. Tom Kariuki (IPR)
Dr. Luca Morino (Rutgers University); Dr. Purity Kiura (NMK)
Ellen Meulman; Dr. Kimberley Hockings; Dr. Alfreda Ibui; Peter Fundi; Stan Kivai
Kenya
1-27 August, 2013
http://primate.rutgers.edu/
https://studyabroad.rutgers.edu/index.cfm?FuseAction=Programs.ViewProgram&Program_ID=10072
Course Description & Objectives
The Primatology, Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Field School (PWEC) offers its participants a unique opportunity to learn about
wildlife biodiversity across a range of diverse East African habitats. Two features separate this field school from any other, in Africa or the
rest of the world:
- A strong focus on primate field studies. Participants will observe and collect data on 10 primate species, including some of the most
endangered species on earth.
- The exploration of a variety of habitats. Students will discover and conduct research in environments ranging from the mangroves on
the Indian Ocean, to the dry savannas of the Laikipia plateau, to the riverine forest along the Tana River. This provides an
unparalleled breadth of experience.
In addition to the scientific component, student will also be exposed to specific conservation problems, current debates, and emerging
innovative solutions that are contextually and culturally different than any they will find elsewhere.
The academic profile of the PWCFS is guaranteed by qualified and committed instructors. Last year’s additions to the teaching staff
expand the range of expertise we offer and strengthen the theoretical component. The logistical coordination is assured by a core of highly
experienced staff, which has been working together successfully in the field for the past five seasons.
The itinerary – largely the same as last year’s – is designed around instructional requirements, logistic considerations, safety concerns, and
past students’ feedback. For each site we visit, a set of preparatory readings, lectures, and practical activities will optimize the learning
1
experience. Building on the past curricula, and adding recent literature, novel field methodologies and theoretical frameworks will ensure
the high standards of this Field School.
The objectives of the course are:
1. To gain an understanding of principles of animal behavior by using primates as a model
2. To appreciate the great variation in the ecology and behavior of African mammals, and primates specifically, in a variety of habitats
3. To acquire all the necessary tools to become an independent field researcher
4. To learn current methods in field primatology and wildlife ecology
Requirements
Overall course assessment will be evaluated based on the following:
 Research Project – 30%
o An independent study conducted at Tana River, including proposal writing, field data collection, analysis
 Final Exam – 30%
o Exam will cover all the activities and lectures
 Field Notebook – 25%
o It will include notes on all activities, discussions, lectures, field exercises, data sheets
 Participation – 10%
 Final presentation – 5%
o Brief oral presentation of your project
Textbook and readings
Required
 Martin P, Bateson P, 2007. Measuring Behavior: An Introductory Guide. Cambridge U. Press, Cambridge
 Published articles, lecture notes, and other material will be provided for students online to print and bring with them to Kenya
Recommended
 Strier K, 2010. Primate Behavioral Ecology. Pearson Education, Inc. Boston
 Estes R, 1999. The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals Including Hoofed Mammals, Carnivores and Primates.
Chelsea Green, Vermont
 Setchell JM, Curtis DJ, 2011. Field and Laboratory Methods in Primatology: A Practical Guide. Cambridge U. Press, Cambridge
 Cowlishaw G, Dunbar RIM, 2000. Primate Conservation Biology. U. Chicago Press, Chicago.
 Recommended bird guides: Stevenson and Fanshawe (2006); Zimmerman et al. (1999)
List of Activities and Readings
2
Date
Location
ug 1
Nairobi
g 2-5
Activities
- Introduction to Kenya Wildlife Services
- Introduction to Institute of Primate Research
Mugie
Ranch
- Introduction to Field school
- Field data collection methods I
-
o
Vegetation sampling techniques I
o
Identification of flora and fauna of the
savanna biome
o
Measuring animal abundance and density
o
Spatial orientation, GPS, GIS and remote
sensing exercise
Conservation I
-
o
Ethnobotany I (traditional human plant use
and animal plant use)
o
Threats and challenges specific to the Laikipia
District
o
Local anti-poaching efforts (ranger patrolling,
blood-hound unit)
Behavioral ecology theory I
-
o
Extant worldwide primate diversity and
taxonomy
o
Basics of socioecology and nutritional
ecology
o
Predation and infanticide
Becoming a scientist I
o
o
o
o
Critical reading
Project example: lion project
Vegetation sample preservation
Scientific method
Readings
Student package
Kabiri N. 2010. The political economy of wildlife conservation and decline in Kenya.
J Environm and Developm 19: 424-445.
Birkett A, 2002. The impact of giraffe, rhino and elephant on the habitat of a black
rhino sanctuary in Kenya. Afr J Ecol 40: 276-282.
Chapman CA, Wrangham R, 1994. Indices of habitat-wide fruit abundance in
tropical forests. Biotropica 26: 160-171.
Fichtel C, 2012. Predation: Male strategies and female counterstrategies. In: The
Evolution of Primate Societies, (J.C. Mitani, J. Call, P.M. Kappeler, R.A. Palombit
& J.B. Silk, eds.), pp. 169-194. University of Chic1ago Press, Chicago
Ganzhorn JU, 2011. Habitat description and phenology, In: Field and laboratory
methods in primatology edited by J.M. Setchell and D.B. Curtis, Cambridge
University press. pp. 40-56 (plant methods)
Georgiadis NJ, Olwero, JGN., Ojwang’, G & Romañach, SS. 2007. Savanna
herbivore dynamics in a livestock-dominated landscape: I. Dependence
on land use, rainfall, density, and time. Biol. Conserv., 137:461-472.
Georgiadis NJ, Ihwagi F, Olwero JGN, Romañach SS, 2007. Savanna
herbivore dynamics in a livestock-dominated landscape. II: Ecological,
conservation, and management implications of predator restoration.
Biol. Conserv., 137:473-483
Markham AC, Altmann J, 2008. Remote monitoring of primates using automated
GPS technology in open habitats. AJP 70: 1-5.
Ibui AK, 2009b. Meru knowledge and use of non-medicinal plants. In: Indigenous
knowledge, belief and practice of wild plants in Meru: past and present humanplant relations in East Africa. VDM Verlag, pp 195- 214 [Summary].
Ogutu JO, Dublin HT, 2002. Demography of lions in relation to prey and habitat in
the Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya. Afr J Ecol 40, 120-129
Palombit, RA. 2012. Infanticide: Male strategies and female counterstrategies. In:
The Evolution of Primate Societies, (J.C. Mitani, J. Call, P.M. Kappeler, R.A.
Palombit & J.B. Silk, eds.), pp. 432-468. University of Chicago Press, Chicago.
Tatman S, Stevens-Wood B, Smith VBT. 2000. Ranging behavior and habitat usage
in black rhinoceros, Diceros bicornis, in a Kenyan sanctuary. Afr J Ecol 38: 163172.
Western D, Groom R, Worden J. 2009a. The impact of subdivision and
sedentarization of pastoral lands on wildlife in an African savanna ecosystem.
3
g 6-9
10-11
Twala
Research
Station
Mt. Kenya
Conservancy
Program assignment: Write down 3 research questions for
potential projects based on the examples discussed
-
Field data collection methods II
-
o
Vegetation sampling techniques II
o
Identification of flora and fauna
o
Primate behavioral data collection
Behavioral ecology theory II
-
o
Wild baboon (in collaboration with Prof.
Shirley Strum)
Conservation II
-
o
Ethnobotany II
o
Invasive species
o
Relocation of ‘problem animals’
o
Human-wildlife coexistence and sustainable
development
o
Role-play exercise on human-wildlife conflict
o
Maasai community’s daily activities
Becoming a scientist II
-
o
Practice ecosystem identification
o
Practice animal identification and
socioecology
o
Practice behavioral data collection on
baboons
o
Responsible conduct in animal research
Behavioral ecology theory III
-
o
Primate/human evolution
Field data collection methods III
o
Behavioral endocrinology
Biological Conservation 142: 2538-2546.
Western D, Russell S, and Cuthill I. 2009b. The status of wildlife in protected areas
compared to non-protected areas of Kenya. PLOS One 4: e6140.
Martin and Bateson, 2011. Chapter 3: Getting started.
Martin and Bateson, 2011. Chapter 4: Individuals and groups.
Martin and Bateson, 2011. Chapter 5: Recording methods.
Fuentes A, Hockings KJ, 2010. The ethnoprimatological approach in primatology.
AJP 71: 1-7.
Palombit, RA. 2013. Papio anubis, Olive baboon In: The Mammals of Africa
(Butynski TM, Kingdon J & Kalina J, eds.), pp.233-239. London: Bloomsbury
Strum SC. 2005. Measuring success in primate translocation: a baboon case study.
Am J Primatol 65: 117-140.
Strum SC. 2010. The development of primate raiding: implications for management
and conservation. Int J Primatol 31: 133-156.
Fedigan, L.M. 2010. Ethical issues faced by field primatologists: Asking the
relevant questions. Am. J. Primatol., 72:754-771.
Gadd M. 2005 Conservation out of Parks: attitudes of local people in Laikipia.
Environmental Conservation 32:50-63.
Hockings KJ, Anderson JR, Matsuzawa T, 2012. Socioecological adaptations by
chimpanzees, Pan troglodytes verus, inhabiting an anthropogenically impacted
habitat. Anim Behav 83: 801-810.
Hodges JK, Heistermann M, 2011. Field endocrinology: monitoring hormonal
4
ug 12
ug 13
14-23
Kibwezi
Ground
Water
Forest
Gede Ruins
and Mida
Creek
Tana River
-
Conservation III
-
o
Laikipia Wildlife Forum – community-based
conservation efforts in the area
o
Mt. Kenya Conservancy – breeding,
preserving and reintroducing highly endangered
species
o
Ol Pejeta Chimpanzee Reserve – pet and
bushmeat trade
Becoming a scientist III
-
o
Practice animal identification and
socioecology
Behavioral ecology theory IV
-
o
Terrestriality and human evolution
Conservation IV
-
o
Ethnobotany III
Becoming a scientist IV
-
o
Practice animal identification and
socioecology
Conservation V
-
o
Gede Museums, ruins and forest (possibly
butterfly and snake farm)
Behavioral ecology theory V
-
o
Mangrove forest ecosystem
Becoming a scientist V
o
Blue monkey field research
o
Write short project proposal (research
question and methods)
Program assignment: Final project proposal, on day 3 at Tana
changes in free-ranging primates. In: Field and laboratory methods in
primatology. (Setchell JM, Curtis DB eds.) Cambridge University Press. pp. 353370.
Parker, I. 2003. A formidable institution. Swara, July-December:58-61
Meulman EJM, Sanz CM, Visalberghi E, van Schaik CP, 2012. The role of
terrestriality in promoting primate technology. Evol Anthrop 21: 58-68.
Foerster, Cords M, Monfort SL, 2011. Social Behavior, Foraging Strategies, and
Fecal Glucocorticoids in Female Blue Monkeys (Cercopithecus mitis): Potential
Fitness Benefits of High Rank in a Forest Guenon. AJP 73: 1-13.
Morino L, 2011. Left-hand preference for a complex manual task in a population of
wild siamangs (Symphalangus syndactylus). Int J Primatol 32: 793-800.
Martin and Bateson, 2011. Chapter 6: The recording medium.
Martin and Bateson, 2011. Chapter 8: How good is your research design?.
5
ug 25
-
Behavioral ecology theory VI
-
o
Introduction to the Tana River ecosystem
o
Socioecology of the Tana River primates
Field data collection methods IV
-
o
Primate cognition
Conservation VI
-
o
IUCN – endangered species
Becoming a scientist VI
o
Independent research project (proposal
writing, field data collection, analysis, writing up)
o
Student-led sessions of journal articles
discussion (ethno-primatology, primate behavioral
studies, conservation)
o
Scientific writing
o
Oral presentation
Colobus
Trust
Primate species:
Altmann J, Combes SL, and Alberts SC. 2007. Papio cynocephalus. In: Kingdon J,
Happold D, Butynski TM, editors. The Mammals of Africa. London: Academic
Press.
Struhsaker TT, and Grubb P. 2007. Procolobus rufomitratus. In: Kingdon J, Happold
D, Butynski TM, editors. The Mammals of Africa. London: Academic Press.
Wieczkowski JA, and Butynski TB. 2007. Cercocebus galeritus. In: Kingdon J,
Happold D, Butynski TM, editors. The Mammals of Africa. London: Academic
Press.
Bentley-Condit VK and Smith EO. 1999. Female dominance and female social
relationships among yellow baboons (Papio hamadryas cynocephalus). Am J
Prim 47:321–334.
Kinnaird MF. 1992a. Competition for a forest palm: use of Phoenix reclinata by
human and nonhuman primates. Conservation Biology 6: 101-107.
Kinnaird MF. 1992b. Variable resource defense by the Tana River crested
mangabey. Behav Ecol Sociobiol 31: 115-122.
Moinde-Fockler, N., Oguge, N.O., Karere, G.M., Otina, D. & Suleman, M.A. 2007.
Human and natural impacts on forests along lower Tana River, Kenya:
Implications towards conservation and management of endemic primate
species and their habitat. Biodiversity and Conservation, 16:1161-1173
Starin, E.D. 1981. Monkey moves. Natural History, 90 (1): 36-43.
Wahungu GM. 1998. Diet and habitat overlap in two sympatric primate species, the
Tana crested mangabey Cercocebus galeritus and yellow baboon Papio
cynocephalus. Afr J Ecol 36: 159-173.
Wieczkowski J. 2004. Ecological correlates of abundance in the Tana mangabey
(Cercocebus galeritus). American Journal of Primatology 63: 125-138.
Zimmermann E, 1990. Differentiation of vocalizations in bushbabies (Galaginae,
Prosimiae, Primates) and the significance for assessing phylogenetic
relationships. Z Zool Syst Evolut 28: 217-239.
Program assignment: Final Exam
Program assignment: Final project
Program assignment: Final project oral presentation
-
Conservation VII
o
Colobus Trust – primates in an urbanized
setting)
6
7