Avian Physiology and Management

Catalog description

This course covers avian evolution and taxonomy, behavior, husbandry, and major physiological systems (e.g., skeletal, digestive, reproductive). Lecture material is reinforced with anatomical software and pigeon dissection lab. Use of avian model organisms in research is explored through study of scientific literature. Additional lectures explain the unique characteristics and management of different domesticated and exotic avian species. Students gain hands-on experience managing agricultural waterfowl through fieldtrips and the Morrison's Fowl Farm component of the course. Over the course of ten weeks, students perform chores and raise ducklings from two different breeds of duck selected for meat production. Students collect and analyze data for use in a final written research project in which they compare growth rate, carcass weight, and profitability of the two breeds.