This seminar introduces the key ideas and concepts in behavioural ecology and their relevance for conservation. We will discuss how animals make decisions about foraging, mating, movement, and social
interactions, and how these behaviours shape survival, reproduction, and responses to environmental change. Using case studies from different species and habitats, the seminar will cover both classic theory and
recent research, giving students a broad overview of how behavioural ecology is studied and why it matters. The final part of the course will focus on conservation applications, including reintroduction
programmes, human–wildlife conflict, and biodiversity management in the face of global change. After the lecture sessions, students will work on a literature review project related to one of the topics discussed
during the seminar, which they will present and discuss in class. Assessment will be based on the individual literature review project and presentation.