Behaviour is the front-line interaction of organisms with their environment, allowing them to respond rapidly to changes in the environment that define the Anthropocene. Determining the mechanisms of such behavioural responses and how they evolved is fundamental for understanding how organisms adjust to their changing environment. Behavioural ecology examines these responses in the context of the natural environment, bringing the study of behavioural ecology centre stage in environmental research. This module unites the classical study of animal behaviour, using Niko Tinbergen’s four ‘whys’ of behaviour as a framework, with theory on the role of phenotypic plasticity in changing environments. An understanding of the function and mechanisms of animal behaviour is timely in coping with current social, economic and environmental problems in our changing planet.

The module provides a solid understanding of the mechanisms and evolution of behaviour, and explores to what extent behaviour facilitates or constrains survival in changing environments. We will discuss, using cutting-edge theory and evidence from the literature, how the environmental pressures of the Anthropocene may be affecting the function and mechanisms of key aspects of behaviour. This course, therefore, equips students with the skills and knowledge to apply the classical framework of behavioural ecology within the context of the changing ecology and environment of our planet.

Module Objectives

Be able to explain (and apply) the principles on the function and mechanisms of behaviour (“Tinbergen’s four questions”)
	To understand the interplay of behaviour, adaptation and phenotypic plasticity; how this relates to life in changing environments; explain under what circumstances behaviour may constraint or facilitate survival in the environment;
	To develop skills in generating and testing hypotheses about the mechanisms and function of animal behaviour, and demonstrate ability to apply these skills in the analysis of animal behaviour;
	Be able to describe how behavioural ecology is changing in the 21st century: this includes explaining how new methods are helping integrate Tinbergen’s framework; appreciating the extended concept of behaviour beyond classical “Attenborough” animal behaviour;
	Be able to explain the key themes in behavioural ecology and apply Tinbergen’s framework to determine if and how these behaviours are being affected by changing environments.
Indicative lecture topics – based on module content in 2021-22

Introduction to Behaviour
	Anthropocene & behaviour
	Nature of Behaviour (learning)
	Methods in behavioural ecology
	Resource Use
	Sociality & cooperation
	Communication ad signalling
	Conservation and behaviour
	Plasticity and behaviour
	Invasions and behaviour
	Plants and behaviour