The series of exercises included in the manual is intended to introduce you to some of the excitement and fun of studying animal behavior.   At the same time, you will learn some of the techniques used in the scientific study of animal behavior.  

The exercises provide opportunities for investigating a number of important aspects of animal behavior, such as displays, releasers, communication, foraging for food, and social organization.

They also provide a chance to observe a variety of animals:   insects, fish, birds, and a mammal -- Homo sapiens.   Some of the exercises take place in the laboratory, some outdoors.

Although each section in this manual suggests specific protocols for exercises, you and your section will also have a chance to try other experiments or to modify the procedures with guidance from your Teaching Assistant.

During all of these exercises, whether in the laboratory or in the field, remember that animals are more likely to do the interesting things we would like to see when they are not disturbed.   To avoid disturbing the animals you are studying, avoid unnecessary noise and movement.   Watching animals takes care -- and persistence.   It is a skill that does not come naturally to us people.  

Because several of our labs are outdoors, come prepared for inclement weather, including cold (warm jacket and hat), sun (hat and sunscreen), and wet (jacket and dry shoes).