Overview

Animal management is an applied scientific field which includes care, husbandry and welfare of animals and the management of facilities such as commercial farms and zoos. Using a combination of lectures, field trips and practicals, students will learn about evidence-based practices within the animal industry and gain hands-on experience related to monitoring animal health.

Topics may include; animal husbandry, applied animal health, nutrition, behaviour, enrichment, training, euthanasia, breeding and record keeping. Many sessions will be applied, looking at a range of examples from animal collections, aquaria and the farming industry. There will be a laboratory practical focusing on the analysis of faecal samples, collected from our University farm, Henfaes Research Centre. Seminar sessions will provide an insight from professionals working in the animal industry from a range of backgrounds. In the final part of the module, students will be required to develop a project based around the management of zoo animals. This will be incorporated into a visit to a popular animal collection.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold (Grade D- to C+; mark range 40-59%) -Awareness of the fundamentals underlying animal management, based on lecture material and practical sessions, but with limited or absent analytical ability. Some evidence of transferable skills and the ability to apply knowledge within the industry, but with limited or absent organisational and communication skills
-good (Grade B- to B+; mark range 60-69%) -A good grasp of the fundamentals and demonstration of critical thought with evidence of additional reading and/or practice. An ability to present a coherent argument with clarity. A good appreciation of the main approaches employed in the management of animals within zoos, aquaria and the farming industry, with the ability to critically assess their suitability in a given situation. Good evidence of lifelong learning skills, demonstrating ability to work effectively with others.
-excellent (Grade A- or higher; mark range 70-100%) -An excellent grasp of the fundamentals of the science and demonstration of the ability to analyse, critically assess, and present a coherent reasoned argument in relation to best practices in animal management. Demonstration of original thinking and advanced problem solving when evaluating and implementing research methods and husbandry practices. Additional evidence of lifelong learning skills such as ability to adapt to change and motivate others.

Learning Outcomes

• Analyse measures of animal health, including the critical evaluation and application of results.

• Apply knowledge of the management of animals and animal collections to identify their roles in conserving biodiversity.

• Explain the key concepts of animal management using a comprehensive and scientific approach.

• Identify transferable management and husbandry practices across species.