MarineMammalsBiology

Whales, porpoises, walruses, manatees, otters, and their marine relatives live in a challenging environment. Their biology allows them to function quite happily, though. We will learn about individual animal species and how they live in the oceans, so we will probably cover comparative anatomy (including neuroanatomy, because I always have to throw in some neuroanatomy), a little evolutionary biology, and some environmental science, at least as it relates to habitat. We will study particular animals in-depth as the interests of the participants dictate. We may study international whaling, too.

There are at least two obvious, good field trips that I hope to schedule associated with this study group: one to the New England Aquarium (http://www.neaq.org/index.php), and one to the New Bedford whaling museum (http://www.whalingmuseum.org/).

Interesting link: http://www.theporpoisepage.com/

PLEASE NOTE: I do not believe age or grade level designations are relevant or helpful. What is very important, however, is the desire to learn and a skill level appropriate for learning some fairly intensive biology. Students MUST be willing and able to: ask questions when they're unsure or confused; participate constructively in a group setting. Parents, please discuss with your children what their goals and interests are before registering--unwilling participation will not be any fun for them, their fellow study group members, or me.