Course coordinator
Dr April Reside
Consultation is by appointment. To make an appointment, please email your request or contact me before or after lectures.�
Course overview
- Study period
- Semester 2, 2025 (28/07/2025 - 22/11/2025)
- Study level
- Undergraduate
- Location
- Gatton
- Attendance mode
- In Person
- Units
- 2
- Administrative campus
- Gatton
- Coordinating unit
- The Environment School
Evolution, taxonomy, distribution, diet & habitat requirements of Australian native & introduced feral vertebrates. The impact that human & introduced species have had on distribution & abundance of native vertebrates.
Evidence of immunity to Q fever is mandatory for this course. Refer to UQ Student Immunisation Requirements for more information.
This course will give an introduction into Australia's remarkable vertebrates, their biology, ecology and conservation. This knowledge will provide solid grounding for all vocations involved in managing, conserving and studying biodiversity and ecosystems.
Evidence of immunity to Q fever is mandatory for this course. Refer to UQ Student Immunisation Requirements for more information.
Course requirements
Assumed background
Passion for understanding our amazing Australian vertebrates!
Prerequisites
You'll need to complete the following courses before enrolling in this one:
AGRC1020 or both AGRC1041 and VETS1060 or equivalent first year Zoology course
Incompatible
You can't enrol in this course if you've already completed the following:
ANIM2005
Restrictions
Restricted to students who meet mandatory immunisation requirements.
Course contact
Course staff
Lecturer
Dr April Reside
Associate Professor Diana Fisher
Dr Janet Lanyon
Dr Coen Hird
Timetable
The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.
Additional timetable information
This is an in-person, hands-on course so it is required to come in person to lectures and practicals. Important background material for practicals will be supplied as videos on Blackboard, and need to be watched before the relevant practical. If any lectures are missed, keep up to date with lecture recordings during their scheduled week.
Practicals will be offered on Gatton campus, and field locations including Hidden Vale (approximately 30 mins from Gatton campus) and students are expected to participate.
Trapping Practicals at Hidden Vale - Students must pass the trapping quiz, and register, to attend the trapping practical at Hidden Vale. Students will be required to attend the trapping site at Hidden Vale on the afternoon before their scheduled practical (e.g. Tuesday afternoon if they are scheduled for the Wednesday morning practical) to set their own traps. Students will be required to arrive pre-dawn the morning of their practical to check their traps. Students are required to attend both the set up and checking the traps sessions as they will be responsible for their traps.
Pay attention to Blackboard and announcements with updates for field activities.
Aims and outcomes
The aim of this course is to gain an understanding of the evolution, taxonomy, distribution, diet and habitat requirements of Australian native and introduced feral vertebrates; and the impact that humans and introduced species have had on the distribution and abundance of native vertebrates.
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
Describe the basic biology (diet, distribution, habitat requirements), evolution, taxonomy, and threats of and be able to identify Australian vertebrates
LO2.
Describe vertebrate communities in Australian habitats
LO3.
Collect, analyse and organize information and features from wildlife scats and skulls to accurate describe each one and identify the species it originated from.
LO4.
Gain the ability to interact and communicate effectively with others in order to achieve fieldwork outcomes and the ability to apply the principles required to safely trap and handle Australian wildlife.
LO5.
Understand how to use dichotomous keys to identify animals
LO6.
Apply the principles of proper referencing and methods to avoid plagiarism.
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper/ Report/ Annotation | Practical reports | 30% |
1) Scat ID practical report 22/08/2025 4:00 pm 2) Skull ID practical report 5/09/2025 4:00 pm 3) Traces ID practical report 12/09/2025 4:00 pm |
| Quiz | Animal trapping, handling & safety quiz | 10% |
18/09/2025 10:00 am |
| Paper/ Report/ Annotation, Quiz | Bird survey quiz | 10% |
10/10/2025 4:00 pm |
| Examination |
End of Semester Exam
|
50% |
End of Semester Exam Period 8/11/2025 - 22/11/2025 |
A hurdle is an assessment requirement that must be satisfied in order to receive a specific grade for the course. Check the assessment details for more information about hurdle requirements.
Assessment details
Practical reports
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Paper/ Report/ Annotation
- Weight
- 30%
- Due date
1) Scat ID practical report 22/08/2025 4:00 pm
2) Skull ID practical report 5/09/2025 4:00 pm
3) Traces ID practical report 12/09/2025 4:00 pm
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L03
Task description
Scat ID practical report (10%)
This assessment is based on the practical on the identification of animals from their scats. Students will describe the characteristic features of each item and identifies the species from which it came.
Skull ID practical report (10%)
This assessment item is based on the practical on the identification of animals from their skulls. Students will describe the characteristic features of each item and identifies the species from which it came.
Traces ID practical report (10%)
This assessment item is based on the practical on the identification of animals from their traces - other than skulls and scats. Students will describe the characteristic features of each item and identifies the species from which it came.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT)
This assessment task is to be completed in-person. The use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT) tools will not be permitted. Any attempted use of AI or MT may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Submission guidelines
You must either hand in your assessment task in class OR submit it via the Turnitin link during the class. You should also keep an electronic copy of every piece of assessment you submit.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 28 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
See the Additional assessment information section below for information relating to extension applications.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
You are required to submit assessable items on time. If you fail to meet the submission deadline for any assessment item, then 10% of the maximum possible mark for the assessment item (the assessment ‘marked from’ value) will be deducted as a late penalty for every day (or part day) late after the due date.
For example, if you submit your assignment 1 hour late, you will be penalised 10%; if your assignment is 24.5 hours late, you will be penalised 20% (because it is late by one 24-hour period plus part of another 24-hour period).
Animal trapping, handling & safety quiz
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Quiz
- Weight
- 10%
- Due date
18/09/2025 10:00 am
- Learning outcomes
- L04
Task description
There is a lot you need to know to do field work safely, particularly when there is trapping and handling of wild animals. Students are required to pass this quiz in order to join the Hidden Vale trapping practical. This quiz is required for all students. Students will not be able to attend the trapping at Hidden Vale without having satisfactorily completed this quiz. This assessment task evaluates student’s abilities, skills and knowledge without the aid of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
This task has been designed to be challenging, authentic and complex. Whilst students may use AI and/or MT technologies, successful completion of assessment in this course will require students to critically engage in specific contexts and tasks for which artificial intelligence will provide only limited support and guidance.
A failure to reference generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
To pass this assessment, students will be required to demonstrate detailed comprehension of their written submission independent of AI and MT tools.
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You cannot defer or apply for an extension for this assessment.
No extension or deferral is available, because we need to know numbers for the trapping.
Bird survey quiz
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Paper/ Report/ Annotation, Quiz
- Weight
- 10%
- Due date
10/10/2025 4:00 pm
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L04
Task description
This assessment will test your knowledge of bird survey techniques based on the bird survey and ID practical. This assessment task evaluates student’s abilities, skills and knowledge without the aid of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 28 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
See the Additional assessment information section below for information relating to extension applications.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
You are required to submit assessable items on time. If you fail to meet the submission deadline for any assessment item, then 10% of the maximum possible mark for the assessment item (the assessment ‘marked from’ value) will be deducted as a late penalty for every day (or part day) late after the due date.
For example, if you submit your assignment 1 hour late, you will be penalised 10%; if your assignment is 24.5 hours late, you will be penalised 20% (because it is late by one 24-hour period plus part of another 24-hour period).
End of Semester Exam
- Hurdle
- Identity Verified
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 50%
- Due date
End of Semester Exam Period
8/11/2025 - 22/11/2025
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L05, L06
Task description
Final examination will be based on any material covered during the course. This exam will be scheduled during the end of semester central examination period.
The exam will be an on-campus exam. Have your UQ student ID card available for all your exams.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT)
This assessment task is to be completed in-person. The use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT) tools will not be permitted. Any attempted use of AI or MT may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Hurdle requirements
See ADDITIONAL COURSE GRADING INFORMATION for the hurdle relating to this assessment item.Exam details
| Planning time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 120 minutes |
| Calculator options | Any calculator permitted |
| Open/closed book | Closed book examination - no written materials permitted |
| Exam platform | Paper based |
| Invigilation | Invigilated in person |
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to defer this exam.
Course grading
Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.
| Grade | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 (Low Fail) |
Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 0% |
| 2 (Fail) |
Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 30% |
| 3 (Marginal Fail) |
Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 45% |
| 4 (Pass) |
Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 50% |
| 5 (Credit) |
Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 65% |
| 6 (Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 75% |
| 7 (High Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 85% |
Additional course grading information
Assessment Hurdle
In order to pass this course, you must meet the following requirements (if you do not meet these requirements, the maximum grade you will receive will be a 3):
You must obtain 45% or more on the End of Semester Exam.
Supplementary assessment
Supplementary assessment is available for this course.
Should you fail a course with a grade of 3, you may be eligible for supplementary assessment. Refer to my.UQ for information on supplementary assessment and how to apply.
Supplementary assessment provides an additional opportunity to demonstrate you have achieved all the required learning outcomes for a course.
If you apply and are granted supplementary assessment, the type of supplementary assessment set will consider which learning outcome(s) have not been met.
Supplementary assessment can take any form (such as a written report, oral presentation, examination or other appropriate assessment) and may test specific learning outcomes tailored to the individual student, or all learning outcomes.
To receive a passing grade of 3S4, you must obtain a mark of 50% or more on the supplementary assessment.
Additional assessment information
Applications for Extensions to Assessment Due Dates
Read the information contained in the following links carefully before submitting an application for extension to assessment due date.
For guidance on applying for an extension, information is available here: https://my.uq.edu.au/information-and-services/manage-my-program/exams-and-assessment/applying-assessment-extension
For the policy relating to extensions, information is available here (Part D): https://policies.uq.edu.au/document/view-current.php?id=184
Please note the University's requirements for medical certificates here: https://my.uq.edu.au/information-and-services/manage-my-program/uq-policies-and-rules/requirements-medical-certificates
TurnItIn Assignments
TurnItIn Assignments that are required to be submitted through TurnItIn, must only be uploaded to the assessment specific Turnitin link on the relevant course Blackboard site. ﾠIf you submit any version of your assessment item to any alternative Turnitin link, this is considered cheating and you will be held liable for this action. ﾠ
ﾠ
Learning resources
You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.
Library resources
Library resources are available on the UQ Library website.
Other course materials
Recommended
| Item | Description | Further Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Queensland Museum Field Guide to QLD Fauna App | https://www.museum.qld.gov.au/learn-and-discover/apps/queensland-museum-network-field-guide-to-queensland-fauna | |
| FrogID App | https://www.museum.qld.gov.au/learn-and-discover/apps/frogid-app |
Additional learning resources information
To learn about Australian vertebrates you will need field guides, either as physical books or smartphone/ tablet apps. Some apps are free, e.g. QLD Museum apps. There are many field guide books available at the library, for mammals, birds, reptiles, frogs, marine and freshwater vertebrates
Learning activities
The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.
Filter activity type by
Please select
| Learning period | Activity type | Topic |
|---|---|---|
Not scheduled |
Not Timetabled |
Online tutorial series Tutorial videos are all available online to be watched at any time; however the information will be required by the end of the week specified. Week 1: Animal ID. Week 3: Dichotomous Keys. Week 4: Frog & reptile ID Week 5: Bat Map: what bats are in my backyard? Week 6: Traces ID. Week 8: Trapping background information. Learning outcomes: L01, L04, L05, L06 |
Week 1 (28 Jul - 03 Aug) |
Lecture |
Introduction & phylogeny April Reside Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L05 |
Week 2 (04 Aug - 10 Aug) |
Lecture |
Carnivorous marsupials Diana Fisher Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
Practical |
Hidden Vale Tour Tour & info session at the Hidden Vale Wildlife Centre Learning outcomes: L04 |
|
Week 3 (11 Aug - 17 Aug) |
Lecture |
Herbivorous marsupials Diana Fisher Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
Week 4 (18 Aug - 24 Aug) |
Lecture |
Monotremes & rodents Janet Lanyon Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
Practical |
Scat ID Laboratory practical Learning outcomes: L03 |
|
Week 5 (25 Aug - 31 Aug) |
Lecture |
Bats April Reside Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
Week 6 (01 Sep - 07 Sep) |
Lecture |
Reptiles Coen Hird Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
Practical |
Skull ID Laboratory practical Learning outcomes: L03 |
|
Week 7 (08 Sep - 14 Sep) |
Lecture |
Frogs Coen Hird Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
Practical |
Traces ID Laboratory practical Learning outcomes: L03 |
|
Week 8 (15 Sep - 21 Sep) |
Lecture |
Birds April Reside Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
Practical |
Intro to trapping & field skills Field practical on campus at UQ Gatton Learning outcomes: L04 |
|
Week 9 (22 Sep - 28 Sep) |
Lecture |
Fish Guest lecturer Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
Practical |
Trapping at Hidden Vale April Reside All students attending the trapping at Hidden Vale must set their own traps on the afternoon before their morning practical. All students who set traps must return the following day to check those traps. Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04 |
|
Week 10 (06 Oct - 12 Oct) |
Lecture |
Introduced vertebrates April Reside Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
Practical |
Bird survey & ID Field practical on campus at UQ Gatton Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
|
Week 11 (13 Oct - 19 Oct) |
Lecture |
Threatened vertebrate conservation April Reside Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
Week 12 (20 Oct - 26 Oct) |
Lecture |
Marine mammals Janet Lanyon Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
Practical |
Spotlighting Non-compulsory field practical off campus Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04 |
|
Week 13 (27 Oct - 02 Nov) |
Lecture |
Course review April Reside Learning outcomes: L02 |
Policies and procedures
University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:
- Student Code of Conduct Policy
- Student Integrity and Misconduct Policy and Procedure
- Assessment Procedure
- Examinations Procedure
- Reasonable Adjustments for Students Policy and Procedure
Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.
You'll also need to be aware of the following policies and procedures while completing this course:
- Immunisation