This course will introduce students to the biology, ecology,
evolution and status of the cetacean (whales, dolphins and porpoises) species
here in the North Western Atlantic Ocean, The evolution of cetaceans, their
taxonomy, anatomy, physiology and behavior will be examined. The status of our
local populations will be discussed. along With techniques for their population
assessment. Students MUST take part in an on-going field observation and
photo-identification project via 2day offshore whale
observation/photo-identification cruise conducted by CRESLI, Inc.
THIS
COURSE IS A FIELD COURSE AND CANNOT BE SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETED WITHOUT THE WHALE
CRUISE.
These cruises will target the following populations: The
Gulf of Maine stock of Humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae);
The Western North Atlantic stock of Fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus);
The Canadian East stock of Minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata); The
western stock of the North Atlantic Right whale (Eubalaena glacialis);
The Western North Atlantic stocks of Common Dolphins: (Delphinus delphis);
Atlantic White-Sided dolphins (Lagenorhynchus acutus); Long-finned Pilot
whales, (Globicephala melaena).
(Transferable college credit available ... you don't need to be a
Dowling student)
