In this class we will explore behavioral phenomena within the animal kingdom and related environmental issues. The purpose of this is to learn about these behaviors, why they exist evolutionarily, and explore interesting examples seen in nature. We will highlight unique behaviors and adaptations exhibited by animals, as well as the basic anatomy and physiology controlling these behaviors.

In addition to weekly lectures, you will have the opportunity to attend field trips to the bay’s gorgeous wildlife areas to observe animals in their natural habitats. Field trips from past semesters included tidepooling at Duxbury reef, hiking at Point Reyes and Sunol Regional Wilderness, and listening to the dawn chorus at Tilden, among others.

By the end of the class, you will be equipped to:
• Appreciate and assess the diversity in the biological foundations for complex behaviors and actions. 

• Evaluate the evolutionary processes that lead to these structures. 

• Understand how researchers approach questions in the intersecting fields of zoology and neurology. 


The class is designed for all majors, freshman-senior who have an interest in animals, neurology, evolution, or nature as a whole. 


To earn a “P” in this class, you need to earn a minimum of 125 points in the class. Here is how you can accumulate points:

Attending class: 5 points
Homework: 3 points
Field trips: 10-15 points (We will offer 4-5 field trips over the course of the semester)
Short essays: 0-10 points
Final exam/essay: 0-30 points
Extra credit: There is no extra credit because there are many opportunities to get points. There will, however, be small opportunities beyond those listed here.

Fill out the google form to receive the CCN, the course is first come, first served however if you are still interested and don't get a spot, please come talk to us on the first day of class. Use the CCN to enroll on CalCentral!