Health & Disease in Wildlife Populations (VETS30033)

The health of wildlife populations is determined by the presence and absence of diseases, and also by the population’s resilience in environments affected by climate change, habitat degradation and destruction, and direct conflict with human interest.   

This subject will discuss the factors that determine disease and health in wildlife populations, examine disease impacts on wildlife populations and how they are measured, consider case studies of some of the most significant current diseases of wildlife (including diseases of veterinary and human public health significance), and investigate the principles of managing health and disease in wildlife populations.   

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

• Identify and explain the determinants of health and causes of disease in wildlife populations, and how these are detected, described and measured
• Explain the spread and maintenance of disease in wildlife populations and relate this to disease in domestic animals and humans
• Research, analyse and integrate the interconnections between ecosystem health, animal health and human health
• Research and analyse the impacts of disease on wildlife populations
• Apply the principles of wildlife health management to make recommendations for disease outbreak and conservation interventions

Generic skills

• Critical assessment of scientific literature
• Advanced ability for self-assessment regarding learning, knowledge and technical skills
• Ability to work collaboratively and in multi-disciplinary teams
• Leadership skills and contributing to a sustainable future
• Communication skills