Details

ONLINE | Tuesay, April 11, 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Instructor: Patrick Brannon

$25 Non-member Adult**

(**Arboretum Members receive a 10% discount on all classes.)

Course Capacity: 30

1 hour credit | BRN - Elective - Wildlife | NCEE III Criteria

A wide variety of mammals occur in the southern Appalachians, from the tiny Pygmy Shrew to the large Black Bear. In this class, participants will learn what makes something a mammal, reasons for increased species diversity in the region, and examples of different mammal groups. Mammals are categorized in large part by the types of teeth they possess, and the various combinations of those teeth as they relate to diet. Students will also examine various skulls to practice obtaining “dental formulas” to help identify groups and often the species. Additional time may be spent discussing an ongoing research project on the effects of littering on small mammals, and identification of shrew skulls using a dichotomous key.

Patrick Brannon is a naturalist and educator at the WCU Highlands Biological Station in Highlands, NC. He holds a M.S. in Biology from Appalachian State University, and conducts research on the ecology of both salamanders and small mammals. In addition, Patrick presents a wide variety of K-12 school programs and educator workshops throughout the region.

Registration and Participation in Online Classes through the Arboretum:

• Registration for this class will close two days before the class start date.
• Make sure you enter your email address correctly when registering.
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