Ecology: Living Landscapes in the West of Ireland

About

This course offers students practical experience of the natural environment in the west of Ireland. It provides students with survey skills to identify natural resources, and develops their skills to evaluate the sustainable use and conservation of Ireland’s ecological resources.

County Galway, on Ireland’s Atlantic West Coast is a land of contrasts. Influenced by its oceanic climate, glacial history, hydrology, geology and human habitation, it has developed a variety of beautiful landscapes with unique and fascinating habitats and species. From the fertile rocks of the Burren karst limestone, to the raised bogs of the midlands, the sheer cliffs of the Aran Islands to the salt marshes of Galway Bay, there is a wealth of natural history to explore.

Module I: SS1151 Living Landscapes of Connemara and Joyce Country (6 ECTS/3 Semester Credits)

Focusing on Connemara, Lough Corrib and Joyce Country and examining the ecology and conservation of blanket bogs, uplands and freshwater habitats of County Galway.

Module 2: SS1152 Living Landscapes of the Burren and East County Galway (6 ECTS/3 Semester Credits)

Focusing on the habitats and species of the Burren and East County Galway, including limestone pavement, turloughs and the raised bogs as well as the special coastal habitats of County Galway.

Students may enrol on 1 or 2 modules.

Course leader

Dr. Michael Gormally Dr. Elaine O Riordan

Target group

The course is aimed at students who have completed two full years at University or College level before being admitted to the course and are undertaking any Ecology, Environmental Science, Geography, Botany, Zoology, Natural History or Natural Heritage course.

Course aim

This course is designed to encourage a multi-disciplinary approach to studying ecology, by looking at all aspects of how these habitats are created and maintained through natural processes and anthropogenic activity. It will also consider conservation and sustainability issues and how a sound understanding of these ecological processes is used to combat the challenges facing the environment

Fee info