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E-learning
Kinkajou

Learning at your own pace

Certificate of participation

This online course provides an in-depth exploration of the giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis). The e-learning is structured in different modules and lessons, with each lesson enriched with fascinating information supported by images, videos and sound fragments.

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Make your way through this interactive e-learning and discover the secrets of the giraffe, with a recognized certificate waiting for you as a reward for your completed journey through this fascinating study program!

E-learning Kinkajou
Module 1

Module 1 of this e-learning starts with an introduction to taxonomy, the science of classifying and naming living things. We learn about the pioneering contributions of Carolus Linnaeus and Charles Darwin, who laid the foundation for the classification of animal and plant species. In Lesson 2 we explore modern techniques that have refined taxonomy, such as genetics and the development of domains within the animal kingdom. Lesson 3 delves deeper into the classification of the animal kingdom, with a special focus on mammals, including the placentalia, marsupialia, and monotremata. Finally, Lesson 4 covers the taxonomy of the giraffe, learning about its place in the animal kingdom and the diverse populations and threats these animals face. 

Module

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1

Taxonomy

Module 1 of this e-learning starts with an introduction to taxonomy, the science of classifying and naming living things. We learn about the pioneering contributions of Carolus Linnaeus and Charles Darwin, who laid the foundation for the classification of animal and plant species. In Lesson 2 we explore modern techniques that have refined taxonomy, such as genetics and the development of domains within the animal kingdom. Lesson 3 delves deeper into the classification of the animal kingdom, with a special focus on mammals, including the placentalia, marsupialia, and monotremata. Finally, Lesson 4 covers the taxonomy of the giraffe, learning about its place in the animal kingdom and the diverse populations and threats these animals face.

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2

Population

In the first lesson of module 2, the lifestyle, reproduction and social structure of giraffes are discussed in detail. You will learn about the dynamics of a giraffe group, their survival strategies, social interactions and population distribution. Various subspecies and their habitats are discussed. In lesson three you will discover how these herbivores are adapted to their environment and specialize in eating the leaves and twigs of acacia trees. The fourth lesson focuses on the interactions between giraffes and other species in their ecosystem. Finally, lesson five covers the threats and conservation of giraffes. You will gain insight into the main threats giraffes face, such as habitat loss, climate change and illegal hunting, and discover the various conservation initiatives being undertaken to protect giraffes and preserve their habitats.

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3

Anatomy

With detailed lessons covering every aspect of giraffe anatomy, from the unique neck structure to the internal organs, this course provides a unique opportunity to understand the complexities of the world's tallest land animal. The first lesson provides an introduction to anatomy. We then delve deeper into the anatomy of the giraffe, covering topics such as necking, the tongue, spot patterns and giraffe locomotion. Participants will be amazed by the adaptations the giraffe has developed to survive in its environment, such as high blood pressure and thermoregulation. The following lessons will cover specific areas of anatomy, including splanchnology (the study of the organs), osteology (the study of the bones), and the cervicothoracic junction.

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4

Power supply

Module 4 covers several essential aspects of keeping animals in captivity, with the aim of promoting their welfare. Lesson 1 discusses the importance of a well-designed animal facility, taking into account, among other things, the needs of the animals and the safety of staff. Lesson 2 delves into how enrichment can be used to stimulate animals' senses and cognitive skills, preventing abnormal behavior. Lesson 3 focuses on the diet of giraffes. Lesson 4 discusses sleep behavior in captivity, based on scientific research, and provides insight into how giraffes sleep and how this differs from humans. Finally, Lesson 5 discusses an animal welfare study that uses behavioral observations and hormonal analyzes to assess the welfare of giraffes in different seasons.

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5

Captivity

Lesson 1 begins with an introduction to what ethology entails and then explores various aspects of behavior, such as its origin, expression, determination, and function. It also covers the three main functions of behavior: survival, eating behavior and functionless behavior, and illustrates how internal and external stimuli can drive behavior using examples. Lesson 2 introduces the concept of an ethogram and explains how this tool can be used to systematically observe and analyze behavior. It is explained step by step how an ethogram is drawn up and applied, with practical tips for conducting behavioral research. Lesson 3 offers a deeper understanding of ethograms through the work of researchers Peter A. Seeber and André Ganswindt, who have compiled a comprehensive ethogram based on both existing literature and observations of giraffes in the wild and in captivity.

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6

Poisonous plants

Lesson 1 begins with an introduction to what ethology entails and then explores various aspects of behavior, such as its origin, expression, determination, and function. It also covers the three main functions of behavior: survival, eating behavior and functionless behavior, and illustrates how internal and external stimuli can drive behavior using examples. Lesson 2 introduces the concept of an ethogram and explains how this tool can be used to systematically observe and analyze behavior. It is explained step by step how an ethogram is drawn up and applied, with practical tips for conducting behavioral research. Lesson 3 offers a deeper understanding of ethograms through the work of researchers Peter A. Seeber and André Ganswindt, who have compiled a comprehensive ethogram based on both existing literature and observations of giraffes in the wild and in captivity.

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