For Activity #2, you are doing independent research in small groups. Your research will be focused on understanding one type of feral animal and its impact on the ecosystem it invaded. On this site there are several sources listed that will help you with your research. You have the assignment sheet for this project (if not, click here: M1 Feral Animal Activity #2), but this site has a quick reminder of the questions you need to answer with your research. Answer the questions as a group on a single document, and when you are finished you will explain that information to the rest of the class. Make sure that your answers to the questions are detailed enough! You want to be able to discuss specific examples!
Questions to be Answered:
- How did your invasive species get introduced to the native ecosystem?
- What has been the effect of your invasive species on the native plants and/or animals?
- What are humans doing to try to solve the problems caused by your invasive species?
- Do you agree with what humans are doing to solve the problems caused by your invasive species? Why or why not?
Starting Place: The websites listed below are a good place to start looking for information. You can use these sources, but you will also want to find your own sources. Some of these sources may be a little difficult to understand – make sure that you ask if you have any questions! Good luck!
- Feral water buffalo
- http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/invasive/publications/buffalo-factsheet.html
- http://waltzingaustralia.wordpress.com/2008/04/03/water-buffalo/
- Feral cats
- http://www.targetpest.co.nz/cat.htm
- http://www.wildaboutnz.co.nz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=83:feral-cats&catid=28:predators&Itemid=77
- Feral pigs
- Feral goats