Online Primates Course

Primates evolved from small arboreal (tree dwellers) ancestors. The fact that most primates remained in trees as the many species evolved is thought to have kept them from danger. Trees offer protection from predators; and also trees provide a reliable source of food (vegetation, insects, etc). Primates that are ground dwelling now are big sized species or man.  

In order to stop them from falling, arboreal primates evolved hands, rather than claws as in other arboreal animals, that can grasp branches firmly. This adaptation had a secondary value, allowing primates the ability to hold and manipulate objects more precisely than other animals.

With more useable hands, primates were better able to jump from branch to branch. To jump more effectively, primates would then need better eyesight; a better sense of touch; and greater intelligence to make faster decisions as they moved through the trees. 

There are approximately 200 - 240 species of primates able to live in a variety of different habitats and climates (tropical rainforests to semi desert areas to cold and snowy), with some spending most of their lives around trees, while others can spend most of their times on the ground.

Lesson Structure

There are 10 lessons in this course:

1. Introduction to Primates –scope, nature, anatomy & physiology, evolution, taxonomy,
2. The Strepsirhines -Lemurs, Bush babies, etc
3. The Haplorhimes -Monkeys, Apes, etc
4. Diet and Nutrition re environment feed and supplements in a nature park environment
5. Health - Illness Pests and diseases specific to above
6. Primate Behaviour in the Wild
7. Psychological Wellbeing in Primates in Captivity
8. Breeding programmes and optimum resources needed for this
9. Conservation in the wild -of individual breeds?
10. Managing primates in Captivity

Each lesson culminates in an assignment which is submitted to the school, marked by the school's tutors and returned to you with any relevant suggestions, comments, and if necessary, extra reading.

Aims

• To understand the taxonomy, biology and management of primate animals both in captivity and the wild.
• Discuss the nature and scope of our knowledge of primate animals.
• Describe a variety of different species from the suborder Strepsirhini.
• Describe a variety of different species from the suborder Haplorhini.
• Explain the dietary requirements for different primates.
• Explain the management of the physical wellbeing of primates.
• Explain the psychology of primates and their natural behaviour.
• Explain the management of the psychological wellbeing of primates in captivity.
• Explain breeding programmes for managing the conservation of primates.
• Explain the conservation of a range of primates.
• Explain the management of primates in captivity.

For more information on this course, please request your free course information pack.