13th -15th March 2009
			This two day field trip to Fortescue Bay on the Tasman Peninsula complements the lectures and practicals of both 2nd year Zoology units; KZA211 Animal Evolution & Ecology and KZA215 Tasmanian Fauna : ecological and evolutionary studies. The excursion is regarded as a practical class and attendance is expected.        Before departure: All students must register on TUFSS (Tasmanian University Field Safety System)                                 (but don't leave this to the last minute)   General The aim of the excursion is to introduce participants to a range of Tasmanian fauna, and to collect data for use in subsequent practical sessions (for KZA 211). The field trip will also provide some hands-on experience in handling animals, habitat surveys and analytical methods. In addition, it is another way to get to know Zoology staff and each other a little better. There will be a number of projects run during the two day field trip potentially including: Mark-recapture study of Blue Wrens or brush tailed possums Distribution of sand-hoppers Intertidal fauna survey Freshwater fauna survey Reptile survey Seine netting Bush bird transect surveys Small mammal trapping (including bat trapping) and spotlighting Animal track and scat identification The class will be divided into groups for time tabling requirements, but everyone will have the opportunity to do most of the exercises offered. The actual activities which run will depend on weather and staff availability. In advance of the field trip you will be given the opportunity to select a combination of activities which suits you. Most activities start at 8:00 am on Saturday and Sunday morning, so it is recommended that you camp on Friday night to be ready for an early start ( staff will be!). Work should finish by 5:00 pm on both afternoons, with approximately an hour for lunch each day. Some of the projects depend on low tides and others will require moving away from the camp site (walking several kilometres in some cases), so bring water and snacks to carry you through. TUFSS - Tas Univ. Field Safety System, a record of your field work intentions...for safety sake. All students, visitors and staff, anyone going out on field work, must assess risks associated with their proposed work and leave a record of their intentions by registering on TUFSS before each departure. Registration details include; nominated contacts, phone numbers and some revevant personal medical information. Once on the register it is your responsibility whilst at the University to see that these details are kept up to date at least once each year, or as your circumstances change.. TUFFS encompasses every type of field work but there are extra registration details, proofs of competence and practical inductions required for intending divers (snorkel or SCUBA). Go to the TUFSS website , login with your email username /password create a new Personnel Registration (or update your previous registration), submit it for approval. If you have any problems, or queries about the process contact the Zoology Field Officer - Simon Talbot For more information Dr Ashley Edwards Phone - 6226 2617 Room 2/36 School of Zoology University of Tasmania
Snorkel or SCUBA diving subject to University Diving Officer approval Students who would like to SCUBA dive, or snorkel, must contact the University diving officer, Simon Talbot , well in advance of the trip. Simon Talbot will take appropriately qualified and experienced people snorkelling and diving. Only those who have had the Diving Safety Induction prior to the trip will be permitted to participate. All snorkellers/divers will need to supply their own personal diving equipment e.g. appropriate wet suit, gloves, booties, snorkel, mask, fins, dive knife, weights and towel. University SCUBA gear will be supplied to those who are able to participate. Please note that you must have at least an open water diver certification and 10hrs diving experience to SCUBA dive on this excursion. ...more about Field Trips, Boating, Diving and Snorkelling
About Fortescue Bay and what to take with you  >>>