Covers the anatomy, physiology, behavior and ecology of marine mammals, with emphasis on the adaptations that make the group possible: thermoregulation, diving physiology, sensory systems and acoustic communication.
The second half of the course addresses methods. Marine mammals are difficult to observe, and every survey technique carries a characteristic bias. Visual survey depends on weather, observer and platform. Passive acoustic detection depends on whether the animal was vocalizing. Photographic identification depends on distinctive markings that not every individual has. The course treats these biases as the central methodological problem rather than as a caveat.
Field sessions are weather-dependent and may not produce sightings. This is treated as instructive.