COURSE INFORMATION: Students are enrolled in one of the following courses: BIOL 250: The Natural History of Sri Lanka (for non-majors) - 4 credits -OR- BIOL 453: The Natural History of Sri Lanka (for majors) - 4 credits PROGRAM INFORMATION: The Natural History of Sri Lanka will familiarize students with the key ecosystems found in Sri Lanka as well as the flora and fauna characteristic of these sites. Through lectures, readings, visits to museums and botanical gardens, as well as excursions in the field, students will learn more about the geophysical origins of Sri Lanka, features that contribute to the high biodiversity of this country, how taxa have evolved in response to the environment, current conservation efforts, and how cultural beliefs and historical events have impacted approaches to wildlife management. The course is based in the central highlands at the University of Peradeniya and, with the assistance of local biologists, students will explore numerous sites including the ancient city of Sigiriya in the central lowlands, Horton Plains (upper montane), Wilpattu National Park (lowland dry zone), Passikudah (east coast), Minneriya National Park (central lowlands), Knuckles Forest Range (central highlands), and the Elephant Orphanage at Pinnawala (central highlands). We will also visit additional sites of historic and cultural significance such as the Temple of the Cave (Dambulla) and the Temple of the Tooth (Kandy). Students will also have opportunities to assist biologists in the field with research and/or conservation efforts. Participants should expect the following: frequent travel by bus or van, hiking long distances, snorkeling/swimming, high heat and humidity, long distance travel by airplane, and spicy foods. Proficiency in snorkeling must be demonstrated before departure. PROGRAM DIRECTOR: Dr. Christine Byrum Department of Biology byrumc@cofc.edu 843-789-5939 Dr. Byrum is an Associate Professor of Biology at CofC. She received her Ph.D. in 2001 from the University of Texas at Austin and has a diverse scientific background in invertebrate zoology, marine biology, developmental biology, and molecular biology. She has traveled to Sri Lanka previously and her personal interest in the wildlife and culture of this country led to the development of this program. Currently, Dr. Byrum teaches Invertebrate Zoology, Genomics, and Genetics.
Quick Facts
Population: 21283913 Capital: Colombo Per-capita GDP: $ 5000 Size: 65610 km2 Time Zone: (GMT + 05:30 hours) Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, New Delhi
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