Fur and feathers and scales, oh my! A closer look at the ‘domestic’ diverse species
This module will introduce students to the fascinating diversity of some of the more unusual domesticated species. Across six interactive sessions, students will explore the unique anatomy, physiology and husbandry requirements of rodents, rabbits, birds and reptiles. The module aims to equip students with the knowledge to recognise species specific requirements and apply these to promote optimal welfare in a range of domestic contexts.
Module leader: Rosie MacDiarmid
Staff who will deliver sessions on the module: Rosie MacDiarmid. Also Mel Chapman, Joe McQuade (EXTERNAL – reptile handling)
Aims
- To provide students with an understanding of the anatomical and physiological diversity of selected domestic species including rodents, rabbits, reptiles and birds
- To foster critical thinking and practical skills through activities that involve application of species-specific biology to inform and critique husbandry practices
- To provide problem-based learning skills through recognising and addressing common husbandry related health and welfare issues
- To introduce students to practical techniques commonly used in the veterinary treatment of domestic exotic species
Content
The following topics will be considered on the module:
- Introduction & Small Mammals (rodents)
- Rabbits
- Birds
- Reptile Biology and Husbandry
- Reptile Handing & Basic Health Checks
- Exotic Animal Techniques (Small Mammals & Birds)
- Comparative Care & Integration
Structure
The module will be delivered over a three-week period in six two-hour sessions (four hours per week, total 12 hours contact time).
The course will be interactive in nature, with the sessions highly focused on understanding, interpretation, and expression: encouraging students to put theory into practice throughout. The indicative schedule is as follows:
Session one: Introduction & Small Mammals (Rodents)
- Overview of domestic exotic species covered in the module
- Identification of domestic rodent species (myomorphs vs hystricomorphs)
- Comparative anatomy and dentition
- Species specific considerations
- Overview of husbandry requirements
- Practical element – anatomical specimens
Session two: Rabbits & Birds
Rabbits
- Anatomical features
- Dental and digestive anatomy and physiology
- Common breeds and their anatomical peculiarities Husbandry considerations
- Practical element– anatomical specimens
Birds
- Skeletal adaptations for flight
- Respiratory system and air sac function
- Nutritional and environmental needs
- Housing and enrichment
Session three: Reptile Biology & Husbandry
- Ectothermy and thermoregulation
- Shedding cycles and skin health
- UV lighting, temperature gradients, and hydration
- Common reptile husbandry errors
- Case study: metabolic bone disease
Session four: Practical 1: Reptile Handling & Basic Health Checks
- Safe handling techniques for snakes and lizards
- Assessing health and recognising stress signs
- Demonstration of weighing, restraint, and basic examination
- Hands-on practice with live animals (where permitted)
- Reptile pots for anatomical structures
Session five: Practical 2: Exotic Animal Techniques (Small Mammals & Birds)
- Safe handling and restraint of small mammals and birds
- Crop tubing of birds
- Rabbit dental examination
- Species identification
- Anatomy pots/specimens
Session six: Comparative Care & Integration
- Applying anatomy and physiology knowledge to real-world care
- Problem-solving scenarios based on case studies
- Mini-presentations: students present husbandry case study
- Course wrap-up and Q&A
Teaching methods
The teaching approach will include the following:
- Taught sessions
- Small group working
- Practical activities
- Presentations
- Real world examples and cases
Assessment
Assessment will be by:
- Group presentation (worth 50% of the overall mark)
- Multiple choice/short answer papers (worth 50% of the overall mark).
Standard University policies apply regarding late submission of assessments.
Learning outcomes
On completion of this module, students will be able to:
- Identify the key anatomical and physiological features of rodents, rabbits, birds, and reptiles
- Explain how species-specific anatomy and physiology influences husbandry requirements
- Outline common husbandry-related health issues and propose preventive measures
Skills
Key skills that will be developed:
- Collaboration and teamwork, through group discussions, activities and tasks in class
- Communication skills
- Critical analysis and problem solving
- Manual practical skills
Reading
The University Library website provides access to many relevant books, as well as academic journals and databases.