Course Code: INDG 120
Academic Year: 2024-2025
This course will incorporate land-based learning and will focus on the study of reptiles and amphibians (a branch of science called Herpetology) on Turtle Island. Through a combination of in-class activities (lectures, etc.) and field activities, this course will look at the reptiles and amphibians that are native to Turtle Island. Since the Humber Arboretum is home to a number of reptiles and amphibians (including the Snapping turtle, Painted turtle, Eastern garter snake, Dekay's brown snake, Green frog, Leopard frog, and American toad), it is an ideal place to learn about our native species of reptiles and amphibians and what we can do to help in the conservation of their species. This course will integrate Indigenous ways of knowing and land-based learning in order for students to gain a fuller or newer perception and understanding of the importance and connectedness of nature and these species. Students will engage with the readings, lecture materials, and outdoor spaces in order to develop an understanding and critical awareness of the importance of reptiles and amphibians in a variety of contexts.