Public perception of bird diversity in peri-urban gardens
This MSc study will involve stakeholder surveys and focus groups to determine public perception of the values of alien and native bird species.
Provenance and pathways of invasive populations of Common Garden Lizard
The Common Garden Lizard, Calotes versicolor, has a wide native distribution from mainland Iran in the West, through the Indian peninsula, Myanmar to Hong Kong. If it were one species, it would be the world’s most widely distributed lizard. However, it is widely acknowledged that there are multiple species that are currently ascribed to this patronym.
Do urban areas provide thermal refugia to invasive species?
This project aims to explore potential climatic factors that favour but also confine alien species' distributions into urban areas. It will measure and assess differences in the mosaics of thermal microclimates available to alien species such as H. axyridis and L. capensis in urban and natural areas, and account for the diversity of stage-specific habitats.
Assessing the trade of reptile species in the South African pet trade
Many animal species have been freely translocated around the world as part of the exotic pet trade. Globalisation has been one of the main contributing factors leading to human movement and trade of diversified species from continent to continent. To date, more than 1000 reptiles are sold as pets worldwide.
Are peacocks wanted in peri-urban gardens?
This MSc study will involve stakeholder surveys and focus groups to determine public perceptions of the values of alien and native bird species. The student will need to have good people skills, and the desire to publish their work in scientific journals.