Activity 6.x: Animal Integration Research
For this activity you will research and design an ecosystem for an animal of your choosing that you would like to integrate into your site. This can be a wild or domesticated species. Some options include:
- Beneficial Insects
- Birds
- Pollinators
- Rabbits for meat &/or fur
- Poultry: Chickens, Ducks, Geese, Turkeys, other fowl
- Ruminants: Sheep, Goats, Cows
- Work Animals: Pigs, Horses, Oxen
You will complete a "niche analysis" for your animal as well as a polyculture of companion plants (and maybe animals!) to provide your animals with an ecosystem to live and thrive in.
1) Complete niche analysis.
Research and describe the history of this animal; its native habitat and range, and how humans have domesticated or affect its survival.
Discuss the elements the animal needs, and what potential yields there are.
Explain the ecosystem services this animal performs, and how design can encourage a system maximum capture of these services.
Consider the advantages and disadvantages of this animal; in what context is the animal best used? Where might someone NOT want to incorporate this animal?
2) Design your habitat.
Place your symbol or image representing your animal in the center of standard (8.5 X 11) paper. Around it add plants, animals, structures (rainwater catchment, for instance, or housing), and other elements that are part of its ecosystem. For farm animals, please specify containment & protection strategy, ie: portable electric fencing for adaptable rotation paddocks, permanent perimeter fencing, protection dogs/geese, rabbit tractor/chicken tractor, etc.
Be sure to map outside inputs of energy, resources, and materials, too - seek ways to minimize impact and create the needs for your animal "on site" as much as possible.
In addition to uploading your finished product, post it to the forum and comment on your process of research and design.
3) Complete your assignment by photographing or scanning your sketch and submitting it here. Please share it as well with a brief explanation of your animal niche via this week's Participant Forum.