Course on the Identification of Protected Species
Why this course?
The Identification of Protected Species
course
This course will provide you with the tools and knowledge necessary to recognize and differentiate species that require special attention and conservation. You will learn to identify threatened and endangered species, understand their ecological importance, and learn about the current legislation that protects them. This course is essential for environmental professionals, biology students, and anyone interested in biodiversity conservation.
Key Benefits
- Accurate Identification: Master visual and field identification techniques for various protected species.
- Regulatory Knowledge: Understand the laws and regulations that protect species and their habitats.
- Active Conservation: Contribute to biodiversity protection through the identification and reporting of protected species.
- Practical Application: Apply acquired knowledge in environmental impact studies, conservation projects, and wildlife monitoring.
- Learning Materials: Access field guides, dichotomous keys, and online resources for continuous learning.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Cursos
- Hours: 150 H
- Start date: 25-07-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Biologists, environmental technicians, and consultants who need to accurately identify protected species in environmental impact studies.
- Forest rangers, rural guards, and customs personnel who require solid knowledge to detect and intercept illegal wildlife trafficking.
- Biology and environmental science students who seek to specialize in the conservation and management of threatened flora and fauna.
- NGOs and conservation organizations that need to train their teams in identification to improve the effectiveness of their projects.
- Nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers interested in deepening their knowledge and contributing to the protection of natural heritage.
Learning flexibility
Access Access online content at your own pace, participate in discussion forums, and get personalized feedback from experts in the field.
Objectives and competencies
Distinguish protected species in order to act in accordance with the law:
“Visually identify protected species and know the protocols for action in the event of their sighting or possible interaction.”
Implement conservation measures in habitats of vulnerable species:
Implement strategies to control invasive species, restore native vegetation and monitor water quality, adapting actions to the specific needs of the habitat and the species.
Recognize signs of the presence of protected species in the environment:
“Identify traces, footprints, droppings, sounds or sightings that suggest the presence of protected fauna or flora, reporting any findings according to established protocols.”
Documenting findings of protected species for monitoring and protection:
“To prepare detailed reports with georeferenced data, photographs/videos and behavioral analysis, accessible to authorities and scientists.”
Use identification tools to confirm the protected species:
“Consult visual identification guides, databases of protected species, and contact local wildlife experts.”
Effectively communicate the importance of protecting species to the community:
“Design and implement awareness campaigns tailored to different stakeholder groups, using clear language, impactful stories and attractive visual resources.”
Curriculum - Modules
- Comprehensive Maritime Incident Management: protocols, roles, and chain of command for coordinated response
- Operational Planning and Execution: briefing, routes, weather windows, and go/no-go criteria
- Rapid Risk Assessment: criticality matrix, scene control, and decision-making under pressure
- Operational Communication: VHF/GMDSS, standardized reports, and inter-agency liaison
- Tactical Mobility and Safe Boarding: RHIB maneuvers, approach, mooring, and recovery
- Equipment and Technologies: PPE, signaling, satellite tracking, and field data logging
- Immediate Care of the Affected: primary assessment, hypothermia, trauma, and stabilization for evacuation
- Adverse Environmental Conditions: swell, Visibility, flows, and operational mitigation
Simulation and training: critical scenarios, use of VR/AR, and exercises with performance metrics
Documentation and continuous improvement: lessons learned, indicators (MTTA/MTTR), and SOP updates
- Introduction to Conservation Biology: Principles and Objectives
- International and National Legislation on Protected Species: Conventions, Treaties, and Laws
- Identification of Threatened Species: IUCN Criteria, Threat Categories
- Inventory and Monitoring of Populations: Census Methods, Monitoring, and Data Analysis
- Critical Habitats: Identification, Characterization, and Conservation
- Threats to Protected Species: Habitat Destruction, Pollution, Climate Change, Invasive Species, Hunting, and Poaching
- Conservation Plans: Development, Implementation, and Evaluation
- Population Management: Translocation, Captive Breeding, Predator and Species Control invasive species.
- Environmental education and public awareness: communication strategies and citizen participation.
- Collaboration and cooperation: the role of NGOs, public administrations, and the private sector.
‘
- Introduction to protected species: concepts, categories, and legislation
- Identification of protected flora: botanical keys, habitats, and distribution
- Identification of protected fauna: field guides, tracks, calls, and sightings
- Population monitoring techniques: censuses, transects, and camera trapping
- Threats to protected species: habitat loss, pollution, and climate change
- In situ conservation strategies: habitat management, ecological corridors, and protected areas
- Ex situ conservation strategies: germplasm banks, captive breeding, and reintroduction
- Ecological restoration: recovery of degraded habitats and control of Invasive species
Citizen participation in conservation: volunteering, citizen science, and environmental education
International and national legal framework for species protection.
‘
- Introduction to Species Conservation: Key Concepts and Legislation
- Identifying Threatened Species: Taxonomic Keys, Field Guides, and Online Resources
- Critical Habitats: Identification, Characterization, and Threats
- Sampling and Population Monitoring Techniques: censuses, transects, and telemetry
- Threats to Protected Species: Habitat destruction, pollution, poaching, and climate change
- In situ Conservation Strategies: Protected Area Management, Invasive Species Control, and Ecological Restoration
- Ex situ Conservation Strategies: Captive Breeding, Germplasm Banks, and Botanical Gardens
- Community Engagement in Conservation: Environmental Education, Ecotourism, and Development sustainable
- National and international legislation for the protection of species: CITES, Convention on Biological Diversity and national laws
- Development of conservation plans: feasibility analysis, objectives, actions and monitoring
‘
- Introduction to protected species: definitions and threat categories
- International legislation: CITES, Bonn Convention, other conventions
- European legislation: Habitats Directive, Birds Directive and Natura 2000 Network
- National legislation (Spain): Spanish Catalogue of Threatened Species, recovery plans
- Identification of protected terrestrial mammals: key characteristics and habitats
- Identification of protected birds: plumage, songs and migration patterns
- Identification of protected reptiles and amphibians: morphology and distribution
- Identification of protected fish and invertebrates: aquatic ecosystems and warning signs
- Identification of protected flora: endemic species and unique habitats
- Protocols for action upon finding injured or endangered protected species
‘
- System Architecture and Components: Structural design, materials, and subsystems (mechanical, electrical, electronic, and fluid) with selection and assembly criteria for marine environments
- Fundamentals and Principles of Operation: Physical and engineering foundations (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, electricity, control, and materials) that explain performance and operating limits
- Safety and Environmental (SHE): Risk analysis, PPE, LOTO, hazardous atmospheres, spill and waste management, and emergency response plans
- Applicable Regulations and Standards: IMO/ISO/IEC requirements and local regulations;
- Conformance criteria, certification, and best practices for operation and maintenance
- Inspection, testing, and diagnostics: Visual/dimensional inspection, functional testing, data analysis, and predictive techniques (vibration, thermography, fluid analysis) to identify root causes
- Preventive and predictive maintenance: Hourly/cycle/seasonal plans, lubrication, adjustments, calibrations, consumable replacement, post-service verification, and operational reliability
- Instrumentation, tools, and metrology: Measuring and testing equipment, diagnostic software, calibration and traceability; selection criteria, safe use, and storage
- Onboard integration and interfaces: Mechanical, electrical, fluid, and data compatibility; Sealing and watertightness, EMC/EMI, corrosion protection, and interoperability testing.
Quality, acceptance testing, and commissioning: process and materials control, FAT/SAT, bench and sea trials, go/no-go criteria, and evidence documentation.
Technical documentation and integrated practice: logs, checklists, reports, and a complete case study (safety → diagnosis → intervention → verification → report) applicable to any system.
Plan de estudio - Módulos
- Comprehensive Maritime Incident Management: protocols, roles, and chain of command for coordinated response
- Operational Planning and Execution: briefing, routes, weather windows, and go/no-go criteria
- Rapid Risk Assessment: criticality matrix, scene control, and decision-making under pressure
- Operational Communication: VHF/GMDSS, standardized reports, and inter-agency liaison
- Tactical Mobility and Safe Boarding: RHIB maneuvers, approach, mooring, and recovery
- Equipment and Technologies: PPE, signaling, satellite tracking, and field data logging
- Immediate Care of the Affected: primary assessment, hypothermia, trauma, and stabilization for evacuation
- Adverse Environmental Conditions: swell, Visibility, flows, and operational mitigation
Simulation and training: critical scenarios, use of VR/AR, and exercises with performance metrics
Documentation and continuous improvement: lessons learned, indicators (MTTA/MTTR), and SOP updates
- Introduction to Conservation Biology: Principles and Objectives
- International and National Legislation on Protected Species: Conventions, Treaties, and Laws
- Identification of Threatened Species: IUCN Criteria, Threat Categories
- Inventory and Monitoring of Populations: Census Methods, Monitoring, and Data Analysis
- Critical Habitats: Identification, Characterization, and Conservation
- Threats to Protected Species: Habitat Destruction, Pollution, Climate Change, Invasive Species, Hunting, and Poaching
- Conservation Plans: Development, Implementation, and Evaluation
- Population Management: Translocation, Captive Breeding, Predator and Species Control invasive species.
- Environmental education and public awareness: communication strategies and citizen participation.
- Collaboration and cooperation: the role of NGOs, public administrations, and the private sector.
‘
- Introduction to protected species: concepts, categories, and legislation
- Identification of protected flora: botanical keys, habitats, and distribution
- Identification of protected fauna: field guides, tracks, calls, and sightings
- Population monitoring techniques: censuses, transects, and camera trapping
- Threats to protected species: habitat loss, pollution, and climate change
- In situ conservation strategies: habitat management, ecological corridors, and protected areas
- Ex situ conservation strategies: germplasm banks, captive breeding, and reintroduction
- Ecological restoration: recovery of degraded habitats and control of Invasive species
Citizen participation in conservation: volunteering, citizen science, and environmental education
International and national legal framework for species protection.
‘
- Introduction to Species Conservation: Key Concepts and Legislation
- Identifying Threatened Species: Taxonomic Keys, Field Guides, and Online Resources
- Critical Habitats: Identification, Characterization, and Threats
- Sampling and Population Monitoring Techniques: censuses, transects, and telemetry
- Threats to Protected Species: Habitat destruction, pollution, poaching, and climate change
- In situ Conservation Strategies: Protected Area Management, Invasive Species Control, and Ecological Restoration
- Ex situ Conservation Strategies: Captive Breeding, Germplasm Banks, and Botanical Gardens
- Community Engagement in Conservation: Environmental Education, Ecotourism, and Development sustainable
- National and international legislation for the protection of species: CITES, Convention on Biological Diversity and national laws
- Development of conservation plans: feasibility analysis, objectives, actions and monitoring
‘
- Introduction to protected species: definitions and threat categories
- International legislation: CITES, Bonn Convention, other conventions
- European legislation: Habitats Directive, Birds Directive and Natura 2000 Network
- National legislation (Spain): Spanish Catalogue of Threatened Species, recovery plans
- Identification of protected terrestrial mammals: key characteristics and habitats
- Identification of protected birds: plumage, songs and migration patterns
- Identification of protected reptiles and amphibians: morphology and distribution
- Identification of protected fish and invertebrates: aquatic ecosystems and warning signs
- Identification of protected flora: endemic species and unique habitats
- Protocols for action upon finding injured or endangered protected species
‘
- System Architecture and Components: Structural design, materials, and subsystems (mechanical, electrical, electronic, and fluid) with selection and assembly criteria for marine environments
- Fundamentals and Principles of Operation: Physical and engineering foundations (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, electricity, control, and materials) that explain performance and operating limits
- Safety and Environmental (SHE): Risk analysis, PPE, LOTO, hazardous atmospheres, spill and waste management, and emergency response plans
- Applicable Regulations and Standards: IMO/ISO/IEC requirements and local regulations;
- Conformance criteria, certification, and best practices for operation and maintenance
- Inspection, testing, and diagnostics: Visual/dimensional inspection, functional testing, data analysis, and predictive techniques (vibration, thermography, fluid analysis) to identify root causes
- Preventive and predictive maintenance: Hourly/cycle/seasonal plans, lubrication, adjustments, calibrations, consumable replacement, post-service verification, and operational reliability
- Instrumentation, tools, and metrology: Measuring and testing equipment, diagnostic software, calibration and traceability; selection criteria, safe use, and storage
- Onboard integration and interfaces: Mechanical, electrical, fluid, and data compatibility; Sealing and watertightness, EMC/EMI, corrosion protection, and interoperability testing.
Quality, acceptance testing, and commissioning: process and materials control, FAT/SAT, bench and sea trials, go/no-go criteria, and evidence documentation.
Technical documentation and integrated practice: logs, checklists, reports, and a complete case study (safety → diagnosis → intervention → verification → report) applicable to any system.
- Introduction to Protected Species: Definitions, categories, and international legislation.
- Identification of Protected Flora: Field techniques, dichotomous keys, and digital resources.
- Identification of Protected Fauna: Tracking, sighting, bioacoustics, and telemetry.
- Critical Habitats: Recognition, mapping, and vulnerability analysis.
- Threats to Protected Species: Habitat destruction, poaching, climate change, and invasive species.
- In-Situ Conservation Strategies: Habitat management, threat control, and recovery plans.
- Ex-Situ Conservation Strategies: Biobanks Germplasm, zoos, aquariums, and breeding programs.
National and International Legislation: CITES and RAMSAR Conventions, European Directives, and national laws.
Monitoring and Evaluation: Population monitoring methods, data analysis, and strategy adaptation.
Environmental Education and Awareness: Educational programs, community participation, and effective communication.
‘
- Introduction to the conservation of protected species: Definitions, importance, and challenges.
- International and national legislation: Conventions, directives, and protection laws.
- Identification of threatened species: Morphological characteristics, habitat, and distribution.
- Monitoring techniques: Population censuses, GPS tracking, and camera traps.
- Management of critical habitats: Restoration, invasive species control, and ecological corridors.
- Ex situ conservation: Captive breeding programs, germplasm banks, and botanical gardens.
- Environmental education and awareness: Communication strategies, workshops, and educational programs.
- Community participation: Collaboration with local communities in the Conservation.
Threats to protected species: Habitat loss, poaching, climate change, and pollution.
Recovery plans: Objectives, strategies, and evaluation of results.
‘
- Introduction to protected species: Definitions, categories, and international and national legislation.
- Identification of threatened species: Distinctive characteristics, key habitats, and geographic distribution.
- Sampling and monitoring techniques: Non-invasive methods, telemetry, and population data analysis.
- In situ conservation: Habitat management, invasive species control, and ecological restoration.
- Ex situ conservation: Captive breeding programs, germplasm banks, and botanical gardens.
- Threats to protected species: Habitat loss, climate change, pollution, and poaching.
- Threat mitigation strategies: Sustainable development, ecotourism, and environmental education.
- Legislation and policies of Conservation: International conventions, national laws, and action plans.
Community participation in conservation: Local empowerment, economic benefits, and collaborative management.
Evaluation of the effectiveness of conservation measures: Success indicators, cost-benefit analysis, and continuous adaptation.
‘
- Introduction to protected species: Definitions, categories, and international and national legislation.
- Identification of protected flora: Distinctive characteristics, habitats, and geographic distribution.
- Identification of protected fauna: Morphology, behavior, tracks, and signs of presence.
- Threats to protected species: Habitat loss, pollution, climate change, illegal hunting and fishing.
- Monitoring and tracking techniques: Population censuses, telemetry, genetic analysis.
- In situ conservation strategies: Habitat management, invasive species control, ecological corridors.
- Ex situ conservation strategies: Captive breeding, germplasm banks, botanical gardens.
- Community participation in the Conservation: Environmental education, ecotourism, sustainable development projects.
Applicable legislation and regulations: International agreements, national laws, recovery plans.
Preparation of technical reports: Data collection, statistical analysis, interpretation of results.
‘
Career opportunities
- Field Technician in Conservation Projects: Monitoring populations, tracking species, and managing habitats.
- Environmental Consultant: Environmental impact assessments, biodiversity studies, and management plans for protected species.
- Environmental Educator: Designing and delivering educational programs on conservation and biodiversity.
- Specialized Naturalist Guide: Interpreting natural heritage, leading tours, and disseminating information about protected species.
- Technician in Wildlife Recovery Centers: Caring for, rehabilitating, and reintroducing protected animals.
- Forestry/Environmental Agent: Monitoring, controlling, and protecting species and habitats in natural areas.
- Biodiversity Researcher: Scientific studies on the ecology, behavior, and conservation of protected species.
- Protected Natural Area Manager: Planning, management, and conservation of protected areas.
“`
Admission requirements
Academic/professional profile:
Degree/Bachelor's degree in Nautical Science/Maritime Transport, Naval/Marine Engineering, or a related field; or proven professional experience in bridge/operations.
Language proficiency:
Recommended functional maritime English (SMCP) for simulations and technical materials.
5. Induction
Updated resume, copy of degree or seaman's book, ID card/passport, letter of motivation.
Technical requirements (for online):
Equipment with camera/microphone, stable connection, ≥ 24” monitor recommended for ECDIS/Radar-ARPA.
Admission process and dates
1. Online
application
(form + documents).
2. Academic review and interview
(profile/objectives/schedule compatibility).
3. Admission decision
(+ scholarship proposal if applicable).
4. Reservation of place
(deposit) and registration.
5. Induction
(access to campus, calendars, simulator guides).
Scholarships and grants
- Learn to identify key protected species in your region.
- Understand current legislation and how it affects your activities.
- Minimize the environmental impact of your projects and operations.
- Contribute to the conservation of biodiversity.
- Obtain a certificate that accredits your knowledge in the subject.
Testimonials
During my training in the identification of protected species, I was able to correctly identify a population of northern leopard frogs (Lithobates pipiens) in a previously unknown area, enabling local authorities to implement habitat protection measures and ensure the survival of this vulnerable species.
I applied the knowledge I acquired about oceanographic data analysis to develop a predictive model of harmful algal blooms, which was implemented by a local organization with excellent results in preventing negative impacts on aquaculture.
During an environmental impact study, I correctly identified a population of Rio Grande leopard frogs, an endangered species, which allowed for modifications to the project and prevented a negative impact on their habitat. This resulted in the protection of the population and compliance with environmental regulations.
During my training, I correctly identified an isolated population of *Plethodon nettingi* salamanders in an area slated for development, which led to a modification of the project to protect their habitat.
Frequently asked questions
Loggerhead turtle
Yes. The itinerary includes ECDIS/Radar-ARPA/BRM with harbor, ocean, fog, storm, and SAR scenarios.
Online with live sessions; hybrid option for simulator/practical placements through agreements.
It implies the legal recognition that a species is endangered and, therefore, is subject to conservation measures to ensure its survival, including restrictions on hunting, capture, trade and alteration of its habitat.
Recommended functional SMCP. We offer support materials for standard phraseology.
Yes, with a relevant degree or experience in maritime/port operations. The admissions interview will confirm suitability.
Optional (3–6 months) through Companies & Collaborations and the Alumni Network.
Simulator practice (rubrics), defeat plans, SOPs, checklists, micro-tests and applied TFM.
A degree from Navalis Magna University + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
- Introduction to protected species: Definitions, categories, and international and national legislation.
- Identification of protected flora: Distinctive characteristics, habitats, and geographic distribution.
- Identification of protected fauna: Morphology, behavior, tracks, and signs of presence.
- Threats to protected species: Habitat loss, pollution, climate change, illegal hunting and fishing.
- Monitoring and tracking techniques: Population censuses, telemetry, genetic analysis.
- In situ conservation strategies: Habitat management, invasive species control, ecological corridors.
- Ex situ conservation strategies: Captive breeding, germplasm banks, botanical gardens.
- Community participation in the Conservation: Environmental education, ecotourism, sustainable development projects.
Applicable legislation and regulations: International agreements, national laws, recovery plans.
Preparation of technical reports: Data collection, statistical analysis, interpretation of results.
‘
Request information
- Complete the Application Form
- Attach your CV/Qualifications (if you have them to hand).
- Indicate your preferred cohort (January/May/September) and whether you want the hybrid option with simulator sessions.
Teachers
Eng. Tomás Riera
Full Professor
Eng. Tomás Riera
Full Professor
Naval engineer specializing in the selection, integration, and optimization of propulsion systems for yachts, high-speed craft, and service vessels.
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Materials engineer specializing in marine composites and corrosion protection systems for ships, yachts, and port structures.
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Naval electrical engineer with over fifteen years of experience in the design, integration, and operation of power and automation systems.
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Specialist in meteorological and operational decision-making for coastal and offshore navigation, integrating wind, wave, and current models.
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Naval engineer with a PhD in applied hydrodynamics and over a decade of experience designing high-performance hulls and marine structures.
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
MCA-certified captain with command of ocean-going vessels, specializing in advanced maneuvering, navigation management, and bridge safety.