Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic director focused on measurable results and operational excellence in maritime education. Integrates IMO/STCW regulations and ISO 21001/9001 f
Course · 300 h · 5 modules
Course on the Identification of Protected Species
courseThis 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…
Duration300 h
FormatOnline
Starts21 December
Places20 / 20
Prior knowledge
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Programme overview
What is the Course on the Identification of Protected Species?
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.
Programme type
Course
Study mode
Online
Duration
300 hours
Modules
5
Start date
10-12-2026
Programme highlights
- 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.
- Apply this knowledge in environmental consulting, natural resource management, or research.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 5 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
International legal frameworks and categories of biodiversity protection
- In-depth analysis of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
- Study of the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and its classification criteria.
- Current national legislation and regional catalogues of threatened species: levels of protection and legal consequences.
- Technical differentiation between endemic, vulnerable, endangered and critically threatened species.
- The role of biosphere reserves and marine protected areas in safeguarding specific taxa under pressure.
02
Morphology and diagnostic features for the identification of protected terrestrial fauna
- Dichotomous keys applied to the identification of terrestrial mammals in a special protection regime.
- Analysis of key anatomical features in birds of prey and steppe species for long-distance visual identification.
- Identification of herpetofauna: Distinctive characteristics of amphibians and reptiles protected against common species.
- Study of traces and signs: identification of traces, excrement and food remains of wildlife under surveillance.
- The use of high-resolution photography and photo-trapping as non-invasive registration tools for catalogueing.
03
Identification and biology of marine and cetacean species under protection regime
- Diagnostic characteristics for the identification on the surface of large cetaceans and dolphins protected by international agreements.
- Morphology and distinctive features of sea turtles: key differences between tortoiseshell, lute and boba species.
- Identification of protected elasmobranchs: Sharks and rays whose capture or harassment is strictly prohibited.
- Recognition of vulnerable marine invertebrates such as ferrugine limpet and mother-of-pearl in the coastal ecosystem.
- Biology and state of conservation of corals and deep gorgonians subject to special protection measures.
04
Conservation Botany: Identification of Threatened Wild Flora and Critical Habitats
- Recognition of reproductive and vegetative structures in vascular plants classified as in danger.
- Identification of wild orchids and endemic flora species with high ecological value and collection restrictions.
- Study of lichens and bryophytes protected as bioindicators of the air quality and health of primary forests.
- Mapping of habitats of community interest and their relationship with the presence of unique botanical species.
- Direct anthropogenic threats to protected flora: the impact of illegal collection and the introduction of invasives.
05
Observer ethics, environmental education and management of environmental complaints
- The Code of Conduct of the observer of nature: Principles of non-interference and respect for animal welfare.
- Design of awareness strategies for tourists and local communities on the importance of protected species.
- Administrative procedures and official channels for the processing of complaints against crimes against fauna and flora.
- The role of the nature guide as the custody agent of the territory and its responsibility in the protection of species.
- Management of tourist pressure at critical points of observation to avoid the displacement of sensitive species.
Workload
Study Time and Workload
300 hours of study, online and at your own pace. Move the slider to the hours a week you can really put in.
Hours a week8
Weeks to finish—
You finish around—
Who it is for
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 f
Faculty
Academic direction and faculty
The teaching team at Navalis: working professionals who deliver and oversee the institute's programmes.
Eng. Diego Cifuentes
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Eng. Tomás Riera
Verified reviews
Student Reviews
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Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
- 01Distinguish protected species in order to act in accordance with the law
- 02Implement conservation measures in habitats of vulnerable species
- 03Recognize signs of the presence of protected species in the environment
- 04Documenting findings of protected species for monitoring and protection
- 05Use identification tools to confirm the protected species
- 06Effectively communicate the importance of protecting species to the community
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Field Technician in Conservation Projects: Monitoring populations, tracking species, and managing habitats.
02Environmental Consultant: Environmental impact assessments, biodiversity studies, and management plans for protected species.
03Environmental Educator: Designing and delivering educational programs on conservation and biodiversity.
04Specialized Naturalist Guide: Interpreting natural heritage, leading tours, and disseminating information about protected species.
05Technician in Wildlife Recovery Centers: Caring for, rehabilitating, and reintroducing protected animals.
06Forestry/Environmental Agent: Monitoring, controlling, and protecting species and habitats in natural areas.
07Biodiversity Researcher: Scientific studies on the ecology, behavior, and conservation of protected species.
08Protected Natural Area Manager: Planning, management, and conservation of protected areas.
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Questions
Entry Requirements
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 Institute + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
Online admissions
Admissions Process
No waiting for a phone call. If your documents are complete, you can pay in the same session.
Entry requirements
Academic/Professional Profile:Bachelor's/Undergraduate Degree in Biology, Environmental Sciences, Veterinary Medicine, or a related field; or demonstrable professional experience in nature conservation, wildlife or flora management.Specific Knowledge:Knowledge of current environmental legislation (national and international) relating to protected species.Ability to identify protected species (fauna and flora) through visual and auditory methods, as well as through the use of field guides and dichotomous keys.Knowledge of the ecology, biology, and behavior of protected species.
Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
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