Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists
What is a Zoologist and Wildlife Biologist?
Zoologists and wildlife biologists are scientists who study animals, their behavior, and ecosystems. They focus on understanding the biology, physiology, and interactions of animal species with their environment, including their roles in ecosystems and their relationships to other organisms. Zoologists may specialize in a specific group of animals, such as mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, or fish, while wildlife biologists often concentrate on species in their natural habitats, exploring aspects of conservation, management, and preservation of wildlife populations. These professionals conduct field research, collect data, analyze findings, and may be involved in policy development related to animal protection, habitat conservation, and biodiversity preservation. Their work plays a crucial role in informing conservation efforts and increasing public awareness about the importance of wildlife and biodiversity for ecological balance.
Tasks
- Develop, or make recommendations on, management systems and plans for wildlife populations and habitat, consulting with stakeholders and the public at large to explore options.
- Inventory or estimate plant and wildlife populations.
- Inform and respond to public regarding wildlife and conservation issues, such as plant identification, hunting ordinances, and nuisance wildlife.
- Study animals in their natural habitats, assessing effects of environment and industry on animals, interpreting findings and recommending alternative operating conditions for industry.
- Disseminate information by writing reports and scientific papers or journal articles, and by making presentations and giving talks for schools, clubs, interest groups and park interpretive programs.
Technology Skills
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Geographic information system
- ESRI ArcGIS software
- ESRI ArcView
- Geographic information system GIS software
- Geographic information system GIS systems
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Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
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Analytical or scientific software
- Computer modeling software
- HATPRO
- SAS
- Statistical software
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Data base user interface and query software
- Database management software
- Microsoft Access
- Relational database software
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Spreadsheet software
- IBM Lotus 1-2-3
- Microsoft Excel
Tools Used
- Commercial fishing nets
- Water samplers
- Sporting traps
- Entomological catching equipment
- Specimen collection container
Knowledge
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Biology
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
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Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
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Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
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Geography
Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
Skills
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
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Complex Problem Solving
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Judgment and Decision Making
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Abilities
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Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
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Inductive Reasoning
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
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Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Bachelor's degree
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Master's degree
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Post-doctoral training
Work Activities
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Communicating with People Outside the Organization
Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
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Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
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Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Detailed Work Activities
- Advise others about environmental management or conservation.
- Measure environmental characteristics.
- Communicate with the public on environmental issues.
- Plan biological research.
- Research environmental impact of industrial or development activities.
Work Interests
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Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$45840.0 - $110590.0
New job opportunities are likely in the future. : Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.