Zoologist and Wildlife Biologist

Overview and Key Facts

What Do They Do?

A zoologist or wildlife biologist could...

Overview Listen to this section

Ever wondered what wild animals do all day, where a certain species lives, or how to make sure a species doesn't go extinct? Zoologists and wildlife biologists tackle all these questions. They study the behaviors and habitats of wild animals, while also working to maintain healthy populations, both in the wild and in captivity.

Do You Have the Skills and Characteristics of a Zoologist and Wildlife Biologist?

1. 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.
2. Reading Comprehension: ? Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
3. Critical Thinking: ? Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
4. Science: ? Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
5. Writing: ? Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

6. Speaking: ? Talking to others to convey information effectively.
7. Judgment and Decision Making: ? Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
8. Complex Problem Solving: ? Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
9. Active Learning: ? Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
10. Coordination: ? Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.

Core Tasks

Think about if you'd like the typical tasks a Zoologist and Wildlife Biologist might do:

• Make recommendations on management systems and planning for wildlife populations and habitat, consulting with stakeholders and the public at large to explore options.
• Inventory or estimate plant and wildlife populations.
• 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.
• Check for, and ensure compliance with, environmental laws, and notify law enforcement when violations are identified.
• Study animals in their natural habitats, assessing effects of environment and industry on animals, interpreting findings and recommending alternative operating conditions for industry.
• Inform and respond to public regarding wildlife and conservation issues, such as plant identification, hunting ordinances, and nuisance wildlife.
• Study characteristics of animals, such as origin, interrelationships, classification, life histories, diseases, development, genetics, and distribution.