How to Be Wildlife Biologist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Feb 14, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The introduction of non-native species into a habitat can have devastating effects on native wildlife populations. Wildlife biologists have documented cases where the introduction of invasive species has drastically impacted the local biodiversity. For example, in some areas, the introduction of non-native fish, such as brown trout, have caused declines in native fish populations, leading to the extinction of some species.

The introduction of non-native plants can also cause changes to the habitat, either by outcompeting native plants or by altering the soil chemistry. This can impact the food sources and nesting areas of native species, and lead to reduced population sizes. Wildlife biologists are working to identify and understand the causes and consequences of non-native species introductions, in order to protect native wildlife populations.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelors Degree. The first step to becoming a wildlife biologist is to earn a bachelors degree in a relevant field such as wildlife biology, ecology, zoology, or a related field. A bachelors degree provides students with the basic knowledge of wildlife biology and ecology as well as the scientific principles and methods used in wildlife research.
Gain Work Experience. Many wildlife biologists gain work experience through internships or volunteer positions while in school or shortly after graduation. In these positions, they can gain valuable hands-on experience and build a professional network.
Earn a Masters Degree. While some entry-level positions may only require a bachelors degree, many employers prefer applicants who have earned a masters degree in wildlife biology or a related field. A masters degree can also provide students with additional research experience and specialized knowledge.
Pursue Certification. Some states and/or employers may require wildlife biologists to be certified in order to practice. For example, the American Society of Mammalogists offers certification for professional mammalogists.
Obtain Licensure. Depending on the type of work they are performing, some wildlife biologists may also need to obtain licensure. For instance, in some states, wildlife biologists may need to be licensed as an environmental professional or wildlife rehabilitator if they are dealing with endangered species or if they are working with animals in captivity.
Join Professional Organizations. Joining professional organizations can be a great way for wildlife biologists to network and stay up-to-date on industry trends.
Keep Up With Technology. Wildlife biologists should stay up-to-date with new technologies and methods that can help them in their work such as remote sensing and computer modeling tools.

Staying ahead and qualified as a Wildlife Biologist requires a dedication to learning and staying up to date with the latest developments within the field. A good way to do this is to read professional publications, attend seminars and conferences, and take courses to stay ahead of the curve in terms of knowledge and skills. networking with other professionals in the field can help to stay informed about new trends and research, as well as create opportunities for collaboration.

Finally, earning certifications and degrees in the field will demonstrate a commitment to excellence and give one an edge when competing for jobs and promotions. Through these steps, wildlife biologists can stay ahead and remain qualified in their field.

You may want to check Entomologist Biologist, Forensic Biologist, and Developmental Biologist for alternative.

Job Description

Conduct field research to observe and study wildlife populations
Monitor wildlife populations and habitats using various techniques such as tracking, tagging, and environmental sampling
Prepare reports and presentations to document research results
Develop and implement conservation plans for wildlife species
Advise government agencies, private companies, and other groups on wildlife conservation and management
Educate the public on wildlife conservation issues
Manage and maintain data collected during field research
Develop and coordinate wildlife surveys and censuses
Identify and analyze potential threats to wildlife species
Collaborate with other scientists to understand the impact of human activities on wildlife

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of animal behavior and related ecology
Ability to identify species, habitats, and environmental conditions
Familiarity with wildlife management techniques and regulations
Research and field work experience
Data collection and analysis skills
Strong communication skills
Expertise in wildlife population dynamics
Computer proficiency
Knowledge of GIS/GPS systems
Ability to interpret environmental assessment results

Wildlife biologists play an important role in the conservation of wildlife and the environment. The most important skill for a wildlife biologist is having a strong understanding of ecology and the ability to apply scientific principles to a wide range of situations. This knowledge enables them to assess the health and well-being of ecosystems, identify potential threats and create plans for protecting and restoring habitats.

Wildlife biologists must also be able to identify and understand the interactions between different species, their habitats, and the human activities that may be affecting them. they need to be able to use data analysis techniques to develop effective management strategies, inform decisions, and monitor the success of conservation efforts. By utilizing their expertise in wildlife biology, these professionals can help ensure that future generations will be able to enjoy wildlife and the natural environment.

Taxonomist Biologist, Cell Biologist, and Ecological Biologist are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What inspired you to pursue a career in Wildlife Biology?
What experience do you have working with wildlife?
How would you assess the current state of a species' population?
What challenges do you think are facing wildlife management today?
How do you feel about hunting and fishing as a form of wildlife management?
What methods do you prefer for studying wildlife populations?
How do you feel about using technology for collecting data on wildlife populations?
Describe a project that you have worked on that involved wildlife biology.
How do you ensure that your research findings are accurate and reliable?
What have you done to stay up to date with current developments in wildlife biology?

Common Tools in Industry

Geographic Information System (GIS). A computer system used to capture, store, analyze, and manage geographically referenced data. (eg: Analyzing animal migration patterns)
Drones. Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) used for aerial surveillance and data collection. (eg: Surveying wildlife in remote areas)
Remote Sensing. Uses satellites and other technologies to observe the Earths surface from a distance. (eg: Monitoring changes in forest cover)
Radio Telemetry. A device used to track the movements of animals through radio signals. (eg: Tracking migratory birds)
Data Loggers. A device used to store data from various sensors and other sources. (eg: Recording weather conditions in a habitat)
Camera Traps. Automated camera systems used to monitor wildlife in their natural habitat. (eg: Monitoring endangered species)
Habitat Mapping. A process of collecting data about the environment to create maps of the area. (eg: Mapping out animal habitats)

Professional Organizations to Know

The Wildlife Society
American Fisheries Society
Ecological Society of America
Society for Conservation Biology
American Ornithological Society
Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies
Society of Wetland Scientists
The Nature Conservancy
U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service
National Audubon Society

We also have Physiologist Biologist, Research Biologist, and Soil Biologist jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Ecology. A branch of science that deals with the relationships between organisms and their environment.
Population Dynamics. The study of how populations change over time, including the effects of birth, death, disease, and other factors.
Biodiversity. The variety of life forms in a particular environment or region.
Endangered Species. Species at risk of becoming extinct due to human activities or natural causes.
Habitat. The natural environment of a species, including the climate, soil, water, and food resources.
Ecosystem Services. Benefits provided by natural ecosystems to humans, such as clean air, water, and food.
Conservation. The protection, preservation, and management of natural resources.
Wildlife Management. The practice of managing wildlife populations to ensure their health and sustainability.
Wildlife Monitoring. The practice of assessing current populations of species and their habitats.
Research. The systematic investigation of a topic to gain knowledge or test hypotheses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Wildlife Biologist?

A Wildlife Biologist is someone who studies and manages populations of animals, plants, and other organisms in their natural habitats for the purpose of conservation and management.

What qualifications do you need to be a Wildlife Biologist?

To become a Wildlife Biologist, individuals typically need at least a bachelor's degree in wildlife biology, zoology, ecology, or related field. In addition, many employers require candidates to have experience with specific species or regions.

What type of work does a Wildlife Biologist do?

Wildlife Biologists conduct research on animal behavior and populations, design conservation management plans, monitor and manage species populations, and work to protect habitats. They may also provide education to the public about the importance of wildlife conservation.

How much do Wildlife Biologists make?

The median annual wage for Wildlife Biologists is $62,290. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $37,290, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $98,350.

What type of environment does a Wildlife Biologist work in?

Wildlife Biologists typically work in the field, conducting research in natural settings. They may also work in laboratories or offices analyzing data or creating management plans.

Web Resources

Wildlife Biologist - Unity College unity.edu
Wildlife Biologist | Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources warnell.uga.edu
Come Get Wild - University of Montana www.umt.edu