A wildlife biologist studies animals and their behavior along with the role each animal plays in its natural habitat.
This job generally requires the ability to do the following:
Wildlife biologists have many diverse duties that could include the tasks above and more. In general, they must use their knowledge of wildlife and habitats to manage and study animal populations.
Zoologists and wildlife biologists work in offices, laboratories, and outdoors. Depending on their job and interests, they may spend considerable time in the field gathering data and studying animals in their natural habitats. Other zoologists and wildlife biologists may spend very little time in the field.
A person working as a Biologist in Kenya typically earns around KSH315,000 per month. Salaries range from KSH155,000 (lowest) to KSH495,000 (highest).
Zoologists and wildlife biologists will be needed to study human and wildlife interactions as the human population grows and development impacts wildlife and their natural habitats. However, because most funding comes from governmental agencies, demand for zoologists and wildlife biologists will be limited by budgetary constraints.
As the human population grows and expands into new areas, it will create threats that endanger wildlife. Zoologists and wildlife biologists will be needed to study the impact of disease, habitat loss, pollution, and other factors on wildlife. Many states will continue to employ zoologists and wildlife biologists to manage animal populations for tourism purposes, such as hunting game, sightseeing, and conservation. Zoologists and wildlife biologists will be needed to develop and implement conservation plans that combat threats to animals and protect our natural resources.
A wildlife biologist usually has a degree in wildlife or fisheries management or a related area. A bachelor’s degree is required at minimum, while a master’s degree or doctorate is generally preferred by most governmental and private employers. These degrees typically involve the completion of coursework in wildlife conservation and management, population dynamics, animal behavior, genetics, zoology, ecology, anatomy and physiology, biology, botany, chemistry, statistics, and wildlife or environmental law.
