Wildlife Biologist

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Work Tasks

• Study how animals act and live in the wild
• Watch animals and learn about their food, health, families, movements, and dangers that may threaten them
• Study wildlands to find out what we can do to protect them
• Write reports and teach about findings
• Work for federal, state, and local government, environmental agencies, wood and paper companies, oil and gas companies, and private consultants
• Work with reptiles, amphibians, birds, invertebrates, and mammals, wildlife and wildlands, aerial photos, lab equipment, computers, brochures, books, videos, and reports and scientific papers

Salary, Size & Growth

• $61,500 average per year ($29.50 per hour)
• A small occupation (17,400 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (1.3% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: A 4-year degree in wildlife biology .
• Employers Prefer: A master's or Ph.D. degree
• Skills/Courses: College courses include biology, chemistry, math, physics, wildlife biology, and computer science.
• Certification/Licensing: Certification is available.