Without a doubt, if you love being outdoors and love nature, you want to conserve it for others to enjoy in the future as well. Many, such as Steve Irwin and Jeff Corwin, are inspirational to us and have dedicated their lives to the betterment of wildlife conservation. If you would like to be a part of this movement, perhaps you should seriously consider continuing your education in this field.
Now, the first question you must ask is, “What sort of educational degree do I need for a career in this vocation? That depends on what you would like to do, however, if you are interested in this field after high school graduation, but do not want to pursue a four-year bachelor’s degree from a university or college, you have another option. You should earn an online wildlife and forestry conservation career diploma. Through the online format, you can attend classes from the convenience of your home and earn your accolade in as little as six months. With that being said, some wildlife technician job opportunities will require a bachelor’s degree, as it depends primarily on the employer’s preference.
Are you wondering what you can do with your career diploma? As a wildlife technician, you will typically be responsible for gathering data for important research. You will often be asked to collect samples of soil, water or plants, as well as, taking blood and tissue samples of animals. You will need to know how to safely trap animals and tag them, in addition to, properly caring for captured animals. You will observe them, look for signs of sickness and record their behavioral patterns.
You will also set up field labs, collect specimens and test results under the supervision of a wildlife biologist. As a wildlife technician, you will maintain lab supply inventories and clean habitats and work areas. Essentially, you will be an important part of a team of conservationists who work tirelessly to save our wildlife and their natural environment.
Are you prepared to be a wildlife technician? Besides a quality education, your personality needs to match the job requirements as well, right? How do you feel about inclement weather conditions? Or heat indices way above what’s comfortable? In this position, weather conditions can be harsh, so you will be exposed to extremely hot and extremely cold temperatures, along with, snowy and icy conditions or excessive rain.
Do you know how to drive a variety of vessels, such as four-wheel drive and manual transmission vehicles? Can you navigate a jon boat, an airboat or an ATV? You should be familiar with GPS devices and how to sufficiently use geographic information system (GIS) software.
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Positions in wildlife conservation can also be very physically demanding as walking through rigorous terrain is often required. Of course, there are hazards to consider, such as handling aggressive animals. You will also be subject to animal excretions and blood as you collect samples.
A position as a wildlife technician requires a sense of adventure. Some assignments will require travel to remote areas, allowing you to experience different cultures. How are your communication skills? Oral and written skills are imperative. Are you detail-oriented? A team player? Personable? A critical thinker and problem-solver? If so, becoming a wildlife technician is the job for you!
Where can you find a position as a wildlife technician? Generally, most work for state and federal wildlife preserves, for nonprofit conservation organizations or for animal control agencies. You may be required to work evening hours and weekends. Experience within the lab and out in the field will be important to your resumé when searching for a job as a wildlife technician. Volunteer work in your own community’s parks and recreation areas is also a good way to exhibit your skills and gain valuable experience. Get involved in organizations who work to conserve wildlife, as well. A network of friends with the same interest will help you with job prospects and other interesting opportunities.
Are you motivated to continue the work of many others who have come before you to preserve our wildlife? If you would like to learn more about this field, please see our choices for the best Online Schools for Wildlife and Forestry Conservation programs.