CAREERS IN ANIMAL BEHAVIOR

Careers in Animal Behavior

A background in animal behavior is an excellent start for a number of types of careers:

Animal control/regulation. Jobs in this area involve typically management of problem animals in urban or suburban areas. This includes capturing and transporting stray domestic animals and rescuing wild animals which have become trapped in inappropriate surroundings or which are perceived by humans as pests. The two major employers in this area are local governments (counties, cities) and private pest control management firms. A background in animal behavior is usually helpful in these jobs, but not required. Positions are typically open for applicants with a BA or BS in biology.
Conservation. Animal behaviorists work in a variety of contexts relating to conservation. This may include management of threatened or endangered species in captivity, preparing animals for reintroduction to native habitats, and establishing habitat requirements for animals in field settings. Some positions focus on management of animals using established techniques. Other jobs involve research that forms the basis for management techniques. These positions typically require an advanced degree (MA, MS, PhD, or DVM).
Government agencies. Federal agencies, such as Fish and Wildlife and BLM may hire animal behaviorists to work on wildlife management and conservation issues. Similarly, state wildlife agencies may occasionally seek employees with training and background in animal behavior to work in wildlife management positions. These positions typically require an advanced degree (MA, MS, PhD, or DVM).
Zoo Biology. In many ways these jobs are like the Conservation jobs, but are based in a zoo setting. Typically requires an advanced degree (MA, MS, PhD, or DVM).
Academia. Most four-year colleges and universities offer courses in animal behavior. The market for academic animal behaviorists is small, but in a normal year there are a few such openings. Some college and university positions offer a mix of research and teaching; these positions have the advantage of giving the holder great freedom in choosing research topics. Typically requires an advanced degree (PhD).
Domestic animal behavioral consultation. Of all animal behavior-related employment, this is the fastest growing field. Work includes training animals and their owners, helping owners with managing problem behaviors, and working with animal shelters to provide appropriate behavioral remediation for animals which have been abandoned or placed for adoption. Positions are typically open for applicants with a BA or BS in biology.
Veterinary medicine. Veterinarians who specialize in animal behavior are rapidly becoming a recognized part of veterinary practices. In addition to consulting with animal owners on behavioral issues, veterinarians may prescribe medicines for management of behavioral problems. Requires a DVM.