What Kind of Animals Does a Zoologist Work With?

A zoologist is a specialized biologist deadling exclusively with animals. These scientists work in a number of fields from animal care to the scientific study of animals. Although they often work with a variety of animals, most zoologists specialize in a particular field. Therefore, the kind of animals a zoologist works with depends on that zoologist's chosen field.

  1. Zoo Workers

    • One of the most common professions for a zoologist is working at a zoo. This may include caring for and feeding animals, or educating the public. Zoologists work with the types of animals that particular zoo exhibits, from lions and tigers to fish and birds. A zoologist usually chooses a specialization in college and finds employment working with a particular animal and related animals at a zoo. Completing graduate work and obtaining a doctorate betters your chance of getting a job and working with a specific animal.

    Aquarium Workers

    • Zoologists are often hired by aquariums to work with fish, dolphins and other aquatic animals. As with zoo workers, aquarium workers often pick a specialization during undergraduate or graduate studies. They may befriend and train the animals, help with feeding and help the aquarium staff recognize sickness and diagnose behavioral changes. A zoologist may also train other aquarium workers on how to deal with the animals on display. Some aquarium workers have experience working in the field and studying aquatic animals in their natural habitat.

    Wildlife Rehabilitator

    • Animals are often injured by poachers or hunters and need to be rehabilitated. Some zoologists choose to be a wildlife rehabilitator, nursing injured animals back to health. Wildlife rehabilitators also raise orphaned animals and teach them the necessary skills for survival in the wild. These zoologists typically work with endangered or at-risk animals such as elephants or gorillas and work to rebuild their populations. They must also obtain the necessary permits from government and wildlife organizations.

    Researchers

    • Some zoologists prefer to study the biology and anatomy of animals. These zoologists often work at universities or private laboratories. They breed and raise specimens, dissect and study animals and write up their findings in various publications. These zoologists may deal with new and undiscovered species of animal or may simply try to uncover the secrets of more commonplace animals. These zoologists will usually obtain a graduate degree in their chosen field.