General:
* Zoologist: This is the most general term for someone who studies animals. Zoologists study a wide variety of animals, from insects to whales.
* Animal scientist: This term is often used for those who study animals in an agricultural context, focusing on topics like animal breeding, nutrition, and disease.
Specific:
* Ethologist: Someone who studies animal behavior.
* Ichthyologist: A specialist in fish.
* Herpetologist: A specialist in amphibians and reptiles.
* Mammalogist: A specialist in mammals.
* Ornithologist: A specialist in birds.
* Entomologist: A specialist in insects.
* Veterinarian: A doctor who specializes in the health of animals.
The best term to use depends on the specific area of animal study you're interested in.