Working As a Wildlife Conservationist

Anybody with a developed interest in wildlife and nature might want to pursue conservation work opportunities. There are a number of different jobs in the field, such as park ranger, game warden, wildlife biologist and environmental specialist. These types of jobs generally involve spending long periods of time outdoors, surveying the land and ensuring that wildlife habitats are maintained. This article may help you to decide whether jobs in environmental sector are for you.

The Difference Between Conservation and Animal Welfare 

There are a wide variety of animal related jobs that fall outside the sphere of conservation. Individuals who work in such occupations may do their level best to ensure the protection of every single animal that they come across. However, people who carry out conservation work generally believe in maintaining natural habitats as a whole, rather than focussing on the needs of specific creatures. They may be prepared to carry out a cull if it will have positive effects for the entire ecosystem. Conservationists may also deem it appropriate to kill foreign species that are harming the environment.

Typical Duties 

The work may involve the protection of a wide variety of animals. People employed in this capacity may be required to look after the large and powerful meat eaters in big game reserves. Those workers who specialise in marine conservation may find that much of their time is taken up in the prevention of coastal erosion. There are also opportunities for deep sea diving missions and research on wrecks and coral reefs. Conservationists may also often be invited to meetings regarding the environmental impact of work conducted by major companies.

Personal Qualities Required 

When they aren't working with animals, conservationists are often involved in group activities, such as the clearing of beach litter and coppicing of wooded environments. They should have a friendly disposition towards other team members and the ability communicate and listen effectively. People who do conservation work are generally motivated by a passion to do right by the world, rather than earn large amounts of money. It is quite usual to do this form of work on a voluntary basis.

Qualifications Required 

Those individuals who manage to obtain jobs in the conservation work sector have generally achieved a high standard in A level subjects such as biology and chemistry. Some choose to further their employment prospects by taking specialised university courses in marine biology or wildlife sciences. There is a great deal of information about these educational programmes online. For further information you may also want to contact the Wildlife Trust and perhaps even the World Wildlife Fund.

Finding Voluntary Work with Animals

There are many ways in which you could work with animals on a voluntary basis. If you're a dog lover then you might consider unpaid work at a local animal shelter, alternatively you could gain voluntary employment at a local aquarium. By taking even the smallest such opportunities you might reap many benefits as well as set yourself on a possible career path.

Involving with the Community 

Local organisations and citizens will have a great deal of respect for anybody who is willing to freely devote their time to a good cause. You could set an example by working with animals that have been left abandoned or been taken in ill. Such work will give you a sense of pride and inner contentment as well as giving comfort and love to the animals.

Enjoying the Achievement 

Instead of sitting around during your free time, you could commit to working with animals that have temperamental problems or need to be reintroduced to the wild. There are a number of voluntary programmes, both within the UK and abroad that will allow you to make these types of achievements. You could volunteer as part of the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme or take a gap year break to Africa to work with wild animals.

Gain Experience in the Working Environment 

The best way of deciding whether to pursue a career working with animals is to gain relevant experience in the field. You might be able to watch veterinarians in action or help in the training of guide dogs for the blind. There will also be the opportunity to prove that you can work as part of a team and deal with customer demands. Prospective employers may well ask you to provide evidence of the acquirement of these skills in the future.

Develop New Friendships 

You will have the chance to develop a bond with the animals that you deal with when volunteering. There will also be the opportunity to talk and make friends with people who share the same kinds of interests, especially on gap year projects abroad.

Establish Business Contacts 

It is possible that you'll be offered a job upon the successful completion of a voluntary placement. Even if this doesn't happen you might still be able to build a list of contacts that could be very helpful in the future. People and organisations are more likely to offer jobs to individuals with whom they feel some affiliation.

Build Lasting Memories 

It is likely that you'll look back at your time volunteering at an animal shelter or local zoo with some fondness. If you are lucky enough to venture abroad, working with animals in Africa on your gap year break, those memories will be even ore precious.