Wildlife biologist

A wildlife biologist is someone who studies or manages wild animals and their habitats. Wildlife biology is for those who are passionate about the wildlife. Also, wildlife biologist must have certain qualifications.

United States

Requirements in the U.S.

To work as a wildlife biologist in the United States, one must:

• Receive a minimum of a bachelor's degree (Master of Science or PhD recommended) in Biology, Ecology, Zoology, Wildlife management, or Natural resource management;
• Work both indoors and outdoors year round, regardless of weather conditions;
• Be prepared to travel long distances

Salary in the U.S.

The income for a position with the U.S. federal government averages $25,000 per year for a candidate with a bachelor's degree, $32,000 per year for a candidate with a master's degree, and $37,000 per year for a candidate with a PhD. State governments offer starting salaries between $22,000 and $29,000 annually. Wildlife biologists can also work as assistant professors, teachers or professors, with salaries beginning at $38,000 per year.

The average income for wildlife biologists in the U.S. is $44,500 annually in the federal government, $40,500 per year in state government positions, and $52,000 a year for assistant professors. Wildlife biologists earn their top salaries in the federal government and in positions within higher education. Salaries in these positions can range from $65,000 to $100,000+ per year.

Notable wildlife biologists

• Aldo Leopold, called the "Father of Wildlife management"
• Steve Irwin
• Jeff Corwin
• John Bindernagel
• Stanley Temple
• Jane Smart
• Archie Carr
• Archie Carr III
• Howard Nelson
• Richard Despard Estes
• Tony Soper
• George Schaller
• Harry Church Oberholser
• Thane Maynard
• L. David Mech
• Eric Strauss
• Fakhar -i- Abbas