Ornithologist Career Description
An ornithologist studies the behavior, ecology, physiology, classification and conservation of birds.
What am I going to do in this occupation?
The nature of the work will depend on the type of organisation where one is employed, for example a museum, university or nature conservation organisation. Ornithologists at museums are responsible for bird collections and displays, educational talks on these displays and research on birds. They are also responsible for answering enquiries about birds directed to the museum and for identifying birds donated to the museum. For the collection of birds, ornithologists must work in close collaboration with conservation organisations and they must be familiar with specific legislation applicable to the fauna and flora of the area in which they are working.
Ornithologists working for nature conservation organisations are involved in research on rare and economically important bird species.
Birds are captured and then weighed, measured and marked. Aspects such as the density and fluctuation of bird populations are studied. Ornithologists also give advice to farmers on the needs and management of birds that can be found on their farms. They control the export and import of birds and encourage a sense of conservation in the community as a whole. Ornithologists at universities are involved in lecturing and conducting research.
Ornithologists should not only be zoologists, but should also have mastered Entomology, Botany and Ecology. They usually travel a great deal and often have to work irregular hours.
Requirements
What kind of personality do I need?
One must love nature. Self-motivation is important, especially because one has to work long periods on one's own in remote areas and conduct research. An aptitude for figures is essential in data processing.
Where can I work?
Because there is a lack of funds to promote research in this field, ornithologists are employed by a limited number of organisations. Some of the major employers of ornithologists are the National and Provincial Parks Boards, provincial governments, the Department of Agriculture, universities and museums.
Can I work for myself in this occupation?
There are currently no known self-employment opportunities.
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