What does an animal behaviorist do?

What is an Animal Behaviorist?

An animal behaviorist studies the behavior of animals, especially in the context of their natural habitat. They analyze the actions, reactions, and interactions of animals, to understand how and why they behave in certain ways. These professionals use their understanding of animal behavior to address and solve issues related to the welfare and well-being of animals. An animal behaviorist can work with a wide range of species, including domestic animals, livestock, wildlife, and even marine mammals.

What does an Animal Behaviorist do?

Animal behaviorists advance our understanding of animal behavior and improve the lives of animals in various contexts. By studying animal behavior, they are able to identify the causes of certain behaviors and develop strategies to modify or prevent problematic behaviors. This can be particularly important in the context of domestic animals, where behavior problems can lead to abandonment or even euthanasia.

Animal behaviorists also contribute to conservation efforts by studying the behavior of endangered species and developing strategies to promote their survival. Additionally, their work can inform the development of animal welfare policies and standards, ensuring that animals in various contexts are treated humanely and their needs are met.

Duties and Responsibilities
The duties and responsibilities of an animal behaviorist can vary depending on their area of specialization and the specific job they hold. However, some general tasks that an animal behaviorist may be responsible for include:

• Conducting Research: Animal behaviorists often conduct research to better understand the behavior of animals. This can involve studying animal behavior in the wild or in a controlled environment, analyzing data, and writing research papers.
• Assessing Animal Behavior: Animal behaviorists evaluate the behavior of animals to identify any issues that need to be addressed. They may observe animals, perform behavioral tests, and review medical records to develop a comprehensive understanding of an animal's behavior.
• Developing Behavior Modification Plans: After assessing an animal's behavior, an animal behaviorist may develop a behavior modification plan to address any issues. This may involve developing training programs, creating enrichment activities, or recommending changes to an animal's environment or routine.
• Working With Animals: Animal behaviorists work directly with animals to modify their behavior. This may involve training animals, providing enrichment activities, or working with veterinary professionals to develop treatment plans for animals with behavior-related health issues.
• Consulting With Pet Owners or Animal Handlers: Animal behaviorists often work with pet owners or animal handlers to develop strategies for modifying animal behavior. They may provide advice on training techniques, behavior modification, or environmental changes that can improve an animal's behavior.
• Collaborating With Other Professionals: Animal behaviorists often work closely with other professionals, such as veterinarians, zoologists, and wildlife biologists, to develop comprehensive plans for managing animal behavior.
• Teaching and Educating Others: Some animal behaviorists work in academia, teaching and mentoring students who are interested in animal behavior. They may also give presentations or workshops to educate the public about animal behavior and how to manage animal behavior issues.

Types of Animal Behaviorists
There are several types of animal behaviorists who specialize in studying different aspects of animal behavior. Some of the most common types include:

• Veterinary Behaviorists: Veterinary behaviorists are veterinarians who specialize in diagnosing and treating behavioral issues in animals. They integrate medical knowledge and behavior expertise to provide comprehensive care for pets, addressing both physical and behavioral aspects of their well-being.
• Ethologists: Ethologists are scientists who study animal behavior in their natural environments to understand patterns, communication, and social structures. They contribute valuable insights into the evolutionary and ecological aspects of various species.
• Cognitive Ethologists: Cognitive ethologists study the cognitive processes and mental abilities of animals in their natural environments, aiming to uncover the intricacies of perception, problem-solving, and memory. They contribute to our understanding of the richness and complexity of non-human minds.
• Neuroethologists: Neuroethologists study the neural mechanisms underlying animal behavior in their natural environments, aiming to unravel the intricate connections between neural processes and behavior. They investigate how the nervous system evolves and adapts to facilitate complex behaviors essential for survival and reproduction.
• Applied Animal Behaviorists: Applied animal behaviorists focus on the practical application of knowledge to address specific behavioral issues in animals. This can include working directly with individual animals, pet owners, or organizations to modify behavior, improve welfare, and resolve behavioral problems.
• Comparative Psychologists: Comparative psychologists study the behavior and mental processes of animals to gain insights into the evolution of cognitive abilities and social behaviors across different species. They seek to understand the similarities and differences in how various animals perceive, learn, and interact with their environment.
• Behavioral Ecologists: Behavioral ecologists investigate the behavioral adaptations of animals in the context of their natural environments, exploring how behaviors contribute to survival, reproduction, and ecological interactions. They aim to unravel the evolutionary strategies and ecological roles underlying diverse behaviors across different species.
• Conservation Behaviorists: Conservation behaviorists focus on understanding and addressing the behavior of species in the context of conservation and biodiversity efforts. They apply principles of animal behavior to develop strategies that promote the well-being and survival of endangered species, often working to mitigate threats and enhance habitat conservation.

What is the workplace of an Animal Behaviorist like?

The workplace of an animal behaviorist can vary depending on their specific area of expertise and their employer. Some animal behaviorists work in academic settings, such as universities or research institutions, where they conduct research on animal behavior and teach courses on the subject. They may spend time in laboratories, conducting experiments and analyzing data, as well as in the field, observing animals in their natural habitats.

Others may work in zoos or aquariums, where they observe and study the behavior of captive animals and develop strategies to improve their welfare. They may work closely with animal trainers and veterinarians to address behavior problems in captive animals and promote their physical and mental well-being.

Some animal behaviorists work in private practice, consulting with pet owners or animal trainers to address behavior problems in domestic animals. They may work out of their own offices or travel to clients’ homes or training facilities.

Regardless of their specific workplace, animal behaviorists typically spend a significant amount of time observing and studying animals, both in the wild and in captivity. They may also spend time analyzing data, writing reports, and communicating their findings to others in the field.