r/wildlifebiology

I’ve been looking at the schools of either Lees-McRae or NC State for wildlife biology. I want to go eventually work with bigger animals in anyway possible. I know a bit more about Lees-McRae’s wildlife program than I do about States. Can I have some advice about which one would be better to gain the experience and knowledge to eventually work with bigger animals in the wildlife field? Either in conservation, zoo work, or rehab as those are what I’m mainly looking at. Thank you!

(I have no idea what I’m doing, this is my first time posting for advice)

I’m currently studying Wildlife and Fisheries Science at Penn State, and I plan on going into a career as a biologist. I was wondering if there was a huge difference between a GIS minor or a certificate, as both are offered at my school.

Thanks!

Hello!

I recently graduated with my bachelor's in Ecology/Evolution but am working outside of the field, and want to stay involved with the ecology community. I was wondering if anyone knew of any upcoming Zooms/online lectures focusing on ecology/wildlife/environmental research that I might be able to join and listen to? I don't have any preferences about topics, or whether they're directed towards a community or academic audience.

Thanks!! 🌳

The title, basically 'the one backpack to rule them all'

Visually I lean towards the old school, waxed canvas and leather vibes, but, if there's something different but better, I'm not going to turn it away

Hello everyone.

A professor that teaches most waterfowl and wetland classes at SUNY ESF recently posted a MPS application. The first semester would be free for the top applicant. It would only take 2 semesters to complete. The cost would be 12k without getting it and 6k if you do. It is exactly what I want to do in the future but I’m wondering if the time and money investment is worth it. I have a lot of experience already (around 7 internships) and I’m graduating a year early. Most of my work is wetland, bird, or outreach focused. I’m wondering if I should just get more experience or take a year schooling to finalize my experience. Help!!!

Purely from an academic and career resources standpoint (I have a lot of other things to consider in commiting, but that’s mainly what I’m asking about here) which school would you choose? Thank you!

Hello everyone! I work with large carnivores in the field and so oftentimes I am handling carcass to use as bait. Unfortunately, a rain jacket I recently bought became a casualty lol. Less blood and moreso gunk and other stuff on the arms, it reeeeeeks. Ive tried using wipes to at least cut down on the smell, which does work but only can do so much. Anyone have suggestions for cleaning a rainjacket?

Can anyone help with a choice between the Fish and Wildlife programs at Montana State in Bozeman and the University of Minnesota Twin Cities? Focus will be fish/aquatic. My son is unable to choose and we are getting down to the wire. Pros/cons/preparation for career and graduate school? Thank you!!

Wasn't sure what to put this under. I am 18 and starting college this fall in biology and at the same time looking for internships and volunteer work. I am having a lot of trouble as I am financially independent and have to spend most of my time working. I also feel like I have nothing under my belt other than small volunteer work with community gardens and local nature parks. I have such a deep passionate love for nature and spend most of my free time tracking birds but I feel like I may be missing something. Should I be doing more? Have I missed out on becoming a great wildlife biologist because I didn't do internships in high-school and is it too late to start? How can I make myself the best I can be? Thank you for taking the time to read.

For those of you who have the lovely monthly visit from our Aunt, how do you manage when doing field research in remote locations?

Going to the Amazon for the first time and the timing is unfortunately overlapped. Any advice would be appreciated 🙏

Hello! I (25f) have been working in EMS for just under 6 years. I used to really love my job, but lately I’ve become incredibly burnt out and I’m realizing that although I do enjoy emergency medicine, it really isn’t my passion.

I’ve been thinking about what I would be happy doing if I were to pursue something else. I have always been very passionate about conservation and biology, but I was so uncertain out of high school and didn’t feel ready to commit to anything. I have zero college experience/credits. Now that I have a better idea of my genuine interests and passions I’m seriously considering a degree in wildlife biology and/ or forestry.

That being said, I have some questions and could use some guidance from people who have the experience:

•Considering all the current issues threatening conservation efforts on a national scale; how is job security? I worry about finding work especially as a new grad, as I am already 25 and I am reliant on my own income. Are jobs becoming more limited in number of positions? Are there any areas with increased demand?

•Is a master’s or PHD required (or recommended) to make a livable wage? I currently make about 48k a year (after taxes) and I do okay, but I certainly would not want to make much less. I do understand starting positions will offer less and pay will come with experience, but I still need to make a living.

•How is your work/life balance and what type of position are you in? One of my biggest struggles with EMS currently is having a complete lack of consistency in my schedule. I love having diversity in my work and not always doing the same thing every day, but I hate having no consistent weekly schedule. I currently work a ridiculous rotation type schedule and never have a consistent day off. I feel like I need a position with diversity in my tasks but a reasonable level of predictability with scheduling.

•Specifically those who got their degree once they had already been living on their own; how do you manage going to school and working? Did you stop working or go part time to study full time? How do you afford to live? I know I won’t be able to work full time and go to school full time, but I need to figure out how to stay afloat while in school.

•What school did you go to and did you enjoy the program? I’ve been mostly looking into the University of Montana. They have a variety of degree options and seem to be very highly ranked for their conservation and wildlife science degrees. I also have family in western Montana and have spent a lot of time around Missoula and the Bitterroot Valley, so I’m very familiar with that region of the state. If anyone has done any type of science or conservation degree there I’d love to hear about your experience.

•Finally: any advice you would have for someone just starting out. Anything is helpful at this point, I’m just trying to really get a good idea of what I’m getting into, if it is the right choice for me, and how to manage school and work. TYIA!!

Hi I am a little bit of an anxious mess half the time.

Located in central MN. I am staying at a house that has had bats in the past (like years ago) but none known currently. Slept with the door closed last night and woke up to a sharp / needle like pain on my forehead when I raise mt eyebrows up and down. I do not see any puncture wounds or dried blood. I have looked throughout the room and haven't found a bat. I read online that bat bites feel like a needle poke and now I am nervous! Is there a chance I got bit while sleeping and the bat is hiding somewhere?