What is Ethology? Careers in Animal Behavior | Ethologist | Diary of a Tentwife

Summary

In this video, Lisa introduces herself as an ethologist, specializing in studying animal behavior in their natural habitats. She explains the difference between ethologists and behaviorists, highlighting the importance of observing animals without influencing their behavior. Lisa discusses her role as head of research, focusing on elephant behavior, and emphasizes the significance of ethology in conservation efforts. She shares insights into the career path, including the need for advanced degrees, strong communication skills, and a deep interest in animal behavior, while candidly addressing the financial and personal sacrifices involved in pursuing this field.

Takeaways

• 🌿 Lisa is the head of research with a focus on ethology, studying animal behavior in their natural habitats.
• 🔬 Ethology is a branch of zoology that involves observing and understanding animal behavior without influencing it.
• 🐘 Ethologists are interested in various aspects of animal behavior, including social interactions, reproduction, and intelligence.
• 📊 Data collected by ethologists is analyzed and reported to contribute to scientific knowledge and conservation efforts.
• 🌳 Conservation behavior is a growing subset of ethology, focusing on how understanding animal behavior can aid in species conservation.
• 🎓 Pursuing a career in ethology typically requires an advanced degree, with many professionals holding a master's or PhD.
• 💬 Strong communication skills are essential for ethologists to convey their research and secure funding.
• 🧳 A career in ethology often involves travel, potentially being away from family, and working in isolated environments.
• 💰 Ethology is not a high-paying field, and professionals often face financial challenges, especially in the early stages of their career.
• 🔍 Ethologists must be observant, patient, and have a genuine interest in understanding animals' natural behavior for the sake of conservation.

Q & A

What is Lisa's official job role?

Lisa's official job role is head of research, but she considers herself an ethologist at heart.

What is the difference between an ethologist and a behaviorist?

An ethologist studies animals in their natural setting, observing their behavior objectively and scientifically without influencing it. A behaviorist, on the other hand, is more interested in what animals can do and is involved in applied animal behavior, often related to training and eliciting specific responses.

Who is a famous ethologist mentioned in the script?

Jane Goodall is mentioned as a famous ethologist who studied chimpanzees in Tanzania.

What are some of the topics ethologists study?

Ethologists study various aspects of animal behavior including social lives, play, development, aggression, reproduction, learning, mating, raising young, intelligence, hunting, and defense.

Why is animal behavior important for conservation according to Lisa?

Animal behavior is crucial for conservation because it is the first line of defense against a changing environment. Adapting their behavior is key for animals to survive in the face of human encroachment and poaching.

What educational background is typically required to become an ethologist?

An advanced degree is required to become an ethologist, with many professionals holding a master's degree and some pursuing a PhD.

What soft skills are important for an ethologist?

Strong communication skills are essential for ethologists to convey the importance of their research, secure funding, and engage with various audiences including peers, the public, and students.

Why does Lisa believe that ethology is a good career for those interested in animal behavior?

Lisa suggests that ethology is a good career for those who have a strong interest in observing animals in their natural settings and are curious about the reasons behind their behaviors.

What are some challenges faced by ethologists in their career?

Ethologists may face challenges such as low pay, especially in the beginning of their careers, the need to be away from family due to fieldwork, and the requirement to develop a broad set of skills beyond their academic qualifications.

How does Lisa describe the process of becoming an ethologist?

Lisa describes the process of becoming an ethologist as not being quick or easy, involving volunteering, internships, and a strong commitment to the field despite potential financial struggles.

What advice does Lisa give to those considering a career in ethology?

Lisa advises those interested in a career in ethology to be prepared for sacrifices in terms of money and education, to have a strong interest in animals' natural behaviors, and to be observant and curious about animal lives.