How to Become an Animal Behaviorist (Fathoming the Furry!)

If you’ve ever been fascinated by animal behavior or wondered what it takes to become an animal behaviorist, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the EXACT steps you need to take to start your career as an animal behaviorist. We’ll discuss:

The skills you need.
The education that can set you on the right path.
How to secure a job as an animal behaviorist.

So, whether you’re a novice in the field of animal behavior or a seasoned naturalist looking to specialize, stay tuned.

We’re about to unfold the roadmap to becoming an animal behaviorist.

Let’s get started!

Contents show

Steps to Become an Animal Behaviorist

Step 1: Research the Profession

Before you commit to a career as an animal behaviorist, it’s important to understand the ins and outs of the profession.

This includes researching the day-to-day duties of an animal behaviorist, which commonly include observing animal behaviors, investigating behavioral problems, implementing behavior modification plans, and providing training to pet owners.

Investigate the work environments of an animal behaviorist too.

They often work in a variety of settings, such as private homes, zoos, animal shelters, and veterinary clinics.

They may also work in research settings or for wildlife organizations.

Get a clear understanding of the skills and knowledge required in this field.

Animal behaviorists should be well-versed in animal psychology and biology, have excellent observational and analytical skills, and possess a deep passion for animals.

Also, look into the job outlook, salary, and growth opportunities in this field.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market for animal behaviorists is expected to grow in the coming years, especially for those specializing in domestic animals.

Understanding these aspects can help you determine whether this career path aligns with your interests, skills, and long-term career goals.

Step 2: Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in a Relevant Field

Obtaining a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is an essential step to become an Animal Behaviorist.

The most common degrees for this career path are biology, zoology, animal science, or psychology with a focus on animal behavior.

During your undergraduate studies, you will learn about basic biological principles, animal physiology, and animal behaviors.

Some programs might also offer courses in specific areas of interest, such as marine biology, entomology, or animal conservation.

Research experience is also highly beneficial for aspiring animal behaviorists.

Many undergraduate programs offer opportunities for students to assist in research projects, which can provide valuable hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of animal behaviors.

Consider selecting a program that includes fieldwork or laboratory components to gain practical experience.

This will not only provide you with hands-on experience but also allow you to apply your theoretical knowledge in real-world situations, preparing you better for your future career.

Volunteering or interning at zoos, animal shelters, or wildlife rehabilitation centers can also provide valuable experience and help you establish connections in the field.

Step 3: Gain Hands-On Experience with Animals

After finishing the foundational coursework, it is crucial to gain practical experience working with animals.

This can be achieved through internships, volunteering, or part-time jobs at various animal-related facilities such as veterinary clinics, animal shelters, zoos, wildlife rehabilitation centers, or research labs.

Getting hands-on experience allows you to apply what you’ve learned in your course work and see how theories of animal behavior play out in the real world.

It helps in building a variety of skills including animal handling, behavior observation and data recording, and can also offer opportunities to work alongside professionals in the field.

In some cases, your education program may have partnerships with local organizations where you can get this experience, or they may have on-campus facilities where you can work with animals directly.

This experience is often a prerequisite for advanced study or professional certification in animal behavior.

Remember to document your experience in detail, as this can be beneficial when applying for jobs or further education.

While gaining hands-on experience, it’s also crucial to develop a good understanding and respect for animal welfare and ethics, as this is fundamental in the role of an animal behaviorist.

Step 4: Pursue a Master’s Degree or Ph.D. in Animal Behavior or a Related Field

To expand your knowledge and improve your chances of getting a job as an animal behaviorist, you should consider pursuing a master’s degree or a Ph.D. in animal behavior or a related field like ethology, zoology, or animal psychology.

Master’s programs in animal behavior typically include courses in biology, chemistry, psychology, and statistics, as well as fieldwork and research projects.

Some programs may also require you to complete a thesis, which involves conducting independent research in your area of interest.

If you are more interested in conducting research or teaching at the collegiate level, a Ph.D. might be a better fit.

Ph.D. programs usually involve more intensive research and require the completion of a dissertation based on original research in the field.

Regardless of the program you choose, you will gain a deep understanding of animal behavior and the underlying psychological and physiological mechanisms.

This knowledge will be essential as you progress in your career and begin working with animals in various settings such as zoos, aquariums, research institutions, or animal rehabilitation centers.

Remember that admission into these programs can be competitive, so maintaining a strong academic record and gaining relevant work experience during your undergraduate studies can help improve your chances of acceptance.

Step 5: Conduct Independent Research

As an Animal Behaviorist, conducting independent research is a crucial step in your career.

This could be in a variety of fields such as animal cognition, ethology, behavioral ecology, or conservation behavior.

You might choose to focus on a specific species or a particular behavior pattern.

The purpose of this research is to contribute to the scientific understanding of animal behavior.

This could involve conducting field studies, collecting data, and then analyzing this data to draw conclusions.

You might also be required to write reports or publish your findings in scientific journals.

Conducting independent research not only increases your knowledge and understanding of animal behavior, but it can also boost your credibility and reputation in the field.

Moreover, your research could have significant implications for animal welfare, conservation, and understanding animal-human interactions.

Remember that your research should always adhere to ethical guidelines and respect the welfare of the animals involved.

This might involve getting approval from an ethics committee before conducting your study.

Additionally, your research could lead you to further specializations within the field, or provide opportunities for collaborations with other professionals in the animal behavior and conservation community.

You may also decide to pursue a PhD, which typically involves conducting a significant amount of independent research and contributing to the field in a meaningful way.

Step 6: Complete Internships and Residencies

As an aspiring Animal Behaviorist, completing internships and residencies is an integral step in your career path.

These opportunities provide hands-on experience in observing and analyzing animal behavior in various settings.

It could be in a zoo, animal rehabilitation center, animal shelter, or veterinary clinic.

Internships may involve tasks such as collecting data on animals, developing behavior modification programs, or assisting with behavioral research studies.

You could also get involved in providing behavior consultations for pet owners.

This practical experience will not only help enhance your understanding of animal behavior but also equip you with skills in handling different animals and dealing with various behavioral issues.

Residencies offer a more specialized and concentrated experience.

You will be working with experienced animal behaviorists, learning from them, and getting involved in more complex cases.

In some instances, residencies may focus on certain species or types of behavior.

Before choosing an internship or residency, consider your career goals and the species you wish to work with.

These experiences can provide crucial networking opportunities, as well as pave the way for job offers post-graduation.

Step 7: Obtain Certification in Applied Animal Behavior

After gaining practical experience in the field, the next step is to obtain certification in applied animal behavior.

This is a crucial step in advancing your career as an animal behaviorist, as it will certify your skills and expertise in the field.

The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers and the Animal Behavior Society offer certification programs for aspiring animal behaviorists.

These certifications require a combination of education, experience, and examination to ensure you have comprehensive knowledge and skills in animal behavior.

You’ll need to demonstrate competence in areas such as animal learning, behavior modification, development, and ethology.

Being certified not only improves your credibility and standing in the field but can also open up new career opportunities.

This might include roles in animal training, behavior consulting, or even research and academia.

To maintain certification, you will likely need to engage in continuing education to keep up with the latest research and trends in the field.

Step 8: Join Professional Organizations

Joining professional organizations is a crucial step for anyone aspiring to become an Animal Behaviorist.

These organizations not only help you stay updated with the latest research and methodologies in the field but also provide networking opportunities with other professionals in the sector.

They often host conferences, seminars, and workshops that can help you hone your skills and knowledge.

Some popular professional organizations to consider include the Animal Behavior Society (ABS), the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC).

Joining these organizations can also boost your credibility and stature in the field as they often have stringent membership criteria, including having a certain level of education and experience in the field.

In addition to this, many of these organizations offer certifications that could further elevate your professional standing.

To maintain your membership, you may have to adhere to a code of ethics and engage in ongoing professional development activities.

This continued learning can ensure that you remain at the forefront of your field and can provide the best possible care and advice to the animals and their owners.

Remember that networking plays a significant role in most career advancement, and this field is no exception.

Therefore, actively participate in these organizations’ activities and make an effort to get to know the other members.

The relationships you build here could lead to job opportunities, partnerships, or collaborations in the future.

Step 9: Publish Findings and Contribute to the Scientific Community

As an animal behaviorist, one of your primary responsibilities is to contribute to the scientific community’s understanding of animal behavior.

This often involves conducting research and publishing your findings in respected scientific journals.

To do this, you’ll need to identify a research question or topic within the field of animal behavior, design and implement a study to investigate this question, analyze the data you collect, and write a paper detailing your methods, results, and interpretations.

It is crucial to present your findings in a clear, concise, and compelling manner, as the quality of your writing can greatly influence whether your paper is accepted for publication.

You should also be prepared to respond to feedback from peer reviewers, who will evaluate the quality and significance of your research.

Publishing your work not only contributes to scientific knowledge but also helps to establish your reputation within the field.

You’ll also likely have opportunities to present your research at scientific conferences, which can provide valuable networking opportunities.

This step can be a bit challenging as it requires a lot of patience, hard work, and resilience.

However, seeing your work published and knowing that you have contributed to the knowledge about animal behavior can be highly rewarding.

Step 10: Seek Employment in Various Sectors

As an animal behaviorist, there are a range of sectors in which you can seek employment.

This includes zoos, aquariums, wildlife reserves, animal shelters, veterinary practices, and research laboratories.

You may be hired to work in a zoo or an aquarium, where you may be required to study and modify the behavior of animals in captivity, improve their living conditions, and educate the public about their behavior and their needs.

At a wildlife reserve, your duties could include studying the behavior of animals in their natural habitats, helping with conservation efforts, and possibly rehabilitating and reintroducing captive animals back into the wild.

Animal shelters and veterinary practices may hire you to work with domestic animals, helping to resolve behavioral issues, advising owners on proper care, and assisting with animal welfare initiatives.

Research laboratories employ animal behaviorists to conduct research on animal behavior and cognition, animal-human interactions, and animal welfare issues.

When seeking employment, focus on roles that align with your specializations, interests, and career goals.

Tailor your applications to highlight your expertise and experience in these areas.

Network with professionals in the field and attend industry events to increase your visibility and stay updated on job opportunities.

Step 11: Continue Education and Professional Development

As an animal behaviorist, it is important to stay updated with the latest research and developments in animal behavior and related fields.

Many professional organizations, like the Animal Behavior Society and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, offer resources, webinars, workshops, and conferences for continued learning and networking opportunities.

You might also consider pursuing further formal education such as a Master’s or Doctorate degree, specializing in a specific area of animal behavior.

This could be particularly beneficial if you plan to work in research or academia.

Some animal behaviorists may choose to specialize in a particular species or a specific behavioral issue, such as aggression, fear, or anxiety disorders.

Keeping up with the latest scientific literature in animal behavior and related fields is also an essential part of professional development.

This will not only keep you informed about the most recent advances in the field but also can provide new insights or techniques to apply in your practice.

Additionally, gaining experience through internships or volunteer work can help you continue to develop your skills and knowledge.

Remember, the field of animal behavior is constantly evolving, so it’s crucial to stay engaged and committed to lifelong learning.

Animal Behaviorist Roles and Responsibilities

Animal Behaviorists use their knowledge of animal physiology, psychology, and behavior to understand and interpret animal actions.

They are often involved in research, animal training, and consultation for behavioral problems.

They have the following roles and responsibilities:

Behavior Analysis

Observe, record, and analyze animal behaviors.
Identify behavioral patterns and draw conclusions.
Assess animal temperament and behavior problems.

Treatment

Develop and implement behavior modification programs.
Prescribe medication or recommend behavior modification techniques to treat behavioral issues.
Monitor progress and make adjustments to the treatment plan as necessary.

Research

Conduct research studies on animal behavior.
Collect and analyze data to increase understanding of animal behavior.
Publish research findings in scientific journals.

Consultation

Provide advice to animal owners, trainers, zookeepers, or other professionals on animal behavior issues.
Collaborate with veterinarians to diagnose and treat behavioral problems.
Conduct workshops and seminars on animal behavior and training.

Training

Train animals to perform specific behaviors using positive reinforcement techniques.
Provide training guidance to animal owners or handlers.

Ethical Practices

Promote animal welfare and ethical treatment.
Follow professional guidelines and ethical codes in animal behavior studies.

Education

Educate the public about animal behavior and welfare.
Present at conferences and events.

Continuous Learning

Stay updated with the latest research and developments in animal behavior studies.
Attend workshops, seminars, and conferences for professional development.

What Does an Animal Behaviorist Do?

Animal Behaviorists are professionals who study the instincts, behaviors, and habits of animals in their natural habitats, labs, or zoos.

They often work for universities, government agencies, zoos, or for private entities.

Their primary role is to observe and record the behavior of different animals and draw conclusions about their health, natural instincts, and interaction with their environment.

This can involve a detailed study of a single animal or a comprehensive analysis of a whole species.

They work closely with zoologists, veterinarians, and animal care staff to develop behavioral enrichment programs and to solve behavioral problems.

They may also be involved in designing habitats in zoos and aquariums to ensure they meet the needs of the animals.

In addition to this, they could be involved in animal training for various purposes such as for assistance, rescue, or therapy roles.

Animal Behaviorists often conduct research to contribute to the field of animal science, including publishing their findings in academic journals.

They also educate the public about animal behavior and conservation issues.

They might also be involved in rescue operations for endangered species and play a vital role in formulating strategies to protect them.

Their work is essential in the conservation of animal species and understanding the impact of environmental changes on animal behavior.

Essential Animal Behaviorist Skills

Knowledge of Animal Behavior: A deep understanding of animal behavior and its principles is vital. This includes understanding the various factors that influence animal behavior, like environment, genetics, and experience.
Observation: Animal behaviorists must have exceptional observational skills to accurately study and interpret animal behavior patterns. This involves noticing subtle changes and behaviors that might not be apparent to others.
Patience: Working with animals requires patience. Changes in behavior may take time, and animals can behave unpredictably. Being patient and persistent helps in achieving desired results.
Communication: Animal behaviorists need to communicate effectively with pet owners, veterinary professionals, and other stakeholders. They should be able to explain complex behavior patterns in a way that non-experts can understand.
Problem-solving: Animal behaviorists must identify behavioral issues and develop suitable treatment plans. This requires creativity, critical thinking, and excellent problem-solving skills.
Empathy: Being empathetic towards animals and understanding their emotions and needs can help in establishing trust and improving their behavior.
Research Skills: Animal behaviorists should be able to conduct and interpret scientific research to stay updated with the latest developments in the field and to provide the best care possible.
Training Skills: Skills in training animals using positive reinforcement techniques are necessary. This includes understanding animal learning theories and applying them effectively.
Knowledge of Animal Health: Understanding animal health and nutrition is important, as physical health issues can often affect behavior. A basic understanding of veterinary medicine can be very helpful.
Professional Ethics: Adhering to ethical guidelines and principles when dealing with animals and their owners is a fundamental requirement.
Flexibility: Every animal is unique, so behaviorists must be flexible and able to adapt their approach to fit individual animals and situations.
Documentation: Keeping detailed records of animal behavior, treatment plans, and progress is essential for tracking changes and adjusting treatment as necessary.

Animal Behaviorist Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Animal Behavior Assistant

Your journey typically begins as an Animal Behavior Assistant.

At this stage, you’ll be observing animals under the supervision of experienced behaviorists, assisting with research, and learning basic animal behavior principles.

Here are some tips for success in this role:

Learn Continuously: Stay up-to-date with the latest research and trends in animal behavior.
Seek Mentorship: Leverage the experience of senior behaviorists and don’t hesitate to ask questions.
Hands-On Experience: Gain practical experience by volunteering or interning at animal shelters, zoos, or veterinary clinics.

The Ascent: Animal Behaviorist

As you gain experience and knowledge, you’ll transition into the role of an Animal Behaviorist.

You’ll conduct behavioral studies, write research papers, and perhaps even teach courses on animal behavior.

Here’s how to thrive in this stage:

Research Skills: Develop strong research skills and practice meticulous data collection and analysis.
Communication: Improve your written and verbal communication skills to present your findings effectively.
Patience and Observation: Spend substantial time observing animals and be patient as behavioral changes may take time.

Reaching New Heights: Senior Animal Behaviorist

The next rung on the ladder is the Senior Animal Behaviorist position.

At this stage, you’re recognized for your expertise and may lead your own research projects, mentor junior behaviorists, and contribute significantly to the field.

To excel as a Senior Animal Behaviorist:

Mentorship: Share your knowledge and experience with junior behaviorists.
Leadership: Take charge of your projects and inspire others with your dedication and passion for animal behavior.
Networking: Establish connections with other professionals in the field to collaborate on research and stay current on new findings.

Beyond the Horizon: Lead Roles and Beyond

As your career progresses, you may choose to specialize in a specific area of animal behavior, such as becoming a Principal Behaviorist, a Director of Animal Behavior Research, or a Professor of Ethology.

Each of these roles involves greater responsibilities, leadership, and strategic decision-making.

Here’s what to focus on:

Expertise: Deepen your expertise in your chosen specialization.
Leadership: Develop strong leadership skills to guide your team or department.
Innovation: Continue to innovate and contribute to the advancement of the field.

Pinnacle of Success: Director of Animal Behavior Studies or Dean of Ethology

You may reach roles like Director of Animal Behavior Studies or Dean of Ethology at the highest echelons of the animal behaviorist career ladder.

Here, you’ll be responsible for shaping the overall strategy of the department or institution, making critical decisions, and leading larger teams.

Animal Behaviorist Salary

Entry-Level Animal Behaviorist

Median Salary: $35,000 – $45,000 per year
Entry-level animal behaviorists typically have 0-2 years of experience and may hold bachelor’s degrees in animal science, psychology, biology, or a related field. They often start their careers with internships or assisting experienced behaviorists.

Mid-Level Animal Behaviorist

Median Salary: $45,000 – $60,000 per year
Mid-level animal behaviorists have 2-5 years of experience and often take on more complex responsibilities like managing behavioral research projects or developing behavior modification programs.

Senior Animal Behaviorist

Median Salary: $60,000 – $80,000 per year
Senior animal behaviorists possess 5+ years of experience. They are often responsible for leading teams, managing animal behavior programs, and conducting high-level research.

Lead Animal Behaviorist / Animal Behavior Program Manager

Median Salary: $80,000 – $100,000+ per year
These roles come with significant experience and often involve leadership, program management, and decision-making related to animal behavior studies and programs.

Principal Animal Behaviorist / Director of Animal Behavior

Median Salary: $100,000 – $130,000+ per year
These high-level positions require extensive experience and deep expertise in animal behavior. They often involve setting strategies for animal behavior research, overseeing multiple programs, and influencing policy related to animal behavior.

Animal Behaviorist Work Environment

Animal Behaviorists generally work in a variety of settings that revolve around animals.

They may be employed in zoos, aquariums, animal shelters, rescue centers, veterinary clinics, or research institutions.

The job requires a great deal of interaction with animals, often in their natural habitats.

Therefore, Animal Behaviorists may spend a significant amount of time in outdoor settings, observing and studying animal behavior.

The role may require fieldwork in various climates and geographical locations depending on the animal species being studied.

They may also work in an office setting, where they analyze data collected from their fieldwork, write reports and develop behavior modification programs.

Animal Behaviorists often work on a full-time basis, but the job may require irregular hours depending on the demands of the study or project, such as nocturnal animal studies.

Travel can be a significant part of an Animal Behaviorist’s job as they may need to visit various sites for research purposes or to provide behavioral consultation services.

With sufficient experience and expertise, some Animal Behaviorists may also choose to establish their private consultation services, offering services to pet owners, zoos, and animal training facilities.

FAQs About Becoming an Animal Behaviorist

What is needed to become an animal behaviorist?

To become an animal behaviorist, you’ll typically need a strong academic background in the biological or behavioral sciences.

This usually involves acquiring a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as biology, zoology, animal behavior, or psychology.

For more advanced roles, a master’s degree or PhD in animal behavior or a related field is generally required.

It’s also beneficial to gain experience working with animals, such as through volunteer work, internships, or employment at animal shelters, veterinary clinics, zoos, or research facilities.

How long does it take to become an animal behaviorist?

The time it takes to become an animal behaviorist depends on your level of education.

A bachelor’s degree typically takes four years to complete.

If you decide to pursue further education, a master’s degree usually requires an additional two years, while a PhD can take up to six years.

Gaining practical experience, which is crucial in this field, can also add to this timeline.

Therefore, it’s fair to estimate that becoming an animal behaviorist could take anywhere from 4 to 12 years, depending on your career goals and educational path.

Can I become an animal behaviorist without a degree?

While it’s technically possible to work with animals without a formal degree, most professional roles in animal behavior require at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.

The field of animal behavior is complex and requires a deep understanding of animal physiology, psychology, and ecology, which is typically gained through formal education.

However, hands-on experience with animals is also highly valued, so volunteering or working in animal care or rehabilitation can be beneficial even without a degree.

Is being an animal behaviorist a stressful job?

Like any job, being an animal behaviorist can be stressful at times.

It often involves dealing with animals that may be aggressive or scared, and it can be emotionally taxing when animals are sick or injured.

However, many animal behaviorists find great reward in improving the lives of animals and their interactions with humans.

This satisfaction, along with a deep love for animals, can often outweigh the stressful aspects of the job.

What are the prospects for animal behaviorists in the next decade?

The prospects for animal behaviorists are positive in the next decade.

As more people adopt pets and as society increasingly recognizes the importance of animal welfare, demand for experts in animal behavior is likely to increase.

Growth opportunities exist in a variety of sectors, including pet training, veterinary services, wildlife conservation, and academic research.

Conclusion

There you have it.

Starting your journey to become an animal behaviorist is no walk in the park, but the rewards it brings are immeasurable.

Equipped with the right knowledge, training, and perseverance, you’re well on your way to making a significant difference in the world of animal behavior.

Bear in mind, the journey may be tough, but the opportunities are boundless. Your insights could open doors to a better understanding of our animal counterparts and transform how we coexist and interact with them.

So, take the leap. Immerse yourself in knowledge. Connect with professionals in the field. And most importantly, never stop observing and learning.

Because the animal kingdom awaits your discoveries.

And if you’re seeking personalized advice on launching or progressing your career in animal behavior, explore our AI Career Path Advisor.

This complimentary tool is crafted to provide tailored advice and resources to help you effectively navigate your career trajectory.

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