Work as a behaviorist can range from working with wild or domesticated animals to studying how people react to their surroundings and experiences. Teaching, research, conservation organizations, and field work are all options. Zoos, aquariums, and museums all have behaviorist positions available. Dog and horse trainers are behaviorist jobs that help animals develop positive traits in order to meet the needs of their owners.
Horse trainers may be hired to prepare horses for competition or exhibition. Animal behaviorists who understand how horses may benefit from specific training are also used by horse racing operations. Depending on the region in which he or she plans to work, a person may need to pass exams to become certified in equine behavior. Horse behaviorists should have knowledge of how to groom, handle, and feed these animals.
Animal behaviorists research how animals behave and how their surroundings affect their ability to survive and reproduce. In the wild, studies include how an animal obtains food and avoids predators. Other areas that are frequently investigated are mating habits and methods of caring for offspring. Animal behaviorists try to figure out how a species evolves over time and whether those changes are due to experience or genetics.
Some behaviorist jobs involve working in the field or in laboratories to improve breeding techniques. These individuals enjoy working with animals and should be able to communicate effectively with their employers. Reading animal body language is advantageous in this field, especially when dealing with large animals. People who work in this field may be hired as researchers or teachers.
Other jobs may be available at wildlife sanctuaries that try to manage resources in order to ensure the survival of a specific species. When attempting to reintroduce captive animals into their natural habitats, conservation organizations frequently turn to animal behaviorists. These organizations may also seek advice on the best nature preserve design to reduce stress on wild animals during rehabilitation.
In psychology, behaviorist jobs frequently assist people in better understanding their interactions with others. External and internal factors, according to some behaviorists, influence how people act based on what they’ve learned. Child behaviorists are experts at figuring out what motivates kids to change their bad habits.
Students pursuing careers as behaviorists typically take a variety of courses. Animal science, zoology, psychology, and biology are examples. Some students take anthropology, sociology, and evolutionary science classes as well.