Who Employs Wildlife Veterinarians and Wildlife Biologists

Wildlife veterinarians and biologists play crucial roles in the health and conservation of our natural world. They are employed by a variety of institutions, organizations, and businesses that prioritize the well-being and sustainability of wildlife. This article explores the diverse range of employers, highlighting the importance of these professionals in today's world.

Governmental Institutions

Governmental agencies, such as the Department of the Interior, are significant employers of wildlife biologists and veterinarians. These professionals work to monitor and maintain the health of various wildlife populations.

For example, my neighbor, a wildlife biologist based in Montana, spent his entire career with the Department of Interior. His key responsibilities included assessing the health of herd animals and fish, and ensuring that the data provided to the Department was accurate and timely. While it was not his job to carry a sidearm, he spent his time in the field and outdoors, exploring Montana and Colorado.

Non-Profit Organizations

Non-profit organizations that handle wildlife need to employ or collaborate with professional wildlife biologists and veterinarians to ensure the proper management and health of the animals in their care.

The New England Aquarium, for instance, houses a wide variety of aquatic wildlife and has a dedicated wildlife veterinarian on staff. This ensures that the animals in its care are healthy and well-maintained. Conversely, the closure of a wildlife program in Maine that cared for injured seals highlights the critical need for a professional wildlife veterinarian. The program's closure was attributed to its lack of a full-time veterinarian, which undermined its ability to provide adequate care and respect from the public and governmental organizations.

Private Sector and Ranching Industry

Private sector businesses that manage wildlife, particularly those with exotic herds, also require the expertise of wildlife veterinarians. Ranch owners in areas like Texas may employ these professionals to keep their exotic animal herds healthy and manage livestock numbers within the available range.

For example, a few veterinarians work privately for ranch owners managing exotic herds. These veterinarians are essential in maintaining the health of these herds, which can be valuable assets to the ranch. By managing the numbers of animals in conjunction with the available range, they help ensure the sustainability and health of the animals and the environment.

For-Profit Organizations and Legal Obligations

For-profit organizations that deal with wildlife must employ wildlife biologists and veterinarians to stay informed about the legal obligations they have concerning wildlife protection. These professionals can provide crucial insights into the management and care of wildlife to ensure compliance with regulations and best practices.

Staying current with legal obligations is crucial for these organizations, as they can face severe consequences for non-compliance. Employing wildlife veterinarians and biologists can help mitigate these risks and ensure the long-term success of their operations.

In conclusion, the employment of wildlife veterinarians and biologists is essential for the effective care and conservation of wildlife. From governmental agencies to non-profit organizations and private sector businesses, these professionals play a crucial role in maintaining the health and well-being of our natural world.