A wide variety of information is gathered by researchers who study animals both in zoological parks and in the wild. Observing an animal's diet, breeding behavior, and social interactions with others of their species provides clues on how to meet all their needs in a zoological park. Studying animals in a zoological park, however, is often the best and sometimes the only way to observe and record behaviors that would be difficult or impossible to study in the wild, especially those of very rare or endangered wildlife. What researchers learn from animals in zoological parks plays an important role in creating and maintaining Species Survival Plans, and setting criteria for preserving habitats and ecosystems. These are the people who plan, conduct, and report the results of studies on animals.
Some positions are in house, while others are in the field.
This includes looking at herd dynamics, specific interactions, and will help determine optimum conditions for breeding and propagation, and infant rearing concerns. It may also include other functions such as determining territory, locating populations of plants or animals, and being out in the wilderness. These roles are critical to physical and emotional health, care and management of the animals in captivity. These roles also contribute to and develop conservation programs that help protect species in their natural environments. Equipment maintenance, outdoor survival skills and knowledge and talent in the areas of tracking or telemetry are other good skills to have.