{"id":27473,"date":"2021-05-27T13:06:33","date_gmt":"2021-05-27T12:06:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/stonebridge-blog.positive-dedicated.net\/?p=27473"},"modified":"2021-05-27T13:07:44","modified_gmt":"2021-05-27T12:07:44","slug":"how-to-start-a-career-in-wildlife-conservation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/animal-care\/how-to-start-a-career-in-wildlife-conservation\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Start a Career in Wildlife Conservation?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>It\u2019s estimated that at least <a href=\"http:\/\/www.animalmatters.org\/facts\/wildlife\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><strong>30,000 species a year<\/strong><\/a> \u2013 around three an hour \u2013 are being driven to extinction. With wildlife species under such threat, there\u2019s never been a more important time to start a career in wildlife conservation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Part of this rapid decline is due to the swift increase of the human population. With so many people to cater for, natural resources are being used up at an unsustainable rate. This rapid consumption destroys wild habitats by around&nbsp;<a href=\"http:\/\/www.animalmatters.org\/facts\/wildlife\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><strong>5,760 acres daily<\/strong><\/a>. Endangering the animals and plant life within them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a wildlife conservationist, you\u2019ll strive to protect these species and their habitats from external threat. And these threats can include anything from man-made developments to new hostile species or the effects of climate change. Which means there\u2019s room to align yourself with any area you feel particularly passionate about.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keeping wildlife populations balanced is essential for a stable ecosystem, as each species plays an important part. So, whichever aspect of conservation you decide to work in, the work you do will make a difference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Find out more about whether a career in wildlife conservation is right for you and how to improve your employment prospects below. \u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"619\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/How-to-Start-a-Career-in-Wildlife-Conservation-2.png\" alt=\"Stonebridge - How to Work in Wildlife Conservation\" class=\"wp-image-27479\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/How-to-Start-a-Career-in-Wildlife-Conservation-2.png 619w, https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/How-to-Start-a-Career-in-Wildlife-Conservation-2-300x121.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 619px) 100vw, 619px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is a Career in Wildlife Conservation right for me?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are a large number of roles that fall within the realm of wildlife conservation. All of which include their own set of duties and goals and take place in different settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While there are instances where conservationists encounter animals up close, there\u2019s a common misconception about the level of interaction involved. Many people are under the impression that you\u2019ll be in close proximity to animals when out in the field. However, encouraging the regeneration of a thriving wild habitat requires as little human disruption as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You will get to see them, so don\u2019t be too disheartened. But this will usually be from a safe and comfortable distance. There\u2019s also a considerable amount of administrative work involved in most roles, which many people don\u2019t realise. As you need to log the data you\u2019ve collected out in the field and analyse your findings. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This admin element, however, is only part of the work you\u2019ll complete. Conservation careers are renowned for being diverse. Attracting people who thrive on being active and having a different task to work on each day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You will likely be involved in a combination of community work, wildlife observation, research, events, awareness and educational activities. Specific skillsets are required for each role, but there are some every conservationist needs to have.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Necessary skills:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Analysing and investigating \u2013 to gather information for research purposes. \u00a0<\/li><li>Attention to detail \u2013 to spot the identifiers of different plant and animal species.<\/li><li>Patience \u2013 to carry out periods of observation to collect the required data.<\/li><li>Planning and organising \u2013 to arrange both the necessary people and resources.<\/li><li>Map reading and navigating \u2013 to find and record sites and locations of interest.<\/li><li>Communication \u2013 to relay findings and educate others about conservation.<\/li><li>Teamwork \u2013 to drive group projects successfully.<\/li><li>Time management \u2013 to complete projects on time and meet deadlines.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"619\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/How-to-Start-a-Career-in-Wildlife-Conservation-3.png\" alt=\"Stonebridge - Work in Wildlife Conservation\" class=\"wp-image-27481\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/How-to-Start-a-Career-in-Wildlife-Conservation-3.png 619w, https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/How-to-Start-a-Career-in-Wildlife-Conservation-3-300x121.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 619px) 100vw, 619px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Improve your Employment Prospects<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As a career that is active, diverse and involves work that many people are passionate about, conservation is highly competitive. While there aren\u2019t set entry requirements, there are things you can do to stand out and get noticed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Gain Experience<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You can get involved in conservation both as a volunteer and in paid positions. As it\u2019s a fast-paced and dynamic career, you\u2019ll need to be able to fall into place quickly. So, when going for a paid role, employers will expect to see that you\u2019ve gained essential hands-on experience and relevant training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The best way to get this experience is by volunteering with organisations you\u2019d like to be employed by. Trying to find opportunities that are involved with the work you\u2019d eventually want to be paid to do. That way, you\u2019ll be a natural fit for a position when one becomes available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Getting experience will help you become comfortable and familiar with the work that will be expected of you. Proving your capabilities to employers and helping you build contacts which again are useful when it comes to job hunting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Volunteer opportunities exist all over the world, so don\u2019t limit your options by looking only in the UK. You can experience exotic habitats and species in overseas locations. Though you could work with them in the UK too by volunteering with zoos, safari parks and nature reserves. \u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"619\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/How-to-Start-a-Career-in-Wildlife-Conservation-4.png\" alt=\"Stonebridge - Gain Experience Before Pursuing a Conservationist Job\" class=\"wp-image-27483\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/How-to-Start-a-Career-in-Wildlife-Conservation-4.png 619w, https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/How-to-Start-a-Career-in-Wildlife-Conservation-4-300x121.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 619px) 100vw, 619px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Study Conservation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While qualifications aren\u2019t essential in many conservation roles, they prove your dedication to the field. And that you\u2019ve got the necessary skills for a career in wildlife conservation. \u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Certain roles do require higher level learning, and the qualifications you need will depend on which role you\u2019re going for. Many conservation professionals have postgraduate qualifications like PhDs. But these are typically required for heavily science-based roles like a Biologist, Ecologist, Zoologist or Researcher.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For the roles where postgraduate qualifications aren\u2019t necessary, you can study other highly targeted courses. These can be completed in less time and many provide a blend of practical training and theory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>View some of the conservation careers you can work towards and the related courses you can take below:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">African Wildlife Conservation<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Help protect animal species in Africa from hunters, illegal trade and poachers. Teaching local communities about the importance of conserving these species and providing general environmental education.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>An <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/course\/african-wildlife-and-conservation-studies-diploma\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>African Wildlife and Conservation Studies Diploma<\/strong><\/a> will bring you up to speed on the particular challenges African wildlife faces. Helping you to align yourself with the many roles involved in this area of conservation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"619\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/How-to-Start-a-Career-in-Wildlife-Conservation-5.png\" alt=\"Stonebridge - Work in Animal Conservation\" class=\"wp-image-27485\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/How-to-Start-a-Career-in-Wildlife-Conservation-5.png 619w, https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/How-to-Start-a-Career-in-Wildlife-Conservation-5-300x121.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 619px) 100vw, 619px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ecologist<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Study ecosystems and the animals, people and plant life that exists within them, assessing how human activity affects the balance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>An <a href=\"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/course\/ecology-diploma-level-3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><strong>Ecology Diploma<\/strong><\/a> is a great way to start understanding the intricacies of different ecosystems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Marine Conservationist<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Protect seas, shores and at-risk marine species by preventing human damage within marine ecosystems and restoring those that have existing damage.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Learn about the life that exists in marine environments in a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/course\/marine-conservation-studies-diploma-level-3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><strong>Marine Conservation Studies Diploma<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Wildlife Rehabilitator<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the roles that requires physical contact with animals. Work in partnership with rehabilitation centres and animal sanctuaries to rescue sick or injured wildlife. Rehabilitating them before returning them to their natural habitat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Develop animal rescue skills in this <a href=\"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/course\/wildlife-rehabilitation-studies-diploma-level-3-without-practical\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><strong>Wildlife Rehabilitation Studies Diploma<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Zookeeper<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Care for and ensure animals that are kept in zoos are being looked after with the highest standards of welfare in their related environments. Making sure each animals\u2019 needs are met and that they\u2019re receiving physical and psychological enrichment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Gain an essential mix of academic and practical training for the role in this <a href=\"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/course\/zookeeping-level-3-diploma-rqf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><strong>Level 3 Diploma in Zookeeping<\/strong><\/a><strong>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"619\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/How-to-Start-a-Career-in-Wildlife-Conservation-6.png\" alt=\"Stonebridge - Help conserve animal species in your career\" class=\"wp-image-27487\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/How-to-Start-a-Career-in-Wildlife-Conservation-6.png 619w, https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/How-to-Start-a-Career-in-Wildlife-Conservation-6-300x121.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 619px) 100vw, 619px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Get Conservation Skills Online<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>No matter which area of conservation you want to work in, you can most likely find a course that relates to it online. This allows you to retrain or upskill for your ideal conservation career without disrupting your current schedule.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many courses are completely based online. Allowing you to complete the materials as quickly as you like and qualify when you\u2019re ready. The courses that encompass a practical training element have these available to book at various points throughout the year. Giving you even more flexibility and freedom in the organisation of your learning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Find out more about the benefits of studying towards your conservation career with <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Stonebridge Associated Colleges<\/strong><\/a>. Click below to view our range of courses relating to wildlife conservation and the details on how to get started.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/search?keyword=conservation\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"413\" src=\"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/SAC-How-to-Work-in-Conservation-cta-1-1024x413.png\" alt=\"Stonebridge - Study Wildlife Conservation Online\" class=\"wp-image-27489\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/SAC-How-to-Work-in-Conservation-cta-1-1024x413.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/SAC-How-to-Work-in-Conservation-cta-1-300x121.png 300w, https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/SAC-How-to-Work-in-Conservation-cta-1-768x309.png 768w, https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/SAC-How-to-Work-in-Conservation-cta-1-1536x619.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/SAC-How-to-Work-in-Conservation-cta-1-2048x825.png 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>It\u2019s estimated that at least 30,000 species a year \u2013 around three an hour \u2013 are being driven to extinction. With wildlife species under such threat, there\u2019s never been a more important time to start a career in wildlife conservation. Part of this rapid decline is due to the swift increase of the human population. [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":33,"featured_media":27477,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[325,332],"tags":[1379,1341,1343],"class_list":["post-27473","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-animal-care","category-conservation-and-environment","tag-wildlife-conservation","tag-work-in-conservation","tag-work-in-wildlife-conservation"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27473","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/33"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=27473"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27473\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":27497,"href":"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27473\/revisions\/27497"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/27477"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=27473"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=27473"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.stonebridge.uk.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=27473"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}