What does an ornithologist do?

What is an Ornithologist?

Ornithologists are zoologists who specialize in the study of birds, delving into their anatomy, behavior, ecology, evolution, and classification. Engaged in extensive fieldwork, laboratory research, and data analysis, ornithologists contribute to the understanding of avian biology, migration patterns, nesting behaviors, communication, and the intricate interactions between birds and their environments. Their work is vital for bird conservation efforts, habitat protection, and broader insights into the diversity and dynamics of avian life.

What does an Ornithologist do?

Duties and Responsibilities
The tasks and responsibilities of an ornithologist generally include the following:

• Field Research – conducting bird surveys in various habitats to collect data on species distribution, abundance, behavior, and ecology; using various field techniques such as mist netting (the use of nets to capture wild birds for banding or research), bird banding (tagging for tracking purposes), and bird identification through observation and recording of vocalizations
• Data Collection and Analysis – collecting and analyzing data related to bird populations, including population dynamics, breeding success, and migration patterns; using statistical methods and software to analyze data and draw meaningful conclusions
• Habitat Assessment – assessing and monitoring bird habitats and studying the impact of environmental changes and human activities on bird populations; working on conservation projects to preserve and restore bird habitats
• Taxonomy and Classification – identifying and classifying bird species based on physical characteristics, behavior, and genetic information; staying updated on taxonomic revisions and changes in bird classification
• Behavioral Studies – studying bird behavior, including breeding behavior, foraging patterns, social interactions, and communication; using tools like video recordings, field observations, and experiments to understand bird behavior
• Migration Studies – investigating bird migration patterns, including the routes taken, timing, and environmental factors influencing migration; using tracking devices, such as satellite tags or geolocators, to monitor bird movements
• Conservation and Environmental Impact Assessment – assessing the impact of human activities, climate change, and other environmental factors on bird populations; developing and implementing conservation strategies to protect endangered or vulnerable species
• Education and Outreach – sharing research findings with the public, educators, and policymakers; conducting educational programs, workshops, and public talks to raise awareness about birds and conservation
• Publication and Communication – writing scientific papers, articles, and reports to communicate research findings to the scientific community; contributing to ornithological journals and attend conferences to present research
• Collaboration – collaborating with other scientists, researchers, and conservationists to address complex ecological questions and conservation challenges
• Grant Proposal Writing and Fundraising – writing grant proposals to secure funding for research projects and conservation initiatives; seeking funding from government agencies, non-profit organizations, and other sources
• Policy Advocacy – advocating for bird-friendly policies and contributing to the development of conservation policies; working with governmental and non-governmental organizations to influence decision-making related to bird conservation

Types of Ornithologists
Now that we have a sense of the potential scope of the ornithologist’s work, let’s look at some different types of ornithologists, based on their professional focus:

• Field Ornithologist – focuses on studying birds in their natural habitats; conducts field surveys, bird banding, and behavioral observations
• Avian Ecologist – studies the interactions between birds and their environment; investigates how ecological factors affect bird populations and behavior; may focus on the study of shorebirds or birds that inhabit marine environments
• Behavioral Ornithologist – specializes in the study of bird behavior; investigates breeding behavior, social interactions, and communication among birds
• Migration Biologist – studies bird migration patterns, routes, and the factors influencing migration; often uses tracking devices to monitor bird movements
• Geneticist / Genomic Ornithologist – investigates the genetic diversity, evolution, and population genetics of bird species; utilizes molecular technologies and microscopy to analyze bird DNA
• Taxonomist – specializes in the identification, classification, and naming of bird species; may focus on understanding evolutionary relationships among bird species
• Conservation Ornithologist – focuses on the conservation of bird species and their habitats; works on projects aimed at preserving endangered or threatened species
• Ornithological Researcher – engages in original scientific research on various aspects of bird biology; conducts experiments, collects data, and publishes findings in scientific journals
• Ornithological Educator – works in education and outreach, sharing knowledge about birds with the public, students, and educators; develops educational materials and conducts workshops
• Urban Ornithologist – studies birds in urban environments and addresses the challenges and opportunities for bird conservation in cities
• Applied Ornithologist / Ornithological Consultant – provides expertise on birds for environmental impact assessments and conservation projects; works with industries, developers, and government agencies to address human-wildlife conflicts and minimize the impact on bird species during various projects
• Ethno-ornithologist – explores the cultural and societal relationships between the diverse peoples of the Earth and birds, often focusing on the roles of birds in folklore, rituals, and traditional knowledge
• Raptor Biologist – concentrates on the study of birds of prey, such as eagles, hawks, and falcons; monitors raptor populations and addresses conservation challenges

It’s important to note that these specializations often overlap, and many ornithologists may engage in interdisciplinary research or work that spans multiple areas.

What is the workplace of an Ornithologist like?

Ornithologists can find employment in various sectors, depending on their specific expertise and interests. Their most common employers include:

• Academic Institutions – Universities and colleges employ ornithologists as professors, researchers, and lecturers. Their roles may include supervising graduate students.
• Research Institutions – Various research organizations and institutes, both public and private, hire ornithologists to conduct scientific research on bird biology, behavior, ecology, and conservation.
• Government Agencies – National and state wildlife agencies often employ ornithologists to work on wildlife management, conservation programs, and environmental monitoring. Examples include the US Fish and Wildlife Service and equivalent agencies in other countries. In these settings, ornithologists may collaborate with policymakers.
• Non-profit Organizations – Conservation and environmental organizations, such as the Audubon Society, BirdLife International, and other bird-focused NGOs, often hire ornithologists for research, advocacy, and conservation projects.
• Zoos and Wildlife Rehabilitation Centers – Some ornithologists work in zoos or wildlife rehabilitation centers, where they may be involved in the care and management of captive bird populations or in the rehabilitation of injured or orphaned wild birds.
• Environmental Consulting Firms / Private Industry – Companies specializing in environmental consulting or industries with ecological initiatives may hire ornithologists to conduct environmental impact / sustainability assessments, biodiversity surveys, and habitat assessments for development projects.
• Museums and Science Centers – Natural history museums and science centers may employ ornithologists for research, curation of bird collections, and educational outreach.
• Media and Publishing – Ornithologists may work in media, contributing to documentaries, writing popular science books, or providing expertise for articles and educational content.
• Educational Outreach and Nature Centers – Organizations focused on environmental education and nature interpretation may employ ornithologists to lead educational programs, guided birdwatching tours, and community outreach.
• Conservation Foundations – Foundations dedicated to wildlife conservation and biodiversity protection may hire ornithologists to lead or contribute to conservation initiatives.
• Technology Companies – Companies developing wildlife tracking technologies or birdwatching apps may hire ornithologists with expertise in bird behavior and ecology.

Ornithologists may also work as independent consultants, offering their expertise on a project-by-project basis.

Based on the demands of their research, conservation projects, or educational activities, ornithologists may find themselves transitioning between different settings. They may spend time in offices, specialized laboratories and research facilities, classrooms, or avian care facilities. Their workplaces also include outdoor settings, such as forests, wetlands, grasslands, or coastal areas, to observe and study birds in their natural environments. Fieldwork may involve early mornings, long days, exposure to various weather conditions, and sometimes camping in remote locations. The work of ornithologists studying migratory birds or participating in international conservation projects may involve travel.