Difference Between Zoology & Wildlife Biology
Being a zoologist or a wildlife biologist is about more than just loving animals. These dedicated scientists play a vital role, not only in the lives of the animals they work with, but also with their communities and the world as a whole. Although they both work with animals and impact the world, their professions are very different.
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Zoology
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Zoology is a wide branch of science dealing with the study of every single aspect of human life, from cellular processes to the structures of societies. Some of the branches making up zoology include physiology (the functions and activities of organisms), histology (tissues), bionics (how organisms perform actions and problem solve) and evolution. A zoologist can choose to study any one area of the science or a specific animal or animal group. Also, scientists can study the science in a basic approach or choose to focus on working to the benefit of people and animals. (See Reference 1)
Wildlife Biology
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Wildlife biologists focus primarily on how the world is connected to the animal world and how humans impact the environment. In many cases, these scientists interact with people to educate them about conservation and how to use natural resources in a less harmful manner. Unfortunately, humanity negatively effects animal life throughout the world and wildlife biologists work in the public and private sector to reverse the problems that arise.
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Function
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The work that these scientists do often goes hand in hand, although wildlife biologists are frequently given credit for working with the public. Zoologists commonly focus on performing experiments to learn more about the structure of animal life. They do experiments and write detailed studies primarily read by other scientists.
Wildlife biologists collect information, analyze research and report the facts. Some situations require them to work with people familiar with science and others involve laypeople who may need a bit more information. Their work includes guiding tours at zoos, reporting to private businesses and working for the government to affect change.
Importance
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Energy, paper, food, chemical and other production methods people have used for years affect living things down to a cellular level. There are studies that say human impact has caused irrevocable damage such as global warming and the near extinction of certain species.
The United States enacted the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 in order to improve the future and create a more harmonious relationship between humanity and the environment. Zoologists and wildlife biologists play an integral part to achieving these goals by doing research into how humans affect life around them and imparting the knowledge to the people.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit zoo image by jeancliclac from Fotolia.com
