ornithologist

The work

Ornithologists work in a variety of roles involving study of the behaviour, ecology, classification, physiology and conservation of birds. The areas they can be involved in include:

• fieldwork and research
• conservation and habitat management
• consultancy and education.

Fieldwork can include:

• conducting surveys
• monitoring bird species in a particular habitat
• tracking bird movements and biological processes
• collecting, analysing and evaluating data.

Ornithologists can also work as wardens or officers at nature reserves, ringing stations or observatories.

They are employed by a variety of organisations, including:

• wildlife trusts
• private organisations
• regional park authorities
• nature reserves, ringing stations or observatories
• conservation schemes. 

Hours and Environment

Hours of work vary according to the job. Some ornithologists spend at least half of their working time outdoors in all weather conditions.

The work is often physically active and ornithologists may have to travel to specific sites, either in a vehicle or on foot.

Ornithologists sometimes work in remote and isolated locations which may not be accessible by public transport, so a driving licence may be necessary.

Skills and Interests

To be an ornithologist you should:

• have an interest in observing and identifying birds
• have a meticulous and methodical approach
• be enthusiastic about wildlife conservation
• have good analytical and mathematical skills
• be able to work alone or as part of a team
• be able to produce clear reports
• have good interpersonal skills
• be computer literate.

Entry

Most ornithologists have a degree or postgraduate degree. These are available in subjects such as biology, ecology, environmental biology, zoology or biological science. To get onto a degree course you will usually need:

• at least five GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3), including maths and a science subject; and
• two A levels/ four H grades, preferably in maths, biology or statistics.

You can also do relevant foundation degrees at some colleges and universities. For information about foundation degrees see Foundation Degree Forward

For all courses please check with colleges or universities for exact entry requirements.

To search for colleges and universities offering foundation degrees, HNDs and degrees see Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS)

As a bird warden you will  need to have a British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) 'A' permit and be an experienced birdwatcher. Please see the Training section for more information. To be an assistant warden you should preferably have some ringing experience and be a reasonably experienced bird watcher. The BTO offer various courses including short and residential courses in bird survey techniques and bird ringing. You can find details on the BTO website.

You may be able to gain experience by becoming a volunteer warden with organisations such as the RSPB (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) or BTO.  Please see Further Information for contact details for the BTO and the RSPB.

Training

You will usually do further training with your employer. Depending on the job you could use research studies to obtain a higher degree or PhD.

To obtain qualifications in safe bird ringing you will need a BTO permit. You will need to take the following steps:

• contact the BTO for a list of bird ringers that are qualified to train others
• apply for a trainee permit and do at least two years' training
• apply for a 'C' permit which will allow you to ring by yourself
• after another year and further assessment apply for an 'A' permit
• you could then go on to train other people.

Please see the BTO website for more information.

Opportunities

There are very few permanent research posts and competition is high when they do arise.

Most research officers start their careers on temporary contracts as research students working on short-term studies or projects with organisations such as:

• the RSPB
• the British Trust for Ornithology
• the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).

Successful students might progress into permanent jobs.

At bird observatories, there are usually annual vacancies for assistant wardens but wardens posts tend not to become available very often.

There may be opportunities for ornithologists to work outside of the UK.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

Earnings will vary greatly according to the type of job.

Assistant wardens can earn up to £15,000.
Wardens can earn up to £18,000 a year.
Research fieldworkers could earn £10,000 to £20,000 a year.
Senior ornithologists could earn £20,000 to £35,000 a year.

Assistant wardens and wardens may be provided with accommodation.

Further information

Lantra House
Stoneleigh Park
Nr Coventry
Warwickshire
CV8 2LG
Tel: 0845 707 8007

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