Herpetology is the branch of zoology which deals with the study of reptiles and amphibians. Herpetologists conduct research on reptilian and amphibian species such as frogs, toads, salamanders, newts, snakes, turtles, terrapins, crocodiles, alligators, and lizards.

Herpetologists collect and analyze data to study the origins, behaviours, genetics, diseases and life processes of reptiles and amphibians. Their knowledge may be applied to various areas, such as caring for zoo animals, determining the effect of human activity on the habitat of animals, and developing cures and treatments for health conditions and diseases.

Herpetologists study animals in the wild, where they determine or assess potential threats from pollution, invasive species, introduced species, disease, and other factors. They often take an inventory or
estimate animal populations. Herpetologists study behaviour, development, genetics and distributions of reptiles and amphibians to better understand their ecological niches, the ecosystem services they supply, and the challenges they face. Many herpetologists focus on conservation of these species. Others use them to assess overall environmental conditions in a particular area. Since many reptiles and amphibians are considered "indicator species", their research many be used to evaluate overall changes in the environment.

Collection managers at museums care for preserved specimens of amphibians and reptiles. They catalog, organize, and document them, and make them available to researchers. These jobs usually require a master's degree in biology or museum studies.

Zoo curator and supervisor jobs are administrative positions that involve running a herpetology department, managing educational programs, and related duties. They usually only work with reptiles and amphibians.

Australian Reptiles The four reptile Orders are: Testudines, Squamata, Rhynchocephalia and Crocodilia Australia has over 860 species The most species-rich group is Squamata, the snakes and lizards.
Testudines: Sea Turtles; Leatherback Sea Turtles; Snake-neck Turtles; Pig-nosed Turtle	Example: Green sea turtle
Squamata: Geckos; Legless Lizards; Dragon Lizards; Monitors or Goannas; Skinks; Blink Snakes; Pythons; Colubrid Snakes; Death Adder; Sea Snakes; Sea Kraits; File Snakes; and Amphisbaenids/"worm-lizards".	Example: Green Tree Python
Crocodilia: Crocodiles, Alligators, Charials & Caimans	Example: Freshwater Crocodile
Rhynchocephalia or Sphendontia: the Tuataras from NZ

ANZSCO ID: 234518

Specialisations: Amphibian and reptile collection managers in museums.

• Ophiology is the study of Snakes
• Saurology is the study of Lizards 

Knowledge, skills and attributes

A herpetologist may have a lot of formal education or degrees, but that's not the only requirement needed to perform well in their job. Soft skills such as the following are also important:

• Communication skills: Herpetologists must write scientific papers and give talks to the public, policymakers, and academics.
    
• Critical-thinking skills: Herpetologists, a subset of zoologists and wildlife biologists, need skilled reasoning and judgment to draw logical conclusions and make scientific observations from the results of experiments.
    
• Emotional stability: Herpetologists may have to go long periods with minimal human contact while working. Like other occupations that deal with animals, a herpetologist must have the emotional stability to handle working with injured or sick animals.
    
• Interpersonal skills: Zoologists and wildlife biologists typically work on teams. They must be able to work effectively with others to achieve their goals or to negotiate conflicting goals.
    
• Observation skills: Zoologists and wildlife biologists must be able to notice slight changes in an animal’s behavior or appearance.
     
• Outdoor skills. Zoologists and wildlife biologists may need to chop firewood, swim in cold water, navigate rough terrain in poor weather, carry heavy packs or equipment long distances, or perform other activities associated with life in remote areas.
    
• Problem-solving skills: Zoologists and wildlife biologists try to find the best possible solutions to threats that affect wildlife, such as disease and habitat loss.
     
• Foreign language skills: This can be a big plus during trips abroad.

Duties and Tasks

A herpetologist spends their time doing research in one of a number of different areas. This could include studies related to behavior, genetics, anatomy, physiology, ecology, health, and reproduction.

• Collect and analyze animal specimens
• Take inventory of animal population levels
• Ensure that research activities comply with environmental laws and regulations
• Study animals in their natural habitats
• Assess the effects of environment and industry on animal habitats
• Form recommendations for alternative operational procedures for industry based on interpretation of findings
• Present information by writing reports, scientific papers or journal articles, and by giving talks for schools, clubs, interest groups and park interpretive programs
• Classify animals by analyzing their characteristics
• Prepare preserved specimens or microscopic slides for studying the development and progression of disease
• Make recommendations on management systems and planning for wildlife populations and habit
• Upon completing a research study and analyzing the data collected, herpetologists may publish their findings in scientific journals where others can review them in the field.
• Research may be conducted in the field or in controlled laboratory settings.
• Some herpetologists, especially those concerned with anatomy and physiology, study preserved museum samples.
• Herpetologists may be involved with the direct care of the animals that they use for research purposes if they do not have a laboratory assistant to handle such duties. Many aspiring herpetologists first hold lab assistant positions while they pursue their graduate level studies.
• Many researchers are also University Professors, and they have teaching duties to attend to when they are not traveling to conduct research in the field.
• Herpetologists involved in education at University level are responsible for preparing lectures, writing and grading exams, designing laboratory exercises, and supervising student workers as they assist with research studies.

Did You Know? Ockham's Razor 3 April 2022, 11 mins 28 secs by Dr Christina Zdenek Biologist & Toxinologist; Lab Manager, Venom Evolution Lab, University of Queensland

Working conditions

The working environment of a herpetologist will probably depend on his/her field of study. Studies that study the developmental, physiological, or genetic aspects of both reptiles and amphibians are usually performed in the laboratory in herpetologist jobs. Research on the ecology, behavior, reproduction, population biology, and distribution of a species is usually involved in many fields. Fieldwork can be harsh and isolating, and night hours may be required when dealing with nocturnal species.

Positions for herpetologists may be found in zoological parks, aquariums, museums, wildlife agencies, colleges and universities, and government or medical research laboratories. The two primary areas most herpetologists work in are education and research, and many herpetologists work in a combination of both areas. Some herpetologists choose to specialize in working with just one particular species of interest. Others may not work directly with animals but instead provide writing, photography, or consulting services.

Herpetologists working in the field setting may be exposed to varying conditions such as extreme heat, humidity, rain, wind, and parasites, especially when conducting research on reptiles or amphibians in tropical settings. The majority of herpetologists work full time. They may need to work long or irregular hours, especially if they are out doing fieldwork. If they work with nocturnal animals, they may work at night at least part of the time.

It may be necessary for herpetologists to travel to various countries so that they can pursue research opportunities with other specialists in their area of study.

Tools and technologies


Dr Deborah Bower in field
(Source: Twitter)

Computers are used in the field to record data and write papers. They need to be capable of conducting experiments, typically in a laboratory, to complete the research process.

There are many tools a herpetologist can use to handle, observe and assist amphibians and reptiles.

• Snake hook: A herpetologist can use a snake hook to safely pick up snakes. This hook is specially designed with a shaft that's anywhere from 1-4 feet long and a hook on the end. If a snake is venomous or acting aggressively, a herpetologist will use a snake hook to gently pick up the snake in the middle of the body.

• Antivenom: Herpetologists may encounter venomous snakes that could potentially inject deathly venom with a single bite. If a herpetologist knows she will be working with a particular type of venomous snake, she will typically keep antivenom available. If the herpetologist is bitten, the antivenom can be injected into the blood system to counteract the venom.

• Gloves: Gloves are also important protective gear for herpetologists. Sturdy gloves will protect against bites by a lizard or snake. Additionally, latex gloves will protect a frog or salamander from absorbing chemicals through its skin that might be present on the herpetologist's hands.

• Goggles: Some reptiles or amphibians have the ability to spit venom or other harmful substances toward the eyes of another animal, and the chemicals can injure a herpetologist. Goggles or a facemask can be worn for protection.

• Scales: Herpetology isn't all about dealing with dangerous animals. It is often important for a herpetologist to measure the weight of a reptile or amphibian. These animals can be weighed on a scale to gauge their rate of growth and evaluate the animal's health. Usually the animals are contained in a bag.

Education and training/entrance requirements

The field of herpetology requires at least a bachelor's degree, and many go on to get graduate degrees as well.

Entry into the field of herpetology requires at least a four-year degree in biology or a related field (herpetology is not offered as an undergraduate major in and of itself). Coursework may include a wide array of topics such as anatomy, physiology, biology, ecology, animal science, genetics, statistics, computer-based technology, laboratory science, and foreign language (as research may involve travel abroad).

Graduate degrees, such as a Masters or Ph.D., are required for those seeking research positions. While many graduate programs do not offer graduate herpetology degrees per se, it is possible to pursue related studies in zoology or biology while participating in herpetology research with a faculty advisor. Many professors allow students to gain valuable experience in the field of herpetology by assisting with their current research studies.


Employment Opportunities

As many jobs in biology, zoology and herpetology are highly competitive, it is extremely important to acquire practical experience during your undergraduate and graduate years. Most university departments offer a number of summer job opportunities for research assistants. There may also be similar openings for summer students in government agencies and private industry. Be sure to ask your school’s career resources counselor to give you information about any such opportunities. These opportunities not only provide you with valuable work experience, they allow you to network and get your foot in the door with an organization in your field. This will be extremely useful when you apply for graduate school or a permanent job.

Below is a list of common employer types for herpetologists:

• State, Territory and Federal governments
• Environmental consulting firms
• Large resource-based corporations such as pulp and paper producers, oil and gas companies and mining companies
• Non-profit organizations
• Zoos, aquariums and nature centres
• Museums - collection managers care for preserved specimens
• Universities
• Herpetologists may also find work as specialized writers and photographers

 

 

Dr Debbie Bower,  [CAMEO] Conservation Biologist and Head of University of New England's [UNE] Laboratory of Applied Zoology & Ecosystem Restoration Dr Debbie Bower Lecturer in Ecosystem Rehabilitation - School of Environmental and Rural Science Dr Debbie Bower, Conservation Biologist and head of UNE's Laboratory of Applied Zoology and Ecosystem Restoration (LAZER). Biography Debbie Bower (B.Sc., Ph.D) is a Conservation Biologist and head of the Laboratory of Applied Zoology and Ecosystem Restoration (LAZER) in School of Environmental and Rural Science and UNE. Her research focuses on the management of invasive species and applied ecology of threatened taxa. This work incorporates experimental techniques to explore disturbances such as wetland weeds, salinisation and emerging infectious diseases. LAZER undertakes research in diverse aquatic systems including the wetlands of the Murray Darling Basin, savannas of north Queensland and, most recently, the rainforest streams of Papua New Guinea. Qualifications B.Sc.(Hons I), PhD in Applied Ecology Awards Superstars of STEM - Science and Technology Australia Suzy Nethercott-Watson Scholarship - Peter Cullen Trust Teaching Areas Conservation biology, Ecosystem Rehabilitation, Australian vertebrate Fauna, Herpetology, Wildlife Management, Behavioural Ecology. UNE Biologists Drs Mary McMillan [left] and Deborah Bower (Source: The Armidale Express) Dr Debbie Bower's career as a herpetologist has had some unexpected twists, including her becoming a Science and Technology Australia Superstar of STEM. The wondrous world of wildlife first captivated herpetologist Debbie Bower during high school work experience with the Queensland National Parks and Wildlife Service. "It resonated with me straight away and I knew I wanted to work with animals for the rest of my life," says the now head of the Laboratory of Applied Zoology and Ecosystem Restoration (LAZER) at the University of New England. Debbie completed a Bachelor of Science majoring in zoology and a PhD in Applied Ecology and has published over 30 scientific papers on the management of invasive species and conservation of threatened reptiles and amphibians, but is herself a rarity. "Herpetology is very male dominated, especially in the upper levels," Debbie says. "Snakes and goannas are very macho animals. There have been times when I have been the only female in a team of 10 doing field work. It's amazing learning about animals capable of defending themselves by squirting blood from their eyes or species that can drink through their feet; I would love to see more women working in this field." Out in the Field in Papua & New Guinea (Source: UNE) However, Debbie counts herself among the lucky ones. "I was really fortunate to have a female supervisor when I did my honours program," says the LGBTQI and Women in STEM activist, who works to increase equality in environmental science."She also became my boss when I went on to do my postdoctoral research and has had a huge impact on my career. It made a big difference having someone who had been in my shoes, who looked like me, who I could share my experiences with as a female. She is still one of only a handful of female professors in herpetology in Australia." Debbie, a Science and Technology Australia Superstar of STEM, says the International Day of Women and Girls in Science (February 11) is important to introduce to the next generation of young women to some of the amazing female role models working in science - women who don't put themselves forward nearly as much as their male counterparts. "We still have a long way to go to encourage women and girls into scientific careers," Debbie says. "Every stage you go up in seniority in science you lose more women until you get to the top and there is a massive disparity. Not a lot of women are known for their scientific achievements and we want to change that so women in leadership positions becomes the norm. What is on Debbie's head? "Women suffer more from imposter syndrome and negotiate worse deals than men in the workplace. One year out of completing their PhD in science, women earn one-third less than men." And Debbie says it's not only women who lack representation and mentors. "It's also people of colour and people of different sexual orientations," she says. "It's about encouraging these different minority groups into science to produce the diversity of ideas, perspectives and backgrounds that improves the way that science is conducted, improves collaboration, and improves our chances of solving problems." Change begins by demonstrating to younger women the range of career options available and then research institutions introducing mechanisms to tackle inequality. "Women make equally capable scientists and should have every opportunity to contribute to addressing the world's big problems," Debbie says. "Mixed teams work better and produce better outcomes than single gendered teams." Today, Debbie facilitates LAZER’s research, supervises a number of students and conducts her own research into how habitat destruction and disturbance affects reptiles and amphibians, which has taken her all over Australia and to Papua New Guinea, Madagascar and Jamaica. "Science offers plenty of opportunities to travel and one of the best things about being a scientist is the freedom you have; you can follow what you are passionate about," Debbie says."Within LAZER we focus a lot on our freshwater systems because they are some of the most important and threatened habitats, and we work a lot with reptiles and amphibians because they are the lesser-loved species. We are trying to find ways to manage those species and their habitats better." As well as enjoying dancing and playing her ukulele, Debbie is dedicated to community outreach - including frog hunts, frog dreamings and a weekly newspaper column - in the hope of inspiring an appreciation of nature and increasing equality in environmental science. "These are fun ways to teach kids and are an important means of engaging young girls in science," she says. "I see it as part of me being visible in science, showing what a scientist looks like and demonstrating the thrill that you get when you conduct science. It's about showing what's possible." International Day of Women and Girls in Science aims to achieve full and equal access to and participation in science for women and girls in support of a United Nations General Assembly resolution.According to a study conducted in 14 countries, the probabilities of female students graduating with a Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree and Doctor’s degree in science-related field are 18%, 8% and 2% respectively. The percentages of male students are 37%, 18% and 6%. (Source: UNE) (Source: The Armidale Express) And science, Dr Bower believes, is the best job in the world. "It gives you an amazing life. We have a lot of freedom to discover, and to follow our passions, our hearts, and the things that interest us," she said. "It's not just sitting in a room reading books!" Her career as a conservation biologist has taken her to Papua New Guinea, Madagascar, and, most recently, Antarctica. She has been into the Amazon rainforest with masters students to search for snakes, and into the most remote parts of Jamaica with iguana experts. "You're immediately with the locals, seeing pockets of land you would never see as a tourist. You have this incredible experience you can't get in any other way." DAY IN THE LIFE OF DR DEBORAH BOWER (Source: Girled World) I’ve always enjoyed being outdoors, observing nature, and asking lots of questions, so finding a career where I could do these things was a win all round. Now I am a Lecturer in Ecology and Zoology. The academic career pathway, which led me to my job, gives me the flexibility to follow questions that pique my interest. For me, that has meant becoming a researcher and teacher of conservation biology and ecology.” “Academic positions at universities are highly variable. My time is split between teaching, research and administration. I might spend a week in the rainforest researching threatened frogs and the next week in the office giving lectures and grading assignments. I might spend several months writing a grant proposal or analysing data, or I might spend time helping my students to write scientific articles, or trap turtles. Last week, for example, I helped students to identify water bugs in a study looking at the importance of farm dams and wetlands, I spent time talking to landholders to arrange access to sites, I wrote a section for the Amphibian Conservation Action Plan, and I helped a PhD student to set traps for a threatened species of turtle. As you can see, it would be difficult to get bored in my job, there is just too much variation. The challenge is maintaining self-discipline in a workplace with very little structure or direction. We also require a lot of teamwork in science because nobody is good at everything. Often we have teams with different superpowers – my current team on the Conservation of Upland Lagoons includes experts in plants, insects, reptiles, mapping, psychology, and archeology – it takes all of us working together to understand the threats and find solutions to protect these special wetlands. With penguins in Antarctica (Source: Girled World) SAVING OUR ECOSYSTEMS AND INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION IN THE PROCESS “My favourite thing about working as a Lecturer in Ecology and Zoology is feeling like I am trying to help the environment every day, as part of my job. Whether I am teaching the next generation of ecologists about climate change and river regulation, or publishing papers on the extinction risk to threatened frogs, I feel that I am trying to help protect our amazing natural environment. As part of this, I love seeing students learn and continue with quality research and outreach. I also enjoy going out into the field and seeing new places, discovering the amazing adaptations that plants, animals and fungi find to live in different places. A lot science is about seeing things for the first time and these discoveries – whether it’s finding something in a new location, watching an unknown behaviour in a frog, or discovering a whole new species – brings constant wonder into my life.” A CALL TO UTILISE OUR OWN UNIQUE SUPERPOWERS TO SAVE THE ENVIRONMENT Australia has so many great minds and brilliant people ready to take action but as a country, we have been very rough on our land. We are famous for so many cool inventions from bionic ears to the electric drill and we have so much potential to develop useful technology but unfortunately, we have not prioritised funding the innovation that we need to protect the environment. My advice is to think about what your superpowers are and how you might apply them to the system. We also need to talk to everyone else in the community about why and how we can improve prospects for our environment and we need to let our politicians know that the status quo is not acceptable. We need change, now. DR. DEBORAH BOWER’S TOP TIPS FOR THOSE INTERESTED IN A CAREER IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE! TIP #1 - RESEARCH CAREERS THE YOU MIGHT ENJOY It is hard to know what you want to do, before you’ve ever done it. If there is a career that you think you might enjoy, I’d suggest contacting people in jobs that interest you and asking if you can tag along. I discovered the ‘Bachelor of Science majoring in Ecology’ when I was first doing work experience at National Parks and Wildlife and I asked the staff I was working with about their career paths. I thought that working for Parks and Wildlife was so much fun so I enrolled in the same degree and then began volunteering with the staff once a week for my whole degree. TIP #2 - TRY EVERYTHING! I tried out lots of other jobs during my studies and these experiences helped me to discover what I did and didn’t love, as well as giving me the skills, networks and experience I needed to find work in the future. If you think you might like something, try it out for a few days and see. At a dam researching (Source: Girled World) Other resources: University of Canberra Science and Technology Australia

 

 

 

 

 

 

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