Animal evolution

Description

The evolutionary history of animals and the development of species and their behaviour through domestication.

Alternative labels

history of evolution
animal natural history
evolution of animal life
evolutionary history
research of organisms
study of organisms
history of animal evolution
evolution history

Skill type

knowledge

Skill reusability level

sector-specific

Relationships with occupations

Essential knowledge

Animal evolution is an essential knowledge of the following occupations:

Zoo curator: Zoo curators are usually the position of middle-management within an institution. Much of their work involves oversight, management and development of the animal collection. Often this is related to animal husbandry and welfare policy, the acquisition and disposition of zoo animals, and development of new exhibits. Zoos normally acquire animals through captive breeding programs. The zoo collection, trade, and transport of the animals is regulated by government agencies as well as guided by zoo membership organisations. Consequently, zoo curators act as a liaison between these agencies and the zoo itself. Additionally, they play an active role in the administration of zoo functions and all kinds of captive breeding programs.
Zoo educator: Zoo educators teach visitors about the animals living at the zoo/aquarium as well as other species and habitats. They provide information about management of zoos, its collection of animals, and wildlife conservation. Zoo educators can be involved in both formal and informal learning opportunities ranging from production of information signs at enclosures to delivering classroom sessions linked to school or university curricula. Depending on the size of the organisation the education team may be a single person or a large team. Consequently the optional skills reqired are very broad and will vary from organisation to organisation. 

Zoo educators also promote conservation efforts. This can involve work within the zoo but also in the field as part of any zoo outreach project(s).
Animal behaviourist: Animal behaviourists work with animals and people to study, observe, assess and understand animal behaviour in relation to specific factors and to prevent or address inappropriate or problematic behaviours within individual animals through the development of suitable environments and management regimes, in accordance with national legislation. 
Zookeeper: Zookeepers manage animals that are kept in captivity for conservation, education, research and/or to be displayed to the public. They are usually responsible for the feeding and the daily care and welfare of the animals. As a part of their routine, zookeepers clean the exhibits and report possible health problems. They may also be involved in particular scientific research or public education, such as conducting guided tours and answering questions.

Optional knowledge

Animal evolution is optional for these occupations. This means knowing this knowledge may be an asset for career advancement if you are in one of these occupations.

Survival instructor: Survival instructors guide groups into vast, natural areas, and assist them in a self-directed instruction of basic survival needs without any comfort facilities or modern gear to fall back on. They coach the participants into mastering survival skills such as fire making, producing primitive equipment, shelter construction and procurement of water and nourishment. They ensure the participants are aware of certain safety measures without diminishing the level of adventure, of environment protection and of risk management. They encourage efforts of leadership from the group and mentor the participants individually so as to push their limits responsibly and help overcome potential fears.

 


 

References

  1. Animal evolution – ESCO

 

Last updated on September 20, 2022