What is a specific skill you use at work?
Ask a Biologist Monday 2/6/23
Answers from Biologists:
Navigating even when collecting data-staying oriented is crucial.
Noticing changes in weather patterns so I don’t get stuck in a storm.
Memorization.
Plant ID.
Drawing blood from wiggly fish.
Identifying any animal in infrared imagery.
Listening for minor noise, such as leaves shuffling, to be aware of animals around me.
PIT tagging.
Using taxonomic keys in the lab/field.
Coding in R and Python for data analysis and mapping.
Public speaking.
Knot tying.
Tracking and patience.
Driving on terrible roads.
Determining age via molt patterns using UV light on owls.
Photo ID of trail camera photos.
Dissecting insects and removing various organs.
Arts and crafts. Making gear out of dollar store supplies.
Basics of taxidermy.
Estimating bird age based on feather type and wear.
Cooking good meals in the field.
Judging distance of sounds (such as owl calls).
Flying a small drone.
Species identification by sound.
DNA extraction and genotyping.
Technical/scientific writing.
Estimating the weight of animals through visual observations.
Identifying sea turtle species nests by tracks.
Forensic botany (looking at old dried up plants and figuring out species).
Animal tracking.
Not puking/feeling sick when spinning circles in a tiny twin prop plane.
Transmitter implantation surgery.
Using tire chains/driving in unplowed snow.
Radio telemetry.
Spotting lizards by their eyeshine.
Riding ATVs/ATV maintenance.
Boat/trailer maintenance.
Snow shoeing/riding snowmobiles/snowmobile maintenance.
Giving scientific presentations.