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.

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