Texas Wildlife Science

The diversity of wildlife species in Texas is awe-inspiring. Majestic white-tailed deer bucks, intimidating alligators, and adorable baby quail capture the imagination. The field of wildlife science may seem romantic and rewarding, conjuring National Geographic images of biologists in stunning wild places sometimes facing down danger to study and protect these fascinating creatures. However, wildlife science encompasses much more than chasing down charismatic wild animals. It involves understanding complex, sometimes messy, ecosystems and working to conserve and manage species and their habitats in complex, sometimes messy social settings. Effective wildlife scientists must have a grasp of biology, policy, education, marketing, and a host of other tools. And in Texas, effective wildlife scientists must be able to build bridges of partnership with private landowners who provide much of the habitat that wildlife needs.