Did you know there are 38 big cat species around the world?
The term ‘big cat’ covers a variety of sub-species including tigers, panthers, leopards, jaguars, snow leopards, margays, and more! With such a vast range of these majestic creatures to work with, it’s hard to pick a favourite! Thankfully for you, you don’t have to choose. There are a range of ‘big cat careers’ which involve working with multiple big cat species in one job.
Working with big cats gives us the opportunity to make a real difference in improving the lives of these animals – many of whom are sadly endangered due to human expansion into their natural habitats. Working with big cats also includes helping combat the number of captive big cats held around the world in poor conditions. These cats are kept against their will in unnatural environments for exploitation by humans. Thankfully, there is a growing number of sanctuaries and zoos where big cats can find peace and rehabilitation – there are likely to be several conservation and zoology roles available within these.
What Does a Big Cat Career Involve?
A career with big cats will likely involve a lot of task variety day-to-day. The main priority when dealing with big cats is to make sure anything you are doing is enriching the lives of these precious animals. This could include things like feeding, cleaning, research, habitat/enclosure maintenance, monitoring, recording, providing pain relief/ assisting injuries, data collection, and more. The exact tasks required will vary hugely depending on the particular big cat job role you are undertaking.
Typical job roles that will involve work with big cats include:
- Big Cat Conservationist
- Wildlife Vet Assistant
- Big Cat Photographer
- Zookeeper
- Zoologist
- Big Cat Safari Guide
- Big Cat Educator
- Big Cat Conservation Campaigner
How Can I Get Started on a Career with Big Cats?
Volunteer
Volunteering is the perfect way to get started – combine both practical experience with a passion for big cats and you will be well on your way to gaining employment in a big cat role afterwards. Volunteering opportunities are available in the UK or abroad, so think about which you might prefer, although there will be a larger variety of training outside of the UK, such as in Africa and Asia. Volunteer opportunities further afield will give you a better opportunity to help animals in their natural environments.
Get Learning
Brushing up on your skills is a fantastic way to boost your employability by demonstrating to future employers that you know your stuff when it comes to big cats. Why not check out Animal Courses Direct? Our Level 3 Award in Carnivore Studies: Big Cats is the perfect course to bring you up to scratch on all things big cat related! It’s made up of comprehensive units covering the diversity of big cats and the principles of carnivore care and conservation.
Keep Your Eyes Peeled for Opportunities
Big cat job opportunities will come in lots of different shapes and sizes, so it’s important to keep your eyes peeled as to where you can look out for possible jobs. You may like to check out our Careers with Cats Page for more information on how to work with big cats and other feline species.
Enrol on a Big Cat Course Today!
If you're ready to take the next step towards a big cat career, our online big cat course can help you get the knowledge you need. Find out more now by speaking with our Course Advisors on 01202 006 040 or by contacting them online. Or simply click below to see the course in more detail!
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