All are great questions and as a professional herp. like Bryan, but doing very different things, I thought I would share my answers with you:
1.why and how did you get involved in herpetology? I have been living/breathing/sleeping/dreaming/obsessed with reptiles since I was 4 years old...my parents knew I was destined for a career in herpetology someday. I earned a bachelors degree, a masters degree and, Lord willing, a PhD in the near future....all with a focus on the biological sciences and specifically, herpetology. I have always been actively involved with my local herpetological society and networked with many folks from around the world. Once again, this is a passion and with passion, comes the desire to work harder than anyone else in order to meet ones life goals.
2.Is herpetology for everyone? NO WAY!....unless you are someone like myself who basically has reptiles on the mind 24/7! Thankfully, I have a very understanding wife and two daughters that this career has allowed me to support.
3.name some of the academic courses needed to be a herpetologist
In the U.S. you will first complete a B.S. degree in biology and from there, complete a M.S. degree in biology/zoology while beginning to take some (or one) concentrated course in herpetology. During this time you will have an opportunity to get involved with some baseline herp research depending on the school that you go to. Of course, you will need to do well in physics, math, chemistry while also mastering communication skills (including writing...one of the most critical components to being successful in this career).
4.what is the average income you make in a year?
If you are worried about the money, don't become a herpetologist! Seriously, the money should never be the reason why you pursue this career....BUT, this field has been VERY good to me and I make a great living at doing what I truly LOVE to do. Some full time positions pay for room and board while you are completing some research project while others, like mine, pay a very nice salary (close to 6 digits) with full health benefits, retirement packages, and many more perks...it really is a dream job but there are few like this one. Many herp positions are funded by grants and once the grant is up, you are looking for a new research endeavor. There are MANY avenues to pursue in this field: venom research, acadamia (teaching at the college level which I do part time in addition to my full time curator position and absolutely LOVE IT), zoological parks, private facilities, herpetoculture, research, etc.
Good luck! Rob
Rob Carmichael, Curator
The Wildlife Discovery Center at Elawa Farm
City of Lake Forest Parks & Recreation (IL)
www.cityoflakeforest.com
847-615-4388
