Nature Conservator

A nature conservator manages and utilizes animals and plants in order to ensure the survival of all species, and transfer surplus animals to prevent overpopulation and overgrazing.

Job Characteristics

• Gathering information for research and other purposes.



• Assisting in the management of field stations and game reserves.



• Undertaking patrols, round-ups and ambushes for exhibits.



• Catching and transporting game for resettlement.



• Maintaining and equipping game reserves.



• Delivering technical assistance to nature-conservation researchers.

Requirements
 
Secondary Education
Possession of at least a HIGCSE Grade 12, or equivalent qualification, with matriculation exemption is required to be admitted to a South African university. A HIGCSE or outstanding IGCSE Grade 12, or equivalent qualification, is needed to be accepted by a South African technikon.

For studies at UNAM or the Polytechnic, candidates must have at least passed five subjects on IGCSE/HIGCSE level and have obtained a minimum score of 25 points on UNAM’s or the Polytechnic’s point evaluation scale. Candidates wishing to enrol at the Polytechnic will also be subjected to an additional screening process, encompassing a week of practical exercises and tests.
 
Compulsory subjects
Mathematics and Biology (South Africa)
Biology, Mathematics and Chemistry or Physical Science (UNAM)
Biology or Biology-related subject (Polytechnic)

Recommended subject
A third language (South Africa)
 
Tertiary Education
A B. Sc. Forestry Science degree can be obtained at the University of Stellenbosch. The University of Pretoria offers a B. Sc. (Hons) in Nature Conservation, and a B. Sc. (Hons) in Wildlife Management. A. B. Sc. Agriculture degree, will also provide good basic training for those who want to pursue a career in conservation management.

UNAM offers a four-year B. Sc. degree in Rural Resources and Conservation (Wildlife Ecology and Management)
 
Most South African technikons offer a N. Dip.: Nature Conservation. The Polytechnic of Namibia offers a N. Dip.: Natural Resources Management (Nature Conservation).

Personality
Prospective nature conservators should have an interest in nature, be willing to work in different weather conditions, be healthy and have self-discipline and perseverance for dull, routine and unpleasant tasks, such as the culling of animals.

Work Opportunities
The Ministry of Environment and Tourism offers employment for nature conservators. Private ranches or farms also employ professional and experienced people.

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