Mississippi News

Wildlife biologists navigate dangerous encounters in fieldwork

Wildlife biologists working outdoors may encounter potentially dangerous animals, including alligators, snapping turtles and venomous snakes, according to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks.

The biologists may handle the animals while conducting research, collecting data or helping resolve conflicts between people and wildlife. The work requires knowledge, experience, calm nerves and respect for wildlife, the department said.

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The department said each interaction is conducted with both human safety and animal welfare in mind.

Source: Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks.

Jon Myers

Jon Ross Myers founded Mississippi News Group in 2013. Before founding the organization, he worked at The Daily Mississippian, The Marion Salute and The Southern Sentinel. A Mississippi journalist and writer based in Ripley, he received second place in poetry in the 2025 William Faulkner Literary Competition for "The Garden."