Zoology (also known as animal biology) is the study of animals. It covers a wide range of topics from the structure and function of molecules, cells, tissues and organs to the ecology and behavior of animals. Zoologists use a variety of techniques to study animals, including field work, laboratory work, behavioral observations and controlled experiments.
The history of zoology can be traced back to the ancient Greeks, who made detailed observations of nature. Aristotle was one of the first scientists to systematically study animals, and his writings on zoology were very influential for many centuries. In modern times, zoology has become increasingly specialized, with different researchers focusing on different groups of animals or specific aspects of animal biology.
There are many different branches of zoology, including ethology (the study of animal behavior), evolutionary biology (the study of how species have evolved over time), physiology (the study of how animals function), ecology (the study how animals interact with their environment) and taxonomy (the classification of living things). Zoologists may specialize in any one or more these areas.
Most zoologists work in research institutions such as universities or museums. They may also work in zoos or wildlife parks, where they conduct research on the care and breeding of captive animals. Some zoologists may also find employment in government agencies or private companies that are involved in environmental protection or resource management.