Interview with Anton Baotic
Until now, Anton has had the opportunity to travel the world, collaborate with numerous partners on common aims, and, most importantly, work scientifically with exotic animals in zoos and the wild.
Written By: Mariana, a Junior Giraffe Club member
Anton Baotic is a biologist and animal researcher and spent the last twelve years successfully managing and leading international zoo and wildlife research. His core areas of expertise are bioacoustics, animal behavior, and animal cognition. Anton’s research interests primarily focus on vocal production mechanisms and acoustic communication in mammals, with an emphasis on determining the information content and biological importance of vocalizations. Anton has always had a love and passion for nature and wildlife, and he knew from a young age that he would have to pursue a career and surround himself with things that make him happy and feel complete, even if it meant overcoming obstacles and going the extra mile.
Junior Giraffe Club member Mariana asked Anton questions about his research in bioacoustics, his career, and more:
1. What initially sparked your interest in biology, and more specifically, your work in bioacoustics?
My fascination with biology and, in particular, my journey into the field of bioacoustics was sparked by a combination of curiosity and a love for wildlife and the natural world. From a young age, I had a deep appreciation for animals and nature. I was that child who would spend hours exploring the outdoors, observing birds, insects, and other wildlife. I was captivated by the diversity of life on our planet.
When I first started studying biology, I didn’t even know about the field of bioacoustics. It was during a practical course at the Vienna Zoo that I got introduced to this exciting area of research. In that course, I was assigned a task to record sounds made by different animals at the zoo. It was a hands-on experience, and I had no idea how it would change my life. As I listened to the sounds and analyzed them, I was fascinated by how animals communicate through sound. That moment was a game-changer for me. It showed me the incredible world of bioacoustics, where biology and sound come together. From then on, I was determined to explore this field further. It was an unexpected discovery that led me to where I am today, studying how animals use sound to communicate, navigate through their life, and understanding more about the natural world.
2. What is a memorable moment or breakthrough that has impacted your career, or perhaps changed your view of your passion?
One of the most important moments in my career happened when I first went to South Africa for acoustic research on African elephants. It was an incredible experience to see wild and free-roaming elephants that changed how I felt about my work. I remember a specific moment during that trip when I was listening to the rumbles of elephants communicating. It was like a lightbulb went off in my head. I realized how amazing it was to study the sounds animals make and how it can help us understand them better. That experience made me love my work even more, and it showed me that what I was doing could make a real difference in protecting these amazing creatures and their homes. It was in South Africa that I truly fell in love with my field of bioacoustics, and it set me on a path that I continue to follow with passion.
3. Who is someone that you look up to or has inspired you, and how have they played a significant role in the scientist you are today?
I didn’t have one specific person who inspired me. Instead, I’ve been inspired by many scientists and the incredible work they do. I admire those who make important discoveries and never give up, even when things get tough. Being part of the scientific community, with its spirit of cooperation and curiosity, has also been a big source of inspiration for me. So, it’s not just one person but many people and the scientific world as a whole that have shaped me as a scientist.
4. Has there ever been a moment in your career where you have questioned your choice of studies, and how did you overcome these challenges/doubts?
Yes, there were times in my career when I wondered if I had made the right choice in my studies. Doing scientific research can be tough, with lots of problems and doubts that can make you question your path. But it’s important to know that these moments of uncertainty are common and can actually help you grow. One significant moment of doubt happened during my master research project I did on infant giant panda vocal communication. It was a really tough research project that kept hitting roadblocks going to China to collect data. At this time, I started to question if I had picked the right field of study if my research was important, and if I had the skills to make a real impact in science. But with hard work, I eventually made it to a giant panda research and breeding facility in China, collected my data, and even published two scientific publications out of my master’s thesis. I was very proud of myself.
5. What is one piece of advice you could give a young scientist who is starting their journey into this field?
One valuable piece of advice I’d like to offer to a young scientist embarking on their journey in any field is to stay curious and persistent. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and explore the unknown. Some of the most groundbreaking discoveries come from those who never stop wondering “why” and “how”.
Remember that setbacks and obstacles are a natural part of the scientific journey. There will be moments when experiments fail and progress seems slow. But they help you to grow and to succeed. Lastly, always believe in your potential. If you put your mind to it, you can achieve anything you want! This is the reason what led me to my giraffe research. I never gave up!
Learn more about Anton Baotic and his research project, Giraffe Out Loud, at: antonbaotic.com