Knowing the population development and distribution patterns of wildlife resources is key to maintaining natural ecological balance and biodiversity in human-impacted ecosystems, which needs regular investigations. However, most investigations are performed artificially in vast natural reserves covering thousands of square kilometers, which is inefficient and inaccurate, especially in dangerous or inaccessible terrains. Here, we propose a wheel-rotor hybrid robot for wildlife investigations as an aid to assist investigators. In combination with wheels and rotors, the robot achieves land and flight amphibious abilities to adapt to complex terrains. The land mode enables the robot to operate for long periods and get close to targets, while the flight mode allows it to cross impassable terrains. The robot is equipped with multiple sensors, improving the investigation’s efficiency. A field test in Helan Mountain of China verifies the robot’s capability, showing excellent performance beyond traditional investigation and representing an advance for prolonged wildlife monitoring.