Romulus Whitaker – Serpentine World

Smithsonian Associates, Interview Series

 

Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Inside Science Series, I’m Paul Vogelzang and this is episode #362.

When human and venomous snake habitats connect, the results are often lethal. Snakebites, according to acclaimed herpetologist Romulus Whitaker, have become a complex problem, earning the designation of a Category A “Neglected Tropical Disease” from the World Health Organization.

As part of our Smithsonian Associates Inside Science & Technology series, we are joined today by Herpetologist, scientist, and Emmy award winner Romulus Whitaker.  Rom Whitaker who lives in India, has been recognized for his many herpetological and conservation endeavors, including founding India’s Madras Crocodile Bank. He won an Emmy Award for his 1996 National Geographic documentary, King Cobra, about the world’s largest venomous snake. Also, he received a Rolex Award for Enterprise in 2008 for establishing 2 field stations in the rainforests of South India and the Andaman Islands.

Join me for a fascinating discussion about his work on snakebite mitigation, India’s iconic snakes, and his ongoing efforts to preserve reptile habitats. Little wonder a species of Indian boa, Eryx whitakeri, was named in his honor.

Please welcome to The Not Old Better Show, via internet phone, herpetologist, scientist, educator, Romulus Whitaker.

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