From hunter to guardian: How the ‘Snakeman of India' found his way into wildlife conservation

Moving from the US to India as a child in the 1950s was a dream come true for Romulus Whitaker. Known as the “Snakeman of India,” Whitaker has dedicated over six decades to reptile research and conservation. He has written books on snakes, initiated an anti-venom program, and established wildlife research stations in the country. Whitaker’s current focus is educating Indians on snake protection as part of a national campaign. He recently released the first volume of his memoir titled “Snakes, Drugs and Rock ’n’ Roll: My Early Years.”