Archive · 17 Jan 2026
Romulus Whitaker: India's Snakeman and Conservationist
Romulus Whitaker, known as the 'Snakeman of India,' has spent his life studying and protecting snakes.
As a child, he loved watching ants and later discovered his passion for snakes.
He started the Madras Snake Park and the Madras Crocodile Bank, and he has worked to save lives by helping to produce antivenom.
Whitaker has also helped the Irula tribe, who are experts in catching snakes, to find a sustainable way to earn a living without harming snakes.
He has won many awards for his work and has even had two snake species named after him.
His latest book, 'Snakes, Drugs and Rock 'n' Roll: My Early Years,' tells the story of his early life and love for snakes.
Romulus Whitaker, known as the 'Snakeman of India,' has dedicated his life to herpetology and conservation.
He founded the Madras Snake Park in 1969 and the Madras Crocodile Bank in 1976, contributing significantly to reptile conservation.
Whitaker has authored six books and produced over 25 documentaries, including the Emmy-award-winning 'King Cobra.'
He played a crucial role in establishing the Irula Snake Catchers’ Co-operative, helping the Irula tribe transition from snake skin trade to venom extraction for antivenom production.
Two snake species, Eryx whitakeri and Bungarus romulusi, have been named in his honor, and he has received numerous awards, including the Padma Shri and the Rolex Award for Enterprise.
- Who
- Romulus Whitaker, an American-born herpetologist known as the 'Snakeman of India'
- What
- A profile of Whitaker's life, career, and contributions to herpetology and conservation
- When
- Throughout his life, with specific mentions of events from childhood to 2024
- Where
- India, particularly Chennai and Karnataka, with international experiences in the U.S., Papua New Guinea, Mozambique, Malaysia, Bangladesh, and Indonesia
- Why
- To highlight Whitaker's passion for snakes, his conservation efforts, and his impact on herpetology and snakebite management
- Full Name
- Romulus Whitaker
- Nickname
- Snakeman of India
- Age
- 82
- Notable Works
- Madras Snake Park, Madras Crocodile Bank, Agumbe Rainforest Research Station
- Awards
- Padma Shri, Rolex Award for Enterprise (twice), Emmy for King Cobra documentary
- Snake Species Named After Him
- Eryx whitakeri (Indian boa), Bungarus romulusi (krait)
- Annual Snakebite Deaths
- 81,410 to 137,880
- Irula Tribe's Contribution to Antivenom
- 80% of India's antivenom