What is herpetology? Herpetology (Greek herpeton — to creep, to ramp and logos — word) is the branch of zoology concerned with the study of reptiles and amphibians. Apart from being an intrinsically interesting area of study in its own right, herpetology offers benefits to humanity in the study of the role of amphibians and reptiles in global ecology. Particularly in the role of amphibians as long-range ecological warning devices (their decline worldwide is the subject of much study) and the use of the toxins of some amphibians and venoms of some snakes in human medicine.

An unusual choice and an interesting one. But you must have a strong desire to study those creepy crawlies. The road to a career in herpetology is not smooth — but once you begin, its hypnotic

What do herpetologists do?
Most herpetologists do research on amphibians and reptiles. The results of their research are published in scientific journals and books. Herpetologists may work in zoos or for wildlife agencies, do environmental assessments, teach, or care for museum collections. Some herpetologists work as writers, photographers, or animal breeders.

The specific training required for a career in herpetology varies according to one's goals. In virtually all cases a bachelor of arts or a bachelor of science degree with a major in biology is required.

But if you are seriously interested in pursuing herpetology as a career you might want to attend a college that also offers a course in herpetology (or at least in natural history or vertebrate zoology) and has one or more faculty members conducting herpetological research.

Nevertheless, many graduates can obtain jobs in museums or zoos working with exhibits and live animals and dealing with the public. Others work in research laboratories assisting investigators with their projects or certain large companies as environmental specialists; a knowledge of herpetology can be particularly useful in these positions.

Informal Education
If your drive is strong enough you can actually teach yourself about snakes. In fact, many well known snake experts in India are self taught 'non-scientists'. Read all of the books and articles you can find about these animals. Becoming an active member of a regional herpetological society is a good way to meet others with common interests. Going out to search for amphibians and reptiles is an excellent way to sharpen observation and note-taking skills. Record your field observations of amphibians and reptiles carefully in permanent field books. Learn how to take good photographs of animals and their habitats.

Another way to test your interest is to join a local conservation/ public education organisation and participate in their activities. Pune and Chennai have well established Snake Parks that are always looking for dedicated voluteers to assist them in their conservation and education efforts.

The main thing is — if you want to be a herpetologist, try it! The study of animal biology can be of continuing interest and challenge for the rest of your life. And it will serve you well no matter what career you ultimately choose.