Cu Fu Ben Ditmars: The Daring Herpetologist and Pioneer of Wildlife Conservation

Cu'Fu?

by Ben Ditmars

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1194 KB
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Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	64 pages
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Paperback	:	645 pages
Item Weight	:	2.34 pounds
Dimensions	:	6 x 1.62 x 9 inches

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Cu Fu Ben Ditmars (1868-1943) was an American herpetologist, zoologist, and author who was known for his daring adventures in the field and his pioneering work in wildlife conservation. He was the first curator of reptiles and amphibians at the Bronx Zoo, and he played a major role in the establishment of the Reptile House at the New York Zoological Park.

Early Life and Career

Ditmars was born in New York City in 1868. He developed an interest in reptiles and amphibians at a young age, and he began collecting them as a child. He studied at the College of the City of New York and the New York University School of Medicine, but he left medical school to pursue his passion for herpetology.

In 1890, Ditmars was hired as an assistant herpetologist at the American Museum of Natural History. He quickly became one of the leading experts on reptiles and amphibians in the world, and he published numerous scientific papers on the subject.

Adventures in the Field

Ditmars was known for his daring adventures in the field. He traveled to remote parts of the world to collect specimens and study reptiles and amphibians in their natural habitats.

One of Ditmars' most famous adventures was his expedition to the Amazon rainforest in 1909. He spent several months collecting specimens and studying the local wildlife. He also captured a live anaconda, which he brought back to the United States and exhibited at the Bronx Zoo.

Ditmars also traveled to Africa, Asia, and Australia to collect specimens and study reptiles and amphibians. He was one of the first scientists to study the Komodo dragon in its natural habitat.

Wildlife Conservation

Ditmars was a pioneer in the field of wildlife conservation. He was one of the first scientists to advocate for the protection of endangered species.

In 1916, Ditmars founded the New York Zoological Society's Department of Conservation. He also served as the president of the American Society of Mammalogists and the Ecological Society of America.

Ditmars' work helped to raise awareness of the importance of wildlife conservation. He played a major role in the establishment of several national parks and wildlife refuges.

Legacy

Cu Fu Ben Ditmars is considered to be one of the most important herpetologists of the 20th century. He made significant contributions to the field of herpetology, and he played a major role in the development of wildlife conservation in the United States.

Ditmars' legacy lives on through his writings, his collections, and the many students and colleagues who he inspired. He is remembered as a daring adventurer, a brilliant scientist, and a passionate advocate for wildlife conservation.

References

• Ditmars, R. L. (1939). The Reptiles of North America. New York: Doubleday.
• Ditmars, R. L. (1943). Snakes of the World. New York: Macmillan.
• Ditmars, R. L. (1951). The Thrills of a Naturalist's Quest. New York: Macmillan.
• Ditmars, R. L. (1966). The Making of a Scientist. New York: Dodd, Mead & Company.

Cu'Fu?

by Ben Ditmars

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1194 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	64 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	645 pages
Item Weight	:	2.34 pounds
Dimensions	:	6 x 1.62 x 9 inches

FREE