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Snake TalkAuthor: Dr. Chris Jenkins
Faced with a world that instinctually persecutes snakes, Dr. Jenkins talks with the foremost experts on snake biology and conservation. The discussions range widely including topics such as snake ecology, snakebites, and captive breeding. All of the conversations have the same goal, to help the listener increase their knowledge and leave behind any irrational fears of snakes. Language: en Genres: Natural Sciences, Nature, Science Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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149 | Student Perspectives: Snake Research in South Africa
Episode 149
Friday, 6 February, 2026
Dr. Jenkins sits down with Shane Ngwenya, an aspiring herpetologist beginning graduate studies in South Africa. Shane reflects on his childhood as a herder, where encounters with snakes were once rooted in fear and conflict, and how a growing fascination with the natural world ultimately reshaped his perspective.That turning point came during a formative field course in Kruger National Park led by faculty including Bryan Maritz, a previous Snake Talk Podcast guest, whose mentorship helped inspire Shane’s path into herpetology. Shane discusses his honors research examining gecko communities across diverse habitat types and offers insight into the rich reptile and snake communities of Kruger. The episode also looks ahead to his upcoming graduate work, which will explore how elephant exclusion fences influence reptile habitat and community structure in protected landscapes.Connect with Shane at the University of the Western Cape.Looking to learn more? Check out Snake Talk 19 | Snakes of Africa with Dr. Bryan Maritz. Connect with Chris on Facebook, Instagram or at The Orianne Society.Shop Snake Talk merch.If you like what you’ve been hearing on this podcast, consider supporting The Orianne Society today.
