Cold-Blooded Curiosities: A Dive into Herpetology

Welcome to Deep Dives and Drafts! If you're new, please check out our group page to learn more about us here.

From ancient serpent gods to modern antivenom, reptiles have slithered through human history as objects of fear, reverence, exploitation, and scientific fascination. This month, we’re diving into herpetology—the study of reptiles and amphibians—through multiple lenses: biology, medicine, mythology, and environmental ethics.

Some topics we might explore:

Herpetology 101

• What defines reptiles and amphibians, shared phenotypic traits, evolutionary context, and major lineages.
• Show & Tell: For anyone interested, pick a reptile or amphibian you find fascinating and give a brief, informal introduction to the group.

Biomedical Sciences

• Venom vs. poison, biomedical applications, and major scientific and medical breakthroughs driven by the study of reptiles and amphibians.

Conservation & Exploitation

• Endangered and invasive species, habitat loss, and the wildlife trade—including pets, fashion, skins, and luxury goods.

Reptiles in Mythology & Culture

• Reptiles as symbols of healing, rebirth, danger, and power. Dragons as the ultimate reptilian myth—villains in the West, wisdom in the East.

Resources coming soon (there are so many... recommendations appreciated!)

How does this group work?

Each month or two we will select a topic to explore. The meetup will be anchored by a set of recommended readings, podcasts, or other media intended to provide theoretical context and a foundation for discourse. Our aim is to foster intellectual engagement, thoughtful dialogue, and collective learning.
Meetups will be in public spaces where folks can order food and beverages if they wish.