Reptile Conservation and Water Issues

Romulus Whitaker discusses his lifelong passion for reptiles, focusing on the conservation of king cobras and gharials. He highlights the ecological importance of these species and the challenges they face due to human activities. Whitaker emphasizes the need for conservation efforts and the role of technology in understanding these creatures. He concludes with a call to action for protecting water sources and wildlife.

What does the speaker ask the audience to set aside at the beginning of the talk?

• Their love for reptiles

• Their preconceived fears and thoughts about reptiles

• Their interest in reptiles

• Their knowledge about reptiles

Which two reptiles captivated the speaker during his childhood?

• Gharial and king cobra

• Komodo dragon and anaconda

• Python and iguana

• Alligator and rattlesnake

What unique behavior does the female king cobra exhibit?

• Building a nest with leaves

• Hunting in packs

• Changing color

• Flying short distances

What is the primary diet of the king cobra?

• Fish

• Snakes

• Birds

• Insects

What is the purpose of inserting radio transmitters in king cobras?

• To monitor their health

• To prevent them from entering human habitats

• To follow their movements and learn their secrets

• To track their migration patterns

What is the significance of the king cobra in the rainforest ecosystem?

• It is the most colorful species

• It is the largest predator

• It is a keystone species

• It is the fastest animal

What was the main cause of the gharial die-off in the Chambal River?

• Climate change

• Overfishing

• A mysterious toxin in the food chain

• Habitat destruction

What is the primary diet of the gharial?

• Insects

• Birds

• Fish

• Mammals

What is the main threat to the Ganges river dolphin?

• Climate change

• Pollution and fishing pressures

• Lack of food

• Predation by larger animals

What does the speaker suggest is necessary to restore the health of rivers?

• Increased industrial activity

• More dams and barrages

• Collective action from various groups

• Complete government control