Братья из Литтл-Рок стали первыми в штате Арканзас, получившими награду за исследования змей

Little Rock brothers win big award for snake love, and bring one along LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KATV) — If you ever needed proof that science can start with simple curiosity (and maybe a few mice for dinner), two brothers from Pulaski County are showing just how far a love of snakes can take you. Eamon and Girvan Donagher recently earned a major honor through the International Herpetological Symposium, becoming the first in Arkansas to win the award. The symposium brings together “scientists, researchers, and people who just love reptiles and amphibians,” Girvan said. This year’s event was held in Rodeo, New Mexico. To compete, the brothers had to write a paper focused on a snake. Girvan explained that the topic could have covered a snake’s natural history or herpetoculture, “which is like keeping it in captivity.” The brothers’ interest in snakes isn’t new. “So really we’ve been into snakes our whole life,” Eamon said. “I can’t think of a moment that I can pinpoint it to where we really got into them. It’s just a passion that has grown over years and years.” They also spend plenty of time around snakes up close. During the interview, Girvan introduced a few of their scaly “friends,” including two eastern coachwhips — one a “purplish-reddish” variation and the other with “the standard coloration.” He also brought along a western rat snake, describing her as his personal pet: “She’s my personal snake, and I love her very much.” Asked what it felt like to receive recognition for their work, one brother kept it simple: “It felt good.” He added, “Yeah, it it really felt great to be able to go down there.” The trip to New Mexico came with memorable moments beyond the award itself. Eamon said his favorite part was finding “this really cool snake called the Sonoran coral snake,” adding that many people were hoping to spot one and “we were lucky enough to.” Girvan said his highlight was meeting longtime reptile and amphibian enthusiasts, including people who had been involved for “50-plus years,” calling it “an awe-inspiring experience.” Both brothers said they’re serious about a future in science. “Yes, ma’am. Yeah. It’s definitely going to be in the 100%,” Girvan said adding, “I’ve always wanted to go into science. I’ve known it for a while now.” They also had advice for anyone who’s nervous around snakes, pointing to educational resources and opportunities to learn in person. Girvan noted “a new field guide” that will be published and said there are reptile shows in Arkansas “every couple months.” He encouraged people to attend, see the animals up close and talk with knowledgeable handlers. “Like people they’re just misunderstood animals,” he said, adding that learning from people who know snakes makes it easier to understand them. Eamon also mentioned Facebook groups that can help people identify snakes (Central Arkansas Herpetological Society, Arkansas Reptile lounge, and DrewWild). As for the big fear that snakes are out to get people, Girvan pushed back on that idea. “So people think snakes are like they attack you. They don’t,” he said. “They’ll try — they want to get away as much as possible.” He said if someone picks up a snake, it can quickly learn the person isn’t a threat, “and then they just chill out.” The brothers said their snakes eat mice, and in the wild some also prey on lizards. They also noted that certain snakes are known for getting into chicken coops, not for the chickens, but for the eggs. “No, they love they love the eggs,” Girvan said. Behind the scenes, the brothers say their family has been a big part of their success. “It’s really cool,” Girvan said. “Our parents are both really support us doing this, and we’re really grateful to that.” He said he spends weekends out looking for snakes for much of the day, and his mom is often right there with them.