Joan Procter was a pioneering British zoologist and herpetologist whose contributions significantly advanced the understanding and care of reptiles and amphibians in the early 20th century. Born in 1897, she emerged as a prominent female figure in a scientific field largely dominated by men.
A Life Dedicated to Herpetology
Joan Procter’s fascination with reptiles and amphibians began in her childhood, as she kept various snakes and lizards as pets from the age of ten. Her early interest deepened when she acquired a young crocodile at 16, even taking it to school. Although chronic illness prevented her from attending university, her passion for zoology led her to pursue self-study.
Her self-driven studies caught the attention of George Boulenger, the Keeper of Reptiles and Fishes at the British Museum (Natural History), who became her mentor. In 1916, at age 19, she became his assistant and presented her first scientific paper to the Zoological Society of London, focusing on variations of pit viper snakes. Upon Boulenger’s retirement in 1920, Procter took charge of the museum’s reptile collection, undertaking extensive taxonomic work. She was recognized for her taxonomic contributions by being elected a Fellow of the Linnean Society of London.
Architect of the Reptile House and Komodo Dragon Care
In 1923, Joan Procter became the first female Curator of Reptiles at the London Zoo. She played a central role in the design and management of the new Reptile House, which opened in 1927. This facility was one of the most sophisticated of its kind, incorporating innovative features such as “Vita-glass” to allow natural ultraviolet light, crucial for reptile health. The design also included differentiated heating to create basking spots and an “aquarium-principle” lighting system that kept visitor areas dim while highlighting the animal exhibits.
Procter’s deep understanding of reptile needs informed every aspect of the Reptile House, from specialized rock formations and pools to the use of car enamel for easily cleaned wall backgrounds. Her practical impact extended to the arrival of the first two live Komodo dragons in Europe, named Sumba and Sumbawa, at the London Zoo in 1927. She established a remarkable bond with these animals, particularly Sumbawa, who would often accompany her on walks around the Reptile House. Procter was the first to document the behavior of Komodo dragons in captivity. Her work with these large reptiles, including handling pythons and crocodiles, helped challenge the perception of these animals as solely dangerous predators.