Edward Hallowell (herpetologist) facts for kids

Edward Hallowell (1808 – February 20, 1860) was an American scientist. He was a doctor and a herpetologist. A herpetologist is a scientist who studies reptiles and amphibians like snakes, lizards, and frogs.

Edward Hallowell: Doctor and Reptile Expert

Edward Hallowell lived in Philadelphia, USA. He studied to become a doctor and practiced medicine there. Besides his work as a physician, he was also a very famous herpetologist. He spent a lot of time studying different kinds of reptiles.

Discovering New Animals

As a herpetologist, Edward Hallowell was very good at finding and describing new species. He officially described 61 new species of reptiles. This means he was the first scientist to give them a scientific name and describe their features. His work helped other scientists learn more about the amazing variety of life on Earth.

In 1851, Hallowell was chosen to be a member of the American Philosophical Society. This is a very old and respected group of important thinkers and scientists in America. Being elected was a great honor for his scientific contributions.

Honored in Science

Edward Hallowell's important work is remembered even today. Two different species of frogs are named after him. They are called Hyla hallowellii and Leptodactylus hallowelli. Naming species after scientists is a way to honor their contributions to understanding the natural world.