Venom, Conservation and Connection with Dr Christina Zdenek

Dr Christina Zdenek, a world-class biologist and science communicator whose mission is clear: to repair the relationship between humans and wildlife. From venomous snakes to endangered parrots, Christina has led conservation projects across Australia and beyond, including groundbreaking work on Palm Cockatoos, Death Adders, and even research into how people perceive snakes.

She’s the mind behind global initiatives like "Under the Snakefluence" and "Beyond the Bite", and the driving force behind some of the most innovative science communication in Australia, from ABC's Top Five Scientists to her ambassadorship with Inspiring Australia.

Whether she’s tracking tool-using parrots with Indigenous communities, testing antivenoms, or leading workshops on safely handling venomous snakes, Christina blends fearless fieldwork with heartfelt advocacy.

In this episode, you will learn:

• Human-Snake Conflict: Unseen Interactions Shape Perceptions.
• Venom's Medical Use: Surprising disease diagnosis and treatment.
• Snakes as life symbols vs. fear icons.
• Palm Cockatoo Drumming: Unique behaviour in social and territorial roles.

Timestamps

00:21 Introduction to Episode

00:56 Guest Introduction: Dr Christina Zdenek

01:43 Cristina's Welcome and Background

03:42 Human-Wildlife Interaction

06:19 Snake Venom Research

09:56 Health and Snakes Connection

21:01 Global Survey on Human Perceptions of Snakes

27:31 Palm Cockatoo and Conservation

34:45 Data to Policy Impact

38:46 Ecological Grief and Conservation

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Reference link

https://cnzdenek.wixsite.com/cnzdenek