Surprising Ways Scientists Study Snakes

Snakes have a reputation, but do they really deserve it? Conservation Biologist Sam Wynns is here to separate fact from fiction and take you behind the scenes of snake research! In this video, Sam explains how scientists safely study snakes using special traps—no harm, just science. We’ll track data like their size, weight, and health to help protect and conserve these incredible reptiles. Snake research helps us understand and conserve species while breaking common misconceptions about them!

Meet the women changing the face of STEM! The IF/THEN Collection, now proudly housed at the Museum of Science, Boston, is the world’s largest free digital library showcasing real, contemporary women in science, technology, engineering, and math. From groundbreaking researchers to space explorers, these role models prove that if she can see it, she can be it. Explore videos featuring behind-the-scenes interviews, and hands-on STEM inspiration for students, educators, and lifelong learners.

This project is funded by Lyda Hill Philanthropies.

Biologist Samantha Wynns has always been a nature geek. Growing up on the outskirts of Yellowstone National Park, she spent her summers hiking mountains, rafting rivers, and observing the wild. Sam knew from an early age that she wanted to study and protect these beautiful places and the creatures that live in them. She is a conservation biologist that both does science and communicates science. Sam now proudly works with the National Park Service at Cabrillo National Monument where she wears many hats: gathering data as a field biologist, educating youth and the public as a science educator, and bringing the Parks-to-the-People with community outreach. During any given day she can be found wrangling snakes (gently and respectfully, of course), leading a STEM summer camp for underserved girls, or giving scientific lectures out in the community. In every role, Sam’s goal is to illuminate and inspire a passion for STEM and a commitment to environmental stewardship. She, her husband, two rescue cats, and a very friendly parrot live in beautiful San Diego, California.

See the full IF/THEN Collection.