Joan Beauchamp Procter

Joan Procter
Born
Joan Beauchamp Procter

(1897-08-05)5 August 1897
Died20 September 1931(1931-09-20) (aged 34)
St Mark's House, St Mark's Square, London
Known for
  • Extensive taxonomic work on reptiles and amphibians
  • Pioneering work in care and display of zoo animals
  • Early research on Komodo dragons in captivity
AwardsHonorary Doctor of Science (1931), University of Chicago
Scientific career
FieldsHerpetology
InstitutionsBritish Museum (Natural History)
Zoological Society of London
Academic advisorsGeorge Albert Boulenger
Edward George Boulenger
Peter Chalmers Mitchell

Joan Beauchamp Procter FZS FLS (5 August 1897 – 20 September 1931) was a notable British zoologist, internationally recognised as an outstanding herpetologist. She worked initially at the British Museum (Natural History) and later for the Zoological Society of London, as the first female Curator of Reptiles at London Zoo. Her short life was afflicted by chronic ill-health, but she undertook substantial taxonomic work and made significant innovative contributions to veterinary practice and zoo displays. She also wrote scientific and popular zoological articles, including early accounts of the behaviour of captive Komodo dragons.