Austin Hobart Clark was born on December 17, 1880, in Massachusetts. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in the natural world, spending hours exploring the forests and fields near his home.
After graduating from Harvard University, Clark's passion for zoology only grew stronger. He knew that he wanted to dedicate his life to studying and documenting the fascinating diversity of animal life on Earth.
Clark's dream became a reality when he landed a position at the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of Natural History. Over the course of several decades, he made significant contributions to the field of zoology.
One of Clark's most prominent achievements was his theory of zoogenesis, which he detailed in his 1930 scientific work, The New Evolution: Zoogenesis. This groundbreaking theory challenged existing ideas about the origins and evolution of species, sparking much debate and discussion among his colleagues in the scientific community.
Clark's expertise in zoology led him to identify and classify numerous species, including the Mulga Parrot and the Lesser Antillean Macaw. His meticulous research and attention to detail earned him a reputation as a leading authority in the field.
Outside of his work, Clark was a devoted family man. He was married twice, first to Mary Wendell Upham, with whom he had five children. After Upham's passing, Clark found love again with Leila Gay Forbes, whom he married later in life.
Austin Hobart Clark's legacy continues to inspire and influence generations of scientists and researchers in the field of zoology. His groundbreaking work in zoogenesis and species classification has left an indelible mark on the scientific community, ensuring that his contributions will be remembered for years to come.