R. C. Punnett was instrumental in introducing the field of genetics to lay audiences, especially to commercial breeders of livestock. His contributions significantly advanced knowledge of the genetics of fowl, ducks, rabbits, sweet pea plants, and humans; his research served as the foundation for poultry genetics for decades. Punnett was among the pioneering investigators who helped revolutionize scientific thought in the field of genetics after the rediscovery of Gregor Mendel 's work with genetics and heredity.

Reginald Crundall Punnett, the eldest of three children, was born at Tonbridge in Kent, England, to George Punnett, the head of a Tonbridge building firm, and Emily Crundall. He suffered from appendicitis as a child. During the treatment, which consisted of applying leeches to the lower stomach, and the daily bedrest required afterwards, he spent his time reading Jardine's Naturalist's Library and discovered a strong liking for natural history. Punnett attended Cambridge...