Hey there...this should clarify things for you:

1) The protected species of rattlesnake here in Az are as follows: C. willardi, C. pricei, C. lepidus, all Sistrurus...All other native species may be kept with a possession limit of 4 per species.

2) You do not need a license to keep native crotalid species...you DO however need a Class F or G hunting license to collect...You can purchase this at any Wal-Mart or other sporting goods store.

3) I'd recommend a solid wooden enclosure with a lockable door or top...That's what I use and have never had any issues...

4) If you live in Az, you CANNOT buy a crotalid...Az prohibits the commercialization of it's native wildlife...therefore, you are resigned to going into the field and collecting your own.

5) You definitely want to stay away from C. atrox and C. scutulatus...both species are highly reactive and will rattle pretty much 24/7 if distrubed...Of the native species, I'd recommend a juvenile C. molossus...These guys are generally pretty relaxed and easy to work with...they also are pretty darn attractive (one of my fave crotalids)...They do get to roughly 4 feet or so, but they are definitely an interesting species to work with.

Some might suggest C. cerastes...while these guys are definitely interesting, it's my belief they are a bit too "specialized" for someone looking for their first Crotalus...I have had good luck with them, but it can be difficult at times to get them to take rodents...

Good luck! BE SAFE

-AzAtrox

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