...when considering an animal with the lethal potential of B. gabonica, one would hope that you've thoroughly reasearched these issues before seriously contemplating acquiring the animal. I would say this to ANYONE considering acquiring a potentially lethal animal, so please do not take my comments as a personal attack...they are not intended to be so.

I completely understand your fascination with this species as they truly are beautiful. However, along with that beauty comes the power to kill quite efficiently. Have you also researched appropriate avenues by which to acquire necessary antivenin in the event of a bite? Do you have a pre-existing protocol in place (i.e. what hosptial you'll go to, who you'll call, etc.) in the event of a bite?

Yes, both the strike speed and force that these animals are capable of can be truly awesome...couple that with 1.5 inch fangs and a virulent cocktail of venom, and you've got a nightmare if the worst happens...Also consider that the yield of even an average bite by an adult Gaboon is more than the TOTAL yield of many other species...They have HUGE heads and HUGE venom glands...

If you're seriously considering one, PLEASE do not take their placid nature for granted...Seeing a "grumpy" adult gaboon can be a scary thing even for a veteran herper.

I could go on and on here, but essentially all I'm saying here is this...Please, do your research on ALL aspects of maintaining an animal like this BEFORE making a dedicated decision either way...Few decisions can have such serious consequences...If, after careful deliberation you've chosen to proceed, then do so (provided of course that the animal is legal in your area...I'd expect you to research this as well). Above all else, BE CAREFUL! You'd be surprised at how an animal's placid nature can allow one's guard to drop...and with an animal like this, there is NO room for a lapse in judgement...

Btw- I'm glad to see that you're asking these questions (presumably) before getting the animal...such behavior indicates careful thought and a responsible demeanor. Thank you. I wish more people did this...perhaps then the hobby/profession wouldn't be in the legal position it's in.

K...off the soap-box
-AzAtrox

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