There was another copperhead fatality several years ago, also from an allergic reaction. I've never heard of a fatality that wasn't, though without proper care I could see a fatal infection being a possibility. One could argue that your chances of DYING from a captive copperhead might not be significantly higher than for a dog.

However, while still not common, significant tissue damage, up to loss of several fingers or permanent impairment of an arm happens often enough to make it worth taking them seriously.

You probably WILL want antivenom for a bad copperhead bite to reduce the amount of damage even if you are unlikely to die.

That being said, due to the low risk of death, they would be pretty high on my list for a beginner, especially if you can get one that's been in captivity a while.

As many others have said though, if at all possible, find a mentor. It's really nice to not only have someone to turn to for advice, but to back you up the first few times you lose control of a snake (it will happen).
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What goes up must come down...unless it exceeds escape velocity.

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