The fact that you are asking this question means you aren't ready to keep hots. Please don't take that as an insult. An experienced keeper knows when he/she is ready for hots.

If you want to learn how, try keeping a very aggressive fast moving colubrid or boid for a while. WC Amazon Treeboas or a WC Radiated Ratsnake would be good candidates. Don't ever handle it except with a hook and watch how you do.
- If you EVER take a bite from it, you aren't ready.
- If you EVER find yourself reaching into the cage to remove a water bowl, shed, etc. without adequate protection (snake removed, shield, etc), you aren't ready.
- If it EVER gets out, you aren't ready.

I think you get the idea. Learn from your harmless snakes. Start treating them like they are dangerous (no handling, reaching in, unlocked cages, etc). If you can be disciplined enough with them, you can start to think about getting a venomous snake.

If you really want something to test your skills and it has to be venomous, get a Mangrove Snake. They won't kill you, but they will challenge your snake manipulation skills!

This seems severe, but the thing that represents the greatest danger to hot handlers isn't necessarily inexperience - it is carelessness.

The last important thing to do is check state and local regulations regarding keeping venomous snakes. The penalty for being caught in violation of these rules can be very severe. Furthermore, it gives our hobby yet another black-eye.
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Chris Harrison
San Antonio, Texas

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