Posted by:
Psych4277
at Thu Aug 17 08:01:02 2006 [ Email Message ] [ Show All Posts by Psych4277 ]
While everyone that replied to this post made good sense, and attention should be paid to their sentiment, for the sheer sake of humility or stupidity or whatever, I’m gonna take this one in the opposite direction and actually provide the desired response...But please do more research before you endanger your life, the lives around you, as well as everyone here's already threatened hobby...
(IMO) Top Ten “Beginner Hots” (Yes it’s an oxymoron...)
1. Copperheads (Agkistrodon contortrix sp.)
2. Asian Bamboo Vipers (Trimeresurus sp.)
3. Slender Hognose Viper (Porthidium ophryomegas)
4. Pigmy Rattlesnakes (Sisturus miliarius sp.)
5. Eyelash Vipers (Bothriechis schlegelii)
6. Rock Rattlesnakes (Crotalus lepidus sp.)
7. Sidewinder Rattlesnake (Crotalus cerastes)
8. African Bush Vipers (Atheris sp.)
9. Prairie Rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis sp.)
10. African Coral Snakes (Aspidelaps lubricus sp.)
None of the above species of venomous snakes are known for reliably causing human fatalities, though keep in mind; the Atheris sp. have no specific antivenin and that Atheris superciliaris is indeed dangerous; Prairie Rattlesnake are likely the most dangerous species mentioned above and some populations have abnormally dangerous venom; and that the Aspidelaps species are elapids, though with a mild venom and a tendency to strike with the mouth closed, still they behave very differently from vipers and are not recommended until one has experience with at least one of the above viper species.
Also realize that an envenomation from any of the above species is a medical emergency and will require treatment...
Please avoid Western Diamondbacks and Puff Adders, as they may be as cheap and available as corn snakes, but they are indeed very dangerous and a terrible choice for a first hot...
I'd wish you good luck, but anyone who believes in something as illogical as "luck" shouldn't keep venomous snakes...
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RE: top 10 beginner hots - Psych4277, Thu Aug 17 08:01:02 2006