I couldn't agree with you more. I feel many amateur people get into hot herps just for the sheer excitement of being able to brag about owning something so dangerous. Once the snakes are owned and they realize that nothing can really be done with them. It's way too easy to be fooled by a venomous snake. I live in southern california and work with many rattlesnakes (mostly Helleri), and have experienced the false calmness of them. Many times they don't even rattle once detained. This false behavior gives that false assumption that they are a nice snake and can be handled.

I am currently working on a business proposal to try and start up a laboratory that would focus on milking venom for the production of more anti-venom. I also agree that anti-venom needs to be made more available to collectors and hospitals at a more resonable price. Talking with a few of the doctors in my surrounding area, they have informed me that they would have to research where to find venom if I were brought in with a bite. This is valuable lost time that my life would depend upon. There is no excuse for this. More hospitals should have anti-venom on hand in snake populated areas.

It is best to leave the hot herps to the extremely experienced collectors.

In my opinion, if a person wants an agressive snake, let them get a carpet python.

Your article hit the nail on the head.

Jason

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