I sitll stand that the best first hots are tree vipers like eyelashes and Trimeresurus. This is because they are small and not super fast on the hook although quick, the are in branches so you do not need to move them to change substrate (I use carpet and just replace it so the entire thing just lifts up with tongs), the LD-50 may be high but the yield is low but I think level of toxin is of little importance...you dont want to take a hit from anything. I think this because you rarely have to move them and they are easier to handle than big heavy snake that may be slow but still need room to work with and are lot wicked quick ones like elapids and other tree snakes like boomslangs. They are also a little challenge to keep conditions and that is alright because anyone getting a first hot in not new to snakes and is up for a challenge as far as the snake goes...you just dont want a challenge to work with as far as bite risks for your first hot. I am sure many people will not agree but this is my opinion.

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